Air Conditioner Buying Guide
From portable air conditioners to window and central units, learn which air conditioner is perfect to keep your home cool all summer long.
Enhance Home Comfort
Discover our selection of air conditioners! We offer a wide variety of sizes, BTUs, and models, so you're sure to find the right unit to suit your needs.
Air Conditioner Terminology
BTU: The British Thermal Unit (BTU) is the international measurement of energy. Here's the definition: a BTU is the amount of heat required to raise one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit. In AC jargon, BTU's measure the amount of heat an air conditioning unit can remove from the room. As the BTU rating increases, so does the size, weight and cost of the air conditioner. Room air conditioners are generally 5000 - 24,000 BTU's. 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 is calculated by dividing the BTU's by the number of watts. The higher the EER number the more efficient the unit should be. A higher EER rated air conditioner 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 - 11.5. If it's really hot where you are, go for a rating of 10 or higher.
Chassis: A fixed chassis is characteristic of a lighter weight, smaller unit that's easy to remove for winterization. A slide out chassis is found on larger, heavier models. The unit slides out easily for maintenance.
Before You Purchase Your Air Conditioner
Measure the Room
Determine the square footage of the room (length x width).
There are a lot of variables to consider when choosing an air conditioning unit. The number of windows, family size, ceiling height, and which direction the room is facing are all factors to take into consideration when deciding what size is best.
This is an estimate on the right size air conditioner depending on the size of room:
- 100-300 sq. ft.: 5000-7000 BTUs per hour
- 300-500 sq. ft.: 8000-12,000 BTUs per hour
- 500-1000 sq. ft.: 14,000-18,000 BTUs per hour
Measuring the Window
Most window air conditioners are designed to fit double-hung windows. Measure the inside dimensions (the lower part of the window that raises). Take an exact measurement, not just an estimate.
Don’t forget to take your room dimensions and window measurements with you when you go shopping.
Check the Power Supply
What kind of plug does the unit have? What kind of plug is your wall outlet? Make sure the circuit can handle the operation of the unit. Smaller ones work with a standard 115-volt outlet. Larger 115-volt units may need a dedicated circuit. The largest AC units require a 230/208-volt circuit.
Types of Air Conditioners
Portable Air Conditioners
Convenient and powerful, portable air conditioners are the perfect addition to a small space that needs to be cooled down quickly. Usually equipped with wheels, the portable air conditioner is also eco-friendly and energy efficient.
Central Air Conditioners
Found in most houses, central air conditioners cool down the entire house through a system of air ducts. The temperature is controlled via a thermostat installed in a common area of the home.
Note: Call a professional to install a central air conditioning unit.
Air Conditioner Features
Energy Efficient
Air conditioners can use a lot of energy so it is important to look for one with an Energy Star rating. This determines how much or how little energy the air conditioning unit uses.
Washable Filter
Cleaning the air conditioning unit’s filter is a crucial part of maintenance. Washable filters are super easy to clean and will save you money in the long-run.
Remote Control
Usually a feature of a portable air conditioner, a remote control is all about the convenience. You can turn it off, as well as change the temperature, and air flow from your seat!
Air Conditioner Accessories
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