An air conditioner will make your home more comfortable during a scorching summer. Other options, like simple fans, can blow air around, but they don't necessarily cool a space. Once you've decided to install an air conditioner, it can be tricky to choose a suitable model. Here are some tips to help.

Capacity

It's crucial to choose a unit with an appropriate capacity. The right capacity will depend on the proportions of the room or area to be cooled, the number and size of the windows, and what direction they face. For example, a room with west-facing expansive windows without energy-efficient glazing will take in more heat than a south-facing room with small windows that are double-glazed. Other relevant factors include the local climate and wall and ceiling insulation.

If you choose a model that's too small, it can struggle and run continuously, which causes excessive wear. On the other hand, a too-large system can result in stops and starts and increased energy costs. An expert can help you determine the correct capacity before the aircon system is installed.

Reverse Cycle

When picking an air conditioner, you might consider installing a reverse-cycle unit. These systems can heat as well as cool. In cooling mode, they absorb heat from the room and release it outdoors via the refrigerant that flows to the outdoor component. In heating mode, the system does the reverse. It extracts warmth from the outside atmosphere, which exists even on cool days of at least ten degrees Celsius or so. The reverse cycle unit then releases this warmth inside. This technique provides a relatively efficient form of electrical heating. Plus, you only have one heating and cooling system to service and maintain.

Convenience

When you're researching different models, notice what features they have to increase convenience. Does a model offer Wi-Fi control, for example, so you can turn the cooling on before you arrive home? Another option is a motion sensor that can detect a person moving about. If it recognises that a room is empty, the system might switch to an economy mode, for instance.

Multi-split Systems

A standard single-split system consists of one indoor unit connected to one outdoor unit via refrigerant pipes. A multi-split system has several indoor units that blow cold air into different rooms, connected to one outdoor unit instead. The benefit of this is that you can cool or heat multiple rooms. But you won't have so many exterior units around the building, which can be an eyesore.

Reach out to a professional who provides aircon system installation services.