Summers in India are extremely hot and the situation is even worse for the people living near coastal regions, as the humidity level is higher . Earlier on, people were concerned about the healthcare and energy consumption problems when they thought of buying an AC, but thanks to the innovative technologies in the air conditioners, people are now ready to invest in them. If you are also giving it a thought, here are a few things you should know about.
Types of Air Conditioners
Window Air conditioner: It is the most affordable one, easiest to maintain and recommended for small rooms. But the noise level increases as the unit gets older.
Split or Ductless Air Conditioner: This AC can be fitted in rooms of all sizes, and has noiseless operating feature. However, it is expensive and expertise is required to install it.
Inverter Technology Air Conditioner: They are equipped with latest technology and provide low power consumption and super quiet operation. They would purify the air also but they are only available in split category. Window units are best for areas where you want cheap cooling solutions and split ACs are best for homes however they are more expensive, but a lot sleeker and having a super quiet operation.
A Few Tips Before you Choose your AC:
- Decide the Capacity: The area of the room in which the AC has to be installed is going to decide the capacity. An AC of 1 ton capacity is enough for a room of floor area of 140 sq. ft. and that of 2-ton capacity would be enough for a room with floor area of 240 sq. ft.
- Look for the stars: With increasing electricity tariffs, an energy efficient model of air conditioner is a must. Air conditioners come with star rated energy efficiency ratings also called EER. They have been standardized by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE). The higher the number of stars, the lower would be the power consumption.
- Your Budget: It is a fact that with higher the number of stars and features, price would also increase. So, mention your budget to the salesman beforehand.
- Quality of Air and Cooling Speed: Most of the newer ACs come with the technology to purify the air. Try to choose such ACs. Further, an adjustable cooling speed would be beneficial in the long run.
- Easy Maintenance: Since you would not like to get your AC repaired by a technician often, choose the one in which much maintenance would not be the least required. This can also be ensured by choosing a brand which provides good after sales services.
- Dehumidification Function: Air-conditioning units nowadays come with a dehumidification function to reduce humidity in the air, increases the cooling and add comfort.
What Else you should Keep in Mind? Apart from choosing the type of the AC and the choice factors, you should think of your personal requirements. For example, if your house is in the direction of sun, you might need an AC with higher cooling capacity than your neighbors. Further, if you would be using the AC for at least 8hrs. a day, it would be wise to buy at least a 3-star AC, if you would be using the AC for the entire year, a hot & cold Inverter Ac would be the best. The sleep mode function in an AC is very useful as it automatically adjusts the temperature during the night. Also, if the unit has an auto restart facility to help restore the last setting after a power break.
Noise levels: Check the levels which usually range from 19 – 60 decibels.
