Australian summers are some of the hottest in the world, so we Aussies take our air conditioning seriously.
Are you ready for the upcoming scorching summer days?
If not, you’re likely looking at buying the best air conditioner. But determining what size air conditioner you need, what model to choose, and how to find the most efficient unit can be overwhelming.
That’s why our team at Air Cond Installs WA is here to help! We’ve put together a complete split system air conditioner buyer guide to help you find the best air conditioner for your space.
Split System Air Conditioner Buying Guide
1. Determine How Much Power You Need
If you are buying an air conditioner, it is important to know how much power you need to keep your home cool in the most efficient way possible.
Air conditioner models with too much power can cause issues such as failing to dehumidify the room, consuming more power than necessary, and excessive wear and tear on the unit. This can lead to higher operating costs and a model that wears out faster than it should.
A unit without enough power will need to run more often and work harder than it should, leading to wear and tear and a shortened lifespan. It will also struggle to keep a room properly cooled.
Here is a general guide to selecting an air conditioner based on room size:
- Up to 20m2 — 2 to 2.6kW
- 20m2 to 30m2 — 3.5kW
- 30m2 to 45m2 — 5 to 6kW
- 45m2 to 65m2 — 7 to 8kW
These are rough estimates, but they should help give you a general idea of what to expect.
When considering how much power your air conditioner needs, it isn’t just room size that matters. Keep these factors in mind as well:
- How is the room oriented? A room that faces west and lacks insulation will require a unit with more power.
- Are there curtains to shade the room during the afternoon hours to cut down on the amount of sunlight let in?
- Is the room insulated?
- Is it a living room, bedroom, kitchen, etc.?
- How big is the room? You’ll want to factor in the width and length, as well as the height
- Location and Climate — Are you located in Darwin or Brisbane? You’ll likely require a unit with more power than someone living in Perth or Melbourne
Ultimately, the best way to find an accurately sized air conditioner for your space is by working with a professional. Our technicians know how to calculate room size, as well as other important factors, to determine how much power your air conditioner will need.
Often, we recommend choosing a unit with equal or slightly higher power than needed.
2. Types of Air Conditioners
- Split System Air Conditioners
Split-system air conditioners are a popular choice here in Australia. These units consist of one part attached to the interior and another part attached to the outside to let out heat.
Split system air conditioners are cost-effective, versatile, and easy to install. Split systems are extremely popular and can be an ideal option for cooling rooms less than 60m2.
- Reverse Cycle Split System (Heating and Cooling)
A reverse cycle split system air conditioner offers both heating and cooling abilities. This is an ideal option for keeping your home comfortable throughout the year.
Opting for a reverse cycle split system is more affordable and easier to install than a ducted heated system.
- Air Conditioners With An Inverter System
Air conditioners that include an inverter system work quickly, effectively, and quietly.
They are highly efficient since they can maintain the desired temperature without needing to stop or start.
However, they are on the higher end in terms of pricing.
- Multi-Split Air Conditioner Systems
Multi-split air conditioner systems have one outdoor unit that is connected to multiple interior units.
The system is operated through one control, meaning you cannot set different temperatures for each room. Multi-split systems are a good option for homes with several rooms that are close together.
- Portable Air Conditioner
Portable air conditioners are a versatile option that provides a cooling solution for homes that can’t have a built-in unit. However, they lack the efficiency of other air conditioning systems.
- Window Unit Air Conditioners
Window air conditioners get installed into a window sill or through a hole in the wall. Window units are typically less expensive and can be easy to install, but they often lack the efficiency of other air conditioner types.
3. Energy Efficiency
All residential split systems are required to adhere to minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) to be eligible for sale in Australia. While this ensures all new models are relatively energy efficient, there are still other factors to consider.
Air conditioner efficiency is rated using a 10-star system. The higher the number of stars, the more efficient the model.
Although more efficient models will likely cost more upfront, they can save you money on power bills in the long run.
4. Air Conditioner Options
You’ll also want to decide if you want your air conditioner to have extra features, such as:
- Air purification
- Mounting options
- Noise level control
- Sleep mode
- Remote control
- Wi-fi control
- Varying operating modes (i.e. fan only, dry, economy, etc.)
- Timer
- Dehumidifier
5. Air Conditioner Maintenance
Once you choose a model, you’ll want to keep it properly maintained. This will keep it functioning as it should and optimise its lifespan. It will also help keep your power bills.
Here are the best air conditioner maintenance tips:
- Be sure to keep up with cleaning the air conditioner filter and replace it as needed.
- Keep the area near the outside portion of the unit clear of debris, leaves, branches, and other obstructions
- Clean the surface of the interior portion to prevent dirt and dust build-up
- Check the evaporator coils to make sure they aren’t covered in dust or debris
- Consider purchasing a fin comb to make sure none of the fins on the condenser coils or evaporator coils are bent
- Before summer, make sure the seal between the unit and the window is tight
- Make sure the condensate drain isn’t clogged
- Schedule professional air conditioner service once a year to have your unit thoroughly cleaned and inspected
The Importance of Hiring a Professional Installer
With summer approaching, are you set to stay cool?
If not, we’re here to help you find the best air conditioner for your home. Along with supplying high-quality air conditioners from trusted brands, we also offer professional installation.
Installing an air conditioner system is a complicated, technical process that requires the help of a professional technician.
That’s where our local Perth air conditioning specialists come in. Our trained, qualified technicians are here for all of your air conditioning supply and installation needs.
Whether you are buying an air conditioner for your home or commercial space, we’ll guide you every step of the way. From determining the size of the system you need to help you select the best type of air conditioner for your budget and space, we’ll make sure you stay cool and comfortable no matter how hot summer gets.
We only supply the highest quality split system units from trusted brands, including Toshiba, Daikin, Actron Air, Panasonic, Fujitsu, Carrier, and Mitsubishi. With us, you can rest easy knowing all of our units come with an impressive 5-year warranty.
Contact us today with any questions or to get a free quote.
