Making the decision of buying a new air conditioner is not an easy one, as there are many important aspects we need to keep in mind before choosing one. This is particularly true if we are buying an AC unit for the first time, making this even more complicated and confusing. However, doing a bit of research on our own and consulting with a team of professionals, we’ll be able to have all the information we need to make an informed purchase. If you are looking to buy a new air conditioner but aren’t sure how to begin, this short list will help you move in the right direction.
The Type of AC Unit You Want
One of the most important questions to ask yourself is regarding the type of AC unit that you want to get for your home or office. We might not be aware that there is a wide variety of models and units when it comes to AC, and understanding the difference between each of them will allow us to make a better choice. There are four main types of AC units, including window-mounted, wall-mounted, window/wall-mounted, and portable. Each of them comes with different features and benefits, and its effectiveness will depend on our particular needs.
The Right Size
Once we have decided on the type of air conditioning unit we want to get, we also need to consider the actual size of the unit and the room where we want to install it. When considering the size of the unit we should remember that this goes beyond being able to fit the unit on the wall or window. We need to consider the BTUs (British Thermal Units) of the AC we chose. BTUs usually range between 4,000 and 20,000, with the more BTUs needed in larger rooms and vice versa.
Air Conditioning Terms
It is important that we become familiarized with the most common terms used to describe the performance and components of air conditioners in general. This will allow us to get a better understanding of how AC works, and make it easier for us to choose the right unit. Some of the most useful terms include the amperage of the unit, the level of dehumidification, the Energy Efficiency Rating, and the type of plug.
Features to Look For
After considering the type of AC unit you want, finding the right size for the unit, and learning relevant AC performance terms, you will be more than ready to look at the features of air conditioners. Amongst the most common and useful features of air conditioners, we can find energy-saving switches, alert lights, oscillating vents, remote control, sleep mode, timer, ventilation, exhaust, and manufacturer’s warranty. Looking at all these features will help you make an informed and smart decision when buying a new air conditioner.