AC Buying Guide 2024 : An AC, short for Air Conditioner, cools and dehumidifies indoor air for comfort. It works by removing heat from the air inside a room or building and transferring it outside, thus lowering the temperature and creating a more pleasant environment. Air conditioners are commonly utilised in residential, commercial, and industrial settings to produce a pleasant environment and increase general well-being.
Whether you’re looking to escape the blistering heat or enhance your home’s air conditioning system, we’ve got you covered with expert advice and crucial suggestions. Say goodbye to sweaty days and sleepless nights as we demystify the process of choosing the perfect air conditioner for your needs with the AC Buying Guide 2024.
To make sure you get the most effective air conditioner for your requirements, there are many things to take into account before purchasing one. Here’s the Best AC Buying Guide in India to help you make an informed decision.
Types of Air Conditioners: Home AC Buying Guide
There are various types of air conditioners available in the market to suit everyone’s preference and budget, so follow this buying guide for split AC and window AC buying guide to know everything that you need to consider.
Window Air Conditioners: Window AC Buying Guide for 2024
Window units are self-contained cooling systems designed to fit into a window frame. They are suitable for small to medium-sized rooms, such as bedrooms, offices, or living areas.
Split Air Conditioners: Buying Guide for Split AC
In this buying guide for split AC, you’ll get to know that the split systems consist of an indoor unit (evaporator) and an outdoor unit (condenser) connected by refrigerant lines and electrical wiring. They are suitable for medium to large rooms and provide efficient cooling.
Portable Air Conditioners: AC Buying Guide 2024
On our AC Buying Guide 2024, another kind of AC on the list is the Portable AC. They are self-contained cooling systems on wheels designed for easy movement and temporary use. They can be used in various rooms or spaces without a fixed cooling solution.
Central Air Conditioning Systems: Home AC Buying Guide
Central ACs are whole-house cooling solutions that circulate cooled air throughout the building via ductwork connected to vents in each room.
ALSO READ: Buying Guide For Toaster
Key Features of An Air Conditioner
Here are the key features of an air conditioner, according to which you can decide “Which AC to buy for home and office”?
| Cooling Capability | Air conditioners are primarily known for their ability to cool the air in a room or building, providing relief from hot and humid conditions. |
| Dehumidification | Additionally, air conditioners eliminate too much moisture from the air, improving comfort and halting the formation of mould and mildew. |
| Fan Function | In addition to cooling, air conditioners often have a fan function that allows them to circulate air in a room, improving overall air quality and temperature distribution |
| Thermostat Control | Most air conditioners have a thermostat that lets the user customise comfort by allowing them to set and remember the temperature they want. |
| Energy Efficiency | Many modern air conditioners are designed to be energy-efficient, helping to reduce electricity usage and lower operating costs. |
| Remote Control and Programmable Settings | Some air conditioners offer remote control capabilities and programmable settings, allowing users to adjust the temperature and other settings from a distance or set a schedule for operation. |
| Air Filtration | To assist in improving interior air quality by removing dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, certain air conditioners have built-in air filters. |
Because of these important characteristics, air conditioners are a necessary household device for preserving a cool, comfortable, and healthy home environment—especially in warm weather.
Points to Consider Before Getting an Air Conditioner: Best AC Buying Guide in India
To guarantee ideal cooling and energy efficiency, selecting the appropriate capacity for an air conditioner is crucial. The following elements, in our split and window AC buying guide, should be taken into account while choosing an air conditioner’s capacity:
- Energy Efficiency: While it’s important to choose a capacity that adequately cools the space, it’s also beneficial to select an energy-efficient air conditioner. To ensure energy savings, choose units with a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) or Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) rating.
- Noise Level: Particularly in bedrooms or other peaceful areas, the noise level of certain air conditioners may be an issue. Check the decibel (dB) rating to compare the noise levels of different models and choose one that suits your preferences, especially if the air conditioner will be in a bedroom or living area.
- Smart Capabilities: If you want remote control and smartphone app compatibility, ensure the air conditioner offers these features. Additionally, consider models with built-in Wi-Fi and voice assistant integration for enhanced convenience.
- Room Size: The size of the room or area where the air conditioner will be installed is a critical factor. Measure the length and width of the space and calculate the square footage. Different capacities are recommended for different room sizes.
Window AC
| ISEER Star Level | Minimum ISEER | Maximum ISEER |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2.5 | 2.69 |
| 2 | 2.7 | 2.89 |
| 3 | 2.9 | 3.09 |
| 4 | 3.1 | 3.29 |
| 5 | 3.3 | _ |
Split AC
| ISEER Star Level | Minimum ISEER | Maximum ISEER |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3.1 | 3.29 |
| 2 | 3.3 | 3.49 |
| 3 | 3.5 | 3.99 |
| 4 | 4 | 4.49 |
| 5 | 4.5 | _ |
Let us take a look at the window AC and split AC buying guide room size.
| Room Size | Tonnage | Split AC | Window AC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100-125 sq ft | 1 Ton | Rs. 25,000 – Rs. 37,000 | Rs. 20,000 – Rs. 23,000 |
| 150-200 sq ft | 1.5 Ton | Rs. 37,000 – Rs. 58,000 | Rs. 24,000 – Rs. 37,000 |
| 200-above sq ft | 2 Ton | Rs. 45,000 – Rs. 60,000 | N/A |
- Cooling Load: Consider the heat load in the room, including factors such as the number of occupants, appliances, sunlight exposure, and insulation. Rooms with higher cooling loads will require a higher-capacity air conditioner.
