Choosing the right air conditioner is easy with the right information. The first step before you go shopping, is to learn to speak the language.
Btu - The British Thermal Unit (Btu) is the international measurement of energy.
Here's the definition: a Btu is the amount of heat required to raise one
pound of water one degree Fahrenheit. In AC jargon, Btu's measure the
amount of heat an air conditioning unit can remove from the room. As the
Btu rating increases, so does the size, weight and cost of the air conditioner.
Room air conditioners are generally 5000 - 24,000 Btu's. Matching Btu
requirements to room size is important. The room(s) won't cool efficiently
if the Btu rating is too low or too high for the size of the room.
EER - The Energy Efficiency Ratio is calculated by dividing the Btu's by the
number of watts. The higher the EER number the more efficient the unit
should be. A higher EER rated air conditioner will also be more expensive,
so decide if the higher price tag is worth the energy savings you may
be getting. The ratings range from 8-11.5. If it's really hot where you
are, go for a rating of 10 or higher.
Thermostat - The heat-sensing thermostat adjusts the temperature of the air coming
from the air conditioning unit. They can be programmable or manual. An
adjustable thermostat combined with a variable-speed fan is an effective
cooling machine. AC units are available with such
features as remote control, 24 hour delay timers and digital temperature readouts.
Filter - Clean air is essential for efficient operation. Look for units with
filters that can be easily cleaned or replaced.
Fan - Here's the thing that moves the air. A variable speed fan combined with
an adjustable thermostat is an effective cooling machine. Look for louvers
that adjust up/down and right/left.
Chassis - A fixed chassis is characteristic of a lighter weight, smaller
unit that's easy to remove for winterization. A slide out chassis
is found on larger, heavier models. The unit slides out easily for maintenance.
