When a blistering summer heatwave descends, will your home be a cool and calm oasis? Or will you be counting the days until winter?
Don’t leave it too late. A tranquil sanctuary awaits with a top-of-the-range AC unit. But with an ocean of options available, selecting the best AC can feel daunting.
Fear not. We are here to assist and help equip you with the perfect summer. Read on as we reveal our six tips for choosing the best AC portable unit.
In this article
1. Think About Long-Term Maintenance
You might feel swayed by the upfront costs of AC units.
And you may feel tempted to go for the cheapest option. But before you do, make sure you factor in maintenance and durability. A long-lasting AC unit that doesn’t need many repairs is the best low-cost option in the long run.
AC appliances need regular upkeep. That keeps them running efficiently, thereby reducing your energy bills. Most models will need filter cleaning and replacement. So you want to make sure this process is easy and low-cost.
For example, some units have washable and reusable filters. That’s cheaper and easier than hiring a professional to replace the filter for you. Some models will also need draining as they collect condensation.
But some offer self-evaporating systems, so look out for this feature when researching. It’s a better option than manual drainage.
2. Understand Energy Efficiency Ratings
Energy efficiency is essential for two reasons. First, it’s better for the environment. Second, it means lower energy bills. And to establish the energy efficiency of an AC unit, you need to understand the rating systems.
The most common rating system is EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio). But you may also see ratings in BTU (British Thermal Units).
For an EER rating, you must look for a higher number to find the most energy-efficient AC units. It means the AC unit will consume less electricity to power the same room to the same temperature.
With BTU ratings, the number means the cooling capacity. A high number means that the AC unit can cool a larger space. It’s a helpful way of finding an AC unit to match your home’s size.
You don’t want one that’s too powerful if you have a small apartment, for example. Otherwise, you’ll spend more money cooling your rooms than you need.
3. Check Ease of Installation
Air conditioning units that are simple to install will save you time and money. If they need complex setups, add that installation cost to your budget. Plus, you may need to hire an AC professional instead of doing it yourself.
If you’re buying a portable AC unit, they typically come with all the installation kit plus an instruction manual. When considering the installation, measure the space where you want to put the AC unit in your home.
You don’t want to buy something only to realize it won’t fit, which means costly returns and delays.
If you don’t have experience installing an AC unit, don’t rule out hiring a professional. It could save you on maintenance costs in the long term as you get peace of mind that they’ll install it correctly and it’s working optimally.
4. Check the Noise Levels
When shopping for AC units, you’ll see plenty of features listed on each product. But out of all the benefits a brand offers, there is one to pay close attention to: the noise.
Having a quiet AC unit is a huge plus point, and you should try and avoid buying one with excessive noise. Louder AC units could disrupt your sleep or distract you if you work from home.
Manufacturers measure AC noise levels using decibels.
If you want a quieter machine, aim for one with a decibel level below 55. It’s about the same level as a conversation and will blend into the background. Anything over 60 decibels is noticeable and might lead to buyer’s remorse.
If you can’t find the noise specification for an AC unit, contact the retailer or manufacturer.
5. Prioritize Your Most Important Features
With so many new and varied models on the market, choosing an AC unit can sometimes feel overwhelming. So it’s crucial to understand how to figure out your priorities. First, consider your room size.
A larger room will take more power and time to cool. If you live in a hotter climate, you’ll also need a more powerful AC system.
If your home has many heat-generating appliances, you should factor this into your purchase. You may likewise need to contemplate comfort highlights.
For example, a remote or smart control (via phone) makes it quicker and easier to adjust settings. You can also buy ones with programmable timers. That can save you money as you won’t leave the AC on unless needed.
Some more innovative devices will have power-saving devices too. By thinking about your home, convenience, and energy-saving features, you’ll be closer to finding the perfect unit for your needs.
6. Read Online Reviews
The best way to get an insight into the quality of an AC unit is to see what other customers have to say. So always read online reviews and testimonials before making your final choice.
They offer real-life experiences from those who have used the product.
Reviews cover vital topics like reliability, noise levels, ease of installation, and maintenance. That gives you another layer of information on top of the manufacturer’s specifications.
Moreover, this feedback often highlights potential issues or drawbacks that may not be apparent before buying a product. For example, they could tell you about customer service issues with the supplier.
Finding the Best AC Portable Units for Your Needs
Choosing the ideal AC portable units requires balance.
You’ll need to weigh practicality, budget, and personal preference. Remember these six tips to help you find the perfect unit for your needs. And ensure you head into the summer months in cool, comfortable surroundings.
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