What to look for when buying an air conditioner?

Air conditioners

Aug 28, 2024

Device Type

In stores, devices from Chinese, Korean, and Japanese manufacturers are mostly available - which one to choose? From our service providers' experience, we assert, if finances allow, definitely a “Japanese” one. Their devices have proven to be excellent in all critical categories: heating and cooling quality, energy efficiency, noise level, and the longevity of the device itself.

After the brand, the question of the system arises - mono split or multi split? Simply, it depends on the space. Mono split air conditioners have one outdoor and one indoor unit and are an excellent choice for apartments. Multi split air conditioners are more suitable for houses and offices because they offer the possibility of connecting up to eight indoor units to one outdoor unit.

Power

To ensure your new device doesn't waste energy, and you aren't paying more than necessary, perform a thermodynamic calculation of the space. What does that mean?

It means you should choose the air conditioner power according to the size and position of the space (location and orientation) and take into account: wall insulation, the size of glass walls, and the heat released by household appliances and lighting fixtures.

As a guideline, you can use the common rule which states that 1kW is needed to cool 10m2 of living space. However, as we have already mentioned, if you live on the coast and your house/building does not have insulation, the initial figure to cool the same area should be higher. Just as if you intended to heat with the air conditioner and not just cool.

Consumption

Energy efficiency directly affects electricity consumption. Therefore, if you want to cool down well without feeling it in your pocket, choose devices of a higher energy class. You will recognize them by the A++ or A+++ label, which is highlighted among the technical specifications.

In addition to the energy class, also look at the energy efficiency coefficients - SEER and SCOP. SEER represents the seasonal efficiency ratio for the cooling season, and SCOP for the heating season. The higher the numerical value assigned to them, the better the performance of the device, i.e., it is more efficient.

Experiences of our service providers and users indicate that with such devices, you can save up to 200 euros annually! At first glance, it doesn't seem like much, but in today's times, it is certainly welcome.

Additional options

Apart from timers and noise levels, we recommend purchasing devices with dual flaps and a dehumidification function. The simultaneous operation of horizontal and vertical flaps enables more precise operation of the device and better airflow, while the dehumidification function prevents mold and unpleasant odors.

If you intend to use the air conditioner for heating, we definitely recommend choosing a device with activated carbon filters, which neutralizes dust particles and unpleasant odors like tobacco smoke.

To get a top device that will serve you long and well, follow these tips when purchasing an air conditioner, and leave its care to the professionals at Postaj!