What to Consider When Buying an Air Conditioner

Selecting the right air conditioning system involves more than just choosing a model—it’s about finding a solution tailored to your home and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for energy efficiency, aesthetic appeal, or maximum comfort, this guide will help you understand the factors to consider when buying an air conditioner and making an informed decision.

Key Considerations When Choosing an Air Conditioner

Before making your purchase, think about these key factors:

1. Your Location and Climate Needs

Where you live significantly influences your air conditioning needs. Here in Australia, we have a temperate climate that ranges from very hot and tropical at the top end of our country, to subzero, depending on what part of the country you’re living in.

With average temperatures consistently on the rise, cooling is a serious requirement for many Australians. For those in hot and humid climates, a cooling-only system may suffice. However, our southern states do still experience cold temperatures in the winter – and if you feel the chill as well as the heat, you may want to consider an air conditioner that addresses both. Consider a reverse cycle air conditioner if your location experiences both hot summers and cold winters. It’s an energy-efficient choice that eliminates the need for separate heating and cooling systems.

2. Types of Air Conditioning Systems

Choosing the right air conditioning system depends on your home’s size and your cooling or heating needs:

• Split System Air Conditioners: Ideal for single rooms or compact spaces. These systems offer precise temperature control and energy-efficient operation, making them a popular choice for bedrooms or living rooms.
• Multi-Split Systems: Suitable for homes with multiple rooms needing independent temperature control. You can connect up to five indoor units to a single outdoor unit, providing flexibility and space-saving benefits.
• Ducted Air Conditioning Systems: Best for large homes or open-plan layouts, ducted systems deliver uniform temperature control throughout the entire house. The indoor unit is concealed, maintaining a sleek and minimalist interior look.

Explore more about the different types of air conditioning systems here.

3. Power, Size, and Style

Selecting the right air conditioner capacity is crucial for efficiency and longevity. An undersized unit will overwork and wear out faster, while an oversized unit will waste energy. Consider:

• Room Size: Measure your room’s dimensions to determine the correct capacity. Larger spaces require higher capacity units.
• The amount of insulation and window size affect cooling and heating requirements. Rooms with large windows or poor insulation may need a more powerful system.
• Whether it’s a discreet ducted system or a wall-mounted unit, choose a style that complements your home’s interior.

If you’re in a small studio apartment, a single split unit should suffice – but if you’re in a sprawling family home, you may want to look at more comprehensive systems. It’s also good to consider which parts of your home you use the most. For example, if you and your family are usually in the living room, that will be a space to prioritise – but if you’re most concerned about a comfortable sleep, your bedrooms will be more important.

For professional assistance, consult a Daikin Specialist Dealer who can assess your home and recommend the most suitable system size and capacity.

4. Energy Efficiency

Check the energy star rating and the Zoned Energy Rating label. More stars indicate better efficiency, which translates to lower electricity costs. Consider systems with smart features like Daikin’s Intelligent Eye, which adjusts settings based on room occupancy to save energy.

All Daikin air conditioners exceed the Australian Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS), ensuring you get the best performance with minimal energy use.

5. Indoor Air Quality

Air quality is another vital consideration, especially for families with asthma or allergy sufferers. Daikin’s Zena and Alira X systems incorporate Streamer Technology, which actively purifies the air by eliminating harmful substances and odours.

Daikin Split Systems are the only complete systems in Australia approved by the National Asthma Council’s Sensitive Choice® program, carrying the blue butterfly symbol to signify asthma-friendly air quality.

6. Features and Functions

Modern air conditioners come with various features designed for convenience and comfort:

• Wi-Fi Smart Device Connectivity: Control your system remotely through the Daikin Mobile Controller app.
• Intelligent Eye Presence Sensor: Automatically adjusts settings based on room occupancy.
• Comfort Mode and 3D Airflow: Distributes air evenly throughout the space.
• Noise Reduction and Sleep Mode: Ensures a quiet and comfortable environment.

Frequently Asked Questions about Buying Air Conditioners

How do I choose the right air conditioning system?

Consider factors like your home size, room usage, climate, and budget. Split systems are ideal for single rooms, multi-splits for multiple rooms, and ducted systems for whole-home solutions. Look for units with high energy star ratings and features like Daikin’s Intelligent Eye that optimise energy usage based on occupancy.

What does an air conditioner installation involve?

Installing an air conditioning unit involves varying levels of home disruption. A split system is usually a quick process, while ducted systems can take longer due to roof access. If you're worried about damage to your home, discuss the installation process with your technician. They can explain any necessary cutting or drilling.

Do I need permission to install an air conditioner?

It depends on whether you own or rent. If you're a homeowner, check with your strata or owner's corporation before installing an air conditioning system. It can add to the re-sale value of your home but may still need approval. If you're renting, ask your landlord or property manager for permission. You can even suggest sharing the installation cost if you plan to stay long-term.

What are the costs involved to install an air conditioner?

When installing an air conditioning unit, consider upfront costs and ongoing energy consumption. Higher-quality units are often more energy-efficient. Split systems have Energy Star ratings (more stars = better efficiency), while ducted systems use EER/COP ratings (higher = better). As for the upfront cost, that comes down to what fits comfortably within your personal budget.

Why Choose Daikin for Your Air Conditioning Needs?

Daikin is a leader in air conditioning technology, offering advanced features and reliable performance across all air conditioner types. With a range of solutions to fit any home, Daikin’s systems provide:

• Energy Efficiency: Designed with inverter technology to maximise comfort while minimising energy consumption.
• Quiet Operation: Experience the peace of a whisper-quiet system.
• Customisability: Choose from a variety of styles and configurations to match your home’s design.

Ready to Buy the Perfect Air Conditioner for Your Home?

Explore Daikin’s extensive product range to find the ideal system for your home or consult with a Daikin Specialist Dealer for personalised recommendations. Find a Daikin Specialist Dealer near you to get started on creating the perfect indoor environment today.