Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning systems built in. 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 has ductwork, an central AC system might be a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if your building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central AC system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and cost-effective method of cooling a home without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, making 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, which must be considered prior buying.
Window ACs are limited to cooling a single room, so they’re not a great option for larger homes. It’s also important to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they are easily removed permitting easy access to your home.
It is possible to install accordions or even wood to block out the excess space around the window. You can install most window units yourself using a window installation set. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and then attach the sleeves. For larger models with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide across rails. The sleeve then gets fixed to the frame by brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the right size unit you require, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the amount of BTUs that it needs to be able to cool comfortably. Consider whether the room is an area with high-rises or receives a lot more sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts recommend investing in a central AC to provide a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will eventually pay for itself over time with lower monthly utilities and a longer service life than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling device that functions as a space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, will run out the window to let CO2 and heat out (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). They are portable and are determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results the unit should be designed to accommodate its intended room, as oversized units won’t provide enough cooling and could be more prone to wear down than.
They are typically used in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems, in which the primary cooling method is through the central AC unit. By installing an AC unit that is portable in one or more rooms, you will be able to reduce the burden on your central system, and save money and energy.
The best portable units also come with an option to dehumidify to lessen the amount of moisture that is a frequent cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should also come with washable filters to ensure performance and remote controls for effortless operation. Select ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity when compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to go the portable route it is important to select the dual-hose model over a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils then blow it out through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and decreases the sound level of the unit. This feature could cost more however the savings and comfort could be worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also referred to as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, and thin piping that is inserted into small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos because they can be installed in areas that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners do not want to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system, air is cooled by the indoor unit as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other options, which means it’s possible to cool your room without disturbing other people. Some ductless systems also offer heating, so you can have all year round luxury.
A ductless system can be ideal for a variety of spaces, including sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also increase the comfort of older homes, apartments, and condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system could also be utilized in multifamily housing because it can easily be adapted to various occupancy patterns.
In addition the ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than traditional systems, since it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. In turn, it can cut down on your power bills significantly. These systems are smaller than forced-air systems which can help them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they offer superior cooling performance and more personal temperature control. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, in addition with a highly efficient filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies and keeps your home cool throughout the season. Contact us today if you’re looking to learn more. Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can evaluate your needs and help determine the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.