Choosing the right type and model of an air conditioner is more complex than buying one. Because air conditioners are designed for specific sizes, uses, and locations. So, suppose you want to buy a new air conditioner but need help knowing where to begin. In that case, Our job is to make sure you make a good decision when purchasing an air conditioner; from type to tonnage, star ratings to the number of sales, and every feature that matters to you, here’s everything you need to think about before you pick up that new air conditioner.
Tips on how to choose an air conditioner for your home
First, decide on your budget and type, then move on to other features and capabilities. Don’t be concerned about making a decision; we’ve included some key points below that you should keep in mind and consider when purchasing one.
Budget:
A good air conditioner can cost between Rs 20,000 and lakhs of rupees. The price may rise as you demand more features, performance, and, most importantly, cooling capacity. So, before purchasing an air conditioner, you must define a budget and your needs and then search within that budget.
Type of AC:
Being an expert, the AC type is the key factor you should consider first. There are three main AC types available in the market. Split AC is the most popular home use; the second is window AC for small rooms. It is more affordable than split AC; the third is portable AC, which is portability. You can move from one room to another. Split AC and window AC are the most common ACs; you must consider them first.
- Split AC: Split air conditioners are sleek and small, and they can be mounted on the wall, the floor, the ceiling, or a combination of all three. The most common type of AC is a wall-mounted split AC, which is ideal for small to large rooms. They are less expensive, better at cooling, faster, and more energy efficient, and they work continuously. They have a year’s worth of maintenance; you must maintain your AC regularly.
- Window AC: The window air conditioners resemble blocks and have a simple design. Even though they are the most affordable ACs on the market, window air conditioners are within your budget. Consider a window AC if you frequently move from one location to another and have a small space. They also produce more noise than a split AC system.
- Portable AC: If you need an AC you can move around your house from one room to another, buy a portable AC. Although this type of AC includes a hose, one end is connected to the AC unit, and the other must be attached outside the window. To use it, you must have a dedicated hose in every room or location where you relocate it. However, this type of air conditioning is uncommon in India.
Cooling Capacity:
The cooling capacity of an air conditioner refers to its tonnage. One tonne equals 120000 BTU (British thermal unit) per hour. A one-ton air conditioner can cool an area of 90 to 100 square feet, a 1.5-ton air conditioner can cool an area of 150 square feet, and a two-ton air conditioner can cool an area of 200 square feet. So decide on the size of your room.
| Star Rating | Cooling Capacity | Differences |
| 1 star | Low | Ideal for small spaces and occasional use. It uses more energy than higher-rated models. |
| 2 stars | Low to medium | Suitable for small to medium-sized rooms. It consumes more electricity than higher-rated models. |
| 3 stars | Medium | Appropriate for medium-sized rooms. It uses less energy than lower-rated models. |
| 4 stars | Medium to high | Ideal for large rooms. It uses less energy than lower-rated models. |
| 5 stars | High | Large rooms and frequent use are ideal. It uses significantly less energy than lower-rated models. |
Energy Efficiency:
Energy efficiency influences the star ratings. The international authority assigns a star rating from 1 to 5, with 1 being the lowest and 5 being the highest. A higher star rating indicates better cooling efficiency and more savings. Overall, the star rating system primarily represents the energy efficiency of an electrical appliance. For example, a 5-star AC saves more energy and provides better cooling than a 3-star appliance. However, as the star rating rises, so does the price.
Capacity:
If you decide based on type and efficiency, consider capacity. The capacity of an air conditioner is measured in tons. Some people confuse the tonne with its weight, but the tonnage of an air conditioner does not refer to its weight; it is a unit used to calculate the rate at which an air conditioner can cool a room. In layman’s terms, a larger space (room) necessitates a higher tonnage air conditioner.
The greater the tonnage, the larger the area an air conditioner covers. An air conditioner’s BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating is a more accurate way to determine how quickly it can cool a room. The BTU rating is also used to assess the air conditioner’s energy efficiency.
| Ton | Split AC | Window AC | Room size |
| 1-ton | Rs. 26,000 – Rs. 38,000 | Rs. 20,000 – Rs. 25,000 | 90 – 120 sq ft |
| 1.5-ton | Rs. 38,000 – Rs. 55,000 | Rs. 25,000 – Rs. 38,000 | 120 – 190 sq ft |
| 2-ton | Rs. 48,000 – Rs. 60,000 | Rs 48000 – Rs 65000 | above 190 sq ft(hall, big room) |
Inverter AC:
An inverter air conditioner with an inverter should be considered if you live in a village, tier 2, or tier 3 city. If the current flow fluctuates, the inverter will protect your AC. However, it would help to consider installing an external stabilizer to protect against power fluctuations.
Also, read the best stabilizer for 1.5-ton ac to save your ac from voltage failure.
Filters:
To improve indoor air quality, look for an air conditioner with good air filtration and purification features. Dust filters, dehumidifiers, and anti-bacterial filters are all valuable features.
Noise Level:
Consider the AC’s noise level. To ensure a quieter operation, look for an AC with a lower decibel (dB) rating; it helps to take a deep sleep during the night without any disturbance.
Brand Reputation:
Choose an air conditioner from a well-known brand with good customer service and a solid warranty. Look for brands that have been in business for a long time and have a track record of producing high-quality products. It is significant because after-sales service is critical. Choose those that provide better after-sales service.
Also, read Best AC Brand in India
Additional Features:
- Auto Start
- Dehumidification
- Multiple-Way Swing
- Sleep Timer
- Smart Features, App Control, and wifi Connectivity
- Turbo Mode or instant cooling
- Remote glowing button to use at night
- Auto- Clean
Conclusion:
We created this ultimate buying guide with the assistance of our AC experts to help a customer or readers select the best AC for their home, office, or any other type of AC. If you have a limited budget, you can forego some features such as wifi, filters, and others. However, these major key features will assist you in making an informed decision.
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