Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern apartments and condos do not come with air cooling units. A lot of apartments and condos with air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, which offer great views but also too much sunshine and heat.
If your building has ductwork and ductwork, central AC system could be ideal. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to told us that if your home doesn’t have ductwork, a central air conditioning system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be a cheap and easy way to cool your apartment without having to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for those on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks that should be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single room, so they are not suitable for larger homes. They also consume plenty of energy, making it essential to select models with high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose a security risk because the windows can be easily removed and allow easy access to your home.
It is possible to install accordions or even wood to block out the extra space around the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself with a window installation set. Simply put the chassis in the frame and secure the sleeve. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll require, multiply the square footage by the amount of BTUs required to cool the room effectively. Take into consideration whether the room is a high-rise building or gets a lot more sunlight. A larger unit will be more costly, but can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying a central AC to provide an investment that will last for a long time. Although the initial cost is higher, it will pay off over the years with lower monthly utilities and a longer lifespan than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that function as space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will run out an opening to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). They are portable and are sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be designed according to the room it will be utilized in. The units that are too big won’t be able to cool effectively and may be worn out more quickly than.
These units are most often used in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems. The primary cooling method is through the central AC unit. Utilizing portable AC units in a single or multiple rooms can reduce the workload on the central system, which can save electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units also come with a dehumidifier mode to reduce the amount of moisture that is a frequent reason for hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should also include washable filters to ensure efficiency and remote controls for effortless operation. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save electricity and money as compared to non-certified models.
If you decide to go for a portable model, it’s important to choose a dual-hose model rather than a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw air from outside through condenser coils, and then blow it out via the other hose. This significantly increases the effectiveness of the unit, and helps reduce the noise produced by the process. This feature may cost more but the benefits and comfort make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units, and thin piping that is inserted into tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos since they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners do not wish to cut into walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools the air as it passes through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives and allows you to cool your space without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities, as well, so you can enjoy year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for many types of spaces, including sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also increase the comfort of older homes or condos that don’t have ductwork. This kind of system can also be utilized in multifamily homes since it is easily adaptable to different occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy-efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity bills. They are smaller than forced-air systems, which means they can save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings due to their superior cooling performance and customized temperature control. With a filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your apartment. This will aid in avoiding allergy and asthma symptoms, while maintaining your condo’s comfort throughout the season. If you are ready to know more about installing a ductless system in your apartment, contact us now! Our technicians are available to assist you. We will assess your requirements and help you choose the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.