Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning built in. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer great views, but also let in too much light and heat.
If your home has ductwork, central AC system could be ideal. However, if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now accepting ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and cost-effective way to cool a condo 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 for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks and must be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs are limited to cooling a single room, so they’re not the best option for larger homes. They also consume lots of energy, which is why it’s important to look for models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose an security risk since the windows can be easily removed and allow easy access to your house.
It is possible to install accordions, or even wood, to block out the extra space around the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the frame. For larger models with more BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size of unit you require, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the amount of BTUs it requires to be able to cool comfortably. To maximize efficiency, consider whether the room receives a lot of sun or is on the upper floors. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money on energy bills over time. To ensure a longer-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts recommend purchasing central AC system. The initial cost might be higher, but it will pay for itself over time, with lower utility bills each month and a longer service life than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling system that functions much as the space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube can be run through an opening to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room and are usually sized according to their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. A unit should be sized according to the space it will be utilized in. Oversized units won’t cool well and can get worn out faster than.
These units are used mostly in apartment buildings or homes that do not have ducting systems, and in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By installing a portable AC unit in one or more rooms, you can reduce the load on your central system and save money and electricity.
The best portable units include an option to dehumidify to lessen humidity, which is a common cause of hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should also come with washable filters to ensure efficiency and remote controls for effortless operation. Choose ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity compared to non-certified units.
If you opt to go portable, it is crucial to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a one-hose model. The dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn in through the hot condenser coils and then expelled through the other hose. This significantly increases the efficiency of the unit, and it helps to minimize the noise generated by the process. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it can be well worth the investment in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits, are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units and thin piping that is inserted into tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos, because they can be placed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts can’t. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners do not want to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it passes through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives, so you can cool your room without disturbing other. Some ductless systems can also provide heating, so you can have all-year-round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is perfect for many areas like garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that have not been fitted with ductwork. This type of system could also be used in multifamily homes since it is easily adaptable to different 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. It also helps reduce your electricity bills. They are also smaller than forced air systems, which saves on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling efficiency, and can be tailored to your personal preferences in temperature. With a filtering system that eliminates harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condominium. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma while also keeping your space comfortable all season. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system into your home, call us now! Our knowledgeable technicians are available to help. We can evaluate your needs and help you choose the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.
