Are you tired of sweating through our hot summer days in Western Australia? Is your current air conditioner giving you more trouble than relief from the heat? Finding the right air conditioning unit for your home or commercial building can be challenging.
That’s why we’ve put together our top tips for buying an air conditioner with valuable insights on making an informed choice when purchasing an air conditioner.
Air conditioner buying tips – Assessing Your Cooling Needs
Before diving into the world of air conditioner options, it’s crucial to understand your specific cooling requirements to get the right air conditioner for your environment. Here’s how to get started:
1. Calculate the Size
The first step is determining the proper size air conditioner for your space. An undersized unit won’t cool efficiently, while an oversized one will increase your power consumption with its overzealous cooling capacity.
Consider factors like room dimensions, insulation, and the number of people in a space. See our article “What size split system air conditioner do I need?” to learn more about what size you’ll need for a split system unit.
2. Energy Efficiency
Prioritise energy efficiency as it can really save you money on your bills. Look for energy stars or energy rating labels to ensure you get an energy efficient air conditioner.
See our article on “How to find the most energy efficient air conditioner” for more tips on finding more energy savings on air conditioners.
3. Type of Air Conditioners
Choose the type of air conditioner that suits your needs. Each has its advantages and limitations.
There are five main air conditioning types to consider.
Split-System Air Conditioner
A Split-system air conditioner is a versatile cooling solution suitable for homeowners, apartments, and condos. It doesn’t require ductwork, making it ideal for smaller living spaces. Additionally, it’s a practical choice for office spaces, ensuring a comfortable working environment for employees.
Ducted Air Conditioner
Ducted air conditioners are ideal for large homes, commercial buildings, and multi-story properties. They offer centralised control for consistent cooling and energy efficiency. With concealed ductwork, they maintain architectural aesthetics and operate quietly, making them a versatile choice for whole-house comfort and commercial spaces.
Evaporative Air Conditioner
Evaporative air conditioners are perfect for hot and dry climates, delivering cost-effective and eco-friendly cooling. They use less electricity, are easy to maintain, and provide a constant supply of fresh, cool air, making them an ideal choice for regions with low humidity.
Wall/Window Air Conditioner
Wall or window air conditioners are compact and cost-effective cooling solutions for small spaces, such as bedrooms or home offices. They’re easy to install and provide efficient cooling in individual rooms, making them a versatile choice for localised comfort.
Portable Air Conditioner
Portable air conditioners are versatile cooling options, perfect for on-the-go comfort in different settings. They require no installation, are budget-friendly, and efficiently cool individual rooms or small spaces. These units provide flexible and convenient cooling solutions without the need for complex setups.
Budgeting and Cost Considerations
Set a Budget
Determine how much you can spend on the unit and its installation. Remember that while you may pay more upfront for a high-quality unit such as split system air conditioners, it can result in significant savings over its lifespan. This is especially important when you compare the running costs of portable air conditioning units in two or three rooms to a ducted system installed in the property.
Additional Costs
Consider the hidden costs such as installation, maintenance, and potential repairs. Understanding the total cost of ownership is essential before investing in any type of air conditioner. It also pays to do the math on the long-term expenses of a portable air conditioner versus a split system air conditioner or ducted one before deciding on the right one for you.
Making the Purchase
Purchase a Reliable Brand
Buy your air conditioner from a reputable and authorised supplier and brand to ensure authenticity, access to customer support, and reliability.
We highly recommend Daikin air conditioning systems because of their quality and the brand’s energy-efficient, innovative home and business cooling solutions.
Energy Efficiency Tips
After your purchase, enjoy these energy-saving tips:
- Keep filters clean or replace them regularly
- Use a programmable thermostat to optimise cooling times
- Seal any gaps and insulate your home to prevent cool air from escaping
- Plus check out our article on “how to make your home more energy efficient in Australia”
With these tips in mind, you’re well-prepared to make an informed decision when buying your next air conditioner. Stay cool and sweat-free throughout the year while saving energy and money.
If you’re still unsure what type of air conditioning system will be the best for your space, please get in touch with our team. They’ll give you personalised advice to suit your unique situation and budget.