We have put a few tips and tricks together to make sure you keep cool and your energy bills low as we head into the warmer months. Understanding the different types of Air Conditioning systems There are many different terms for air condition systems, and it can get a bit confusing as to what each means, so here is a quick breakdown: Portable Air conditioning: The name says it all, this is a non-fixed option, perfect for renters as no installation is required, all you need is a room with a window. Split system: An air conditioning system that involves an indoor and outdoor component. The indoor unit which contains the evaporator component and the outdoor which houses the compressor and condenser components. Reverse cycle: Air conditioning with both cooling and heating capabilities. Great for the cooler months as well. Inverter: delivers a constant airflow for improved temperature regulation, great for energy efficiency. Room Size An important factor to consider when looking to purchase air conditioning, is the size of the room you want to cool. Every unit has a different cooling capacity and if you purchase a unit that is too big you are more likely to use more energy, but if you purchase a unit too small, you might find your system will struggle to cool the room adequately. Here is a general guide on what capacity size you’ll need to keep the following rooms cool. ROOM SIZE CAPACITY Small Room (up to 20m2) 2-2.5kW Large Room (20-40m2) 2.5-5kW Lounge Rooms(20-60m2) 2.5-8kW Cooling Open Plan (60m2+) 5-9kW Cooling * the above is just a ballpark figure, we recommend talking to one of your local Betta experts for a more accurate calculation Another trick is to look at the efficiency star rating on the unit. The more stars a model has, the more efficient it is. The Efficiency rating is beneficial for both the environment and your pocket (this will save you money on your electricity bills). We have put together a list of recommended models based on the room size in your home. Click here to view our top picks. Clean your units Our last tip is to regularly maintain and clean your air conditioning units. Air con, like everything else, will collect dust. Not only is it unhealthy for you to breath in, but a dust filled air con filter can restrict airflow. This may result in your air con working OVERTIME, which will use more power and subsequently increase your energy bills. Don’t forget about the outdoor units either! Any dirt, dust or corrosion collected in the outside unit will limit the efficiency of the condenser. We recommend having your air conditioner professionally cleaned each year. We hope these tips and tricks help and if you’re ready to beat the heat click here!
