Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air cooling units. Those that do tend to have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much light and heat.
If your home has ductwork, a central AC system is a good idea. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with said that if your building doesn’t have ductwork, a central AC system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an easy and cost-effective way to cool a condo without the need for ductwork. They work by extracting warm air from rooms and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a great option for people on a tight budget or older homes that don’t have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks that must be considered prior buying.
Window ACs can only be used to cool a small area which is why they aren’t suitable for larger homes. They also consume a lot of energy, which is why it’s crucial to choose models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an security risk, since they are 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 need to install accordions or wooden to block off any extra space around one or both sides of the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows that can be used to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve on the outside of the frame. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move back and forth on rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that attach it to the window.
To determine what size unit you require you simply need to multiply the square footage of your room by the number of BTUs it requires to be able to cool comfortably. To maximize efficiency, consider whether the room gets lots of sunlight or is located on an upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it can help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts recommend investing in a central AC for a long-term solution. Although the initial cost is higher, it will pay for itself over time by reducing monthly costs and a longer lifespan than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling device that functions as an electric space heater. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet and a mini-duct or tube will run out of an opening to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the toxic gas carbon monoxide). The units are portable and can be determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). To get the best results, a unit should be sized to suit the intended space because larger units won’t provide enough cooling and could wear down faster than necessary.
These units are utilized typically in apartments or converted homes that do not have ducting systems, and in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. By installing a portable AC unit in one or more of your rooms, you can reduce the load on the central system and save money and electricity.
The most reliable portable units include a dehumidifier mode to reduce moisture, which is another common reason for hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should be equipped with washable filters to provide the best performance, and remote controls to make the operation simpler. Select the ENERGY STAR certified models to save money and energy in comparison to non-certified models.
If you choose to move your portable device, it is essential to choose a dual-hose model instead of a one-hose model. The dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot and then expelled through the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit and it helps to minimize the noise generated by the process. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it could be worth the cost in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units that are connected with thin piping that runs like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos since they can be used in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners don’t want to cut through walls and floors to install ductwork.
In 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 traditional models and allows you to cool your home without disturbing other. Certain ductless systems also provide heating, so you can have year-round luxury.
The ductless system is ideal for many spaces, such as garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also enhance the comfort of older homes, apartments, and condos which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This type of system can also be utilized in multifamily homes since it is easily adaptable to different kinds of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is more energy-efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. It can also reduce your electric bills. They are also smaller than forced air systems, allowing you to save on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling performance, and they can be customized to suit your individual preferences for temperature. With an air filtering system that filters out harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your condo. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies and keeps your home cool all year. If you’re looking to learn more about installing a ductless system into your apartment, contact us today! Our technicians are available to assist you. We can evaluate your needs and help determine the best air conditioning solution for your particular situation.