If you are struggling to decide which air conditioning system you should invest in for your condominium, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve tried to summarize the pros and cons of different AC systems in our list in relation to the dynamics and layouts, average sizes (sf), and overall cooling needs of condo homes to make it as comprehensible as possible.
In a hurry? Here’s our top Air Conditioner Options for Condos pick!
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Temperatures have started to soar globally during summers in recent years and air conditioning has started to become more of a necessity rather than a mere luxury. As a result, more and more consumers are entering the global AC marketplace, trying to figure out the best solution for their living space and budget. And it is our aim to make sure they enter that marketplace equipped with the knowledge to make the right purchase. Get it right, and you can procure an affordable, efficient, and effect air conditioning solution for just about any space, condos included. Get it wrong, and you can end up overspending big-time on a unit that simple does not fit with your space, in overall power, or AC unit type (yes there are many to choose from!).
If done correctly, buying an air conditioning system can be one of the best investments you can make – no there is no return-on-investment, financially-speaking, but there sure is an ROI in quality of life!
All of this in mind, the team at fabsummer.co has prepared the following top air conditioner options for condos:
Window-Style AC Units
Window mounted AC units usually prove to be perfect for small studio-style condo apartments because of their ease of installation and low energy consumption and thus bills.
Pros:
- Many window-style AC units come with an easy-to-use installation kit. Most homeowners prefer to install these units themselves using the kit as per their home window’s width and size.
- It is a less expensive solution.
- In case your condo is rented, you can achieve great cooling capacity without any changes in the structure.
Cons:
- Difficult to find a unit that perfectly fits in many styles or sizesof window. Usually they come for windows that slide vertically. Transom or casement windows, for instance are pretty much a no-go for a window AC unit as they are not made for these window styles.
Portable Style AC Units
Many condo administrations and associations forbid the modification of the exterior to ensure uniformity of the building facade. This limitation rules out the possibility of installing a window-style AC unit. Here portable ACs seem to be the most viable option.
Pros:
- The main benefit of portable units is that they are portable and you can take them with you whenever you move out of your condo. Also, you can move them from one room to another without any problem.
- Takes few minutes to install and are great optionswhen needed in urgency or when you cannot afford the installation time required by other AC types.
Cons:
- Perhaps the most expensive solution.
- Noisier and space consuming.
- Hard to look at with ugly tubes hanging from different sides.
Ductless-Mini Split AC Units
This is the best option for condos with two or more bedroom layouts. These units require an outdoor compressor but without any ugly ductwork.
Pros:
- If centralized air conditioning is off limits, this is the best option and is even more efficient in saving energy then centralized air conditioning.
- Security-wise these are much safer than window-style AC units as they are inside the condoand inaccessible to burglars.
Cons:
- In order to install the hoses, you will have to drill holes in your condo.
- It is more expensive than window-style AC units.
Whatever option you choose from the above as the AC for your condo, make sure to always check your AC’s highest Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER). Also it is advisable to select one which has both cooling and heating options available.This way you can save money if you find that you need to use space heaters in the winter time – you can sell those space heaters on eBay for some quick cash if your window AC covers you on the heat as well!
The best air conditioner for your condo is ultimately up to you, but hopefully the above has been informative and we thank you visiting with us at fabsummer.co!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which type of AC should I pick up, Windows, portable or ductless?
The type of AC that you want depends on your requirements. Each type of AC has its own set of pros and cons, and hence you should thoroughly check all the details before narrowing down on a choice. Remember to look for the space area to ensure that it fits incorrectly. Also, AC’s with features that include in your budgetary capping are the ideal options.
Can I save money and conserve energy too with ACs?
To save money and conserve energy, we suggest opting for AC’s that have a good energy efficiency ratio. An AC with an Energy-efficient ratio equal to or greater than 12 is considered ideal, and hence we suggest choosing them. Moreover, they are environment and pocket-friendly and aptly befit your requirement.
How many times in a year do I need to service my AC?
Generally, AC servicing needs to be done at six months intervals for sustaining its performance. We advise following the maintenance regime every year for continued successful operation.
Happy summer!