Air conditioners are beneficial both at home and in the workplace. Its many purposes include improving human efficiency, air quality, and managing heat produced by appliances and the human body. Therefore, it is imperative to have the correct information about the types, features, capacity, and to help you choose the best air conditioner for installation.
Selecting the best kind of AC based on the numerous options available can be puzzling. Aside from features and types of AC, you need to consider room size, external wall, energy star rating, and price. However, even without knowing how to buy a good air conditioner, we believe you must have an idea of your preferred AC.
To ensure that you get to buy the best AC tailored for your needs, we have put together a comprehensive list to guide you.
Factors that will guide you in buying an air conditioner. The best AC purchases are Unit type, Capacity, Energy rating, and Features. Check out how they help.
Air-conditioning Unit Type
Before fully comprehending its purpose, you need to know the types of AC Repair. It is the very tip you need to know about. There are four AC types: split, wall/ window, multi-split, split system, and ductless. Then after you’ve chosen, SmartWay can help you with your aircon installation Sydney. To take a closer look, they are as follows.
Wall / Window Air Conditioner
The wall/window AC is ideal for controlling room temperature in a small space. This unit is installed in the wall or window and can cool a room at about 50 square meters. It is the cheapest among the lot and easy to install.
Pros
Easy to install
Excellent cooling capacity in a small room
It can be mounted on a wall or window
Despite its features, this unit may have some downsides, and they are.
Cons
These units can be noisy and large
Due to the amount of power they consume.
Ducted Air Conditioners
This system provides the needed temperature through ducts spread all over the office or home, whether hot or cold. A ducted system is much more expensive than the others as the coverage is widespread for maximum range. However, suppose you want to provide your home or office with the proper air conditioning spanning the entire property. In that case, the ducted system air conditioner is right for you because it is highly efficient.
Pros
Suitable for commercial buildings and significant properties.
wide airflow range
Run by a control panel that allows you to set target temperature and zones
They work more efficiently to cool your home and offices than any other system.
efficient heat energy
Cons
Way more expensive than other air conditioners
Best suited for institutions like big corporations, schools, and hospitals.
High ongoing running costs
High energy bill
Split System Air Conditioners
The split system’s mechanism is quite simple. This AC blows air in the room and sucks out the heat. It is an HVAC system with two parts: an indoor and one outdoor unit connected with copper tubing. This unit has a condenser with a compressor placed outdoors with an evaporator, filter, air handler, and furnaces in the indoor unit. They are quieter and more efficient and use less electricity.
Pros
Strong cooling capabilities
Relatively affordable compared to ducted systems air conditioners.
Can target a particular area of the room to heat or cool.
Cons
You need a professional to do the installation
It is the most expensive option for a home AC.
Multi-split System Air Conditioner
A more complex form of the split air conditioner, the multi-split system can connect about 5 indoor units to a single outdoor unit. This system offers a great way to cool two or more rooms within the same radius without the need for a duct.
Pros
Can cool two or three rooms without the need to install ducts.
Connect more indoor units to an outdoor unit
The next best option is when a ducted system is not an option due to space.
Low power bills
Great cooling mode for desired room temperature
multiple fan speeds and more power
Cons
It cannot be an option when rooms are not nearby
It is not recommended for small-sized rooms and apartments.
Buying an air conditioner
Air conditioners come in sizes and features, and one must widen their scope. The components may include a portable, inverter, non-inverter, and reverse-cycle air conditioner. Check out more information on these types.
Portable Air Conditioner
A portable air conditioner is handy for a small, owned or rented space. Because they require no installation, they are easy to move, less expensive, do not take up much space, and weigh less than most air conditioners. They can also be an indoor wall-mounted unit.
Pros
You don’t have to pay for installation costs as the installation is unnecessary.
It comes with amazing features like omnidirectional louvers that help spread out the air in the room.
Have remote control and timers
Cons
Not suitable for large spaces
Inverter Air Conditioners
This cooling system utilizes a controlled compressor. The compressor acts as an accelerator and dictates how much is needed to fire up the air conditioner. Inverter models are in demand as most split air conditioners are inverted. Less energy is used with this system for efficient, full power, and less expensive units.
Pros
It draws less power as it is energy saving
Have controllable compressor units
Temperature can be changed as and when needed.
