Air Conditioners For Condos

Many modern condos and apartments do not have built-in air conditioning units. They do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide great views, but also let in too much light and heat.

If your home has ductwork, then a central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if your building doesn’t have ductwork, a central AC system is a good option.

1. Window Units

Window air conditioners are a straightforward and affordable method of cooling a home without the need to install ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them an ideal choice for those on a budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. However, they come with a few drawbacks that should be considered prior to making a purchase.

Window ACs are limited to cooling one room, which makes them not a good option for homes with a large number of rooms. It’s also important to pick models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose a security risk because windows can be removed easily and provide an 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 install accordions or wood to block off any extra space around the sides of the window. It is possible to install most window units yourself with an installation set for windows. Simply put the chassis in the frame and attach the sleeves. For larger models with more BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, with the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.

To determine the right size unit you require you simply need to multiply the square footage of your space by the amount of BTUs it needs to be comfortably cooled. To maximize efficiency, take into consideration whether your room gets a lot of sun or is on the upper floor. A larger unit is more costly, but can help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC to provide a long-term solution. The initial cost might be higher but it will pay off over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer service life than window units with multiple windows.

2. Portable Units

Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling systems that function as space heaters. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, will run out an opening to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). The units can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. A unit must be sized in accordance with the space it will be utilized in. Oversized units will not keep cool and be worn out more quickly than.

These units are used typically in apartment buildings or homes that don’t have ducting systems and in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. The use of portable ACs in one or more rooms can reduce the workload on the central system, which can save electricity and money.

The most reliable portable units come with a dehumidifier option to cut down on moisture. This is another common reason for hot spots and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should also include washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their performance and a remote control for easy operation. Choose energy STAR certified models to save money and electricity compared to non-certified units.

If you decide to move your portable device, it is essential to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through condenser coils, and then blow it out using the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the noise of the unit. It is more expensive to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it will be well worth the investment in terms of savings and the comfort.

4. Ductless Systems

Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits, are ductless alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised 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 make a great option for condos since they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not possible. This makes them the ideal cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums because homeowners typically don’t wish to cut through the floors and walls to install ductwork.

In a ductless system, air is cooled by the indoor unit as it passes through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter in comparison to other systems, meaning it’s possible to cool your space without disturbing others. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities, as well which means you can enjoy all year-round comfort.

A ductless system is ideal for many types of spaces, including sunrooms, bedrooms, and garages. 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 various kinds of occupancy patterns.

A ductless system is more energy-efficient than traditional systems since it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. In turn, it can lower your power consumption significantly. They are also smaller than forced-air systems which means they can save on installation costs and space.

Ductless systems are superior in cooling efficiency, and can be adapted to your personal preferences in temperature. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, too, with an efficient filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This will assist you in avoiding allergy and asthma symptoms and maintain your condo’s temperature throughout the season. Contact us today if ready to learn more. Our experienced technicians are ready to help. We can evaluate your needs and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your unique situation.

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