There is nothing better than an air conditioner on a hot summer day. The latest models of air conditioners come equipped with digital displays, remote control settings, and even smart fans that adjust their speed according to the room temperature.

The latest air conditioner models are also quieter, energy-efficient, and comparatively easier to install and maintain. However, if you are wondering what to look for in an AC, you are in the right place. In this blog post, we will share everything you need to know about air conditioners. 

But before we look into the basics of buying an air conditioner, let’s explore the different air conditioning units you can buy. 

4 Types of Air Conditioning Units 

Window Mounted AC Unit 

The most common type of air conditioning unit is the window-mounted option. These air conditions typically reside in the window opening and take up less space. Moreover, these AC units are comparatively affordable and come in heating and cooling options separately.

You can opt for a heating/cooling unit or just stick with a cooling unit. If you live in an area that experiences cold weather, it’s best to buy a cooling unit only because your window-mounted AC can’t warm your house efficiently. 

Wall-Mounted Air Conditioning Unit 

The wall-mounted AC units are permanently attached to your wall and have inner and outer units. Both units are connected through a metal sleeve that is drilled through the wall. These air conditioning units are more efficient than window-mounted units and come in both cooling/heating and only cooling options.

The wall-mounted air conditioning units are aesthetically appealing and fit more securely than window units. Plus, these air conditioning units don’t obstruct sunlight, and they don’t need to be stored in off-seasons. 

Wall/Window-Mounted Air Conditioning Units

These hybrid AC units can be temporarily fixed in the window or permanently mounted on the wall. Most Australians buy this AC unit when they are living in a rented apartment and don’t want to fix their AC in the wall.

The wall/window-mounted AC can be removed from the window easily and mounted on the wall when needed. However, this AC unit usually lacks a window installation kit, like nuts and bolts, which makes it difficult to install it in the window properly. 

Portable Air Conditioning Unit 

Finally, the portable AC unit is a step forward from the window and wall-mounted AC’s. This is because this AC unit has wheels, and it can be moved from one room to another easily. It has a long pipe usually put outside the house for ventilation.

The portable AC readily fits in windows more than a traditional window-mounted AC. Plus, this air conditioning unit is easy to store in off-seasons. 

What to Consider When Buying an AC 

Energy Efficiency 

Energy efficiency is one of the most important parameters to consider before buying an air conditioner. This is because electricity is becoming expensive every day, and if your AC usage is more than 12 hours, you will have to pay a hefty energy bill.

All air conditioning units have a “star rating.” These stars define the efficiency of an AC. Higher stars mean higher energy efficiency. Therefore, an AC unit with a 5-star rating is the most energy-efficient choice. 

Type of AC Unit 

Generally, there are two types of AC units – split and window. Window AC units are noisy and are less efficient; however, they are comparatively cheaper than split AC. On the other hand, AC units are more efficient and have better air distribution.

Split ACs are also aesthetically pleasing and offer better air quality as well. 

Air Quality 

Regardless of which AC unit you buy, it needs to have good air quality. There are several types of AC units with different air quality outputs. You should choose an AC that traps impurities, smoke, and unpleasant odor in its filter and provides clean and fresh air.

Otherwise, you and your family might suffer from various diseases and have trouble breathing. Moreover, a good dehumidification unit is a bonus during the monsoon season. However, if you live in the dry areas of Australia, you won’t need a dehumidifier. 

Speed 

An air conditioner with a thermostat and multiple fans can generate a lot of fan speed that will regulate the temperature according to the room setting. However, when you buy an air conditioner with a thermostat, you can save energy by setting its temperature at appropriate levels. This way, your AC will consume less energy to power the fan and also produce less noise.

You can find the fan speed mentioned on the box or ask any sales representative to inform you whether the AC you are interested in has a thermostat or not. Make sure you buy an AC with a thermostat. It might be an expensive purchase, but it will save energy costs in the long run. 

Repair and Maintenance 

To use your AC unit to the maximum, you need to install it correctly. There should be no flaws in the installation of the AC unit, and it should be cleaned regularly. Moreover, when you get your AC installed by professionals like Sun City, you prolong the life of your AC. Plus, you need to follow your dealership’s instructions on which parts should be serviced regularly so that your AC works flawlessly. 

Ending Note 

Air conditioning systems are becoming increasingly important in Australia. Therefore, you should buy an air conditioning system that is energy-efficient and provides sufficient cooling. By now, you must know how to shop for an air conditioner. So, use what you have learned and buy a cooling system that is sufficient for your home.