As the weather starts to heat up, you may start to think about air conditioning. With many brands and models of equipment available at retailers, it can be a challenge to choose the best one for your home. Buy the wrong one, and it could end up burning energy and costing you a fortune. So, here we will explore the steps to help you choose an air conditioner.
Take Proper Measurements
The first step in choosing the right equipment is to calculate the cooling power you need. This is determined by measuring the size of your room or home. You’ll need to measure the square footage and include your window in your measurements. Whether you’re opting for a portable unit, room air conditioner or ducted system, it needs to be sized appropriately, so make sure you’re measurements are accurate. Don’t just assume your room is 50 square feet; measure the length and width properly for a correct calculation. If your room is not completely square, sketch out the layout of the room and measure each section separately. This will allow you an accurate assessment of your floor space and the amount of air in the room that needs to be cooled.
Look at the Capacity
Every air conditioner unit has a capacity listed that is measured in British Thermal Units or BTUs. When you start shopping, you’re likely to come across a BTU chart on the labels to illustrate the appropriate room size. You’ll need to choose a capacity that is appropriate for the area you need to cool, but if the room has high ceilings, appliances or has a sunny aspect, you may need to choose a size higher.
If you’re upgrading an existing AC unit, don’t assume that you can just buy one at the same size, look properly to ensure you get the proper size.
Check Out New Features
AC technology is becoming more and more advanced, so you’re likely to find units today that incorporate smart technology. This technology will allow you to use your smartphone or mobile device to control the system. This means that you can switch on your AC while you are still at work, so your home feels comfortable and cool when you return home. Some models feature a “follow me” function; this monitors the temperature of the remote control and unit, so it will adjust the output if you’re sitting across the room. You’re also likely to find that your appliance has a smart thermostat that monitors your activities to adjust the temperature according to your preferences and habits.
It is worth examining what features are available to choose the unit best suited to your home. Remember, it may be better to spend a little more initially if your new air conditioner has the features needed to reduce your energy use. This will save you money in the long term that will more than cover the difference in the initial purchase cost.
Choosing an air conditioner for your home can be a tricky process, so it is a good idea to consult a professional HVAC expert who can properly calculate the sizing for optimum efficiency and performance.