Temperatures are becoming increasingly more varied with the seasons and the need to heat the home in winter and cool the home in summer is more attractive than ever. As air conditioners become more efficient and less expensive to purchase you may be looking to install air conditioning in your home for the first time, or perhaps you’re looking to upgrade or expand on existing units. The correct size air conditioner is vital to ensure you are left comfortable for years to come.
What Type of Aircon Do You Want?
Modern air conditioners come in various styles depending on your needs and budget. Select from window, wall mounted split system, multi-room split system, or ducted system air conditioners. Fortunately, the various styles have become more affordable to purchase while also becoming much more efficient to run.
Reverse cycle air conditioners are a godsend for homes that suffer in both the hotter and cooler months. You also may like to consider smart home functionality with the rise of compatible products.
What Sized Space Are You Looking At?
The efficiency of air conditioners is dependent on a few variables and like Goldilocks, you want one that is just right for the space. If the unit is too small it will run overtime, costing you more in electricity, wearing the unit out and reducing its lifespan. If the unit is too big, it won’t cool and dehumidify properly while cycling frequently. This too can reduce the lifespan of the unit and you won’t feel the level of comfort that you should. The right size unit will cool gradually while dehumidifying the space, cycle off for a period of time, and then repeat the process as demand requires.
There are a few ways to calculate the size of the unit required for your space. In Australia, manufacturers will generally speak in terms of kilowatts (kW) for size, you may find some talking in terms of British Thermal Units (BTUs) (Google will help you convert these if required). This is a measure of the capacity or output by the unit rather than the physical size.
While there are formulas and online calculators available to help you calculate the capacity needed for your space, the best course of action is to have a professional consultation to properly assess your home. They can take into account factors that are not considered by the formulas and calculators. These factors include:
- Insulating qualities
- Building materials of the home
- Windows and skylights
- Lighting
- Ducting
- Furniture; amount and location
- Wall, door and passageway location
What Kind of Budget Do You Have?
Assessing your budget goes beyond just the initial purchase and installation price of your new unit. Manufacturers should have information on the average power draw and an estimated running cost per hour. Take into consideration if you have solar power as this may drastically reduce your running costs during the day, depending on your solar setup. An air conditioning expert will guide you on this if required.
As well as initial layout and running costs, you can consider maintenance costs. Do your research on the warranty available with each unit to cover you for manufacturing defects. Regular maintenance is also a factor and an annual checkup of your air conditioning is recommended to keep it running at its most efficient level.
Consider Technicool’s Maintenance Package, this will ensure the unit is regularly serviced and assists with your budget by having a previously agreed-upon price.
Call The Experts At Technicool For Tips and Advice
Our experts are well versed in air conditioning fitting and installation and can come to your home for a free consultation. Get in touch with us to learn more about the right air conditioning unit for your needs and budget. Let us size up your home and fit the right unit custom selected for you.