A central air system is a system that cools and then distributes the cooled air throughout the building via fans and ductwork.
Choosing a quality HVAC system will ensure your renters stay comfortable and save on their utility bills. It also helps you keep your maintenance costs down and improves tenant retention.
Through-Wall ACs
Through-wall ACs are installed in a sleeve that is cut into an exterior wall, usually below a window. These units combine both heating and cooling in one unit, so they can be a great option for apartments with limited space.
They can be a bit more expensive than other types of ACs, but they are very energy efficient and come in a variety of sizes to fit the needs of different apartments. A small 8,000 BTU through-wall air conditioner will work well in rooms with up to 350 square feet, such as a living room, bedroom, or kitchen.
Most of them come with a dehumidify mode, which helps remove excess moisture from the room. They also have a sleep mode, which is a quieter operating mode that saves electricity on days when you aren’t using the unit.
Unlike window ACs, through-wall units vent exhaust to the outside through the back of the unit. This is more effective in reducing noise than window units do, which means they are usually more suitable for apartments with older architecture.
Some through-wall units have a slide-out chassis, so they can be easily removed for cleaning and maintenance. These units are more difficult to install than ductless mini-splits, so you should check the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before starting the process.
Through-wall ACs also offer more options than their ductless mini-split counterparts for temperature control, such as a sleep mode and fan-only modes. Some even have a dehumidify mode for winter months.
They can be a great solution for apartments with limited space and are more cost-effective than ductless mini-splits. However, they do require additional installation costs and aren’t as energy-efficient as other options.
Many through-wall units have a heater, which is useful in colder weather. They use an electric heat coil or a heat pump to generate and circulate warm air.
The cheapest through-wall air conditioner available is the MIDEA MAT08R1ZWT. It has an EER rating of 10.6, which is more than enough to cool rooms up to 350 square feet. It costs less than $400 and is a great energy-saver that will pay for itself in about 10 years.
PTACs
PTACs are air-conditioning systems that are self-contained and do not require ductwork. They can be installed directly into the wall or inside a window. Using electricity, they push refrigerant through the coils to generate cool air and heat up or remove humidity. The resulting air is vented to the outside through a vent.
They’re ideal for small spaces that don’t have a lot of airflow. These include bedrooms and bathrooms in apartments, as well as smaller rooms in buildings such as hotels, motels or assisted living facilities.
While PTACs are generally more expensive to buy than through-wall air conditioners, they can save you money on your electric bill by climate controlling just the rooms that need heating or cooling. Plus, they can be used in conjunction with a programmable thermostat or an energy management system to optimize your electricity use and save on utility bills.
You’ll find the right PTAC for your space by first determining the square footage of the room you want to cool. Then, follow the DOE rule of thumb that suggests ’20 BTU per sq ft of living space (8 ft ceiling height)’ to determine the size of the PTAC unit you need for your apartment.
Another thing to consider is whether you’ll need a PTAC with both cooling and heating capabilities. These models are usually powered by either a heat pump or an electric heat.
Both types are effective for heating and cooling, but they are less effective at heating than a furnace. If you’ll need to use a PTAC as a primary heater, it may be more efficient to choose one that has a heat pump and not an electric heat.
Having both heating and cooling functionality is helpful if you live in a region with four seasons, as it can save you money on your energy bills by only having to use a single unit for both. If you live in a warmer area, however, an electric-heating model may be more cost-effective for you.
Finally, PTAC units have a tendency to develop a musty, mildew-like smell that’s known as “dirty sock syndrome.” This is typically due to bacteria and mold that builds up on the heat pump’s internal components. If you’re worried about this, you can always pay a professional to clean it.
Ductless ACs
When it comes to heating and cooling a house or apartment building, central air conditioning is often the most cost-effective and efficient solution. However, if you’re looking for an alternative, ductless AC systems are becoming increasingly popular for residential use.
Ductless ACs, also known as mini-splits, consist of an indoor unit connected to a separate outdoor unit via refrigerant-filled tubing that runs from the outside of your home to the inside. They are an energy-efficient and versatile alternative to traditional ductwork-based systems and can be installed in most homes, including older buildings, as well as in room additions and garages.
They are also a great option for apartment complexes that want to offer tenants the benefits of individual control over their space’s temperature. This allows them to set their thermostats to their preferences and avoid heating or cooling areas that aren’t being used.
Another advantage of ductless ACs is that they are generally much quieter than traditional AC units. This makes them a good choice for anyone who is sensitive to noise.
Unlike window units, ductless ACs are mounted on walls, ceilings or floors, making them less obtrusive and easy to hide. They can also be made to look sleek and stylish with different colors and designs.
These units are usually more expensive to install than a traditional central system, but they can save you money in the long run by reducing energy costs. This is especially important for apartment buildings, where a majority of occupants have high electricity bills.
A ductless AC system is a good choice for apartments where ducts would be difficult to install. It can also be a great option for older homes, where the installation of ductwork would be expensive and invasive.
In addition, ductless ACs are generally much more efficient than central systems. This is because a lot of thermal energy gets lost when ducts circulate air around your home.
A ductless AC system can save you up to 30% on your utility bill by cooling your apartment with less energy. This can add up to significant savings over the course of a year, especially for people who live in an older building or apartment complex.
Maintenance
The cost of keeping your apartment cool is a major consideration for any landlord, and central air makes the task that much easier. It’s also an investment that pays off in spades over time, so it’s important to ensure your unit is up to scratch so you can reap the benefits long into the future.
Central air has been around for a while now, and it’s one of the best ways to keep your apartments a comfortable temperature all year round. In fact, a well maintained central AC can even help your tenants save on energy costs, reducing your property taxes in the process.
When it comes to central air, there are several models to choose from, and deciding which one is right for you will depend on your budget and your needs. It’s always a good idea to consult with an experienced HVAC professional before making a purchase, as you’ll be sure to receive unbiased and expert advice. The best way to ensure your central air unit is performing at its peak is to perform routine maintenance and keep an eye out for any signs of wear and tear.