Airconditioners: Getting The Most Out Of Them

 

Summer is setting in and you may be contemplating to buy an airconditioner. Here are some points to consider before buying one:

Is air conditioning necessary?
You might find that desert coolers, fans and planting quick-growing shade trees or creepers around your house can reduce your cooling needs. Dressing appropriately for hot weather can also reduce the need for air-conditioning.

What is the efficiency of the unit?
How much electricity will it consume? Are other models available in the market whose initial price may be higher but which may have built-in energy conserving features? Does your need call for a split-level model instead of a window unit?

Is the unit properly sized for the cooling load of the building/room?
This is especially important for central units because internal heat sources such as cooking, lighting and increased number of people must be taken into consideration. If you intend to buy a room unit, check that the capacity is adequate for the cooling requirement. Too low or too high a capacity are both energy wasters.

Can the unit be installed in a shaded location?
Direct sunshine on the outdoor heat exchange of an air conditioner decreases the unit’s work efficiency by about 10 per cent.

Already have an air conditioner?
Consider these points to get the maximum cooling effect from it:

• Remove obstructions from the front of the air conditioner or its gills.
• Clean the air filter on room units and gills of central ones.
• Check for air leaks.
• Clean the thermostats.
• Follow the manufacturer's suggested maintenance schedule.
• Replace thermostat with temperature graded unit or room thermostat.
• Replace your old unit with a more efficient unit.