As we head into summer and the warmer temperatures are on the way, it is time to make sure that your air conditioning is working correctly. Or, if you do not already have a unit, it may be an excellent time to consider investing in one. Every year in the UK, the summers are getting hotter, and these days most householders consider aircon essential.
However, choosing an air conditioning system is not always an easy decision because of the sheer number of different aircon systems available. We have put together this short guide of recommended tips to help you choose the best type of air conditioner for your home.
Determine The Kind of Air Conditioner You Need
You need to decide if you want an HVAC system or if a central air conditioner would be best for your premises. Generally speaking. central air conditioners are most popular; these are the type where you have a condenser located on the outside of the property. The main advantages and disadvantages of this type of air conditioner are:
- Balanced air temperature all year round
- Filtered purified and clean air
- Can be combined with your heating set-up
Disadvantages
- Requires more ductwork installed and more maintenance<
- Can increase energy bills
A ductless HVAC system is a great alternative if your property does not have a dust network. This type of aircon is ideal for rooms added after the initial building of a house, extensions and converted garages. Some of the biggest advantages and disadvantages of this type of system are as follows:
Advantages
- Good energy efficiency
- Does not need ductwork to function
Disadvantages
- Installation is fairly expensive
- Might not fit with the design or layout of your property
Buying The Correct Size
It is vitally important to buy the right size of air conditioner you need to ensure your property is cool enough, while at the same time using energy as efficiently as possible. Larger air conditioners do not necessarily equate to cooler home or a better system.
For aircon to work effectively, it needs to be the right size in relation to the building it is cooling. So take into consideration the cooling load of your property, window sizes, the amount and quality of insulation in your home and the square footage of your property.
Check The Energy-Efficiency Of Units
Most homeowners nowadays take energy-efficiency very seriously and you should too. Choosing an air conditioner that is energy efficient can make all the difference between wasting energy and saving it, as well as saving you money or wasting it. The energy efficiency of a cooling system is calculated by the EER, which stands for Energy Efficiency Ratio.
The EER is the measure of how effective a cooling system functions in a steady state, or over time when the outside temperature is at a particular level. The outdoor conditions generally used are 95 degrees Fahrenheit or 35 degrees Celsius. When choosing an air conditioner, you can compare EER ratings. The higher the EER rating, the more energy-efficient the aircon unit will be.
