Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos don’t come with built-in air conditioning units. Those that do tend to have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views, but also let in too much sun and heat.
If your home has ductwork, then a central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if the building does not have ductwork, a central air conditioning system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an affordable and simple way to cool your home without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them an ideal choice for people on a tight budget or for older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks and should be considered prior to purchase.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, which makes them not a great option for homes with a large number of rooms. They also consume plenty of energy, making it crucial to choose models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be a security threat, as they are easily removed allowing easy access into your home.
It is possible to install accordions or even wood to block the extra space around the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows that you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve to the exterior of the frame. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide back and forth on rails. The sleeve then gets fixed to the frame by brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine the size unit you will need, multiply the square footage by the number of BTUs required to cool the room effectively. Consider whether the room is in an area with high-rises or receives a lot more sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it will save you money on energy bills over time. To ensure a longer-term solution for your home, our HVAC experts recommend purchasing a central AC system. The initial cost could be higher but it will pay off over time, with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling systems that function as space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct can be run through a window to vent carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units are mobile and can be sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit must be sized in accordance with the space it will be utilized in. Oversized units will not be able to cool effectively and may get worn out faster than.
They are typically utilized in apartment buildings as well as homes that have been converted without ducting systems, where the primary cooling method is through central AC unit. Utilizing portable AC units in one or more rooms can reduce the workload on central systems, thereby saving energy and money.
The most effective portable units have a dehumidifier setting to cut down on humidity. This is a typical reason for hot spots, and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should be equipped with washable filters for optimum performance, and a remote controller to make the operation simpler. Select energy STAR certified models to save money and energy in comparison to non-certified models.
If you choose to go portable, it is essential to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through the condenser coils and then blow it out using the other hose. This increases the efficiency and reduces the sound level of the unit. This feature may cost more however the savings and comfort can be worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units and thin piping running through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are a fantastic option for condos because they can be put in spaces where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them the perfect cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically don’t wish to cut through walls and floors for ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is chilled by the indoor unit by passing through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than traditional models which means you can cool your room without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems also offer heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy all-year-round luxury.
The ductless system is ideal for many areas, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes or condos that don’t have ductwork. This kind of system can also be utilized in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to different occupancy patterns.
Additionally the ductless system can be much more energy efficient than traditional systems, since it does not need to force air across long distances. As a result, it can lower your power bills significantly. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling performance, and they can be adapted to your personal preferences in temperature. With an air filtering system that removes harmful air particles, they could also improve the air quality in your condo. This helps you stay away from allergies and asthma while also keeping your space comfortable all year. Contact us today if you’re looking to learn more. Our technicians are available to assist you. We can help you determine the best air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your requirements.