- Climate: The climate of the region where the air conditioner will be used plays a role in determining the capacity needed. Hotter climates typically require higher-capacity air conditioners to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.
- Inverter Technology vs. Non-Inverter: Inverter air conditioners adjust their compressor speed for consistent cooling and energy savings, while non-inverter models operate at full capacity with temperature fluctuations.
- Filtration and Air Purification: Assess your indoor air quality needs and choose an air conditioner with appropriate filtration and air purification systems, such as HEPA filters or UV lamps.
- Installation and Maintenance: Take into account how simple it is to install and whether expert installation services are available if necessary. Also, think about the maintenance requirements, such as filter cleaning and coil cleaning, to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
- Budget: Set a budget and research the prices of various types of air conditioners that have comparable features and cooling capacity.
- Warranty and Customer Support: In case you have any questions or worries about your air conditioner, make sure to check the manufacturer’s warranty and the availability of customer service.
- Brand Reputation and After-Sales Service: Research the brand’s reputation for product quality, reliability, and after-sales service to ensure a positive experience with your air conditioner purchase.
By taking these things into account, you may choose an air conditioner that will satisfy your demands for comfort, energy efficiency, and cooling in a well-informed manner.
ALSO READ: Best Soundbar Buying Tips
What Energy Efficiency Do You Require in an Air Conditioner?
When thinking about an air conditioner’s energy efficiency, it’s critical to check for the following crucial elements:
- Energy Efficiency Ratio: The EER is a measurement of cooling capacity (BTUs) divided by the power input (watts). A higher EER indicates better energy efficiency, meaning the air conditioner can provide more cooling power for each unit of electricity it consumes.
- Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): The SEER rating takes into account the cooling efficiency over an entire cooling season and provides a more comprehensive measure of an air conditioner’s energy efficiency. Higher SEER ratings indicate greater energy efficiency.
- Energy Star Certification: Opt for air conditioners bearing the Energy Star certification. These models can drastically lower energy expenses and usage since they adhere to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s stringent energy efficiency criteria.
- Variable Speed or Inverter Technology: Air conditioners with variable speed or inverter technology can adjust the cooling output based on the actual cooling requirements, resulting in better energy efficiency and more consistent indoor temperatures.
- Proper Sizing and Installation: Ensuring that the air conditioner is properly sized for the space and installed correctly can optimise its energy efficiency and performance.
With these things in mind, you may pick an energy-efficient model that can help you cut down on energy use and cooling expenses by going with an air conditioner with high EER and SEER ratings, ENERGY STAR certification, and cutting-edge technology.
ALSO READ: Air Cooler Buying Guide 2024
How to Maintain an Air Conditioner: AC Buying Guide 2024
For your air conditioner to operate at its best and last as long as possible, maintenance is necessary. These upkeep suggestions from our home AC buying guide will help you maintain the proper operation of your AC.
- Regular Filter Cleaning: Depending on use, clean or replace the air filters every one to three months. Clogged filters can limit airflow, lower efficiency, and increase energy usage.
- Clean the Coils: The system’s capacity to properly absorb and release heat might be diminished over time by the accumulation of dirt and debris on the evaporator and condenser coils. Regularly clean the coils to maintain optimal cooling.
- Clear the Area Around the Outdoor Unit: Make sure there is enough circulation around the outside unit by clearing the area surrounding it of any rubbish, plants, or other obstacles.
- Check and Straighten Coil Fins: Inspect the coil fins on the outdoor unit and straighten any bent fins using a fin comb to maintain proper airflow.
- Schedule Professional Maintenance: A professional HVAC expert can help you schedule yearly maintenance. They are able to conduct a comprehensive examination, clean the internal parts, monitor the refrigerant levels, and take care of any possible problems.
- Check and Seal Ducts: To increase the overall efficiency of the system, check for leaks in the ductwork and fix any gaps or fractures.
- Monitor Thermostat Settings: Optimise the thermostat settings to maximise energy savings without compromising comfort. Consider using programmable or smart thermostats for more precise control.
- Keep the Drainage Clear: To avoid water backup and possible water damage, make sure the condensate drain line is free of obstructions.
You may increase the lifespan, and energy efficiency and reduce the chance of unexpected malfunctions of your air conditioner by adhering to these maintenance procedures. Additionally, regular maintenance can improve the comfort level and indoor air quality in your house.
Understanding the different types, features, and maintenance requirements of air conditioners will help you make an informed decision when purchasing one and enjoy a comfortable living or working environment.
FAQs: AC Buying Guide 2024
There are many factors that one needs to consider before choosing an air conditioner. Refer to the best AC buying guide 2024 to know everything better.
The market is flourishing with good brands of AC to buy, you should go through our air conditioner size chart, split AC buying guide pros and cons, and window AC buying guide home and office.
Just before the coldest months, is the best time for purchasing an AC. as an air conditioning unit are the cheapest during this time of the year. Also, don’t forget to go through our AC buying guide 2024 before purchasing one.
You should go through our blog on the best AC buying guide in India to know which AC will be a perfect AC for your home and office.
