When temperatures begin to rise, having a reliable air conditioner is one of the most important things you can do to remain comfortable. There are numerous types and models of air conditioners available on the market, making it difficult to select the best one for your residence. In this blog, we will provide some tips and advice for selecting the ideal air conditioner for your household.
Consider Your Residence’s Size
The size of your home is one of the most essential factors to consider when selecting an air conditioner. A unit that is too small will struggle to effectively cool your home, while a unit that is too large will squander energy and may not remove enough humidity.
To determine the appropriate measurement for your home, you must calculate the square footage of the space you wish to cool. The majority of air conditioning units are rated in British thermal units (BTUs), which assess the amount of heat they can remove from a room per hour. As a general rule, you will need approximately 20 BTUs per square foot of space.
To cool a 200-square-foot room, for instance, you will need an air conditioner with a capacity of at least 4,000 BTUs. If you’re chilling a larger space, however, you’ll need a unit with a larger capacity.
Identify Your Energy Efficiency Requirements
The energy efficacy of an air conditioner should also be considered when making a purchase. Energy-efficient appliances will reduce your energy consumption and save you money on your energy expenses over time. However, they may be more expensive to acquire initially.
The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating is necessary for determining the energy efficacy of an air conditioner. The greater the SEER rating, the greater the energy efficiency of the unit. Units with a SEER of 14 or greater are regarded as highly efficient.
Keep in mind that although more energy-efficient units may cost more initially, they can save you money in the long run, particularly if you plan to use your air conditioner frequently or for extended periods.
Select the Correct Type of AC
There are numerous varieties of air conditioning units available on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Among the most prevalent varieties are:
These are small air conditioners designed to squeeze in a window. They are economical and simple to install, but they are less efficient and can be noisy.
These larger air conditioning units are designed to cool a complete home. They are more efficient and can be quieter than window units, but they are more expensive and must be installed by a professional.
Mini-split ductless air conditioners resemble central air conditioners but do not require ductwork. They can be simpler to install and are more expensive than window units but less expensive than central air conditioners.
These are self-contained devices that can be moved from room to room. They are simple to install and require no permanent installation, but they are typically less efficient and noisier than other types of units.
Consider Additional Characteristics
Lastly, when selecting an air conditioner, you may want to consider additional features that enhance comfort and convenience. Among the most prominent characteristics are:
Programmable thermostats allow you to set a schedule for your air conditioner to turn on and off automatically, saving you money and energy.
These enable you to control your air conditioner from your smartphone or other mobile device while you are away from home.
Some units include built-in air filters that can remove allergens and other pollutants from the air, thereby improving the purity of the air inside your home.
