In this modern technological paradise, there are appliances and amenities to cater to our every comfort. When the temperatures begin to rise, air conditioners of every kind purr to life and keep interior temperatures at a comfortable level.
If you are the type who prefers to escape the heat of the day in an air-conditioned environment, here is what you need to know about choosing and operating ACs efficiently.
Saving Cash With Window Air Conditioners
There is a wide range of air conditioners on the market, and some may be better suited to your situation. But there is one option that takes first place in dropping energy expenses and delivering powerful cooling capacity —the window air conditioner.
Not only do window air conditioners go for a competitive price, but they are also characterized by energy efficiency. Furthermore, their output can be chosen for the exact specifications of the room they will cool, which can significantly improve their efficient function.
If you are a homeowner looking to slash your bills’ costs and remain cool year-round, here is what you need to know about the various saving cash benefits of window air conditioners.
Why Will I Save Money With Window AC Units?
To line up your ducks and reach the most significant savings, you will want to take some time to plan your investment. Here are some things to consider
1. Considerably Low Cost
Savings begin at the moment you plan to install a window air conditioner in your home or office. These units can be found in all sizes and designs and always at a competitive price. Best of all, they are exceptionally long-lasting and very economical to run.
Naturally, getting the most suitable option for your space will be the first question. Different brands and models have different prices.
If you are looking to go downright frugal, you will probably find some used options for under $100 that will still have many years of service life. But you can expect to pay around $300 for the perfect choice of AC for your average-sized room.
One of the most critical factors that will affect your air conditioner’s price will be the BTU it features.
According to the figures at energystar.gov, you will need 6,000-BTU to cool a space of approximately 150 to 250 square feet. Anything higher or lower than this figure runs the risk of being very energy inefficient.
The next important consideration will be the price of the air conditioner you are buying. You want to make sure you invest in something that will last long enough to recoup its value, so quality is essential.
Nevertheless, don’t be dazzled by the many bells and whistles some of these newer AC units features. It is better to get something simple, top-quality, and long-lasting.
2. Extremely Energy Efficient
The next significant advantage of the window air conditioner is its energy-saving capacity. Because it will cost much less to operate, you will be spending less over the entire lifespan of your window AC unit.
Look for the EER, or Energy Efficiency Ratio, on the product labels when choosing the units with BTUs that fit your floor space. The one with the highest rations will be saving you cash each month.
Of course, the magic will not happen by itself or maybe only to a lesser degree. To maximize the energy savings available from your efficient window AC, you will want to practice energy saving in your home.
By turning the power off when, not in use, keeping the temperature at a moderate setting, and keeping up with regular AC maintenance, you will significantly enhance the energy-saving benefits of your window AC unit.
On that note, regularly cleaning filters and vents are an excellent way to keep your air conditioner running well with the least possible strain. Keep an eye on your window air conditioner unit’s performance and have it properly maintained when it shows the slightest signs of disrepair.
3. Supplemental Cooling
Supplemental cooling is another plan gaining popularity with those homeowners looking to cut back their energy expenses. The idea is quite simple, “why use central air to cool an entire home if only a single room is in use?”
This is an excellent option for homes that are only partially occupied during most of the day. The central AC can be shut off in the morning, and the window AC used to cool the office or the occupied room.
In the evening, when the family returns home, the central AC can be turned back on to cool the home for the night.
The energy-efficient window AC unit is perfect for this supplementation plan. A small window unit can keep entire rooms and even portions of the home cool for only a fraction of what it costs the central AC to provide the same function.
Furthermore, by balancing the strain of cooling between two AC units, both units’ longevity is increased considerably.
4. Multi-Functional, Year-Round Use
Multi-function window AC units can provide heat in the winter and cool air in the summer. This function makes them the perfect support for your home’s climate control all year round.
When coupled with a supplemental plan, as mentioned in the previous point, the potential to save energy costs is maximized.
5. Easy to Install
Another place you will be able to save cash is on the installation costs. A smaller window air conditioner is easily installed with the help of a friend or neighbor.
This is a very straightforward process and can be accomplished even by those with only amateur DIY skills.
You will find all the items you need to perform this task already come with the window air conditioner unit, so there is no shopping around required. Then only basic tools are needed to complete the process.
The hardest part may be lifting the air conditioner into place, but it is not hard between two people. Furthermore, you will avoid the considerable costs of installing a mini-split or a central AC.
6. Versatile
Another good reason to consider a window AC unit is that it can be uninstalled easily and reinstalled wherever needed. If you are not the homeowner, there is little sense in installing a costly mini-split or central air conditioning that you will not be able to take with you.
A window AC is small and accompanies you to your new location.
Because they are so versatile, you will probably use your AC in an office, dorm, or apartment you will occupy some time in the future. If you also learned to install it yourself, you will be able to save on installation costs in the future.
Final Thoughts
You want to be entirely comfortable in your environment. The critical thing to remember is that there are many ways to remain cool and comfortable without accruing a colossal energy bill.
By following the pointers and recommendations listed here, you may be able to keep cool and recoup your investments on energy expenses.
A window air conditioner provides many advantages to the economy-minded homeowner. Still, it will not reduce your energy expenses all by itself.
To truly maximize your savings, you will want to address your home’s insulation and practice energy-saving habits like shutting doors, maintaining your appliances, and keeping your thermostat at a moderate workload.
