Modern air conditioner units are more affordable, and they have more features. Older samples have few options for temperature settings, which are usually limited to high or low temperatures. The new models have complete digital control of the thermostat and air balance. Moreover, they can cool your home faster, but consume less energy.
With numerous brands and hundreds of product reviews, it is difficult to choose the “best” air conditioner. However, the numbers certified by the Department of Energy do not lie. All modern air conditioner units have uniform stickers that will help you identify the best purchase.
The first number to check is the BTU (British Thermal Unit). This is the cooling capacity of the unit and starts at 5000. BTU control is especially important for bedroom air conditioners. 5,000 BTUs are recommended for rooms with a floor area of 300 square feet or less. Larger rooms, such as 700 square foot apartments, may require more than 12,000 BTU of air-conditioned units. However, do not fool them, as the high BTU does not equate to efficiency. If the floor area of your room is only 300 m². Ft, it is not necessary to have a 10000 to 14000 model. Excess BTU will cause excessive humidity.
However, be careful not to buy a model with insufficient BTU. The machine will only continue to work hard, using a lot of energy without reaching the desired temperature. You will not be satisfied and will be surprised by a huge electricity bill.
Second, check the EER, which refers to the Energy Efficiency Ratio. This number must be at least 10. This is standardized by law to help save the environment and save energy. High EER means that the modern air conditioner units use electricity with little loss of electricity. This assessment is sincere only if you see the energy star. This is the best time to replace your old air conditioners. Many companies will give you discounts if you exchange with your old air conditioner, considering that it has the energy sticker.
When it comes to expanding your eventual air conditioning, the main criteria are the size of your home and the number of rooms. It usually only ventilates a quarter. Most often, this is the fourth. The best option for a bedroom air conditioner is a window type air conditioner. The price of this unit starts at $ 100; however, prices increase with higher EERs. Units designed for larger rooms covering over 500 square feet are available from $ 800.
Another attribute that influences the price is the valuation of BTU. This number refers to the ability to obtain uniform cooling for an enclosed space. In other words, high BTU means faster and stronger cooling. A larger room typically requires a larger BTU unit. Consult your builder about the minimum BTU for your home. Excessive BTU is just a waste of money and energy.
The cost of air conditioning is significantly higher if you want a centralized cooling system. This system requires a more organized duct and air dispersion system to cool all your rooms with just the touch of a button. If there is an existing air duct system, the price for an air conditioning unit, source planning and wiring for a 2000 square foot home is between $ 3000 and $ 4000. If there is not yet a pipeline, the cost will double.