13/09/2012
Choosing the right air conditioner is easy with the right information. The first step, before you go shopping, is to learn to speak the language.
Btu: The British Thermal Unit (Btu) is the international measurement of energy. A Btu is the amount of heat required to raise 1 pound of water 1ºF Fahrenheit. In air conditioner (AC) jargon, a Btu measures the amount of heat an AC unit can remove from the room. As the Btu rating increases, so does the size, weight and cost of the AC. Room ACs are generally 5,000 to 24,000 Btu. Matching Btu requirements to room size is important. The room(s) won't cool efficiently if the Btu rating is too low or too high for the size of the room.
EER: The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) is calculated by dividing the Btu by the number of watts. The higher the EER number, the more efficient the unit should be. A higher EER-rated AC will also be more expensive, so decide if the higher price tag is worth the energy savings you may be getting. The ratings range from 8 to 11.5. If it's really hot where you are, go for a rating of 10 or higher.
Thermostat: The heat-sensing thermostat adjusts the temperature of the air coming from the AC unit. They can be programmable or manual. An adjustable thermostat combined with a variable-speed fan is an effective cooling machine. AC units are available with a remote control, 24-hour delay timers and digital temperature readouts.
Filter: Clean air is essential for efficient operation. Look for units with filters that can be easily cleaned or replaced.
Fan: The fan moves the air. A variable-speed fan combined with an adjustable thermostat is an effective cooling machine. Look for louvers that adjust up / down and right / left.
Chassis: The chassis is the frame that supports the main parts of an AC.
Packaged Terminal Heat Pump / Air Conditioner: This type of large heating or cooling unit, installed through the wall, is used in hotel and motel rooms.