Choosing the right air conditioning system depend on many factors. But, what the objective of air conditioning system. Obviously, it is to create a comfortable indoor environment like temperature, humidity and to avoid outdoor pollutants and dust. Also, to increase the noise inside the building.
What are the factors to Consider Choosing an Air Conditioning System?
1-Budget
First thing we have to determine the maximum amount we can afford to spend on air conditioning system, and what is the potential financing options do we have. This is the main factor should highly consider.
2-Space Specifications
Consider the following aspects of the space to be taken:
- Building Orientation: North-facing buildings receive less sunlight and may require less cooling.
- Floor Level: Higher floors may require more cooling due to heat gain from lower floors.
- Type of Building: Apartments, villas, or entire buildings may have different cooling requirements.
- External Unit Restrictions: Check if there are restrictions on placing external units on the building’s exterior.
- Building Insulation: Newer, insulated buildings may require less cooling than older buildings.
- Space Size and Layout: Consider the overall square footage and room layout for proper cooling distribution.
- Occupancy: If the space is shared with others, consider the number of occupants and their cooling needs.
3-Climate Suitability
Temperature
The type of air conditioner is determined by the weather in your location, which could be hot, cold or moderate. Therefore, when choosing the appropriate air conditioning category, attention should be paid to the specifications of the cooling compressor, which is characterized by its ability to withstand the surrounding temperature in three grades: (T1, T2, T3).
| T1 | (-7°C to +43°C) | Suitable for moderate climates |
| T2 | (-7°C to +35°C) | Suitable for cooler climates |
| T3 | (-7°C to +52°C) | Suitable for hot climates |
Humidity
- High Humidity: Dehumidification is necessary to reduce moisture levels, especially in coastal areas.
- Low Humidity: Humidification may be required to increase indoor humidity levels, especially in arid regions.
Dehumidification or humidification can be achieved through the central processing unit in central air conditioning, whereas in split units, dehumidification occurs when warm, humid air comes into contact with the cooling coil, causing condensation and water drainage. Oversizing the air conditioner in high-humidity areas may result in insufficient dehumidification.
Special design
The type of casing of the air conditioning unit can be designed to resist high humidity and salinity in humid coastal conditions or to resist dust and sand in dry climates.
4-Energy Efficiency for air conditioning system
It starts with choosing the appropriate air conditioning system for the place (split or centralized), depending on whether it is a place of residence or work. Attention should also be paid to the energy consumption indicators on the device.
Good design and optimal installation help maximize energy efficiency indirectly; for example, a well-studied capacity and the proper distribution of cold air sources in all rooms help reach the desired temperature for all parts of the place faster. Moreover, operating at a suitable temperature ensures comfort without excessive cooling and is generally designed at a temperature of 24°C or 75°F.
Additionally, regular maintenance maintains cooling efficiency and thus maintains a natural electricity consumption. One of the simplest types of maintenance is to clean the internal and external filters and the surfaces of condenser units in the external parts to maintain heat exchange efficiency.
5-Installation
Types of air conditioning systems:
Window Units
These units require an opening in the wall for installation and must be properly sealed from the outside. They also need a proper drainage system for condensate water. However, they are known for their high noise levels and are not suitable for modern buildings.
Split Units
These units consist of two parts: an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The indoor unit can be mounted on any interior wall that can support its weight, and the outdoor unit should be installed in a location that is easy to access for maintenance. However, they can affect the appearance of the building’s exterior.
Central Air Conditioning Units
These units require more space for installation, both for the outdoor unit and for the internal ducts and connections. They also require careful planning for air distribution within the space and consideration of the suitability of the location.
They are often designed into the building’s structure in modern buildings. Maintenance is more complex and requires specialized technicians, and the operating and maintenance costs are higher.
Quality of installation
An example of the quality of installation is the good choice of the installation site, the quality of the installation materials, the appropriate connections, following the instructions of the manufacturer, and the experience of the workers.
The quality of the installation affects the work of the air conditioner, the efficiency of work, and the comfort of the investor, and reduces unnecessary maintenance and repairs in the future. This increases the life of the air conditioning unit. Therefore, it is important to choose the company that will install it carefully.
The quality of installation has a significant impact on the performance, efficiency, and comfort of the air conditioning system, as well as reducing unnecessary maintenance and repairs in the future. This will extend the life of the air conditioning unit. Therefore, it is important to choose a reputable installation company.
6- Maintenance
Regular maintenance of air conditioning equipment is essential to ensure that it continues to operate safely and efficiently throughout its lifespan. Without regular maintenance, you may find that energy consumption increases significantly.
Regular maintenance can help air conditioning systems continue to operate effectively and reduce breakdowns in the future. Therefore, it is important to choose a maintenance company as carefully as you choose an air conditioning brand.
7-Warranty
The warranty period indicates the company’s confidence in its product and its quality. The longer the warranty period offered, the better, especially from global companies and trusted distributors. It is also important to carefully review the terms of the warranty.
8-Choosing the Right Design
The choice of air conditioning unit depends on the interior décor, including the color and shape of the indoor unit to suit the space and the function of the space, whether it is residential, commercial, or a showroom, etc.
9-Choosing from the Brands
With the many options available from different brands, try to choose an air conditioning reputable company that meets your specific needs according to the above criteria.
Conclusion
Air conditioning has become a necessity in most modern buildings and cannot be dispensed with to ensure comfort in the home or workplace. When purchasing an air conditioner, it is important to consider the above factors to get the most out of the unit at a price and quality that suits you and meets your comfort requirements.