Are There Combination Heating and Air Conditioning Units for Apartments?
Apartment dwellers often face heating and cooling challenges. Tight space and design constraints can create issues with air movement. A lack of windows doesn’t help either. Limited airflow reduces comfort and can increase humidity, mold growth, and paint deterioration. However, these issues can be avoided by installing combination heating and air conditioning units for apartments.
What Combined Heating and AC Options Are There?
A building can be served by decentralized heating systems, each serving a specific area or a central system. Central units control temperature, humidity, and airflow from a single source. They may have a split design with an outdoor cabinet containing the compressor and condenser, while the evaporator is contained in an indoor unit. Air handlers and furnaces are typically separate components as well.
Common Combination Heating and Air Conditioning Units for Apartments
These aren’t the only heating and cooling systems that can be used in apartments. The following alternatives can save space and provide efficient comfort:
Packaged Central AC
A packaged central unit contains the condenser, compressor, and evaporator in a single cabinet. The unit is typically installed outside (on the ground or the roof). A packaged system often contains electric heating coils or a natural gas furnace along with an air conditioner (a separate indoor furnace is not required). Air circulation is managed by air supply and return ducts that pass through the roof or an exterior wall.
Ductless Mini-Split System
A mini-split is a cooling and heating system that allows the temperature to be adjusted at a certain level for one room, and another level in a different room. An apartment often isn’t large enough for a central unit. While the condenser is installed outside the building, compact mini-split air handlers can provide heating or cooling in individual rooms or small apartments. Separate AC and heater components aren’t required.
Packaged Terminal Air Conditioners (PTACs)
Often installed below windows in hotels, PTACs are self-contained, ductless units. They can heat or cool small areas like hotel rooms, small one-bedroom apartments, and residential add-ons. A PTAC can provide electric heat or be a reverse-cycle heat pump. Either way, it’s a reliable solution and many units have advanced digital controls to make them simple to use.
Combination Heating/AC Considerations
Several HVAC options are available for small spaces. That means there are choices to make, not only on the type of system but also based on specific factors. Every building is different so it’s important to consider the following:
- Size: The unit will work efficiently only if it’s sized right for the apartment’s square footage. The layout of the building matters as well. Excessive capacity will cause the system to use more energy and be more costly to run. A lower-capacity system won’t provide enough heating or cooling; it will struggle to keep up and wear out more quickly.
- Installation Compatibility: To install central air conditioning, a building must have ductwork. Upgrading an old structure with ducts can be difficult and expensive. Combination ductless HVAC units avoid these issues.
- Zoning: Combination systems can be zoned to provide heating and cooling to separate apartments (preferred in multi-tenant residences) or divide larger apartments into areas where the temperature can be set to different occupants’ preferences.
And, as with any HVAC system, look for a warranty. It can save a lot of money especially if something breaks while the unit is still covered. The length of the warranty and what it covers depends on the unit and brand. Read the terms of the contract to know what parts are covered and if labor is included before you sign it.
Purchase Combination HVAC Units from NexGen
Proudly serving Southern California, NexGen offers ductless heating and cooling systems that are compact, versatile, and efficient. These include wall-mount heat pumps with impressive heating and cooling ranges. Our licensed technicians provide HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance services. By signing up for our X Protection Plan, you can receive discounts and priority service, while specials and financing options are available. To learn more about our offerings and combination heating and air conditioning units for apartments, schedule online with us today.