Purchasing an Air-Conditioning System For the Home

If it becomes necessary to completely replace an existing air conditioning system, or if one is simply looking to "upgrade" to a more efficient, energy-saving model, several things should be taken into consideration.

Air conditioners do not actually "cool" a room; rather they remove the heat and humidity from the air. For this reason, it is very important that the air conditioner unit be the proper size for the area to be cooled. Too large, and the room will feel like the inside of a refrigerator; too small, and the room will not be comfortable. Further, the air conditioner will have to work harder.
 
If possible, a central unit-that is, one that is designed to cool an entire house-is by far the best buy. If the house is not designed for such a system, however, or if one simply cannot afford such a unit, then room air conditioners can be a good choice. Again, however, the air conditioner should be appropriate for the room size. 
 
Room air conditioners do require diligent maintenance so that mold, mildew, and other organisms which could cause breathing problems or even sickness will not form. If it is believed that a room air conditioner has caused such a situation, it may need replacing, and the room may have to be cleaned and treated in order to eliminate any problems.
 
Room air conditioners also have the tendency to "rattle". Proper installation of the unit, in an opening that is neither too large nor too small, will help keep this problem to a minimum.
 
It may be wise to cover room air conditioners in the winter, as well as apply plastic or tape around the edges. This will prevent any drafts from coming into the room, and will protect the air conditioner from the harsh winter weather.