Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer great views, but also let in too much sun and heat.
If your house has ductwork, then central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if your building isn’t equipped with ductwork, a central AC system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be a cheap and easy way to cool your condo without the need to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for those with a limited budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they come with some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single space, so they are not suitable for homes with a larger area. They also consume a lot of energy, which is why it’s essential to select models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an issue for security, since they are easily removed allowing easy access into your home.
You may have to put in accordions or even wood to block out the excess space around the window. The majority of 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 then attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the frame. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide between rails. The sleeve then gets fixed to the frame by brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the size of unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the amount of BTUs it needs to be able to cool comfortably. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room gets lots of sunlight or is located on an upper floor. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying central AC for an investment that will last for a long time. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will be able to pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer life span than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions as a space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube will be able to exit a window to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. To get the best results, the unit should be constructed to suit the intended space because larger units won’t offer adequate cooling and may get worn out faster than needed.
They are typically utilized in apartment buildings as well as homes that have been converted without ducting systems, in which the primary method of cooling is a central AC unit. By using an AC unit that is portable in one or more of your rooms, you can lessen the burden on your central system, and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units include a dehumidifier feature to decrease the amount of moisture. This is another common reason for hot spots and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should be equipped with washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and remote controls to make operation more simple. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save electricity and money compared with non-certified units.
If you decide to go with a portable option it is important to select a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose option. Dual-hose models permit outside air to be drawn into the hot condenser coils 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 may cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it will be worth the cost in terms of savings and comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They are comprised of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units that are connected with thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos since they can be put in spaces that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. This makes them the ideal cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically don’t want to cut through walls and floors for ductwork.
In a ductless system, air is cooled by the indoor unit when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other alternatives, so it’s possible to cool your space without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities as well, so you can enjoy all year-round luxury.
A ductless system can be suitable for various types of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the quality of life for older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This type of system is also ideal for multifamily housing because it can easily adapt to various needs and patterns of occupancy.
In addition the ductless system can be a lot more energy efficient than conventional systems because it does not need to force air over long distances. In turn, it can cut down on your power consumption significantly. They are also smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, due to their superior cooling performance and more customized temperature control. With a filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condominium. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma and keeps your home at a comfortable temperature throughout the year. If you’re looking to learn more about installing a ductless system in your apartment, contact us today! Our experienced technicians are ready to assist. We can help you determine the best air conditioner for your situation by assessing your needs.