Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern condos and apartments do not have built-in air conditioning units. The ones that do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide stunning views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork then a central AC is a good option. But if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now accepting mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an affordable and simple way to cool your home without the need for ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them an ideal choice for those on a budget or with older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks, which must be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs are limited to cooling a single room, which makes them not a good option for larger homes. They also consume plenty of energy, which is why it’s crucial to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be a security threat, as they can be easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the kind of window it’s placed in, you may have to install accordions or wood to block out excess space around both sides of the window. It is possible to install most window units yourself using a window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and then attach the sleeves. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move across rails. The sleeve then gets fixed to the frame by brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the right size unit you require, simply multiply the square footage of your room by the amount of BTUs it needs to be able to cool comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is in an area with high-rises or receives lots of sunlight. A larger unit is more expensive, but it will save you money on energy bills over time. To ensure a longer-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts suggest investing in central AC system. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will pay for itself over the years with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions much like a space heater. 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 be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). The units are portable and are measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be designed according to the room it will be utilized in. Oversized units won’t keep cool and get worn out faster than.
They are typically in apartment buildings or converted homes that do not have ducting systems and in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. The use of portable ACs in a single or multiple rooms could reduce the burden on the central system, which can save electricity and also money.
The most reliable portable units will also have a dehumidifier mode to reduce the amount of moisture that is a frequent reason for hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should also include washable filters to maintain performance and remote controls for simple operation. Choose the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and electricity compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to go with a portable option, it’s important to choose a dual-hose model rather than a single-hose model. Dual-hose models permit outside air to be drawn into the hot condenser coils and then blown out via the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the sound level of the unit. 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 ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They are made up 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 option for condos since they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply aren’t feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners don’t want to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is cool by the unit in the indoor as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other systems, meaning it is possible to cool your room without disturbing others. Some ductless systems also offer heating, so you can have year-round luxury.
A ductless system can be suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life for older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This type of system could also be used in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to different kinds of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than conventional systems due to the fact that it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. As a result, it can lower your power consumption significantly. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, saving on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic alternative to obstructive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they provide superior cooling performance and more personalized temperature control. With an air filtration system that removes harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your apartment. This will assist you in avoiding allergies and asthma, while maintaining the comfort of your home throughout the season. Contact us today if you’re looking to learn more. Our experienced technicians are ready to assist you. We can evaluate your needs and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.