Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air cooling units. Many of the apartments and condos with air conditioning units are equipped with floor-to ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also too much sunlight and heat.
If your building is equipped with ductwork then central AC could be the best option. If not then the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now accepting mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and inexpensive way to cool a condo without the need 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 people on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they come with certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are confined to cooling a single room, which makes them not a good choice for larger homes. They also consume lots of energy, which is why it’s essential to select models with high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. Additionally, they’re an security risk since the windows are easily removed and allow an easy access to your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s set in, you may have to install accordions or wood to block off any extra space around both sides of the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve to the exterior of the window frame. For larger models with higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide across rails and the sleeve is fixed to the frame by brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine what size of unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the amount of BTUs it requires to be able to cool comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is an apartment building that is high-rise or receives a lot more sunlight. A larger unit is more expensive, but it could save you money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest investing in a central AC for a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will eventually pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utilities and a longer service life than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling system that functions like the space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will run out a window in order to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). They are mobile and can be measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be sized according to the room it is intended to be used in. Oversized units won’t cool well and can wear out faster than necessary.
These units are most often used in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems, in which the principal cooling method is a central AC unit. By installing an AC unit portable in one or more of your rooms, you can reduce the burden on the central system and save money and electricity.
The most effective portable units have a dehumidifier setting to reduce moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should come with washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and a remote controller to make the operation simpler. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to reduce energy and cost when as compared to non-certified models.
If you choose to go for a portable model it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model rather than a single-hose option. Dual-hose models permit outside air to be drawn into the condenser coils that are hot, then blown out through the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit, and also helps to reduce the sound generated by the process. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it will be well worth the investment in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units that are connected with thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos since they can be placed in places that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. This makes them the perfect cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners don’t want to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cooled by the indoor unit as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other alternatives, so it’s possible to cool your room without disturbing other people. Certain ductless systems also provide heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system can be suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms, garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also increase the quality of life in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This kind of system can also be used in multifamily housing as it is easily adaptable to different types of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. This means that it can lower your energy bills by a significant amount. They are also smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems are a great option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings, because they provide superior cooling performance and more personalized temperature control. With a filtering system that eliminates harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condo. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma while ensuring your condo’s temperature throughout the season. If you’re looking to know more about installing a ductless system in your apartment, contact us today! Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can assist you in determining the best air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.