Find the perfect AC for your home with our comprehensive ac buying guide. Get expert advice on tonnage, star ratings, inverter vs non-inverter, features, and more. Make an informed decision today and enjoy cool comfort in your home.
Today, the temperature of the whole world is increasing day by day and the weather is also becoming turbulent and in such a situation, when you come home after running the whole day, it is very important for you to sleep well. Whether it is summer or winter, it is very important to have a good AC for good sleep.
There are many types and brands of AC available in the market and among them which one is best for your room and your budget, it is complicated and a lot of searching can be done, but do not take tension, in this post we will give you AC Buying guide. This AC buying guide is designed to help you make an informed decision and find the best air conditioner for your home.
Type of AC:
There are mainly 3 types of Air conditioners
- Window AC
- Split AC
- Portable AC
Window AC means
There is only one unit in this, it can be installed only in the window, one side of which should be in the room and the other side should be outside. In this, the compressor and blower are attached together, due to which the work consumes electricity and due to being portable, it can be taken anywhere but due to the compressor being in the same unit, there is little noise. Its price is low compared to the split air conditioner, generally, it is installed in small rooms & small offices only.
Split AC means
In this type of air conditioner, 2 units are installed in which one unit is installed in the room and the other unit is installed in the ceiling. The compressor of the air conditioner is installed in the outside unit, due to which there is no noise in the room, there is a copper pipe between both the units in which the coolant travels. Both the units are fitted with a bldc fan. The fan of the outside unit throws the hot air out and the fan of the under unit gives us cool air. Increasing the fan speed gives more cooling.
A split air conditioner can be installed anywhere, according to the size of the room, its compressor capacity should be more, which is expressed in tons.
Portable AC
Portable AC is a mixture of split air conditioner and window AC, that is, an advanced version. Whose main unit is like an air cooler, which can be easily shifted from one room to another. To let the hot air out of the air conditioner, there is a pipe in it, one end of which is connected to the portable AC, and the other end is kept outside the house so that the hot air can come out. This portable AC is suitable for rooms under 100 to 120 square feet area. Its price is now available in the price range from 25000 to 35000. Being new in the market, it is not very popular.
Differences between All types of AC
| AC Type | Installation | Cooling Capacity | Energy Efficiency | Mobility | Price Range | Check Here |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Window AC | Window-mounted | 5,000 – 25,000 BTUs | 8-12 EER | Not portable | 20k-40k | Check Now |
| Portable AC | Mobile | 5,000 – 14,000 BTUs | 8-12 EER | Portable | 9k-15k | Check Now |
| Split AC | Wall-mounted | 9,000 – 36,000 BTUs | 18-30 SEER | Not portable | 30k-50k | Check Now |
| Central AC | Ducted | 24,000 – 60,000 BTUs | 16-25 SEER | Not portable | 70k-90k | Check Now |
Need of Tonnage :
The first thing to consider when buying an air conditioner is the tonnage. Tonnage refers to the cooling capacity of the AC, and it is measured in tons. A 1-ton AC is capable of cooling a room of up to 120 square feet, while a 2-ton AC is suitable for a room of up to 240 square feet. When choosing the tonnage of your AC, it’s essential to consider the size of your room and the number of people who will occupy it. If you choose an AC that’s too small, it won’t be able to cool your room effectively. On the other hand, if you choose an AC that’s too big, it will consume more energy and be less efficient.
| Recommended Ac Tonnage as per room (in Square feet) | |
|---|---|
| 1 Ton | Room size up to 120 sq feet |
| 1.5 Ton | Room size up to 150 sq feet |
| 2 Ton | Room size 150-250 sq feet |
| 3 Ton | Room size 250-400 sq feet |
Note that these are general guidelines and other factors such as the climate, insulation, and number of windows in the room can also affect the recommended AC tonnage. It’s always a good idea to consult with a professional technician to determine the right AC size for your specific needs.
Star Ratings:
The star rating of an air conditioner is a measure of its energy efficiency. The higher the star rating, the more energy-efficient the AC will be. A 5-star rated AC will consume less energy than a 3-star rated AC, and as a result, your electricity bills will be lower. When choosing an AC, it’s essential to consider the star rating, as it can make a significant difference to your energy costs over time.
Inverter vs Non-Inverter AC:
Inverter, Non-Inverter, and Double Inverter technologies refer to the different types of AC compressors. These technologies determine how the AC operates, and the type of compressor you choose will impact the efficiency and performance of the air conditioner.
Non-Inverter Technology:
Non-inverter technology uses a traditional on/off compressor that runs at full speed to reach the desired temperature and then turns off. This results in a less efficient and inconsistent cooling experience, as the temperature can fluctuate once the compressor turns off. Non-inverter ACs consume more energy compared to inverter ACs.
