Contrary to how it may seem, there is more to choosing the right air conditioner than just pondering on the best brand or going for the most popular option. If you want to select the best air conditioning system for your living space, you need to consider a lot of things. The first on the list is the type of A/C you intend to purchase.
Basically, there are five A/C options to choose from: a split-system, a multi-split, a ducted system, a wall/window A/C system, and a portable A/C system.
The Split System
The split-system is primarily used to cool one or two rooms or an open-plan area. It is typically comprised of an outdoor compressor unit and an indoor unit connected by pipes. These are one of the most affordable types of A/C systems you can find in the market today.
The Multi-split System
The multi-split system is a variation of the split system and is used when there are space limitations to consider. This type of A/C system is ideal when you want to cool several rooms that are within close proximity to each other.
The Ducted System
The ducted system is meant for larger living spaces. It’s a wise and savvy alternative if you need to control temperatures throughout the premises.
The Wall/Window Model
As the name suggests, these A/C models are typically mounted on a wall or installed in a window. These units may be plugged into a normal power source or may require additional wiring, depending on the size of the model.
The Portable Unit
The portable A/C models are movable units. In most cases, the units have a flexible duct which is attached to a window to vent the heat outside.
Inverter vs. non-inverter
Deciding on the general type doesn’t mean you are well on your way to choosing the type of A/C that suits your needs best. There are more things to consider, among which is to determine whether you want to go for an inverter type of unit or a non-inverter.
The main difference between an inverter and a non-inverter A/C unit is on the compressor. Inverter units are those that allow the compressor speed to vary. Simply put, the options for the compressor in the outdoor unit will not just be either on or off. Rather, it can have varying speeds. The advantage of choosing an inverter type of A/C model is that it is more energy efficient since there is no need to stop and start the compressor several times a day.
The non-inverter type of unit, on the other hand, primarily functions by either turning it on or off. The advantage of the non-inverter is that they are cheaper than the inverter type of unit. However, they may also tear easily due to the strain that it may put on the compressor when it is turned on and off several times a day
Another type you may want to consider is reverse-cycle units or A/C units that can function as a cooling system during the summer season and a heating during the winter season. If you want a unit that is only meant for cooling purposes, you can invest in a cooling only unit. These units are relatively cheaper than reverse-cycles but offer the same features.
Doing the math
You would notice that assessments are often part of the process when you consult experts about heating and cooling systems. This is because calculations need to be made and they are based on several factors. Some of the things you need to watch out for are the size of the room and the size and orientation of the windows, the type of room where the A/C system will be installed, room insulation, the design and setup of the interiors, and the local climate.
Top features to look out for
Finally, we move on to the specific features that are ideally offered by your chosen A/C model. There are a hefty number of features that make A/C systems even more convenient than the previous models. Here are some of the ones that are worth checking out:
Fan Speeds
There are units nowadays that come with multiple fan speed options. Choosing these types of units is ideal if you are into A/C units that do not produce too much noise.
Thermostat settings
A common – but nevertheless important – feature of A/C units these days is the adjustable thermostat settings. By simply punching in the desired temperature in the remote control, you can easily achieve the temperature you want the room to achieve.
Self-cleaning
In today’s contemporary way of life where everything is fast-paced, it pays to an A/C unit that can self-clean. This feature works well for you whether you are allergic to dust or you simply cannot be bothered to clean your A/C unit.
Wifi controls
Are you into smart homes? If you are, you would probably want an A/C unit that has Wifi controls so you can easily connect to the wireless network in your home. This is typically available in newer models.
Sleep mode
You could automatically program some A/C units to decrease its function to a more comfortable level while you’re sleeping. This will keep you from freezing up when you wake up in the morning and realize that your A/C unit is still on high.
Restart delay
There’s also a feature that can help protect your A/C unit from being overused. The restart delay feature delays the restart of your A/C unit to keep it from starting up again too soon and straining the compressor in the process.
Human sensor
Last but not least, there are A/C units that have human sensors. These sensors automatically increase or decrease function depending on the volume of people it is able to detect inside the room. The advantage here is that the unit can easily turn to energy-saving mode when there is nobody around.
