As the unbearable summer heat intensifies, with temperatures soaring past 40°C in many parts of India, air conditioners have become more of a necessity than luxury. However, before rushing into a purchase or upgrade, it’s crucial to evaluate several factors to ensure energy efficiency, long-term savings, and optimal cooling performance.
Choosing the right model can make a significant difference in ensuring comfort, and keeping the electricity bills in check. Here are some important things to consider before you invest in a new air conditioner.
Fix a budget
Before you start looking for options, fix a budget. Being aware of your spending limit will help you shortlist products from the wide range of air conditioners available. Decent air conditioners start from Rs. 26,000, and the rates will go up, depending on the brand and features on offer. A clear budget will make the selection process more manageable.
Dimensions of the room
The size of the room where you plan to install the AC plays a significant role in determining the right unit. A 1-ton air conditioner is usually enough for spaces up to 120 square feet. Larger areas, however, will call for a larger AC. Hence, it’s critical to assess the size of your area to guarantee maximum efficiency and productivity.
Check the star ratings
A significant factor to think about when buying an air conditioner is energy efficiency. Higher star ratings indicate higher efficiency. The star rating shows how much energy the unit uses. Lower-star air conditioners could appear more cost-effective at first, but they eventually consume more energy, which raises power costs over time.
Durability
Before buying, check the build quality, brand reputation, warranty terms, and user reviews of the product. A durable AC may cost more upfront but saves money in the long run by reducing maintenance costs and extending the appliance’s lifespan.
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Type of Air Conditioner
When purchasing an air conditioner, the type of AC is one of the most important factors to consider. Air conditioners typically come in two types – split AC and window AC, each one has its own set of advantages.
Installing window air conditioners is simpler. They can be installed in a room’s window and don’t require any drilling and they are ideal for spaces that are limited in size.
A split air conditioner can cool the space considerably more quickly. This is because split ACs have wider blowers that can blow out more cool air and are usually less noisy than window ACs.
After-Sales Services
An air conditioner needs regular repairs and servicing. So, it’s important to consider the brand’s after-sales service before buying an AC. Verify the manufacturer’s prompt servicing and efficient support for customers.
Comfort and convenience
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Look for features like remote control, smart connectivity, sleep modes, and fast cooling. These ensure ease of use and personalised comfort. An AC that operates quietly and maintains a stable temperature greatly enhances your indoor experience during hot summers.
(This article has been curated by Disha Gupta, who is an intern with indianexpress.com)
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