Inverter Technology:
Inverter technology uses a variable-speed compressor that adjusts the cooling output based on the room temperature. This results in a more efficient and consistent cooling experience. The inverter technology reduces energy consumption and saves on electricity costs compared to non-inverter technology.
Double Inverter Technology:
Double Inverter Technology is the latest innovation in AC technology. It uses two inverter compressors to provide more consistent cooling and improved energy efficiency. The two inverter compressors work together to provide a smoother and more consistent cooling experience, and they consume less energy compared to a single inverter compressor.
In conclusion, Inverter and Double Inverter technology provide a more efficient and consistent cooling experience compared to Non-Inverter technology. Non-inverter ACs, on the other hand, turn on and off when the desired temperature is reached, leading to sudden temperature changes and increased energy consumption. If you want to save on energy costs and have a more comfortable cooling experience, consider investing in an AC with Inverter or Double Inverter technology.
Copper and Aluminium Coil
Two common materials used for the coils in air conditioners. Both have their pros and cons, and the choice between the two can impact the performance and longevity of the AC.
In conclusion, both copper and aluminum have their pros and cons. When choosing between the two, consider factors such as your budget, the environment in which the AC will be used, and the repairability of the unit. A high-quality AC with a copper coil will typically offer better performance and durability compared to an AC with an aluminum coil, but it will be more expensive.
Features:
When buying an air conditioner, it’s essential to consider the features that are most important to you. Some of the features you may want to look for include:
- Remote control: A remote control allows you to adjust the temperature and other settings from the comfort of your couch.
- Auto restart: This feature automatically restarts the AC after a power outage, ensuring you’re comfortable even during a blackout.
- Anti-dust filter: An anti-dust filter helps to remove impurities from the air, improving indoor air quality.
- Sleep mode: Sleep mode automatically adjusts the temperature throughout the night, ensuring you get a good night’s sleep.
Price:
The price of an air conditioner can vary significantly, and it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping. When considering the price, keep in mind that an AC is a long-term investment, and a higher-priced model may be more energy-efficient and provide better cooling performance in the long run.
Brand:
When choosing an air conditioner, it’s essential to consider the brand. Some of the top brands in India include Daikin, LG, Samsung, and Voltas. When choosing a brand, consider its reputation, after-sales support, and warranty.
Installation:
Finally, consider the cost of installation when buying an air conditioner. Installing an AC can be complex. Installing an AC is a task that requires some technical knowledge and expertise. Here are the general steps involved in the installation process:
- Choose the right location: The AC should be installed in a location that allows for proper air circulation and is away from direct sunlight or heat sources. The location should also be able to support the weight of the AC unit.
- Install the bracket: The outdoor unit of the AC should be mounted on a bracket that is firmly attached to the wall. The bracket should be level and at a height that allows for proper drainage of condensation.
- Install the refrigerant lines: The refrigerant lines should be connected to the outdoor unit and run through a small hole in the wall to the indoor unit. The lines should be properly insulated to prevent condensation and energy loss.
- Install the indoor unit: The indoor unit should be mounted on the wall or ceiling and connected to the refrigerant lines. The unit should be level and securely attached to the wall.
- Electrical connections: The AC unit should be connected to an electrical circuit that can handle the required voltage and current. This should be done by a licensed electrician to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.
- Test the AC: Once the installation is complete, the AC should be tested to ensure that it is functioning properly and cooling the room to the desired temperature.
It’s important to note that AC installation can vary depending on the type of AC unit and the specific requirements of the installation location. It’s recommended to hire a professional HVAC technician to ensure that the installation is done correctly and safely.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs):
What is an Inverter AC?
An Inverter AC is an air conditioner that uses a variable-speed compressor to adjust the cooling output based on the room temperature. This results in a more efficient and consistent cooling experience compared to a non-inverter AC
What is a Non-Inverter AC?
A Non-Inverter AC is an air conditioner that uses a traditional on/off compressor that runs at full speed to reach the desired temperature and then turns off. This results in a less efficient and inconsistent cooling experience, as the temperature can fluctuate once the compressor turns off.
How often should I clean my AC filter?
It is recommended to clean or replace the AC filter every 1-3 months, depending on the usage and environment. Regularly cleaning the filter will improve the efficiency and performance of the AC.
How do I choose the right size AC for my room?
The size of the AC you need depends on the size of the room it will be used in. Generally, a 1.5-ton AC is suitable for a room of up to 150 square feet, while a 2-ton AC is suitable for a room of up to 200 square feet. It is best to consult with a professional HVAC technician to determine the right size AC for your room.
What is the best type of AC technology – Inverter, Non-Inverter, or Double Inverter?
If you want to save on energy costs and have a more comfortable cooling experience, consider investing in an AC with Inverter or Double Inverter technology.
