Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air cooling units. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your house has ductwork, then central AC could be the best option. However, if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now accepting mini-splits of ductless.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a straightforward and inexpensive method of cooling a home without installing ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, making them a great option for those on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they have certain disadvantages that must be considered prior to making a purchase.
Window ACs are limited to cooling one room, so they’re not a great option for homes with a large number of rooms. They also consume a lot of energy, so it’s crucial to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be 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 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 affixing the sleeve to the exterior of the window frame. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move across rails, and the sleeve is fixed to the frame by brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the size of unit you require you simply need to multiply the square footage of your room by the amount of BTUs that it needs to cool it comfortably. Consider whether the room is in a high-rise building or gets lots of sunlight. A larger unit is more expensive, but it can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts suggest buying a central AC to provide long-term solutions. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will eventually pay for itself in the long run by reducing monthly costs and a longer lifespan than a variety of window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that function as 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 carbon dioxide and heat (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). They are portable and are measured by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit must be sized according to the space it will be utilized in. The units that are too big won’t be able to cool effectively and may be worn out more quickly than.
They are typically utilized in apartment buildings as well as converted homes without ducting systems, in which the principal cooling method is a central AC unit. Utilizing portable AC units in one or more rooms can reduce the workload on the central system, which can save electricity and also money.
The best portable units also come with a dehumidifier mode to reduce humidity, which is a frequent cause of hot spots. It can make a room feel unbearably warm. The units should also include washable filters to ensure efficiency and a remote control for easy operation. Select ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy compared to non-certified units.
If you choose to opt for a portable option, it’s essential to choose a dual-hose model instead of a single-hose model. The dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot and then blown out via the other hose. This increases the efficiency and decreases the noise of the unit. This feature may cost more but the savings and comfort could be worth the extra expense.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They comprise an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units, that are connected with thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through tiny openings in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos, because they can be placed in spaces that traditional HVAC ducts aren’t able to. This makes them a great cooling option for many Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often do not want to cut into the floors and walls to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it moves through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models and allows you to cool your space without disturbing other. Certain ductless systems have heating capabilities as well, so you can enjoy year-round peace and comfort.
A ductless system can be suitable for various types of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase comfort for older houses or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system is also ideal for multifamily homes, since it is able to easily adapt to various demands and occupancy patterns.
In addition that, a ductless system could be much more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. As a result, it can lower your power bills significantly. They are also smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condominium buildings, because they provide superior cooling performance and more personal temperature control. They can improve the air quality of your condo, as well by utilizing a powerful filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid allergy and asthma symptoms while ensuring the comfort of your home throughout the year. Contact us today if looking to learn more. Our knowledgeable technicians are available to assist you. We can help you determine the ideal air conditioner for your needs by assessing your needs.