Thursday 9 May 2013

Explore different choices when you want to buy an air conditioner

Air conditioning systems comes in different varieties, styles and budgetary preferences. You can choose an air conditioning unit depending on the size required for a residence or office and the area it has to be installed in to ensure maximum efficiency and comfort, keeping in mind the price of the system itself. 

The first thing you need to remember is what type of room air conditioner you need. That factor wholly depends on the installation you're prepared to do and where you want to house it. Many homeowners feel that a central AC system will be the right choice for cooling homes and offices but they require expert installation and also come with a high price tag. Compared to a smaller window AC, they also cost more to operate. So if you need an AC unit to cool only specific rooms in a home, then a window or split air conditioner can be your best bet. Also take care not to purchase any type of system in haste without considering all your requirement and factors.

To protect your investment and also ensure that servicing and maintaining your unit in the future will not be a problem, buy only air conditioning systems that have approved R410A refrigerants. Refrigerants that contribute to the environment are replacing ozone-depleting R-22 and other HCFCs refrigerants.
Another factor to consider is to buy an AC unit based on the square footage of the area that needs to be cooled. Buying a unit that adequately cools a given area is really important and manufacturers provide options and the recommended coverage for a given model. An oversized unit is unnecessary as you will be paying more for a benefit you may not use and an undersized unit may be inadequate thus consuming more power for cooling, and increasing utility bills in the process. You need to measure the area that needs to be cooled before you shop. 

An energy efficient air conditioner that qualifies all of the above mentioned requirements will definitely save around 30% in energy costs compared to those units that don’t qualify those requirements. EER rating is also an important factor to consider as air conditioners that have been certified by the AHAM which stands for the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers will carry an energy efficiency rating. The higher the EER rating, the less in energy consumption and operating costs. You can purchase an air conditioner with an EER rating of 10 or more for maximum efficiency, energy savings and lower electricity bills. 

From the models listed below, there are four major Air Conditioner types for you to choose from:
  • Window-mounted unit - This type of an AC is designed to be aptly fitted into window sills. The major advantage of a window AC is that it houses all the important and necessary components like the compressor, condenser, and expansion valve/coil all in one big box. It is highly cost effective, easy to maintain and takes less effort to install.
  • Wall-mounted unit – This type of AC is a little expensive than a window unit and can be installed on any part of your wall in your home or office. The advantage is that it can be fitted into the most convenient spot indoors without getting in the way of other appliances or furnishing items and merges well with the décor. It is also relatively easy to install for places with small areas and plays a huge role in saving space. Air flow can also be directed into all areas of the room with the absence of hot and cold spots. The unit functions quietly and reduces air flow resistance while providing a comfortable environment.
  • Portable air conditioners – This type of AC is more expensive than a window unit, but it is versatile and can be relocated into any room that needs cooling without much effort. Some units come with multiple functions like air purification, dehumidifying, heating and cooling. For some homes and offices, these units can be the perfect choice as they are really efficient and convenient.
  • Split ductless or mini air systems – This type of AC is more expensive than window or wall units, but is a great option for people who live in hot regions and need a powerful unit to cool a large indoor area. They are less intrusive than a full central unit, as the ductless function means that you don’t have to install a complex system of ducts and escape routes throughout your home or office. This system comprises of an indoor component that can be mounted on a wall and an outdoor component that can be installed next to your home. The real advantage of a ductless system is that the cooling power can be compared to a real central AC without having to renovate any of your walls or ceilings for installation.

No comments:

Post a Comment