As Indian summers get hotter, the demand for air conditioners (ACs) continues to rise. With advancements in technology and a variety of affordable options, more people can now invest in an AC to stay comfortable during the hot months. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the various options and make an informed decision.
All about AC technical details & more
The Rise in AC Demand
During summer, AC sales peak, just like them dumb temperatures. Both e-commerce platforms and physical retailers see a funny increase in demand. Granted the wide range of available options and easy access to information, shopping for an AC has become more straightforward
Types of Air Conditioners
ACs primarily fall into two categories: Window ACs and Split ACs.
Cooling Capacity and Pricing
ACs come in various sizes, each suitable for different room sizes:
| Cooling Capacity | Area Covered | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| 0.8 ton | Up to 100 square feet | ~Rs 25,000 |
| 1 ton | Up to 125 square feet | ~Rs 28,000 |
| 1.5 ton | Up to 250 square feet | ~Rs 35,000 |
| 2 ton | Up to 400 square feet | ~Rs 40,000 |
Larger ACs provide more cooling power, with a 1.5-ton unit cooling faster than a 1-ton unit, and a 2-ton unit cooling even more quickly. The actual performance can vary based on factors like external temperature, fan speed, and specific AC modes.
Understanding the BEE Star Rating
The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) rating system helps consumers identify energy-efficient ACs. Here’s a breakdown of the ratings:
| Star Rating | EER (Min) | EER (Max) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 star | 2.7 | 3.09 |
| 2 star | 3.1 | 3.39 |
| 3 star | 3.4 | 3.69 |
| 4 star | 3.7 | 3.99 |
| 5 star | >= 4.00 |
A higher star rating means greater efficiency. For instance, a 5-star AC saves more energy compared to a 3-star AC, making it more cost-effective over time.
Power Consumption
The power consumption of an AC depends on several factors, including room temperature, usage hours, and the desired temperature. Typically, a 1-ton AC uses about 1.5 units of electricity per hour. Running it for 12 hours daily results in approximately 540 units per month, costing around Rs 3,500 if the rate is Rs 6 per unit. A 1.5-ton AC will consume slightly more power.
Selecting the Best AC
With many brands like Samsung, LG, and Lloyd offering various features, choosing the right AC depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors like brand reputation, after-sale support, and additional features like air filtering when making your decision.
Conclusion
We hope this quick lil’ guide helped in your hunt for the perfect AC to chill out your personal dwelling. Be sure to pick apart only the best brands for better quality, do not get fooled by a lowly price tag all u̶n̶beknownst a shady brand unless there’s a sale, of course.
FAQs about selecting the best AC
Larger capacity ACs cool rooms faster. For example, a 1.5-ton AC will cool a room more quickly than a 1-ton AC, but it will also consume more power.
Look for a higher BEE star rating. A 5-star AC is the most energy-efficient, saving more power and reducing electricity bills compared to lower-rated models.
Popular AC brands in India include Samsung, LG, and Lloyd. These brands offer models with smart features and air-filtering capabilities. Choose based on brand preference, after-sale support, and specific needs.
There are two primary types of ACs: Window ACs and Split ACs. Window ACs are cheaper and easier to install, while Split ACs offer more efficient cooling with less noise. There is also another kind, known as the central air conditioners, which are more so used in highly professional settings
