Choosing the Right Air Conditioner for Me
As the cost of home energy consumption continues to soar along with concerns about greenhouse gas emissions, choosing the right air conditioner (AC) requires careful consideration of factors aside from cooling comfort.
Ducted
air conditioner installation
Air conditioners come in various types, each of which has
its own advantages and disadvantages.
Ducted
A ducted AC system is one that provides cooling to multiple
rooms through a series of ducts which are usually installed in the roof of your
home. This is a more complex system that requires the installation of a
professional and is more expensive than other types of systems.
Evaporative
An evaporative cooling system works by drawing hot air from
the outside and turning it into cool air inside your home. This is less
expensive and more energy efficient than a ducted AC system and requires only
the services of a qualified contractor for its installation. This works best in
areas with low humidity.
Refrigerated
A refrigerated air conditioner uses the evaporation of a
refrigerant liquid to provide cooling. It is the common choice of many
households because it functions well in very hot weather and lowers humidity
inside homes.
Reverse cycle
This is a 2-in-one heating and cooling unit that works well
in homes that experience seasonal hot and cold temperatures as the reverse
cycle unit can be used as a heating and cooling system depending on your needs.
Split type
A split AC system provides cooling comfort using an indoor
and outdoor unit. The split type is preferred to ducted air conditioners
because it is relatively easier to install. Depending on the size of the room
you intend to cool, the split type unit can also be more energy efficient than
a window type air conditioner.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing the system
that is right for you:
Cost
Mobile evaporative coolers are the least expensive, followed
by window installed types. Split type units may cost more than window and wall
types but not as much as the complex ducted air conditioning system which
entails a separate expense for professional installation.
Energy costs
In Australia, manufacturers are required to display the
Energy Rating Label containing a star rating for greenhouse gas emissions and
useful information about the energy consumption of an air conditioner. Total
energy consumption is expressed in kilowatts per hour (KWH) while a high star
rating means fewer greenhouse gas emissions. To save on energy bills, look for
a unit that shows a low KWH consumption.
Size
The cooling capacity which is expressed in kilowatts should
be proportionate to the size of your room. Know your room's measurement to
arrive at the appropriate cooling capacity for your AC.
Other factors that can affect your choice include noise
levels and appliance enhancements such as the remote control, timer and digital
thermostat. Nowadays, choosing the right air conditioner is fast and convenient
as you can compare technical specifications and features of several models
online.
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