How to pick the best AC in 2024: Breaking down technical details

In case you are looking forward to buying a new AC, worry not. In this article, we breakdown some technical details to help you understand more about ACs and make an informed decision. 

Different types of ACs

ACs can be primarily categorised as Window ACs and Split ACs

Window ACs are usually cheaper when compared to split ACs, and are also much easier to install. However, split ACs offer a more efficient cooling solution with lower noise and most modern split ACs are also much easier to use and service.

In terms of how they function, split ACs can also be distinguished into two categories — conventional or non-inverter split AC and inverter split AC, with the inverter version being more efficient at cooling and power consumption.

AC cooling capacity

Most modern ACs are available in four different sizes (in terms of cooling capacity). An entry-level AC will have a 0.8-ton cooling capacity, and it goes up to 2 tons in the more expensive mode. While this is the case with most consumer-centric ACs, there are also quite a few models, which are much bigger and more expensive.

The bigger the AC, the more cooling it can provide. A 1.5-ton AC can cool a room significantly quicker than a 1-ton AC, similarly, a 2-ton AC can cool the same place much faster. Again, depending on other parameters like external temperature, fan speed, and AC mode, the cooling performance of the AC will vary from place to place.

BEE star rating

ACs sold in India usually come with BEE (Bureau of Energy Efficiency) rating, where an AC with a 5-star rating is more efficient than an AC with a three or two-star ratings. These tests are done after tests are conducted by setting the temperature at 24 degrees centigrade, where if an AC can save between 2.7 KWh to 3.09 KWh, it is rated one star, and if an AC can save over 4 KWh of power compared to the standard figures, it is rated as a five star AC, which offers maximum power efficiency.

Power consumption

Calculating the power consumption of an AC also varies from user, and depends on parameters like the room temperature, operational hours, required temperature, power rate, and more. Again, an AC will consume significantly more power in the daytime when compared to night, as ambient temperature during the night will be much lower so that the AC doesn’t have to do much work.

According to many users, a 1-ton AC will consume 1.5 units of (1500 KWh) of power per hour, and if you run it for around 12 hours a day, it comes up to 18 units per day or about 540 units a month. A 1.5 ton will consume slightly more power, and depending on the BEE energy rating, this will vary based on the user. Considering an average price of Rs 6 per unit of electricity, the electricity bill for an AC will come to around Rs 3,500 per month, and if you have multiple ACs, the same can be multiplied.

Which AC is the best?

Today, there are plenty of brands that offer ACs in India and some of the popular names include Samsung, LG, Lloyd, etc. Most of the split ACs come with some smart features along with capabilities like air filtering. While there is no ideal AC, one can pick their device based on their brand inclination, after-sale support, etc.