Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning integrated into them. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer great views, but also let in too much light and heat.
If your building has ductwork, then central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to told us that if your home does not have any ductwork, then a central AC system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and cost-effective way to cool a condo 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 with a tight budget or older homes without ductwork. However, they do have certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs can only be used to cool a small area which is why they aren’t suitable for homes with a larger area. It’s also important to choose models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Additionally, they’re an security risk since windows are easily removed and allow easy access to your house.
You may need to install accordions or even wood to block out the extra space around the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit that you can use to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the window frame. For larger models that have larger BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, with the sleeve connected to the frame using brackets.
To determine the size unit you need, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the amount of BTUs it needs to cool it comfortably. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether the room gets a lot of sunlight or is on an upper floor. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money in energy costs over time. For a more long-term solution, our HVAC experts recommend purchasing central AC system. The initial cost may be higher but it will pay for itself over time, with lower utility bills each month and a longer life span as compared to multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that work like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet, and a mini-duct or tube can be run through the window to let out heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). They are portable and can be measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). To get the best results, a unit should be sized to accommodate its intended room because larger units won’t offer adequate cooling and may be more prone to wear down than.
These units are used most often in apartment buildings or homes that don’t have ducting systems and in which the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. By using an AC unit that is portable in one or more rooms, you can reduce the burden on the central system and save money and energy.
The most reliable portable units will also come with a dehumidifier mode to reduce moisture, which is another common cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel uncomfortably warm. The units should also come with washable filters to maintain efficiency and remote controls for effortless operation. Choose ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy when compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to go portable, it is essential to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot and then expelled through the other hose. This improves the efficiency and decreases the sound level of the unit. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it could be worth it in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units, and thin piping that runs through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos as they can be put in places in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically do not wish to cut through the 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 when compared to other systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your home without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems also provide heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy all-year-round comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for many spaces, such as garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life in older houses, apartments, and condos that are not equipped with ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it is able to easily adapt to different demands and occupancy patterns.
In addition that, a ductless system could be a lot more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it does not need to force air across long distances. It can also reduce your electric bills. They are also smaller than forced-air systems, which means they can reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they offer superior cooling performance and more personalized temperature control. With a filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your apartment. This helps you stay away from asthma and allergies, while keeping your space cool all season. If you’re looking to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system in your condominium, contact us now! Our technicians are available to assist you. We can help you determine the ideal air conditioner for your needs by assessing your needs.