subject: Factors To Consider While Buying Window Air Conditioners [print this page] With so much competition in the manufacture and sale of air conditioners, there are certain models (we are not talking about cheap foreign manufactured models) which cost just a few hundred dollars. However, better models cost more and provide better service. Even if you are aware of your requirement from an air conditioner, there is always a dilemma as to which type of window air conditioner should a person choose.
Some tips which would help you choose the best window air conditioner are mentioned as follows
Measure your room before you start the search. It is recommended to keep the measurements ready in terms of square feet for accordance with the market.
Buy your air conditioner as per the appropriate BTU. It is a measurement of energy abbreviated as BTU which stands for British Thermal Unit. For this purpose, you will be required to find the correct BTU of your room. BTU is proportional to the amount of heat a window air conditioner will remove from a room. Buying a window air conditioner as per the correct BTU will reduce energy wasting as well.
Now you need to crosscheck the BTU which you calculated with the measurement of the room. For a reference, a 5000 BTU air conditioner works best for a 150 square feet room.
Take proper measurements of your window that will be used to hold the air conditioner. Always remember that proper measurements would lead to appropriate shopping.
Confirm your EER (Energy Efficient Rating). This is related to the efficiency of your air conditioner.
If the room where you will put your window air conditioner is quite warm, getting a higher EER would lead to better savings.
Invest in a window air conditioner which comes with a thermostat as this adjusts the air conditioner if the room temperature is near the desired temperature. Thermostats with timers are popular as they have a remote control that turns off according to temperature deviation.
Lastly, buy a spare replacement filter along with your window air conditioner. Always remember, that a good window air conditioner may be slightly on the higher side of your budget but over time it will prove its worth.
