Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems built in. The ones that do have floor-to-ceiling windows that offer amazing views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your home is equipped with ductwork, then central AC is a good option. However, if it doesn’t, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that the majority of board are now welcoming ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and affordable way to cool a condo without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, making them an ideal choice for those with a limited budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they come with some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are limited to cooling one room, making them not a great option for larger homes. It’s also essential to select models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an security risk, since they can be easily removed, permitting 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 put in accordions or even wood to block any space around the sides of the window. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit that you can use to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the window frame. For larger models with 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 secure it to the window.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the amount of BTUs required to cool the room. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room gets lots of sun 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 we recommend that our HVAC experts suggest investing in a central AC system. Although the initial cost is much more expensive, it will eventually pay off in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that function as space heaters. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and the tube, or mini-duct, will be able to run out an opening to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). The units can be moved from room to room and are usually sized according to their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. For the best results the unit should be designed to accommodate its intended room, as oversized units won’t offer adequate cooling and may get worn out faster than needed.
They are most often in apartment buildings or homes that don’t have ducting systems, and where the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By installing an AC unit that is portable in one or more of your rooms, you can lessen the burden on your central system, and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most effective portable units come with a dehumidifier option to reduce the amount of moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots and can make the room feel uncomfortable. The units should also include washable filters to ensure the performance of the unit and a remote control for easy operation. Find ENERGY STAR-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save money and electricity when as compared to non-certified models.
If you opt to opt for a portable option, it’s essential to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils, and then blow it out via the other hose. This significantly increases the efficiency of the unit and it helps to minimize the sound generated by the process. This feature could cost more but the savings and comfort could make it worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They are made up of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units and thin piping that is inserted into small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos since they can be put in places where traditional HVAC ducts are not feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners don’t wish to cut into walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools air as it moves through the tubing that is filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter compared to other systems, meaning it is possible to cool your room without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems also offer heating and cooling, allowing you to enjoy all-year-round comfort.
A ductless system is suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. They can also improve the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that are not equipped with ductwork. This kind of system can also be utilized in multifamily housing as it is easily adaptable to various kinds of occupancy patterns.
Additionally the ductless system can be more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it does not have to force air over long distances. As a result, it can reduce your energy bills by a significant amount. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems which helps them save on installation costs 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 personal temperature control. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, too with a highly efficient filtering system that eliminates harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies and keeps your home comfortable throughout the season. Contact us today if you’re looking to learn more. Our technicians are available to assist you. We can evaluate your needs and help you select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your particular situation.