Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning installed. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer great views, but also let in too much sun and heat.
If your building has ductwork, then central AC could be the best option. If not then the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now welcoming mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an affordable and simple way to cool your home without the need to install ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for those with a tight budget or older homes without ductwork. However, they come with a few drawbacks that should be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single room and are therefore not suitable for homes with larger spaces. It’s also important to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they can be easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions, or wood, to block the extra space around the window. It is possible to install most window units by yourself using an installation set for windows. Simply put the chassis in the frame and attach the sleeve. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to move between rails, and the sleeve is connected to the frame with brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the right size of unit you require, simply multiply the area of your room by the amount of BTUs it needs to be comfortably cooled. Take into consideration whether the room is an apartment building that is high-rise or receives plenty of sunlight. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts recommend buying a central AC to provide a long-term solution. The initial cost may be higher but it will pay for itself over time with lower utility bills each month and a longer life span than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling units that function like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and the tube, or mini-duct, is able to be run through a window in order to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). They are portable and can be measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results, the unit should be constructed to accommodate its intended room, as oversized units won’t provide enough cooling and could get worn out faster than needed.
They are typically employed in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems, where 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 burden on your central system, and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units have a dehumidifier setting to decrease humidity. This is another common reason for hot spots, and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also include washable filters to maintain efficiency and a remote control for easy operation. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards to reduce energy and cost when in comparison to non-certified units.
If you opt to opt for a portable option, it’s important to select a dual-hose model instead of a one-hose model. The dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn in through the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature, then blown out through the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit and also helps to reduce the noise generated by the process. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it can be well worth the investment in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They are made up of an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units and thin piping running through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great choice for condos because they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners don’t want to cut through walls and floors 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 when compared to other systems, meaning it is possible to cool your home without disturbing other people. Some ductless systems can also provide heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy all year round comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for a variety of spaces, including sunrooms garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase comfort for older houses 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 traditional systems since it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. It can also reduce your electricity costs. These systems are smaller than forced-air systems which helps them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling efficiency, and can be customized to suit your individual preferences for temperature. They can improve the air quality in your condo, as well with a highly efficient filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This helps you avoid asthma and allergies and keeps your home comfortable throughout the season. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system into your home, call us now! Our technicians are available to assist you. We will assess your needs and help determine the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.