Listed here are a couple of phrases you will come throughout when looking for a window air conditioner, plus another suggestions after our years of testing them.
BTU stands for British Thermal Items. Within the case of air conditioners, BTU is a approach to measure how a lot warmth the compressor can take away from a room. It is a fast and straightforward means to determine whether or not an AC unit is highly effective sufficient to chill your house. First, you will need to discover the sq. footage of your room by multiplying the size and width. Then, use the US Department of Energy’s guidance on the BTU capability you want. For instance, a 150 to 250-square-foot room wants a 6,000 BTU AC unit or greater for enough cooling.
Test the Mixed Vitality-Effectivity Ratio (CEER) score. The specs on any air conditioner you purchase ought to listing a CEER score, which is likely one of the greatest methods of checking the vitality effectivity of a unit. You will often see a quantity between 9 and 15. The upper the quantity, the much less you will pay when the electrical energy invoice comes round. An affordable window AC unit may prevent cash at first, however it’s possible you’ll find yourself shelling out extra in the long term. The US Vitality Star program has a website that allows you to browse AC items based mostly on their CEER rankings.
Test native legal guidelines. Some cities, like New York Metropolis, require putting in brackets to help your window AC. A easy one like this model should do the trick, although we’ve not tried it out. You may additionally want to move to a ironmongery store for some plywood to ensure your window sill sits flat, however this relies on the kind of home windows you have got and the AC mannequin you purchase. When putting in, you must get a good friend that can assist you out. These items may be heavy and troublesome to carry, and the very last thing you need is to drop one out the window.
Measure your window. Before you purchase, learn up on the supported window sorts and sizes for the AC unit you are taking a look at, and measure your window to be protected. Make certain to seal any gaps as greatest you may with the included foam (you may at all times buy more if you need it).
