As the temperature rises, purchasing a quality air conditioner becomes a top priority for many. However, with so many options on the market, selecting the best air conditioner can take time and effort. Before purchasing, it’s critical to consider several variables to ensure you get the AC that best suits your needs.
An air conditioner’s features are essential in determining how efficiently and effectively it can cool your space. When buying something, it’s necessary to consider the room’s size, the AC’s type, its energy rating, how loud it is, the kind of filters it uses, and how much maintenance it requires.
Each feature has the potential to significantly alter your air conditioner experience overall, as well as your comfort level, indoor air quality, and electricity costs.
To assist you in choosing an air conditioner that suits your needs and budget, we’ll cover the various features you should consider when purchasing in this blog.
Air Conditioner Buying Guide – factors to consider
When making an air conditioner purchase, many factors must be carefully considered. The following are the top 10 features to consider before making a purchase: room size and AC capacity, type of AC; energy efficiency ratings; noise levels; air filters; maintenance requirements; additional features; cost, brand, and installation.
1. Room Size And AC Capacity:
The size of the room is an important consideration when purchasing an air conditioner in the Indian market. The size of your room must be considered when selecting an AC because AC capacity is expressed in tonnage.
According to a general rule of thumb, one ton of cooling capacity should be considered for every 100–120 square feet of space. A 1.5-ton air conditioner, for instance, is appropriate for an area that is 150–180 square feet.
However, other elements like the room’s height, insulation, and sunlight exposure also affect the selection of the suitable AC capacity. To ensure efficient cooling in a room with high ceilings or a lot of sunlight, selecting an air conditioner with a slightly higher tonnage capacity might be necessary.
When choosing an AC capacity, it’s also crucial to consider the climate of the area in which you reside. To maintain optimal cooling in hotter and more humid climates, an AC with a higher tonnage capacity may be required.
It is also important to remember that selecting an AC with a higher tonnage capacity than required may lead to increased energy use and higher electricity bills. As a result, it’s crucial to choose an AC with the proper tonnage capacity for your room’s size and other environmental considerations.
2. Types Of Air Conditioners:
Window ACs, split ACs, cassette ACs, and portable ACs are the four central air conditioners in the Indian market. Before deciding, you must consider your requirements and preferences, as each type has unique benefits and drawbacks.
Due to their low cost and simplicity of installation, window air conditioners are widely used in India. They are perfect for those on a budget and work well in small to medium-sized rooms. They might not be as energy-efficient as split ACs, though, and they can be noisy.
Window ACs are less expensive than split ACs, but split ACs are also quieter and more energy-efficient. They are made up of two units: a wall-mounted indoor unit and an outdoor unit that is placed outside the room. Split air conditioners are suitable for medium- to large-sized rooms and come in various capacities.
Ceiling-mounted cassette air conditioners deliver even cooling throughout the space. They are perfect for big rooms like conference rooms and offices. Despite being more expensive than window and split ACs, they provide better cooling and energy efficiency.
People who need cooling in multiple rooms or want to avoid installation hassles should consider portable ACs, a relatively new category in the Indian market. They can be used in any room with a window and are simple to move around. However, they are more expensive and might not be as energy-efficient as window air conditioners.
Before selecting a type of air conditioner, it’s crucial to consider the size of your room, your spending limit, and your cooling needs. Choosing a style that satisfies your needs and preferences is essential because each type has advantages and disadvantages of its own.
3. Energy Efficiency Ratings:
In the Indian market, energy efficiency is a crucial factor to consider when purchasing an air conditioner. Star ratings have been implemented by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) to assist consumers in selecting energy-efficient appliances. An air conditioner’s energy efficiency increases with its number of stars.
Buying air conditioners with at least a three-star rating is advised to ensure maximum energy efficiency in India. Higher-rated models, such as four-star and five-star rated air conditioners, on the other hand, are even more energy-efficient and can ultimately help you save a lot of money on your electricity bills.
It is crucial to remember that although energy-efficient air conditioners may cost more upfront because of their lower energy consumption, they are more cost-effective overall.
