Purchase of Air Conditioner
An AC (Air Conditioner) has become a necessity these days as the climate grows hotter day by day. If you want to buy a new AC, it is better to purchase the same in off season to avail of various types of offers and discounts given by companies and not wait until summer. The decision to purchase a new AC can be quite confusing and difficult as there are multiple brands and multiple types of ACs in the market. Above all, every company markets specific AC features in their own way, so it is harder to understand them and compare them equivalently.
This AC buying guide will make the whole process easier. First, decide your budget i.e. how much you can spend for an AC. Then observe which type of AC suits your needs, and then search about the AC’s cooling capacity and your requirement as per your room size. Finally, it would help if you also considered the frequency of its use as the power consumption is a major factor, so think about their power efficiency ratings.
Air Conditioner Type and Your Room:-
Types of Air Conditioners:-
- Window AC Units:-Window ACs or Monoblock ACs are simpler than split ACs in operation and require less space for installation. All the components are in the same unit, so the installation and uninstallation of a window AC are much easier and cheaper. Therefore it is easy to move it from one place to another. But, they do not look as sophisticated and decent as split ACs.
These types of window ACs also block the room’s window opening and create more noise than other types of AC. They might also not be suitable for very large rooms.
(b ) Portable AC Units:
Portable ACs are easily moveable from one place to another. They are profiles similar to window ACs, with moving facilities. Portable ACs come with a hose that has one of its ends connected to the device unit, while the other is placed outside the window.
If you want to cool more than one room, say the drawing room and your bedroom where you spend the night, but don’t want to spend on two ACs, then a portable AC is a solution for such a choice. However, it has its disadvantages, i.e. higher noise and a comparatively higher price. However, they are good enough for smaller rooms.
| PROS | CONS |
| Portable and Moveable | Comparatively Costly |
| For Cooling Multiple Rooms | Noisy |
| Easy Installation | Messy |
( c )Split AC Units: IIt is a type of air conditioner, which comprises two units, an indoor unit and the other is outdoor unit.
(I) Indoor Unit– This unit contains the evaporator coil and the cooling fan(blower). It is installed inside a room, where cooling is required.
(II) Outdoor Unit– Comprises the compressor and the condenser coil and expansion valve. Both units are inter-connected with a pipe.
Split ACs offer faster cooling and higher airflow, they are costlier to install and cumbersome to uninstall.
How It Works:
1.The refrigerant absorbs heat from the indoor air as it passes over the evaporator coil in the indoor unit.
2.The warm refrigerant is then pumped to the outdoor unit where the heat is released to the outside air.
3.The cooled refrigerant is cycled back to the indoor unit to absorb more heat, and the process repeats.
| Advantages Of Split ACs | Disadvantages Of split ACs | |
| Faster Cooling For Larger Rooms | Costly | |
| Low Noise | More Expensive To Maintain | |
| Can Be Installed On Any Wall | ||
| Aesthetically Pleasing |
Types:
Single-Split: One indoor unit connected to one outdoor unit.
Multi-Split: Multiple indoor units connected to a single outdoor unit. Useful for cooling multiple rooms.
- Maintenance:
Regular cleaning of the indoor unit’s filters.
Periodic checks and cleaning of the outdoor unit.
Professional servicing to ensure the system is functioning efficiently.
- Installation Considerations:
Proper placement of both indoor and outdoor units to maximize efficiency.
Correct sizing of the unit based on room size and cooling needs.
Ensuring proper insulation and sealing around the indoor unit to prevent air leaks.
Split ACs are popular for their efficiency, flexibility, and quieter operation, making them a preferred choice for many residential and commercial spaces.
Central AC Units:- Best for cooling an entire house, requires ductwork.
Cooling Capacity:- Measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). The higher the BTUs, the more space it can cool.
General guidelines:-
– 5,000 to 8,000 BTUs: 100 to 350 sq. ft.
– 8,000 to 12,000 BTUs: 350 to 550 sq. ft.
– 12,000 to 18,500 BTUs: 550 to 1,050 sq. ft.
– 18,500 to 25,000 BTUs: 1,050 to 1,600 sq. ft.
Energy Efficiency:-
– Look for the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating.
– The higher the rating, the more efficient the unit.
– Consider units with the ENERGY STAR® label for higher efficiency and lower energy costs.
4. Features:-
Programmable Thermostat:- Allows setting specific temperatures at different times.
Energy-Saving Mode:- Reduces energy consumption is an important aspect .
Remote Control:- Convenient for adjusting settings from a distance.
Wi-Fi Connectivity:- Allows control via smartphone apps.
Sleep Mode:-Adjusts temperature gradually for better sleep.
5. Noise Levels:- Measured in decibels (dB). A quieter unit is preferable for bedrooms and living areas.
– Look for units specifically marketed as low-noise or ultra-quiet.
6. Installation and Maintenance:-
Installation:- Consider whether you need professional installation, especially for split or central AC units.
Maintenance:- Regular cleaning and maintenance can extend the lifespan of the unit. Some units have washable filters and indicators for filter changes.
7. Price:-
– Prices vary widely based on type, capacity, and features.
– Set a budget considering both initial cost and long-term operating costs (energy efficiency).
8.Brand and Warranty:- Choose reputable brands known for reliability and good customer service.
Check the warranty period and what it covers (parts, labor, etc.).
9. Climate Considerations:-
1. In very hot climates, you may need a more powerful unit.
2. In humid areas, consider units with good dehumidification capabilities.
10. Additional Tips:-
Measure the space where you plan to install the AC to ensure a good fit.
Check for local rebates or incentives for purchasing energy-efficient models.
Benefits
Energy Efficiency: Because inverter air conditioners can modify their compressor speed to maintain the required temperature, they use less energy and produce lower power bills. As a result, they are more energy-efficient than other air conditioners.
Consistent Comfort: Inverter air conditioners minimize the frequent temperature changes associated with non-inverter versions by continuously controlling the compressor’s speed.
Quieter Operation: Inverter air conditioners work more silently, creating a more comfortable atmosphere, because they do not constantly start and stop their compressor.
Extended Lifespan: Inverter air conditioners may have a longer lifespan as a result of the compressor seeing less wear and tear from fewer start/stop cycles.
Environmentally Friendly: Lower greenhouse gas emissions are a result of inverter air conditioners’ improved efficiency and lower energy consumption.
Negative aspects
Greater Initial Cost: Compared to non-inverter versions, inverter air conditioners often have a higher initial cost, which may be a deterrent for certain customers.
Complexity and Maintenance: Inverter air conditioners may be more complex and maybe more expensive to fix in the event that something goes wrong due to their advanced technology.
Efficiency Drops in Extreme Weather: Although inverter air conditioners are quite effective at regulating temperature, they may not function as well in severe weather and may perform less well overall than in temperate climates.
Voltage Fluctuation Sensitivity: Inverter air conditioners may be more susceptible to voltage fluctuations, which may have an impact on their lifespan and performance, particularly in locations with erratic power supplies.
Possible Overheating: If the compressor is not properly maintained, its continuous operation at different speeds may occasionally result in overheating.
Despite their higher initial cost and maintenance requirements, inverter air conditioners are typically thought to be a better option for long-term comfort and energy savings.