We know Summer isn’t the best time to have to buy an air conditioner. But , when the unfortunate happens, well you need to stay cool! Here are some points to consider before buying, to make the most of your hard earned money.
Types of Air Conditioners
1. Window units 2. Through-the-wall units 3. Portable units 4. Central or whole-home units Window units are the most popular air conditioners, and may be a good choice for you DoItYourselfers, they are the easiest to install and remove. This fits in a window opening and vents to the outside. Through-the-wall units are larger and heavier than window units. Rather than sitting in a window, a through-the-wall unit rests within a weight-supporting air conditioner sleeve set into an exterior wall. Electric circuitry must be reviewed, especially in older homes, because these units often require greater amperage and voltage. Versatile by design, portable air conditioners—ideal for windowless spaces—exhaust through temporary ducting and can be moved from room to room. Central or whole-home units cool the entire house at once. Frequently combined with heating for a complete HVAC system, they are the most expensive option and typically require expert installation. Cooling Capacity of the Air Conditioner Air conditioning capacity is measured in units called BTUs. A small window air conditioner can deliver as few as 3,000 BTUs, while a through-the-wall unit can exceed 20,000 BTUs. Room size is perhaps the most important factor in determining the size of air conditioner you need, but consider also: 1. The number of windows in the room 2. The room’s exposure 3. The quality of room insulation 4. Other appliances that may be in use 5. The number of people in the room
Efficiency of the Air Conditioner
Energy efficiency is measured by the Energy Efficiency Ratiorating rating (EER)—the ratio of the cooling capacity in BTUs per hour to the power input in watts (the higher the EER rating, the more efficient the air conditioner). Air conditioners, especially older units, are among the most expensive appliances to run. Choosing an appropriately sized unit is critical, because a unit that is too small will not meet your cooling demands, and one that is too large will cost more to run and will not properly control humidity. In making your decision, first identify units capable of adequately cooling your space and then purchase the one from that group with the lowest BTU capacity and the highest EER rating. D&D Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is a West Texas leader providing plumbing, heating, ventilation and air conditioning service and installation for the residential and light commercial markets in the Permian Basin. Call us today (432) 687-1011