Factors to Consider When Choosing and Installing a Split System Air Conditioner

To get the best out of a split system installation, you need to make the right choices when purchasing the air conditioner. Here are several factors to bear in mind.

Capacity

Firstly, you need to buy a split system with a suitable capacity or wattage for the space you want to cool. If you buy something that's too big, you're spending more than you need. However, if you install a unit that's too small, it will struggle to cool your home, and you'll pay excessive energy costs. Work out the square metres of the space you intend to cool before making a choice.

Star Rating

When fitting an air conditioner, not only do you have to consider the initial cost but also the ongoing energy expenses. After all, there's no point in buying a cheap unit and saving money at the start, but spending massive amounts on running it. Thus, consider a system with the highest star rating you can afford for the most efficient operation.

Inverter Models

Another way to save on running costs is to install an inverter model split system air conditioner. An inverter model will slow down or speed up to steadily keep your home at the thermostat temperature. On the other hand, a non-inverter model will stop once the room reaches the desired temperature. Then, after the temperature drops, the air conditioner will start again. This stop-start cycle uses more energy. Plus, your home temperature will fluctuate as the aircon switches on and off.

Wall Placement

Where you place the unit on the wall also makes a difference in how well it cools. The wall placement is particularly crucial when you install a reverse cycle that both heats and cools. Hot hair naturally flows upwards in a room to gather near the ceiling, and the colder air is pushed towards the floor.

If you place an air conditioner high on the wall in cooling mode, it will blow out cold air, which will then drop towards the floor and cool the entire room. However, if that same unit is used for heating, it will blow hot air near the ceiling, adjacent to where the unit is situated. And the warmth will collect around the ceiling and only eventually drop lower after a while. Thus, if you're primarily interested in a reverse cycle for heating, you might be better off placing the unit lower on the wall for more consistent room warmth.