With the temperature rising, an AC is a basic need. Selecting the right AC is essential for comfort, cost saving, keeps better health and considerations. However, there are countless variants available and it can be confusing to select the right AC for your needs. One must understand that not all ACs are for you. You must consider factors while selecting the right AC for you.
What are the types of AC?
Based on the form factor, there are three types of air conditioners:
1) Window ACs
As the name suggests, this AC is installed in the window, or a hole is made in the wall to fix this AC. This is a single-unit AC with all components enclosed inside. There are many 0.5-ton, 1-ton, and 1.5-ton air conditioner options for you to buy.
2) Split ACs:
The most common type of air conditioners today, these ACs are preferred because of their sleek designs. They have one indoor and one outdoor unit, connected via a pipe. They come with a remote control.
3) Portable ACs:
Portable AC is like window AC, placed in a single unit with all its components enclosed inside, but it is a free-standing unit which can be moved from place to place. It only requires a power outlet and access to a window where the unit’s air can be exhausted from its funnel. This AC is installed for temporary space cooling or wherever it’s not practical to install a window or split AC. They’re very handy, small, efficient.
What tonnage of AC should I choose?
The cooling capacity of an AC is measured in tonnage. Depending on the size of the room you want to cool, the number of people in the room, and how long you plan to use it, you can determine how many AC tons you need. You can also use several ton-room size calculators available online to make the decision. Usually, a bedroom requires a 1-ton air conditioner, while a living room benefits from a 1.5-ton air conditioner.
How to choose an energy-efficient AC?
The basic measure of any electronics’ energy efficiency is the BEE Star Rating. The more stars an appliance has, the more energy efficient the appliance is. Thus, a 5-star AC is more energy efficient than a 4-star AC, which in turn is more efficient than a 3-star AC. However, higher star-rating ACs are often more expensive than their counterparts.
In the past few years, inverter ACs are slowly becoming popular. These use an inverter to adjust the speed of the compressor. So, instead of shutting off entirely, the compressor runs continuously at a variable speed. Because of this, the AC can maintain the temperature more precisely and efficiently, reducing wasted energy.
What are some AC features to consider when buying an air conditioner?
The first thing to consider is the space you plan to use your AC. Whether you choose a split, window, or portable AC, it should have enough tonnage to cool your space. If you live in a region where you also need heaters, you can consider ACs with heating and cooling functions. They are called hot and cold ACs or all-season ACs.
Several ACs today come with air purification functions to ensure the cool air you breathe in is also safe. ACs with sleep mode, convertible tonnage, and dehumidification functions are also popular. And while you may want an AC that has it all, please consider your budget and your needs so you buy an AC that is perfect for you.
In conclusion, you must consider all these factors like calculating your room’s space, your budget, your expectations, etc. Once you know that it will be easy for you to choose the right option with some research. Once you know what type of AC you need make sure to choose the right option which satisfies your expectations.
