In the hot Indian climate, an AC is one of the essential products for any home. But with the plethora of options flooding the market, buying the most suitable product for your requirement is often confusing.
If you are looking to buy an efficient air conditioner for your home or office, look no further. This AC buying guide has all the information you need to make an informed decision. From the different types of products available to how they can be used most effectively, this guide will provide clear insights and takeaways.
Types of ACs Available in India:
Central Air Conditioners:
Central air conditioners are the most popular type of ACs used in India, designed to cool large areas, such as bungalows, big homes, and office buildings or warehouses.
Advantages:
- Heavy duty system
- Can cool an entire building
- Concealed ducting
- Provide a neat look
Disadvantages:
- More expensive than other types of ACs
- Require more maintenance.
Ductless Air Conditioners:
Ductless air conditioners are becoming increasingly popular in India due to their energy efficiency and ease of installation. One can easily fit into small spaces and is perfect for homes and offices.
Advantages:
- Cost-effective
- Silent
- Energy-efficient
Disadvantages:
- Less effective at cooling large areas
- Can disturb the interior decor
Split Air Conditioners:
Split air conditioners are ideal for cooling smaller areas, such as rooms, office cabins, and hospital cabin rooms. They consist of two separate units – an outdoor condenser and an indoor evaporator – connected by copper tubing.
Advantages:
- Cost-effective
- Low maintenance
- Silent inside operation
- Offer an elegant look
- Easy to install
Disadvantages:
- Less efficient at cooling large areas
- The condenser part can be affected by weather conditions as it remains outside
- Noisier outdoor unit
Window Air Conditioners:
Window air conditioners are a great option for cooling small spaces, such as bedrooms or offices.
Advantages:
- Relatively inexpensive
- Easy to install
Disadvantages:
- Not very energy efficient
- Noisy operation
- Not be suitable for larger areas
- Blocks part of the window and may disturb the interior décor
Portable Air Conditioners:
Portable air conditioners are the best option for cooling small spaces, such as living rooms, corridors, tent houses, or wherever needed.
Advantages:
- Relatively inexpensive
- Easy to move
- Less maintenance
- Compact and lightweight
Disadvantages:
- Unsuitable for larger areas
- Not energy efficient
- Noisier
Smart Air Conditioners:
Smart air conditioners are becoming increasingly popular in India due to their energy efficiency and ease of use. These ACs allow users to control the temperature remotely via their smartphone or tablet, making them ideal for homeowners and business people.
Advantages:
- More energy efficient
- Can be controlled remotely or via smart devices like mobile phone apps and Alexa
- Silent operation
- Efficient design and performance
Disadvantages:
- More expensive
- High-maintenance
- Need an expert to install
Important factors to consider while purchasing an AC
Once you’ve decided on the type of AC you need, you must consider some other important factors.
Cooling capacity:
The cooling capacity of AC is measured by tonnage. The capacity of the AC you need depends on the size of the space. To save time and money, it is crucial to choose the appropriate size. The table below will help determine the right capacity for your needs.
| Room area | Tonnage |
| upto 90 sq. ft | 1 |
| 90 – 110 sq. ft | 1.2 |
| 120-150 sq. ft | 1.5 |
| 150-200 sq. ft | 2 |
Energy efficiency:
Air conditioners require high energy to operate and can raise your electricity cost. Hence, installing ACs with high-star ratings is essential. Five stars are the BEE’s most energy-efficient grade. High-star ACs use less energy and save money.
Advanced technology:
Opting ACs with advanced technologies can offer many advantages. For example, inverter ACs have variable-speed compressors which adjust cooling to room temperature, saving energy. ACs with dehumidifiers and anti-bacterial features can deliver high-quality air inside the room.
Noise level:
Different types of ACs have different noise levels. If you want to install it in spaces like meeting rooms or classrooms, where a low-noise level is expected, avoid using window AC. Rather select split or centralized AC, which has low noise.
Brand:
When buying ACs, selecting the right brand is crucial. Check the warranty, delivery, and installation terms and especially the aftersales service. These points will help you avoid hassles even after the purchase.
Final Words:
To make an informed decision, it’s essential to know the key points. The above-mentioned factors can help you to select the right AC for your home or business. If you are looking for a reliable online platform to buy ACs, L&T-SuFin, is the right place. We offer a vast range of ACs from well-known brands with different capacities and features. Visit L&T SuFin, website to learn more about them and also take advantage of our logistic and financial support to make your buying process easier.