It's that time of year again! Summer is around the corner, which means pool parties, barbeques, and vacations.
However, if you don't have an air conditioner, you're probably dreading the coming months. The temperature rises and suddenly your house feels like a sauna.
When the interior of your home is hot, it can make day to day activities more difficult. Furthermore, it's hard to fall asleep and get household chores done.
This year, treat yourself to a new AC unit. Not sure how to choose an air conditioner for your home? Read on to learn everything you need to know.
Types of AC Units
The first step in choosing an AC unit for your home is to understand your options.
Window Unit
As its name suggests, these sit in your window. Their cooling capacity can run from about 5,000 to 12,500 Btu.
Portable Unit
A portable unit sits on the floor. This is usually an option for people with irregular sized or shaped windows that can't accommodate an AC unit.
Split Ductless
A split ductless AC allows you to cool multiple rooms at a time. It has a greater cooling capacity than portable and window units, but not as powerful as central AC.
Central AC
Central AC has the most power and can cool your entire home. Unlike the other three unit types, you do need to open up the walls for installation.
Things to Consider
Not sure which of those units are right for you and your home? Take these points into consideration.
Price vs. Cooling Capacity
As you can imagine, you get what you pay for when it comes to cooling capacity. Central AC will cost the most, both with installation, maintenance, and a jump in your electric bill.
Split ductless units are the second most expensive. Generally, they start at $1,000 and up.
Window AC and portable AC's start at about $150-$200 for a small unit with 5,000 to 6,000 Btus. That will only adequately cool a space that's under 300 square feet. If your rooms are bigger than that, make the investment in a large unit for a few hundred dollars more.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is better for the environment, but also for your wallet. Regardless of the type of unit you get, look for a model that is Energy Star certified by the government.
Noise
A split ductless unit or a central air unit will cool your home with the least amount of noise. Alternatively, portable units and window units are typically the loudest options. However, a window unit tends to be a little less noisy.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner: The Takeaway
Now that you know how to choose an air conditioner for your home, you won't have to suffer through the summer. Having a comfortable home all year round will greatly improve the quality of life for you, your family, and your pets.
Do you need to get an AC installed or repaired before the temperature starts to heat up? Then contact us for more information! We serve customers in Bossier City, Haughton, and Shreveport.
