Rising summer temperatures may have you considering purchasing a new air conditioner. There are many things to consider before purchasing an air conditioning unit for your home. It is best to determine what type of drive will best suit your needs and what size the drive should be. The size of the unit, where it will be placed, and the efficiency of an air conditioner will ultimately determine its usefulness and performance. Keep in mind that an incorrectly sized unit or one located in a window that gets a lot of sunlight will cost more to operate and will perform to lower standards.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioning Unit for Your Specific Needs
Before selecting an air conditioner, it is important to consider the number of rooms and the size of the rooms in your home. This will determine the type of drive you need based on your requirements.
Once you have the information about your home and its requirements, you can think about the type of unit that will suit your needs.
Portable units are for a small space or single room that requires infrequent cooling. These are portable and can be easily moved from room to room in your home. Wall units are for small spaces or single rooms, but they don’t offer the convenience of being portable. Split system units are for larger rooms or multiple rooms within the house that need cooling. Ducted units are more suitable for multiple rooms to keep your entire home cool and comfortable.
Types of air conditioning units
Air conditioners can generally be divided into compact systems and distribution systems. Compact systems, also known as room air conditioners, are made to circulate air within confined or (semi-confined) spaces. These compact units can be freestanding or installed on windows and walls. They can be formatted for sash or slider windows and can be easily installed by the homeowner.
Window air conditioners are the least expensive units, while wall-mounted models are slightly more expensive and are held in place with a metal sleeve. Freestanding portable air conditioners are approximately 2 to 3 feet tall and housed in a custom wheeled cabinet that should be located near a window or other means of ventilation. On some models, condensation collects in a tray and must be emptied periodically.
What determines the price differentials between units?
Price differences are determined by features such as precise temperature adjustment, remote controls, temperature controlled options, and heating capabilities. It’s a good idea to consider a low-noise air conditioning unit for the living room or bedroom, and make sure the unit is securely installed to reduce potential noises such as rattling.
Other costs to consider
Many homeowners decide on an air conditioning unit without asking about additional accessories, such as air conditioner covers (to winterize it) or air conditioner filters (which usually need to be replaced on whole house systems). House). Many of the newer air conditioning units have longer filter life and higher energy star ratings that will help you save money due to rising energy costs. Choosing the right air conditioner for your needs can make all the difference in staying cool and saving money.
It’s impossible to predict when you’ll need a new air conditioner, but buying in the off-season can save you money. Many owners opt for lower priced models if the unit will be used infrequently. Always look for the best deals before making a purchase.