For many homeowners, buying a new air conditioning system can be challenging. The HVAC equipment market offers numerous cooling system options, each with a unique size, function, and features.
The right AC can make your home more comfortable, especially when temperatures become too high. Although the decision to install air conditioning in your home is simple, selecting the ideal unit for your home can be difficult. If you make the wrong decision, the unit may not adequately cool your home, and energy costs may rise. Read on to learn about some aspects that affect your air conditioner selection.
Choose an AC with the Right Control Settings
The right control settings can facilitate easy temperature adjustments of air conditioners, especially in a hot and stuffy room. Select an AC unit with an adjustable thermostat that allows you to regulate the fan’s speed. Moreover, the unit should have a higher setting to enable quicker room cooling by fine-tuning the temperature.
You may also prefer a unit with lower settings for quieter operation at night. The most recent air conditioning units feature digital controls for precise temperature settings. For example, smart thermostats allow you to preset and customize the air conditioner unit. You can even remotely control the units and change the temperature. The outcome is significant energy savings.
Understand Different Types of AC Units
Understanding the different types of air conditioners is crucial to selecting the most suitable one for your home. Split-system air conditioners are ideal for larger areas or multiple rooms, while window units are suitable for cooling single or small spaces. Portable ACs provide flexibility, and ductless mini-split systems are energy-efficient for homes without ductwork.
Consider Space and Size During Air Conditioning Unit Installation
Suppose you have limited space in your home. In that case, a portable air conditioning unit installation may be more suitable due to its compact size and ability to cool you wherever you go.
If you choose a split-unit air conditioning system, you may have an indoor and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit is strategically positioned at a higher position in the room to ensure a consistent flow of air. It is also designed to be whisper-quiet, ensuring it won’t disturb you during sleep. The outdoor unit is usually placed on an external wall, roof, or balcony. It draws heat from the inside unit and expels it outside.
Choose Energy Efficient Air Conditioning Unit
If you’re worried about energy consumption and its impact on the environment and your wallet, you should choose an energy-efficient air conditioning unit. While portable air conditioners are convenient, they typically consume more electricity, especially when used continuously. On the other hand, split-unit air conditioners are well-known for their exceptional energy efficiency.
When searching for an AC unit, you should also check for extra features to maximize energy efficiency. For example, programmable timers enable you to schedule cooling cycles according to your routine, reducing unnecessary energy usage. Another useful feature to look out for is an energy-saving switch that automatically shuts off fans when the thermostat is turned off, helping you save money.
Consider Cooling Capacity
The cooling capacity is another factor to consider when buying an AC unit. It is expressed in BTU and used to gauge the efficiency of an air conditioning system in removing heat within a specific timeframe. It mainly depends on the room size.
A lesser cooling capacity is not sufficient for effective cooling performance. While a higher BTU capacity for your room allows the AC to cool quickly, it may not adequately dehumidify the space. Hence, it is crucial to assess the unit’s tonnage and the area where it can circulate air to make the right decision.