Moreover, because they emit fewer greenhouse gases and contribute to a reduction in the carbon footprint overall, energy-efficient air conditioners are also environmentally friendly.
Inverter technology, for example, can impact an air conditioner’s energy efficiency and star ratings. Lower energy use and improved cooling performance result from inverter technology, which modifies compressor speed in response to the room’s cooling needs.
Therefore, for the best energy efficiency when purchasing an air conditioner in India, selecting a model with at least a three-star rating is imperative when considering higher-rated models. Furthermore, selecting an air conditioner with inverter technology can improve its energy efficiency and cooling capabilities.
4. Noise Levels:
When purchasing an air conditioner in the Indian market, noise levels should be considered, especially for those who value quiet. Higher noise levels from air conditioners can be distracting and interfere with sleep or work.
An air conditioner’s noise level is expressed in decibels (dB). Window air conditioners are noisier than split air conditioners, typically producing 40 to 60 dB noise levels. Noise levels under 50 dB are considered quiet and appropriate for bedrooms and other spaces.
Before making a purchase, verifying the manufacturer’s noise level specifications is crucial to ensure it won’t be inconvenient. Some brands offer a low-noise compressor or a noise-absorbing cover, two additional noise-reducing features with their air conditioners. These features enable the air conditioner to operate at significantly lower noise levels.
The cost of air conditioners with noise-reducing features may be higher than that of standard models, it is essential to note. Therefore, it’s crucial to balance the expense of getting a quieter air conditioner against its advantages.
5. Cooling Speed:
When purchasing an air conditioner in the Indian market, cooling speed is a crucial factor to consider. A tonnage is a unit used to measure how quickly an air conditioner cools, with higher tons indicating a faster cooling rate.
Selecting an air conditioner with a cooling speed appropriate for the room’s size and population is critical. A higher-tonnage air conditioner is not always the best option for a smaller space because it can cause excessive cooling and higher energy costs.
The type of compressor, airflow rate, and cooling efficiency are a few other variables that can affect cooling speed and cargo. Inverter air conditioners with variable-speed compressors can adjust the cooling speed based on the room temperature, resulting in energy savings and more efficient cooling.
When making a purchase decision, it is essential to select an air conditioner with an appropriate cooling speed and consider other aspects, such as energy efficiency and noise levels. Energy-efficient air conditioners can significantly reduce energy costs, while quiet air conditioners can create a more comfortable indoor climate.
6. Air Filters:
An essential part of an air conditioner in the Indian market is air filters. To maintain clean and healthy indoor air quality, they assist in removing dust, pollen, and other airborne particles.
The kind and calibre of the air filters must be considered when purchasing an air conditioner. HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, electrostatic filters, and activated carbon filters are the three most popular types of air filters.
The most effective air filters are HEPA filters, which can capture 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns. They may, however, cost more than other kinds of air filters.
To maintain the air conditioner’s effectiveness and avoid the accumulation of dirt and debris, it is imperative to regularly clean or replace the air filters. While some air conditioners have replaceable filters, others have washable and reusable filters as standard equipment. When selecting an air conditioner, it’s crucial to review the manufacturer’s specifications for the air filter’s upkeep requirements and consider the price of replacement filters.
7. Additional Features And Functions:
Many air conditioners on the Indian market come with extra features and functions in addition to standard ones, which can improve the comfort and convenience of the user. Some additional standard features include:
- Wi-Fi connectivity: Wi-Fi-enabled air conditioners can be remotely managed with a smartphone app, making it simple to change the temperature and other settings from anywhere.
- Inverter technology: Air conditioners with inverter technology can change the compressor speed according to the ambient temperature, which saves energy and makes the unit run more quietly.
- Sleep mode: Air conditioners with a sleep mode can modify the temperature and fan speed to create a comfortable sleeping environment.
- Dehumidification mode: Air conditioners with this feature can remove extra moisture from the air, lowering humidity levels and preventing the growth of mould and mildew.
