Room air conditioners, also known as, window air conditioners, cool individual rooms rather than your entire home. These air conditioners are less expensive to operate than central air conditioners because they only provide cooling in areas that are needed. They are also a good option for residents in high-rise buildings without central air-conditioning.
What to Look For
- An ENERGY STAR® certified high-efficiency room air conditioner that uses 8% less energy, on average, than a standard model.
- The right size unit for your room is essential. If the unit is too small it won’t be able to properly cool your space. If the unit is too big it will cycle on and off frequently – wasting energy and inflating your Ottawa Hydro bill.
- A unit with a higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER).
- Some models offer Wi-Fi enabled smart functionality, which allows you to control your unit from a connected device such as a mobile phone or tablet.
Things to Consider
- Choose a ceiling fan or a heat pump, which use less energy and can still keep your rooms comfortable.
- When setting the temperature, aim for comfort, not chill. Set the temperature between 25 and 27°C.
- Make sure you have adequate air circulation, and if possible, make sure your air conditioner is away from doors, corners, drapes and furniture.
- Choose a wall or window with northern exposure and/or plentiful shade if possible.
- Make sure your AC is accessible for cleaning, maintenance and removal. Removing and storing your AC over the winter will extend its life and help maintain its efficiency, saving you more money in the long run.
- Properly seal large gaps with the panels or side curtains provided by the manufacturer.
- Add peelable caulking or other airtight sealants that will block air leaks and insects.
Cost
$200 to $600
Source: Natural Resources Canada