Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning integrated into them. The ones that do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide great views, but also let in too much sun and heat.
If your home is duct-worked and ductwork, central AC system is a good idea. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to told us that if your home doesn’t have ductwork, a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and cost-effective way to cool a condo without installing ductwork. They work by removing warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, making them a fantastic choice for people on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single space which is why they aren’t suitable for homes with larger spaces. It’s also essential to select models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they are easily removed allowing easy access into your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s set in, you may have to put in accordions or even wood to block out excess space around both sides of the window. You can install most window units yourself with the window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and secure the sleeves. For larger models with larger BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide on rails, with the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the right size of unit you require, simply multiply the area of your room by the amount of BTUs that it needs to cool it comfortably. Take into consideration whether the room is a high-rise building or gets plenty of sunlight. A larger unit is more expensive, but it could save you money on energy bills over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing a central AC for long-term solutions. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will pay off over time 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 work like space heaters. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, will run out a window in order to let CO2 and heat out (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). They are mobile and can be measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results, the unit should be constructed to suit the intended space because larger units won’t provide adequate cooling and can get worn out faster than needed.
They are typically employed in apartment buildings and converted homes without ducting systems. The primary method of cooling is the central AC unit. By using a portable AC unit in one or more rooms, you can reduce the load on your central system, and save money and energy.
The best portable units also include a dehumidifier feature to reduce moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots, and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should also come with washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their performance and remote controls for simple operation. Select ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity in comparison to non-certified models.
If you choose to go with a portable option, it’s important to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn into the condenser coils that are hot and then expelled through the other hose. This significantly increases the efficiency of the unit, and also helps to reduce the noise generated by the process. This feature may cost more but the savings and comfort can be worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units which are connected via thin piping that functions as electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos because they can be placed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners do not wish to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cooled by the indoor unit when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter when compared to other options, which means it’s possible to cool your space without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems also provide heating which means you can enjoy all-year-round luxury.
A ductless system can be 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 is also suitable for multifamily housing because it can easily adapt to various occupancy patterns and requirements.
A ductless system is more energy efficient than conventional systems due to the fact that it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. This means that it can cut down on your power consumption significantly. These systems are smaller than forced-air systems which means they can save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems offer superior cooling efficiency, and can be tailored to your personal preferences in temperature. With a filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality of your condominium. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies and keeps your home at a comfortable temperature all season. Contact us today if you’re looking to learn more. Our skilled technicians are waiting to assist you. We will assess your needs and help you choose the best air conditioning solution for your particular situation.