Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern condos and apartments do not have air conditioning systems integrated into them. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much sun and heat.
If your building has ductwork, then a central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with told us that if your home isn’t equipped with any ductwork, then a central AC system is a good option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and affordable option to cool a condominium without the need to install ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for people on a budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. There are some disadvantages and must be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs can only cool a single space and are therefore not suitable for homes with a larger area. It’s also important to pick models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose an security risk since windows can be removed easily and provide easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions, or wood, to block the extra space around the window. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to easily install them by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve on the outside of the frame. For larger models with higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide back and forth on rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine the size unit you will require by multiplying the square footage by the number of BTUs required to cool the room effectively. To maximize efficiency, consider whether the room receives plenty of sunlight or is on an upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it will save you money on energy bills over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing a central AC for an investment that will last for a long time. Although the initial cost is much higher, it will be able to pay for itself over the years with lower monthly utilities and a longer service life than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling device that functions as a space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet and a tube or mini-duct can be run through the window to let out heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. For the best results a unit should be sized to accommodate its intended room, as oversized units won’t offer adequate cooling and may wear down faster than necessary.
These units are most often used in apartment buildings and converted homes without ducting systems. The principal cooling method is central AC unit. Utilizing portable AC units in a single or multiple rooms can reduce the workload on your central system, saving electricity and money.
The best portable units also come with a dehumidifier option to decrease the amount of moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should also have washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their efficiency and remote controls for simple operation. Select energy STAR certified models to save money and electricity in comparison to non-certified models.
If you decide to go for a portable model, it’s important to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn into the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature, then blown out through the other hose. This improves the efficiency of the unit and it helps to minimize the noise produced by the process. This feature may cost more however the benefits and comfort be worth the extra money.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to 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 tiny holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos because they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. This makes them the perfect cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums as homeowners do not want to cut into the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless system air is cooled by the indoor unit when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other options, which means it is possible to cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities, as well, so you can enjoy year-round luxury.
A ductless system is suitable for various types of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also increase the quality of life in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that have not been fitted with ductwork. This kind of system can also be utilized in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to various occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. In turn, it can lower your power consumption significantly. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems which can help them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings, because they provide superior cooling performance and more personalized temperature control. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, too by utilizing a powerful filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This will assist you in avoiding allergies and asthma while ensuring the comfort of your home throughout the year. If you’re looking to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system into your home, call us now! Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can assist you in determining the ideal air conditioner for your situation by assessing your requirements.
