Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern apartments and condos do not come with air cooling units. The ones that do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide amazing views, but let in 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 with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an inexpensive and simple method to cool your home without the need to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, making them a fantastic choice for those with a limited budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they have certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are limited to cooling a single room, making them not a good option for homes with a large number of rooms. It’s also essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose a security threat, as they can be easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions, or wood, to block out the extra space around 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 then attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the frame. For larger models that have larger BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the right size unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the area of your room by the number of BTUs it needs to be able to cool comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is in an apartment building that is high-rise or receives plenty of sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it could save you money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying central AC to provide a long-term solution. The initial cost may be higher but it will pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer service life as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that function as space heaters. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube will be able to exit the window to let out carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. A unit must be sized in accordance with the space it is intended to be used in. Oversized units will not be able to cool effectively and may be worn out more quickly than.
These units are usually utilized in apartment buildings as well as converted homes that do not have ducting systems. The primary method of cooling is central AC unit. By using an AC unit that is portable in one or more rooms, you can reduce the load on your central system, and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units will include the option of dehumidifying to cut down on the amount of moisture that is a frequent cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should also have washable filters to maintain performance and a remote control for easy operation. Find ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards to save money and electricity when compared with non-certified units.
If you opt to go portable, it is essential to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils, and then blow it out through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the noise of the unit. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it can be well worth the investment in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units that are connected with thin piping that runs like electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic option for condos since they can be placed in spaces where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners do not want to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools air as it travels through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives, so you can cool your room without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities as well, so you can enjoy all year round luxury.
The ductless system is suitable for a variety of spaces like sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase the comfort of older homes or apartments as well as condos that have not been fitted with ductwork. This kind of system is also suitable for multifamily homes, since it can easily adapt to various demands and occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy-efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electricity bills. They are smaller than forced-air systems which helps them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems offer superior cooling efficiency, and can be tailored to suit your individual preferences for temperature. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, too by utilizing a powerful filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This helps you avoid allergies and asthma, while keeping your space cool all year. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system in your apartment, contact us now! Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can assist you in determining the most appropriate air conditioner for your situation by assessing your needs.