In the vibrant and humid climate of Singapore, having the right air conditioner is not just a comfort but a necessity for summer all year round. When choosing an air conditioner for your home, several factors come into play to ensure your comfort and accounting for energy efficiency as well. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the essential considerations to help you select the perfect air conditioner for your home.
1. Assess Your Space:
Before you begin your air conditioner hunt, take a close look at your living space. The size of your room or area you want to cool is a critical factor in choosing the right unit. Air conditioners are typically rated in British Thermal Units (BTUs), which correspond to their cooling capacity. Here’s a general guideline:
Small room (100-300 sq. ft.): 5,000-6,000 BTUs
Medium room (350-600 sq. ft.): 7,000-8,000 BTUs
Large room (700-1,000 sq. ft.): 10,000-12,000 BTUs
Remember that ceiling height, window size, and other factors can also affect the BTU requirement. Be sure to do your research and measurements first, so you can select the appropriate choice. Do try out our BTU calculator that factors in Size, Height, Number of people, etc. over here
2. Energy Efficiency:
Energy conservation is encouraged as it will save you on energy bills in the long run. Depending on your air-conditioning usage, most likely you should opt for an energy-efficient air conditioner if you are using it daily. Look for units with 5 NEA ticks on the label.
Unsure on how to read the NEA tick labels? Read more about it here: https://infinityair.com.sg/guide-to-nea-energy-labels-and-ticks-for-air-conditioners/
Efficient air conditioners will not only reduce your carbon footprint but also save you money on your electricity bill.
3. Types of Air Conditioners:
There are various types of air conditioner types to suit different needs for Singapore homes:
- Window Air Conditioners: Ideal for single rooms, these units are easy to install and cost-effective.
- Split Air Conditioners: Offering both cooling and heating options, split units are perfect for individual rooms, and they come in various designs to match your interior.
- Ductless Mini-Split Systems: These allow you to cool multiple rooms with a single outdoor unit, providing zone cooling and heating.
- Central Air Conditioning: Best for larger homes, central systems distribute air throughout the entire house.
But generally, in most cases (HDBs and Condos), you would be looking at split air conditioning systems.
4. Noise Levels:
Consider the noise level of the air conditioner. Singaporeans often seek quiet operation, especially for bedrooms and living rooms. Look for units with lower decibel (dB) ratings, which indicate quieter performance. This is especially important if you are a light sleeper.
5. Humidity Control:
Singapore’s humidity can be relentless. Choose an air conditioner with effective dehumidification features (dry mode). Not sure what is the “Dry Mode” about? You can read more about it over here: https://infinityair.com.sg/what-is-dry-mode-for-air-conditioners-and-its-benefits/
6. Filter Systems:
Good air quality is essential in SG humid climate. There are aircon brands that feature a smart filter system where it will alert you when it is time to wash your filters. Alternatively, you can also do it manually, creating a regular routine schedule to clean your filters.
7. Smart Features:
Smart air conditioners can be controlled remotely through mobile app, making it easy and convenient to control them. Imagine you are returning home from a long day at work, and before you travel home you can turn on your air conditioning systems to let it cool the room first. When you arrive back home, you would be enjoying the comfort of the cool air already.
8. Installation and Maintenance:
Ensure that the installation is performed by professionals to prevent any issues. Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your air conditioner running optimally in Singapore’s climate. Some air conditioners (e.g. Midea’s All Easy Pro) are developed to make it easy for installation, cleaning and maintenance with its well-thought-out design and features.
9. Budget Considerations:
While it’s tempting to go for the most advanced model and its fancy features, you should set a budget and stick to it. Consider not just the upfront cost but also long-term operating expenses (energy efficiency).
10. Seek Professional Advice:
When in doubt, consult with air conditioning professionals who can perform an on-site assessment and provide recommendations tailored to your specific needs. Here at Infinity Air, we provide air conditioning consultation services as simple as a Whatsapp away at 9383 6574. With over 20+ years of experience operating in SG, and over 15k+ servicing jobs, you can rest assure that our team at Infinity Air is ready to assist you in making the best choice for your home’s air conditioning needs. Contact us today to benefit from our expertise and ensure your home stays cool and comfortable all year round.
