There was a time when having an air conditioning system was a luxury. However, in recent years, scorching temperatures have made it a necessity. Did you know June, July, and August of this year were recorded as warmer than the same period from 1981 to 2010? Additionally, 2023 temperatures have been warmer than average because of El Nino weather conditions. Yes, AC units are a must.

So, the question is how do you choose one and how to maintain them for those who may have already outfitted their homes with a system? You need to consider certain specifications when deciding on a unit. Also, having purchased one, you must work to maintain it, as neglect will result in declined performance.

We want to help you, so we contacted the experts at Vikings Engineering Co. (G’da) Ltd. With a long history in HVAC-R design, equipment supply, installation, and maintenance, they have the experience and knowledge to guide you on what to look for and how to care for your unit.

Here are six tips on how to choose and maintain your air conditioning unit

Know your required cooling capacity. When purchasing a unit, you must choose one with the right cooling capacity. The incorrect capacity can result in declined performance, high utility bills, poor air quality, etc. Therefore, one of the first things to consider is the room’s size and how it’s going to be used. You can determine what you need by calculating the length and width of the room and then multiplying that figure by 25 British Thermal Units (BTU).

Check the energy efficiency level. An energy-efficient unit helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lowering electricity bills. When selecting, pay attention to the Energy Efficient Ratio (EER) rating. The higher it is, the better. For example, an ac unit with an A+++ rating is the best. Toshiba® air-conditioners are one of the best brands for reduced energy consumption.

Ask questions about the electrical frequency. It is essential to check the electrical data, such as voltage and frequency. In Grenada, our frequency is 50Hz. Having an air-conditioner designed for 60Hz but operating at 50Hz means the equipment is forced to work slower than intended, causing it to perform less efficiently. Choose a 50Hz system for optimal performance.

Consider the different types of units. There are various air conditioning systems, each offering varying pros and cons. For example, there are ductless cassette units, window air conditioning units, wall-mounted units and ducted air conditioning systems. The system you choose should be suitable for the intended use of the space, good air distribution, and the aesthetics you’re hoping to create. 

Clean your air-conditioner regularly. It is necessary to maintain your air-conditioner on average every three months. A dirty air-conditioner will operate less efficiently and affect indoor air quality because of dirty filters—failure to maintain upkeep results in mould growth. However, good maintenance practices reduce the chances of dust build-up dust, mould, and other bacteria, thereby reducing your chances of affecting the health of occupants. It also increases your savings on electricity consumption.

Keep your windows and doors closed. When operating your air-conditioner, keep all windows and doors shut to avoid warm air infiltrating the room. Allowing warm air into a cold room affects the performance of your air-conditioner because it forces the unit to remove more heat than its capacity allows. Additionally, the mixture of the warm and cold air streams can result in condensation, creating an environment for mould growth which is not conducive for occupancy.

Use these tips if you’re in the market for an air conditioning system or to maintain your current one. Of course, while there may be some aspects of maintenance you can handle on your own, it’s advisable that you call and book a consultation with a professional team for major jobs.

Check the FindYello “Air-conditioning Contractors” listing to find a AC contractor close to you.

Sources: Daikin, Home Triangle, Vikings Engineering Co. (G'da) Ltd.