Environmentally friendly, saving up to 50% of energy
Cons
Much more expensive than non-inverter systems.
Currently available only in split air conditioners.
Non-Inverter Air Conditioners
This cooling system, unlike the inverter, works automatically to cool the room on its own or not at all. Without a controllable compressor, it works on impulse. The non-inverter can cause mass surges in energy consumption without human regulation as it is automated. Although they do not work as sufficiently as the inverter, they are less expensive than the inverter systems.
Pros
Inexpensive compared to inverter systems
Delivers a fixed amount of power in a room based on its temperature
Constant supply of cool air when at maximum capacity
Cons
The all-or-nothing effect can cause power surges.
Less efficient than the inverter
No controllable compressor.
Reverse-Cycle Air Conditioners
The reverse-cycle air conditioner is a cooling system that gives you the privilege of warming your house during those cold and warm seasons. This modern technology is like having a heating and warming device together with the press of a button. Aside from its heating and cooling abilities, it acts as an air dehumidifier and a filter. The heat pump in the reverse-cycle air conditioner performs the most crucial function to cool down the room temperature. Then reverse it and warm it back up using the refrigeration cycle.
Pros
It gives you a two for one deal; a heater and a refrigerator
Uses internal room temperature to provide the needed feel of cold or warm.
More room for your place as it is a two in one device instead of two devices
Excellent air dehumidify and filters your home.
Excellent airflow
Cons
Expensive than heaters or coolants
Capacity of your air conditioner
When buying an air conditioner, another feature to consider before landing on your is the capacity of the cooling system and the room size. Capacities are measured in kilowatts and room size in square meters. With the room’s size and the air conditioning’s capacity under control, other factors are essential to how best your selected AC can help.
Before deciding on the air conditioner, make to consider these factors:
- The size of the room depends on all dimensions
- Type of installation a wall, window, or ceiling
- The type of room, i.e., bedroom or living room
Room sizes below 80 square meters can be recommended for window, portable, and split system air conditioners. Room sizes from 110 square meters and above are great for all other air conditioners.
You should also consider where you like the AC to be installed and the noise level it produces for noise level. For bedrooms, we recommend you to go in for a low noise air conditioner. Loud ACs can hinder your sleep, so it is best to opt for a split system air conditioner rather than a wall one.
Checking out the average city temperature or local climate can help you decide the type of air conditioning you prefer. In addition, knowing the moderate environment can help you determine how much capacity is needed to live in that region.
Another tip to consider is the number of people in a room when planning to buy an AC. The more people, the more the temperature rises, so. For example, you will need a 1.5 ton AC for the living room of a family of five.
Another way to determine the air conditioner’s capacity is by taking into account the BTU of the AC. British Thermal Units (BTU) is the standard measuring unit of an air conditioner. Accordingly, the higher the value of the BTU, the better the cooling of the air conditioner. Based on this standard, 1 ton is equivalent to 12000 BTU. For that reason, any air conditioner with more than 12000 BTU must have a higher cooling ability. It can help you understand some of the technicalities in performing AC.
Power Consumption of your air conditioner
We have just learned about BTU and the amount of energy it takes to power rooms of different sizes. It should tell you that all air conditioners are not the same as some run on a more significant energy capacity and efficiency than others. The factor that should concern you is how best the air conditioner can suck out hot air from your room and external surroundings and replace it with cool air.
When considering how much power an air conditioner uses, you should also consider the energy-saving abilities of the AC. These capabilities make the products more reliable. Sadly, the energy-efficient air conditioners are the expensive ones. However, it is far more rewarding in the long run to buy energy-efficient ACs than to buy any other. You can save more money in a year than purchasing any other type.
The plain air conditioner will consume more power than the energy-efficient one, which you have no option but to pay for.
To prevent such scenarios, manufacturers have designed a rating system to help you identify products that meet the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER). The energy rating star is designed to show buyers how energy efficient an appliance is. This rating technique is a sticker with stars on it counting between one and five. One star means low energy saving, and a 5 star means a higher energy-saving appliance. The star rating logos are pretty conspicuous and can serve as a clue to guide you towards efficient and energy-saving air conditioning.
