Are you in the market for a new air conditioner for your home? Perhaps you’re looking to replace your old unit with an updated model. In this article, we will highlight some essential characteristics that you should consider. The objective is to ensure that the device functions efficiently, meets your specific needs, and consumes less energy. We will explain what factors you should take into account before making a purchase.
Air conditioners have undergone significant advancements over time. Today, they are designed to operate more quietly, consume less energy, and even offer remote control capabilities. However, it’s important to note that even among the latest models available for sale, there can be notable differences in terms of features and performance.
What to check when buying an air conditioner
The primary objective of an air conditioner is to effectively cool or heat the house. However, it is crucial to consider that not all air conditioners possess the same power, energy efficiency, or noise levels. There are three key factors that we deem important and recommend reviewing when purchasing such a device.
Power
The power of an air conditioner is a critical factor as it determines its ability to cool a specific area effectively. The power required for a small room differs from that needed for a larger room. Consequently, it is crucial to carefully consider the power rating of the unit.
Air conditioners typically range between 900 and 3000W, although higher capacity models are also available. It is important to note that power is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). BTUs represent the amount of heat an air conditioning unit can extract from a given space, essentially determining its cooling capacity.
To calculate the required BTUs, experts recommend multiplying the square meters of the area by 600 for residential spaces and 800 for commercial spaces. For example, if a room measures 4 meters wide and 5 meters long, you would multiply 4x5x600, resulting in 12,000 BTU/h. To convert this value to watts, you would divide it by 3.41. In our example, this would be approximately equivalent to 3,500W.
Energy saving
Energy efficiency is another crucial factor to consider when selecting an air conditioner. It is important to assess the energy consumption of the unit and whether it offers programs or features aimed at reducing energy usage. This becomes especially relevant when the air conditioner is intended for daily and prolonged use at home.
To determine the energy efficiency of an air conditioner, carefully examine its energy efficiency label. The labels typically use a letter grading system, with “A” representing the most optimal energy efficiency. Whenever possible, opt for appliances with higher energy efficiency ratings (closer to “A”) as they can lead to significant savings on your electricity bill over time.
Noise level
Another crucial factor to consider is the noise level of the air conditioner. If you plan on using it during the night, it is essential to choose a model that operates quietly. Some air conditioners offer different modes, such as a night mode, which allows for maintaining a comfortable temperature while minimizing energy consumption and noise levels.
In recent years, modern air conditioners have significantly improved in terms of noise reduction. However, it is still advisable to research and gather information about the specific model you intend to purchase to ensure it operates quietly.
As you can see, these factors are vital to consider before making a decision to buy an air conditioner. The objective is to acquire a high-quality device that aligns with our specific needs. It should provide sufficient power, consume minimal energy, and operate silently, ensuring a comfortable and efficient cooling experience.