Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air cooling units. The ones that do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide great views, but also let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your house has ductwork, then central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to told us that if your home doesn’t have any ductwork, then a central AC system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and affordable method of cooling a home without the need for ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, making them a great option for people on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they come with certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single space and are therefore not suitable for larger homes. It’s also important to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an security risk, since they are easily removed permitting easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions or even wood to block out the excess space around the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself using the window installation set. Simply slide the chassis into the frame and attach the sleeve. For larger models with a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide between rails, and the sleeve is connected to the frame with brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine what 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 a high-rise building or gets plenty of sunlight. A larger HVAC unit will be more costly, but can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend purchasing central AC to provide long-term solutions. The initial cost may be higher, but it will pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer service life than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that work like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, is able to be run through an opening to let CO2 and heat out (not to confuse with the toxic gas CO2). The units are mobile and can be determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit must be sized in accordance with the space it is intended to be used in. The units that are too big won’t keep cool and get worn out faster than.
They are mostly in apartments or converted homes that do not have ducting systems and where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By using a portable AC unit in one or more rooms, you can lessen the burden on your central system, and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units also come with a dehumidifier mode to reduce moisture, which is another frequent reason for hot spots and can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should also have washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their the performance of the unit and a remote control for easy operation. Choose energy STAR certified models to save on electricity and money in comparison to non-certified models.
If you decide to go with a portable option it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn into the hot condenser coils, then blown out through the other hose. This significantly increases the effectiveness of the unit, and helps reduce the noise generated by the process. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it will be worth the cost in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They comprise an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, which are connected by thin piping that functions as electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic option for condos because they can be installed in places where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners do not want to cut through walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is cool by the unit in the indoor as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, as well to provide all year round peace and comfort.
A ductless system is suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This kind of system can also be used in multifamily housing as it can easily be adapted to various occupancy patterns.
Additionally, a ductless system can be more energy efficient than conventional systems, since it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electric bills. They are smaller than forced-air systems which means they can reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems offer superior cooling performance and can be customized to suit your individual preferences for temperature. 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 while also keeping your space cool all year. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing an ductless system in your apartment, contact us now! Our knowledgeable technicians are available to assist you. We can assist you in determining the ideal air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.