Features Of An Air Conditioner
Making your way to an air conditioner is one thing, and the entirely different thing is to stick to the appliance. The one thing that can motivate you to purchase is the features of specifications. Not only do you go home with a device that can offer you cool air without the struggle of heat. Manufacturers also pamper users with fancy features and upgrades to always want more.
Some of the fantastic features modern-day technology offers.
Sleep Mode
Most of the air conditioners on the market have sleep mode as a setting. As the name implies, sleep mode is a setting where the AC comfortably adjusts the room temperature to enable you to sleep. This mode may differ in appliances as in a tv set. Sleep mode is a state where it goes to hibernate without completely shutting down.
Air Filters
There are two types of filters in an air conditioner: washable and standard filters. The standard filter is the one that needs periodic changes to ensure proper airflow and filtration. The washable filter can be cleaned for continued use without replacing it with a new one. Air filters on air conditioners are added to remove germs, smoke, and odor.
Adjustable Louvers
Air conditioners have blade-like attachments to the outlet, which move to spread the air in whatever direction you may direct it.
Adjustable Fan Speed
One fantastic feature of an air conditioner is controlling the speed at which the fan in the air conditioner blows. You can regulate the fan’s speed and ensure the room temperature is to your liking.
Programmable Timer and air conditioner capacity0
Timers are used to allocate a specific time to begin and end a task. On an air conditioner, you can set a timer. When it is time, the AC will shut down completely to save energy and give the appliance the time to recuperate. The reverse will occur when the timer is set to switch on automatically.
Presence Sensor
Most air conditioners have in-built sensors which can tell if someone enters your room or if the place is empty. These sensor appliances can even direct the air towards the felt presence.
Dehumidifier Mode
It is a rare feature where the air conditioner removes dust, humidity, and air moisture. As a user, it gives an atmosphere of pollution-free air.
Wi-Fi Compatibility
Recent air conditioners come with fast rate technology where you can access your air conditioner without being present. New models have made it possible to access your air conditioner through an app on your phone.
App Control
With wi-fi already in use, the remote control is becoming a thing of the old. Some appliances rely on applications to make navigation simple and innovative.
Self-Clean Features
This feature automatically cleans and dries the inside of the indoor air conditioner unit. The self-cleaning function prevents the growth of microorganisms and prevents rusting to provide cleaner and healthy air.
Cost Of Running The Air Conditioner
Air conditioners as an appliance are expensive in themselves without the cost of running them. As the owner, you need to factor in purchase, maintenance, energy consumption, and part replacement as you use this product. There are several factors to consider in cutting down costs to be able to enjoy the air conditioning for quite a while,
Consider An Energy Efficient Appliance In An Energy Efficient Home
Make sure everything you do at home is to save energy and cut costs. Small acts like closing windows when the air conditioner is in full swing. Or airing out your home as much as possible when you get the chance and taking excellent care of the air conditioner to last long.
Thermostat Use
Try incorporating a thermostat in your home to set a reasonable temperature so that the unit system would not have to use more energy.
Size air conditioner
When considering an air conditioner, you should choose one with the suitable capacity for your required place.
Economy Mode
When using your air conditioner, try putting it on “Eco mode” if you have that as a setting.
Installation
All air conditioners will need to be installed by a professional apart from the portable ones. The licensed installer will get things done correctly and safely as you continue to enjoy the warranty from manufacturers. In addition, most outlets offer free installation when you purchase from them, which is another small way to cut costs.
The next question to ask yourself is how you want the air conditioner to be mounted? There are four ways to do it: high wall, floor mounting, cassette, and floor/ ceiling.
Floor/ Ceiling: Air conditions can be mounted on the floor or ceiling.
High Wall: In this instance, the indoor unit is mounted high on a wall so that air can freely flow in the room.
Cassette: Here, the indoor unit is mounted on the ceiling
Floor Mounted: The indoor unit is better suited to serve more rooms at the floor level.
With more technologically advanced brands that offer more than a cooling unit as air conditioners, it can be overwhelming if you have no clue what to buy. In this case, if you consider our list, you will realize that finding the right air conditioner is easy and your call. We are only here to guide you to help you with your choice. To help you in your quest, why don’t you make a list of your preferred specifications in an air conditioner. Use our list as a layout, and before you know it, you are chilling in an AC handpicked by yours truly. Also have a look at the areas we serve to see if you could use our help in installing or repairing your unit!
