An air conditioner is one of the most important appliances in your home, especially if you live in a hot climate. Not only does it keep your home cool and comfortable during the hottest months of the year, but it also helps to improve your air quality and filter out allergens and other pollutants.
When it’s time to shop for a new air conditioner, there are a few things you should keep in mind in order to get the best unit for your home. In this article, we’ll give you the top 5 tips when buying an air conditioner.
Size Matters
The first thing you need to consider when purchasing an air conditioner is the size of the unit. If you get a unit that’s too small, it won’t be able to effectively cool your home and will end up working overtime which will drive up your energy bills.
On the other hand, if you get a unit that’s too large, it will cool your home too quickly, resulting in wasted energy and unnecessary wear and tear on the unit.
To find the perfect size air conditioner for your home, you’ll need to know the square footage of the space you want to cool and also take into account factors like the number of windows and doors, the insulation, and the climate.
Once you have that information, you can consult with a professional or use an online sizing calculator to determine the ideal capacity for your needs. A wide range of sizes are available, so you’re sure to find one that’s just right for your home.
Choose the Right Type
There are four main types of air conditioners to choose from – central, window, split and portable.
Central air conditioners are one of the most popular types of air conditioners on the market. They are also one of the most expensive. If you are thinking about buying a central air conditioner, you need to keep in mind that it requires ductwork to be installed in your home.
Window air conditioners are the most common type of air conditioner. They’re less expensive than central units and can be installed in any window in your home. They’re easy to install and can cool a single room or small space.
Split air conditioners are similar to window air conditioners, but they’re more expensive. They’re also more energy-efficient and can cool larger spaces. Split air conditioners have two units – an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit is installed inside the home, and the outdoor unit is installed outside.
Portable air conditioners are a great option if you want to be able to move your air conditioner from one room to another. They’re also less expensive than other types of air conditioners and can be used in small spaces. They’re easy to move from one room to another and don’t require any installation.
Then you have the WiFi-connected smart air conditioners. These smarties are crafted to make your life much easier for it’s user. They are WiFi enabled and normally connect to any of your smart devices or mobiles. Some Smart air conditioners can also connect to one’s home assistant and can be used via voice commands.
Consider your Energy Efficiency
Air conditioners use a lot of energy, which can really add up to your electric bill. But there are ways to be more energy-efficient when using an AC unit.
When shopping for an air conditioner, look for one with an Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) rating of 10 or higher. The EER is the cooling capacity of the AC unit divided by the power input in watts. A higher EER means the AC unit is more energy-efficient.
Another way to increase your energy efficiency is to purchase a unit with a variable speed fan. Variable speed fans run at different speeds depending on how much cooling is needed, which uses less energy than a traditional single-speed fan.
Also, consider buying a unit that has a “Sleep” mode or a timer so you can set it to turn off when you don’t need it running. And be sure to keep the filter clean – a dirty filter will make the AC unit work harder and use more energy.
You can also increase your energy efficiency by closing the curtains or blinds during the day to keep the sun from heating up your home. Since you are here you can also check out furnace repair services.
Think About the Extras
Some air conditioners come with extras that can be beneficial. Extras can include features like remote control, timers, and filters.
Remote controls are a great feature to have if you want to be able to adjust the temperature without having to get up. Timers are also helpful, so you can set the AC unit to turn on before you get home or turn it off after you leave for the day.
Filters are important because they help to remove pollen, dust, and other airborne particles from the air. If you have allergies, you may want to consider buying an air conditioner with a filter.
If you live in a particularly hot climate, you may want to choose a unit with a solar sensor so that it can automatically adjust the temperature based on the amount of sunlight.
Be sure to compare the features of different units before making your final decision to ensure you’re getting the one that’s right for you.
Check the Warranties
When buying an air conditioner, be sure to check the warranty. Most units come with a one-year warranty, but some higher-end models may have longer warranties.
Be sure to read the fine print, so you know what’s covered and what’s not. Many manufacturers offer both a parts warranty and a labor warranty. The parts warranty typically covers defects in materials and workmanship, while the labor warranty covers the cost of repairs, should something go wrong.
Some companies also offer extended warranties that cover the cost of replacement parts or even a new unit if the original one can’t be repaired.
Also, be aware that some warranties are void if you don’t have the unit installed by a professional. So, if you’re planning on installing the AC unit yourself, be sure to check the warranty first.
By carefully reviewing the warranties offered by different manufacturers, you can be sure that you’re getting the best possible protection for your investment.
Conclusion
When shopping for an air conditioner, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, consider the type of unit you need and the space you have available. Then, think about energy efficiency and the extras that come with different models. Finally, be sure to check the warranty before making your purchase. By following these tips, you can be sure to find the perfect air conditioner for your home. If you still need help visit Atlanta HVAC.
