Keep It Cool with the Best Window Air Conditioners

Whether it’s your apartment that doesn’t have central air conditioning or your workstation that gets stuffy, using window air conditioners can help improve hitherto hot spaces. Window AC units have several benefits that make them a better choice over other AC units.

But with several options out there in the market, how can you make the right choice? Keep reading to find out more.

Guide to Buying the Right Air-Conditioner for You

Here are some tips that should help you make the right choice when selecting a window air-conditioner.

Cooling capacity

This should be the first thing to consider before you buy your window AC. The cooling power of the air-conditioned is measured using British Thermal Units per hour. Go for a unit with a BTU level that is made for your space. If you buy an AC having little BTU power, it will keep running while cooling your space.  This will cost you a lot of energy. If you get an AC with a BTU that is too big for your space, it will cause an uneven distribution of the cooling effect. This will cause some parts of your room to be hot while others will be cold.

Installation process

Note that the majority of window air-conditioning units are made to fit inside double-hung windows. You will find models you can install in customized wall space. This provides a unique option for people whose window dimensions are too big or too large.

Before installing the Air-conditioner, measure the internal dimensions of the window frames. Also, ensure to pay close attention to the width of the frame. Ensure to search for the maximum and minimum window width as indicated in the AC specification.

Features

One thing you need to consider before buying a window AC is the features that come with it. Some AC units come with Wi-Fi functions, others come with timers. But while such features are an added advantage, you should only buy a unit with features you intend to use.

Maintenance

Window air conditioners need regular maintenance to keep them in good working condition. Note that they get exposed to external debris and dirt which may accumulate at the back or inside. Also, there will be a build-up of particles and dust on the air filter with time. If this doesn't get fixed, they could all cause your AC to be less effective.

For a long-lasting operation, ensure you clean the unit one time a year at least. Using an AC that has a slide-out chassis will make the work easier because you only need to slide the unit out to be able to access it.

Benefits of Using a Window Air-Conditioner

Window air-conditioners have several comparative advantages over other types of ACs. Here are some outstanding benefits of using window ACs.

Lower cost

Window ACs are generally more affordable than the rest, this is in addition to the less expensive cost of operation every month. Although the cost of a window AC depends on the BTU capacity, brand, and features of the device, it is still the most affordable.

Energy efficiency

This is the biggest benefit of using window ACs. If you are looking to get the best cooling effect without spending too much, window AC units are the real deal. Most of these ACs come with a good energy efficiency ratio.

They are multifunctional

A lot of window air-conditioners do a lot more than giving the user cool air. Some of these AC units give both cooling and heating effects in homes and offices. With this dual-function, you can use the AC all year round.

They are portable

Living in a non-permanent house means you may have to move often, window ACs are perfect for this situation. Since they are easy to install anywhere there is a window, it makes them ideal for location nomads. Hence, when you are moving, you do not have to buy a new unit thus saving cost.

They can be used anywhere

Window AC units can be used in different places such as dorm rooms, sublets, and apartments. They may also be used in small businesses and offices as well as bedrooms.

Tips for Installing Your Window AC

When you buy your Window air-conditioner, you need to know how to install one especially if you want to do it yourself. Here are steps you should take when installing the AC unit.

Clean your window

Ensure your window is clean and dry before you install the AC unit. If you install the AC without cleaning it, you won't be able to clean either side of the glass.

Get it leveled off

Ensure you install the unit in a way that is level. If your installed unit faces downwards, the condensation may not drain out of the bottom.

Plug the gaps

the cool air will escape from your house regardless of how efficient your air conditioner is. This means you may have to pay higher energy bills. Ensure to fill the gaps between the window and upper sash. Also, fill the gaps around the panels.

How to Keep Your Window AC in Good Shape

Proper maintenance of your AC plays a big role in prolonging its lifespan and efficiency. Here are some tips that should help you maintain it yourself.

Clean the filters

As easy as cleaning the AC filters is, most people forget to do so. The easiest way to do this is by following the instructions from the manufacturer in this regard.

Clean the coils

The AC coil is the component that moves the cool air in and the hot air out, they also attract dust and dirt. You should clean them from time to time and ensure you dry them when done.

Keep the cool air in

Always do all you can to keep the hot air out and the cool air trapped in. To do this, ensure the curtains and shades are drawn during summer.

What Is the Price Range of a Window Air-Conditioner?

The cost of a window air-conditioning unit depends on the brand, size, and features. For instance, if you want to get an AC for a small room, a budget less than $200. For medium-sized rooms, you should have a budget between $200 and $500 depending on the unit's BTU. For large spaces, you need a unit that produces between 12,000 and 14,000 BTU units and they cost at least $400 each.

Window air-conditioning units help make life easier for the user. The pleasure you enjoy from using them depends on the choices you make when buying. This is why you need the right information about what to expect before you buy one.