Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos don’t come with built-in air conditioning units. They do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide stunning views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your house is equipped with ductwork then a central AC could be the best option. But if it doesn’t, the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now accepting ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners can be an inexpensive and simple method to cool your apartment without having to install ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for people on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they come with certain disadvantages that must be considered before making the purchase.
Window ACs can only cool a single room which is why they aren’t suitable for homes with larger spaces. They also consume lots of energy, which is why it’s important to look for models with high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an security risk, since they can be easily removed, giving you easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions or even wood to block out the extra space around the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows which you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve to the outside of the window frame. For larger models that have more BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine what size of unit you require, simply multiply the area of your room by the amount of BTUs it needs to be comfortably cooled. Be aware of whether the room is located in a high-rise building or gets lots of sunlight. A bigger unit will be more expensive, but it can save you money in energy costs over time. If you want to have a long-term solution we recommend that our HVAC experts recommend investing in a central AC system. The initial cost could be higher but it will pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer life span than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that work like space heaters. They are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct will run out of the window to let out heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the harmful gas carbon monoxide). The units are portable and can be sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results, the unit should be designed to suit the intended space, as oversized units won’t provide adequate cooling and can get worn out faster than needed.
These units are usually utilized in apartment buildings as well as converted homes that do not have ducting systems, in which the primary method of cooling is central AC unit. By installing a portable AC unit in one or more rooms, you can reduce the load on your central system, and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units come with a dehumidifier option to decrease humidity. This is another common reason for hot spots and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should also have washable filters to ensure the performance of the unit and a remote control for easy operation. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save money and electricity when compared with non-certified units.
If you decide to go the portable route it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model rather than a single-hose option. Dual-hose models draw outside air through the condenser coils and then blow it out using the other hose. This increases the efficiency and decreases the sound level of the unit. This option may cost more however the savings and comfort could make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They are comprised of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units which are connected by thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a great choice for condos because they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners do not want to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it travels through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other alternatives, so it is possible to cool your space without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems can also provide heating, so you can have year-round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is perfect for many areas like sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life for older homes or condos that don’t have ductwork. This kind of system can also be utilized in multifamily housing because it is easily adaptable to different types of occupancy patterns.
Additionally, a ductless system can be much more energy efficient than traditional systems, as it does not have to push air over long distances. As a result, it can reduce your power consumption significantly. They are also smaller than forced air systems, which saves on costs of installation and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they offer superior cooling performance and more customized temperature control. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, too with a highly efficient filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This helps you stay away from asthma and allergies, while keeping your space cool all season. If you’re ready to learn more about installing a ductless system into your home, call us today! Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We will assess your requirements and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.
