Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning built in. Those that do tend to have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide great views, but also let in too much sun and heat.
If your building is equipped with ductwork then central AC could be the best option. However, if it doesn’t, 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 an easy and inexpensive option to cool a condominium without installing ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for those on a budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks that must be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs are able to cool a single space, so they are not suitable for larger homes. They also consume plenty of energy, so it’s crucial to choose models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be a security threat, as they are easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.
You may need to install accordions, or wood, to block out the extra space around the window. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit that can be used to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve to the outside of the window frame. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine what 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, think about whether the room receives plenty of sun or is on an upper floor. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it could save you money on energy bills over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing a central AC to provide a long-term solution. The initial cost might be higher, but it will pay for itself over time, with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling systems that function as space heaters. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube will run out of a window to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units are mobile and can be sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results the unit should be constructed to suit the intended space, as oversized units won’t provide adequate cooling and can wear down faster than necessary.
They are typically in apartments or converted homes that do not have ducting systems and where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. Utilizing a portable AC in one or more rooms can help reduce the load on central systems, thereby saving energy and money.
The most reliable portable units have a dehumidifier setting to cut down on the amount of moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should also include washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their the performance of the unit and remote controls for simple operation. Select ENERGY STAR certified models to save on electricity and money compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to move your portable device, it is essential to choose 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 and then blown out via the other hose. This significantly increases the efficiency of the unit and also helps to reduce the sound generated by the process. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it can be worth the cost in terms of savings and ease of use.
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 as well as one or more indoor units and thin piping that runs through tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos since they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not feasible. They are the perfect cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners don’t want to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools air as it moves through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models, so you can cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities as well, so you can enjoy all year-round comfort.
A ductless system can be ideal for a variety of spaces, including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase comfort for older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This type of system is also ideal for multifamily homes, since it is able to easily adapt to different needs and patterns of occupancy.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. It can also reduce your electricity bills. They are also smaller than forced-air systems, which can help them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, due to their superior cooling performance and more personal temperature control. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, in addition by utilizing a powerful filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This helps you avoid asthma and allergies and keeps your home comfortable all year. Contact us today if ready to learn more. Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We can assess your needs and help you select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your specific situation.