With the average American household spending 13 percent of its annual utility bill on cooling, it is essential to get the right cooling unit. At the same time, with the plethora of options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which option to go for. Read on to find out what to look for in a new air conditioner:
How to Determine the Size of The Air Conditioning Unit You Need?
Before you compare the prices and available features, start by determining the dimensions of the unit you would like for your space and where you will place the unit. To calculate the area of your conditioner, multiply its length by its width. Also, make allowances for other factors, such as the height of your ceiling, the location of the unit, and the size of your windows and doorways.
Different Types of Air Conditioning Units
Air conditioning units come in three main types, namely:
– Window Air Conditioners
– Split Ductless Air Conditioners
Window Air Conditioners
Small Window Air Conditioners:
– Capacity ranges from 5,000 to 6,500 Btu.
– Cools roughly 100 to 300 square feet.
– These are the lightest, smallest, and cheapest options.
– Cost: $150 to $250.
Medium Window Air Conditioners:
– Capacity ranges from 7,000 to 8,200 Btu.
– Cools roughly 250 to 400 square feet.
– Prices can be high as their size and weight can make them harder to put in and take out for winter storage.
– Cost: $200 to $400.
Large Window Air Conditioners:
– Capacity ranges from 9,800 to 12,500 Btu.
– Cools between 350 and 650 square feet.
– Best for cooling an outsized room, but the size and weight can make these models difficult to install
– Cost: $350 to $600.
Split Ductless Air Conditioners
Split ductless air conditioning is the perfect option if you are looking to cool a limited number of rooms without having to open up walls to put in ductwork. What’s more, they do a superb job cooling and tend to be much quieter indoors and outside compared to window air conditioners. However, split ductless tends to be costly and can cost upwards of $1000.
