This spring, before you start shopping for a new air conditioner, here is some information to take into consideration and that might be helpful.
Three points to help you make the right choice
In order to make the best choice when it comes to air conditioners, here are three technical points that are important to keep in mind: the power of the unit, its energy consumption and its operating noise level.
Power efficiency
The first thing to know is that a smaller air conditioner that runs for a longer period of time is more efficient than a more powerful air conditioner that stops and starts often. Longer operating cycles mean lower humidity levels in the house – a key factor in comfort and air quality. With the right size of air conditioner, relative humidity can be maintained at between 30% and 50%, which is ideal.
Energy efficiency
The next important point is energy performance. The EnerGuide label on every air conditioner provides information about its efficiency, and the unit’s SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating measures performance. The higher the rating, the less energy the device consumes. This is very useful when deciding which product is best for you.
Also, a product that has the ENERGY STAR symbol will meet the most strick standards in energy-efficiency. Today, products with ENERGY STAR–approved labels must have a SEER of at least 14, but there are air conditioners on the market with a SEER of 21. So this is definitely something to look for!
Noise level
The last point you should consider is to make sure your unit’s noise level respects municipal bylaws – or, if applicable, your building regulations. As a matter of fact, your peace and quiet (and that of your neighbours) may be threatened if the unit’s noise level is higher than 80 decibels. You will find the needed information on noise levels in the air conditioner’s specifications sheet.
The warranty is a good indicator
The best products on the market generally come with excellent warranties: • Window- or wall-mounted: 5 years, parts and labour • Split system: 5 years, parts and labour; 10 years for the condenser • Other central systems: 10 years, parts and labour
One last piece of advice: You should avoid low-cost units with a one-year warranty; if something goes wrong after two or three years, replacement parts are often no longer on the market.
Smart shopping:
Contact ALLARD & EMOND to get expert advice on what your air conditioning options are and help you choose what’s best for your needs.
