Buying appliances for your house can often be a daunting task as it requires you to look into several factors at once. While the price range and safety issues are a major concern, you should not overlook other important factors, such as energy efficiency and maintenance costs. One such appliance is an air conditioner. Before buying one, every homeowner should consider and compare several aspects, as it is an important investment. Since such commodities should last for at least 7 to 10 years, you must do thorough research before narrowing down your options and choosing a specific model. Look for these six things when buying a new air conditioner to ensure that you make the right purchase.
- Type of AC
You can choose between several types of ACs, some of the common ones being split, window, and centralized. For residential homes, split and window ACs are majorly preferred. Both have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. While a window AC is easier to install, it will make more noise as compared to split ACs. The best type of AC for most medium and large-sized residential structures is the split design due to its even air distribution and faster cooling ability. Moreover, they make less noise and blend with almost every type of interior decor theme.
Note that bigger does not always mean better. Even though modern AC designs are getting more and more compact, they are emitting more power than traditional designs and setups. In reality, an oversized unit causes more issues as compared to a compact design. For instance, you don’t have to worry about excessive humidity, uneven cooling, and other similar issues with smaller units.
- Energy Efficiency
Some people buy the cheapest AC model that is available in the store and ignore other hidden costs such as maintenance and electricity bills, which can increase the overall cost of buying that particular model in the long run. It is not just about the cost but also taking a greener step. Your AC should run on less power but still be able to produce adequate cooling. Check the energy efficiency metric, or the star rating, of each model and narrow down your options accordingly. Choose an AC with a 5-star rating as it will consume less power. Avoid buying an AC with a 1-star rating as it will suck up a lot of energy and result in a long bill.
- Air Quality
Your air conditioner should also be able to improve the quality of the air you breathe. Your indoor air quality is highly determined by the type of air conditioner you fix in your home. Effective AC filters remove unpleasant odor, capture smoke, and direct the flow of air by dumping impurities. If you live in an area that experiences a lot of rain or high humidity, get an effective dehumidification unit to regulate airflow within the inner spaces and keep the air dry. In other words, your air conditioner and dehumidification unit should keep you comfortable.
- Noise Control
You can find a variety of noise-controlling air conditioners today. While a window AC makes more noise than a split design, new models aim to reduce the noise as much as possible. The HVAC experts at https://www.acdirect.com/ explain that the acceptable noise level emitted by ACs should be at 50dB at most. With less noise, you can sleep and rest peacefully at home without any disturbances or distractions.
- Installation and Maintenance
Even if your selected air conditioner is energy efficient and improves air quality, you should rethink your decision if the maintenance costs are high. For your air conditioner to reach its peak efficiency, make sure that it is installed with proper care and supervision. The installation process is extremely crucial as it determines the AC’s performance thereafter. So, it should be installed by an authorized dealer. Furthermore, the AC unit has to be checked, supervised, and maintained on a regular basis. While cleaning the filter is easy and can be done by the homeowner, the servicing of the AC’s components should be handed over to a professional.
- Additional Features
Lastly, you can aim for a few more features in your new air conditioner, especially if you have a high budget. An increasing number of AC manufacturers are adding extra features to their designs to stand out from their competitors and attract more customers. Once you have your main priorities and needs fulfilled, look for additional features in the AC model. These include Quick Cool, Sleep Mode, 4-way swing, auto-cleaning, and several other attractive features.
Whether you are upgrading your old unit or furnishing your new home, consider these tips before you purchase a new AC. You should know the ins and outs of the models you have narrowed down to make an informed decision. To ensure the chosen model’s efficiency and authenticity, look into the manufacturer’s history, brand identity, and values. Read reviews about their AC models and compare your choices to make the best purchase for your needs and budget.
