What are the different types of air conditioners?
Central cooling systems, intended for entire houses, and unit air conditioners, which are cheaper and used for a single room.
What are the different kinds of unit air conditioners?
There are window units, built-in window units, and split system air conditioners.
What sort of outlet will an air conditioner use?
Most air conditioners can be plugged into an ordinary 115 volt outlet.
How much do air conditioners cost?
Window units cost $250-$800, built-in window units cost $500-$800, and split system units cost $300-$1,000.
What are "BTUs"?
BTUs, or British thermal units, are a measure of an air conditioner's cooling capacity.
How many BTUs should my air conditioner have?
Multiply the square footage of the room by 35. Increase this number slightly for kitchens, very sunny rooms, and rooms usually occupied by multiple people.
What is "EER"?
"EER" is an air conditioner's energy efficiency ratio. The higher the number, the less electricity the unit uses.
How high should my air conditioner's EER be?
Units with high EER are more expensive initially but cheaper to operate. If you plan on using your air conditioner a lot, go for a high EER (around 10); if you only use it on the hottest days in the summer, you're better off getting one with a low EER (8-9).
What do I need to bring with me when I go to buy an air conditioner?
The dimensions of the room you're planning to cool, the dimensions of the window in which you're going to install the air conditioner, and a friend to help you carry it home (they're heavy).
What can I do to ensure that my air conditioner stays in good condition?
Clean and change the filters often, don't leave the unit on a high setting for long stretches at a time, and make sure to insulate your house, particularly the window with the air conditioner in it.
SoYouWanna know more? Check out our full-length article SoYouWanna buy an air conditioner?
