Picture this. The sun is beating down, the mercury is nudging 40 and all you can think about is escaping the heat. If you want to head home to a cool, climate-controlled oasis, you’ll want to make sure you have the right air conditioner.
But choosing the perfect air conditioner for your home can feel overwhelming. So where do you start? Here, we take you through the six most important things to consider.
1. Size
The size of the space you need to cool will determine the size of your air conditioner model – and how much power you will need. A model that’s underpowered won’t cool your home effectively, while an over-powered air conditioner will waste energy – and your money. With room sizing there are a number of factors that impact the size of the air conditioner required including windows, insulation, orientation and local climate.
As a general rule of thumb, the bigger the space, the larger the model needs to be.
2. Types of air conditioner systems
Split system
Wall mounted units are the most popular way to heat or cool one room. They are easy to install and are generally quieter than other systems which exhaust the heat out of the room and blows in cold air.
Portable air conditioners
If you only need to cool small rooms, a portable air conditioner might be the perfect solution. These appliances can be moved easily, but they have a limited range and are ineffective in more open areas.
Ducted air conditioning
While the unit itself is cost-effective, ducted air conditioning can be the most expensive to install as they run through or underneath your home. You’ll need a compressor unit installed outside to pump cool air through your home.
3. Energy efficiency
Make sure you compare the energy efficiency of the models you’re considering by checking its energy star rating. The more stars an air conditioning unit has, the more energy efficient it is, and the less it will cost you to run.
4. Design
Air conditioners have come a long way from the ugly clunky box in the corner of the room. How an air conditioner looks is an important factor to consider, and is as important as furniture and architectural features.
5. Extra features
Different units can offer a wide range of features, including:
- Clean air technology and antiviral and antioxidant filters
- Evaporative coolers
- Remote control
- Timer
- Mosquito traps
- Motion sensors
- Sleep mode
- Adjustable louvres
- Dehumidifier mode
6. Installation
If you live in an apartment, check if there are any special conditions regarding placement of your unit. Make sure you choose a licensed professional for installation and repairs.
You might also like:
Keep as cool as a cucumber in summer with one of these evaporative coolers
Best portable air conditioners
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