- Self-cleaning feature: Some air conditioners have a self-cleaning feature that automatically cleans the evaporator and removes accumulated dirt and debris to ensure optimum performance and indoor air quality.
When purchasing an air conditioner, it is crucial to consider the extra features and functions and pick a model that fits your needs and budget. While some features may be more expensive than others, they can enhance the user’s comfort and convenience, making them worth the investment in the long run.
8. Brand And Warranty:
In the Indian market, brand and warranty are essential factors when purchasing an air conditioner. Popular brands typically have higher levels of dependability and provide better after-sales support, guaranteeing a hassle-free purchase for the consumer.
Voltas, LG, Samsung, Hitachi, Daikin, Blue Star, and Carrier are some of India’s most well-known air conditioner manufacturers. These companies provide a variety of air conditioners to suit various needs and budgets, with varying capacities, features, and prices.
In addition to the brand, it is crucial to consider the manufacturer’s warranty. A strong guarantee can offer assurance and protect against any potential flaws or problems with the air conditioner. Most air conditioners have a one- to two-year contract, though some manufacturers may also offer more extended guarantees for a fee.
It is advisable to review the warranty terms and conditions provided by the manufacturer to confirm that they cover crucial parts like the compressor and condenser. It’s also essential to consider the manufacturer’s post-purchase assistance, including the accessibility of spare parts and service facilities nearby.
9. Installation And Professional Help:
In the Indian market, installation is crucial to air conditioner ownership. Poor installation can result in several problems, including ineffective cooling, higher energy costs, and a shorter air conditioner lifespan. When installing an air conditioner, it is advisable to seek professional assistance to ensure optimum performance and longevity.
The installation requirements and the accessibility of professional assistance in your area should be considered when purchasing an air conditioner. Drilling, piping, and electrical work may be involved during installation; leaving this work to qualified professionals is best to prevent accidents.
While some air conditioner manufacturers include installation in the purchase price, others might charge extra. When purchasing an air conditioner, you should inquire about the installation costs and the accessibility of service technicians in your area.
Professional assistance may be needed for routine maintenance and repairs of the air conditioner in addition to installation. Choosing a brand that offers reliable after-sales service and has service centres in your area is essential. Some brands may offer extended warranties or service contracts for an additional cost, providing peace of mind and ensuring timely service.
10. Cost And Budget Considerations:
When purchasing an air conditioner in the Indian market, cost and budget considerations are crucial. Prices for air conditioners can vary widely depending on the model, brand, and features.
The long-term costs of owning an air conditioner, such as energy bills and maintenance, must be considered when creating a budget. Energy-efficient air conditioners might cost more upfront, but over time they can save you a lot of money on your energy costs.
In addition to the air conditioner’s purchase price, installation and maintenance costs should be considered. While some brands may include installation costs in the purchase price, others may charge an additional fee.
Before making a purchase decision, comparing the costs and features of various air conditioner brands and models is a good idea. Well-known air conditioner brands in India include LG, Samsung, Voltas, Daikin, and Hitachi.
The kind of air conditioner you buy can affect cost in addition to the brand. Split air conditioners tend to be more expensive than window air conditioners, while inverter air conditioners may cost more upfront but can save a lot of energy.
Conclusion:
When purchasing an air conditioner on the Indian market, it is essential to consider several variables, including room size, energy efficiency, cooling speed, brand, warranty, and price.
While some features, such as air filters and extra features, might improve the overall experience, others, like expert installation and maintenance, can guarantee the unit’s smooth operation.
An air conditioner suitable for each person is essential because their needs and preferences may vary. Because there are so many different brands and models of air conditioners on the market, it is necessary to conduct extensive research and weigh your options before choosing one.
Ultimately, purchasing an air conditioner can offer relief from the sweltering Indian summers and a comfortable indoor environment.
By carefully considering the various factors covered in this air conditioner buying guide, one can make an informed decision and select an air conditioner that provides the best cooling and energy efficiency while being cost-effective in the long run.
