Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air conditioning units. Many of the apartments and condos with air conditioning units are fitted with floor-to ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also a lot of sunshine and heat.
If your home has ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with 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 a cheap and easy way to cool your apartment without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, making them a great option for those on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they have certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are able to cool a single space which is why they aren’t suitable for homes with a larger area. It’s also important to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose 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 need to install accordions or wood to block out excess space around the sides of the window. It is possible to install the majority of window units yourself using the window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and secure the sleeves. For larger models with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide between rails. The sleeve then gets connected to the frame with brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number BTUs needed to cool the room effectively. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room gets lots of sun or is on an upper floor. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but will help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying a central AC for long-term solutions. The initial cost could be higher, but it will pay off in the long run with lower utility bills each month and a longer service life as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a stand-alone cooling device that functions as a space heater. They are designed to plug into an outlet, and a tube or mini-duct will run out of a window to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). They are portable and are determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results, a unit should be sized to fit in the space it is intended for, as oversized units won’t offer adequate cooling and may get worn out faster than needed.
They are typically used in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems, where the primary cooling method is through the central AC unit. By installing an AC unit that is portable in one or more of your rooms, you will be able to reduce the burden on the central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The best portable units also include a dehumidifier feature to cut down on humidity. This is a typical reason for hot spots, and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should come with washable filters to ensure optimal performance, as well as remote controls to make the operation simpler. Choose ENERGY START-certified models that meet efficiency standards to save electricity and money compared with non-certified units.
If you choose to move your portable device, it is important to select a dual-hose unit instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot and then blown out via the other hose. This increases the efficiency and reduces the sound of the unit. This option may cost more, but the savings and comfort can make it worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They comprise an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units which are connected by thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a great option for condos because they can be placed in spaces that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. They are the perfect cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners don’t want to cut through walls and floors to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools air as it moves through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other alternatives, so it’s possible to cool your space without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities as well which means you can enjoy all year round luxury.
The ductless system is ideal for many areas, such as garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also improve the comfort of older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This kind of system can also be utilized in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to different occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than conventional systems due to the fact that it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. As a result, it can reduce your energy bills by a significant amount. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, saving on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling efficiency, and can be tailored to your own temperature preferences. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, too, with an efficient filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This helps you stay away from asthma and allergies while also keeping your space at a comfortable temperature all season. If you’re looking to learn more about the benefits of installing an ductless system in your condominium, contact us today! Our technicians are available to assist you. We can help you determine the most appropriate air conditioner for your needs by assessing your needs.