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In most places, especially those with hot and humid climates, air conditioning is essential to their living. It takes having a suitable environment in the home or office to be productive and live a healthy life.
While it is understandable that people need to get air conditioners for themselves, they often make the mistake of not doing due diligence before they settle for the correct air con.
You wouldn't want to be in a situation where you begin to regret it, but it is already too late. So, continue reading for a comprehensive guide to help you pick the right air conditioner for your home.
Types of Air Conditioners
Four major types of air conditioner are available for people to buy from in the market. Each of them is characterised by peculiar pros and cons, so you will do well to have a fair understanding of the details about each type before you choose.
Choosing the right air conditioner can be what is responsible for a significant difference in the energy bills and comfort of your home. Since there are several options from which you can choose, it can be pretty overwhelming to choose the right one.
Central AC
From all indications, central air conditioning is the most common type of air conditioner. This type of AC can be used to cool your entire home or even a mall. In this type of AC, a system of reverse-cycle ducts is used to circulate cool air throughout your home. Understandably, it is the most expensive type of air conditioner to install. Keep in mind that its maintenance is costly too.
Ductless mini-split AC
The flexibility and efficiency offered by ductless mini-split air conditioners make them ideal for individual rooms or zones. Ductwork is not required to install these air cons, and the air conditioner installation process can be carried out efficiently and quickly.
However, you need to know that it is more expensive than window air conditioners and is not necessarily as efficient as central air conditioners.
Window AC
If you see window air conditioners in many places, it is because it is an affordable option and relatively easier to install. This is a popular option for people living in small apartments or renters to cool their rooms.
You need to note that it is less efficient than ductless mini-split ACs, or central ACs. On top of that, it can be noisy, which makes it a poor choice in places where noise cannot be tolerated.
Portable AC
This is a flexible option that can be moved from one room to the other. The portable air conditioner does not need any installation and is an affordable option that many renters prefer. It is not as efficient as other types of ACs and uses up a significant portion of floor space.
There are some considerations you need to make when choosing the proper AC for your home. Factors like the number of rooms you need to cool, the size of the space you have available, and your budget need to be considered.
What Air Conditioner Should You Buy?
Air conditioners are in different capacities and sizes, so you have to take your time to go through what is available to find the best buy. Choosing an air conditioner that will serve you well in your space is vital for maximising efficiency and saving you some money.
Although there are different factors that you will need to consider before buying the appliance, one of the most important ones is BTUs (British Thermal Units), which measure the air conditioner's cooling capacity.
What are BTUs, and what exactly do they mean?
BTUs refer to the amount of heat an air conditioner can remove from a room in an hour. This value shows the cooling power of an air conditioner, so the higher the BTU rating, the greater its cooling ability.
Therefore, it is essential to note that if you choose an air conditioner whose BTU rating is for your space, it will only result in insufficient cooling. On the other hand, if you select one with a BTU rating that is too high, it will waste energy and cost you more money to use in the end.
Factors relating to the size and capacity of the air-con
Several factors should be considered to guide you on the right size and air conditioner capacity for your room. Some of these factors include the following:
Room size
A large room would need an air conditioner with a high BTU rating. In essence, the larger the space, the higher the BTU rating that would be required to keep the room at the temperature you need and perform optimally. The general rule of thumb states that an air conditioner needs to have a BTU rating of 20 per square foot of the space it is intended for use.
Insulation
If a room is well insulated, it can reduce the required BTU rating. Conversely, poor insulation can increase the BTU rating that is required.
Climate
A higher BTU rating is required in hotter and more humid climates because more work is needed.
The number of occupants
With more people in a room, there is a need to have an air conditioner with a high BTU rating. So increasing the number of people expected in a room will mean you need an air con with a higher BTU rating too.
Sun exposure
Rooms exposed to the direct effect of sunlight will need a higher BTU rating. The reason is more heat will be trapped in such spaces, and there would be the need for the air conditioner to work harder to cool such rooms.
Get the Right Size for Maximum Efficiency
Getting the correct type of air conditioner for your office or home is crucial if you want to enjoy the benefits of having one for a long time. Choosing the right capacity and size is essential to maximise efficiency and save some money in the long run.
A unit that is too small will have a hard time keeping up with cooling demands which means there would be excess energy usage with higher energy bills to contend with. If, on the other hand, the air conditioner is too large, it can cool the room too quickly.
This will lead to frequent on/off cycling, the likelihood of higher humidity, and much energy would be wasted. When you choose the right size and capacity, your air conditioner will run at optimal efficiency, which will create the right comfort level for you while saving money at the same time.
Tips For Maintaining Your Air Conditioner
Regular air conditioner maintenance is crucial to extend its lifespan and keep it running efficiently. The following are some tips for maintaining your conditioner properly:
- The filters need cleaning regularly. When the need arises, they should be replaced, which should be done every one to three months.
- Ensure the outdoor unit is debris-free, including grass, branches, and leaves.
- Check that the thermostat settings are well-optimised to meet your needs and give room for energy savings.
- Consider using a programmable thermostat, as this will help regulate the room's temperature even when you are not at home.
Get Professional Advice About Air Conditioners
You may have seen different air conditioners, from window unit split system air conditioners to central unit systems, but you may not be sure what would give you the best value for your money.
Choosing an air con can be exasperating and tasking, especially if it is your first time. In such a situation, you need professional advice, which you can get from an HVAC expert.
The advice you get will go a long way in giving you rest of mind and real value for your investment. So, consider speaking with a licensed HVAC professional to resolve your heating and cooling issues today.
