Are you in the market for an air conditioner? There are so many things to think about to ensure you receive the best cooling result and energy value. Many buyers end up spending more than they anticipated due to incorrect capacity, skipping vital features, or not considering other expenses that would be incurred.
To make informed decisions, avoid costly mistakes by getting to know these 10 air conditioner buying rules.
1. Choosing the Right AC Capacity: What Size Do You Need?
A quick rule of thumb is that an undersized air conditioner will continuously run and strain itself to reach optimal cooling, while an oversized air conditioner will just waste electricity. Therefore, it is crucial to pick the correct tonnage to ensure effective cooling. Here’s a quick reference guide:
| Room Size | Recommended AC Capacity |
|---|---|
| Less than 100 sq. ft. | 0.8 Ton |
| 100 – 110 sq. ft. | 1.0 Ton |
| 120 – 180 sq. ft. | 1.5 Ton |
| 190 – 280 sq. ft. | 2.0 Ton |
Be sure to measure your room first so that you can purchase an AC that meets your particular size and cooling need.
2. 3-Star vs. 5-Star AC: Which One Saves More Money?
The BEE (Bureau of Energy Efficiency) star rating helps you determine how energy-efficient an air conditioner is. A 5-star AC consumes less power than a 3-star AC. So, does that mean you should always go for the highest rating?
If you use your AC for 6-8 hours a day and for most months of the year, a 5-star AC will surely help you save on electricity bills in the long run.
If your AC usage is limited to a few months in a year and for a few hours a day, a 3-star AC will be sufficient and cost-effective.
Consider your average daily usage before deciding between 3-star and 5-star ACs.
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3. Inverter AC vs. Non-Inverter AC: Which One Should You Buy?
Inverter ACs are the future of cooling, just more energy efficient! An inverter AC, unlike the traditional ACs which run at a fixed speed, alters its compressor speed to fit the room temperature needs.
Why You Should Buy an Inverter AC?
- Energy savings – Elders are sure to love it for the lesser electricity bill.
- Better cooling performance – They would always be stuck at staring at the room clock.
- Less noise – No more ear scorching ON/OFF sounds.
- Longer lifespan – No more sleepless nights worrying about the compressor giving up.
In the beginning, a non-inverter AC is cheaper than an inverter AC, but for anyone who wants cooler air and low electricity bills, an inverter AC is a more sensible investment.
4. AC Warranty & Product Registration: Why It’s Crucial for Long-Term Protection
When purchasing an air conditioning unit, warranties can help cut high repair costs in the long run, which means buying an AC unit is an investment that goes beyond just the initial spending. Look for air conditioners that offer:
- 1-year warranty on the product
- 5-year warranty on the PCB (Printed Circuit Board)
- 10-year warranty on the compressor
After you buy your air conditioning unit, make sure that you register the warranty with the serial number and keep the invoice because you will need it in case of future claims. Don’t ever depend on a third-party warranty– always extend the warranty through the original manufacturer.
5. Copper Coil vs. Aluminum Coil: Which One is Better?
The condenser coil material in your AC plays a significant role in durability and cooling efficiency.
| Feature | Copper Coil | Aluminum Coil |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Long-lasting | Prone to corrosion |
| Heat Transfer Efficiency | Better | Lower |
| Maintenance | Easy to clean & repair | Difficult to repair |
When aiming for improved efficiency, easy maintenance, and high durability, always choose an AC with copper coils.
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6. Do You Really Need a Voltage Stabilizer for Your Air Conditioner?
For the best performance, it is necessary to use a stabilizer so your AC can last longer. A sudden voltage fluctuation can damage the PCB (Printed Circuit Board) resulting in expensive repairs.
A stabilizer adds an extra layer of protection to keep your AC running smoothly for years!
7. Importance of Anti-Corrosion Coating in Air Conditioners
If you live in coastal regions, make sure to get an anti-corrosive coating on the inside as well as outside units of your AC to avoid rust, improve durability and lower maintenance costs.
Always go for ACs that have long term performance Blue Fin, Gold Fin or Ocean Black anti-corrosion coatings.
8. Proper AC Installation & First-Time Setup: What You Must Know
A mistake in installation can decrease the cooling efficiency of your AC by 30%.
- Tell the installation team to use a hole saw cutter drill so there is no dust and smooth holes.
- For best results, make sure the indoor unit is mounted at least 7 feet high.
- Before using for the first time, vacuum the copper pipes of the AC to eliminate moisture and air that may cause harm.
Never forget that proper cleaning and professional expertise during AC installation guarantees proper cooling efficiency and its longevity!
9. Hidden Costs of Buying an Air Conditioner You Should Know
The price of the unit is just the first step of expenses! There are other costs that you should be ready for like:
✔ Installation Charges – ₹1500/- to ₹2500/-
✔ Stabilizer – ₹3000/- (if needed)
✔ Extra Copper Pipe – ₹850/- per meter
✔ Drain Pipe – ₹80/- per foot
✔ Electrical Components (MCB, Socket, Plug, Wiring, etc.) – ₹2000/-
Always calculate the total cost before purchasing your AC.
10. Smart AC Features: Is WiFi-Enabled Air Conditioner Worth It?
Did you know that smart ACs can be controlled via your smartphone? Imagine asking Alex or Google Assistant to change the temperature for you!
✔ Turn ON/OFF remotely
✔ Set cooling schedules
✔ Monitor power consumption
If you are someone who values effortlessness and convenience, consider investing in a smart AC with WiFi connectivity.
Conclusion: Final Tips for Buying the Best Air Conditioner for your Home
These 10 must-know rules before buying an air conditioner – avoid costly mistakes! will ensure that your investment remains accurate as purchasing an air conditioning unit is a substantial decision.
✔ Choose the right AC capacity
✔ Opt for energy efficiency
✔ Prioritize inverter technology
✔ Ensure proper installation and maintenance
Now that you are well-informed, which AC are you planning to buy? Let us know in the comments!
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