Do you want to choose the best air conditioner for your comfort this summer? Many models are available—from wall AC units to portable AC units, including apartment air conditioners and central air-conditioning systems. This guide outlines the pros and cons of each type of air conditioner. Find the unit that best fits your home by considering cooling capacity, noise level, and energy efficiency.
What are the essential criteria for choosing a good air conditioner?
Before purchasing an air conditioner, always evaluate its cooling capacity, energy consumption, energy-saving potential, and noise level. These elements will help you choose an efficient, quiet air conditioner that’s well suited to your home.
1. Cooling capacity
Choose a unit with a cooling capacity suited to the size of your home. An air conditioner that is too powerful will turn on and off frequently. On the other hand, a properly sized unit will run longer and regulate humidity more effectively (30% to 50%). This ensures optimal comfort and better indoor air quality.
2. Energy efficiency
Choose an energy-efficient air conditioner to reduce your utility bills. The EnerGuide label and SEER rating indicate energy performance: the higher the number, the lower the energy consumption. For a single-family home, an ENERGY STAR® air conditioner must have a SEER of at least 14.
3. Noise level
Before purchasing and installing an air conditioner, carefully check the noise level indicated on its technical sheet. A unit that is too loud can quickly affect your comfort and sleep.
Pro tip
“Make sure your air conditioner complies with your municipality’s or building’s noise regulations. Above 80 decibels, your peace—and that of your neighbours—may be compromised. I recommend choosing a quieter model for long-lasting everyday comfort.”
Wall-mounted vs. portable AC: Which one should you choose for your home?
Your choice depends on the area you want to cool. For a small space, opt for a wall-mounted AC, portable AC, mobile unit, or a vertical window air conditioner. Make sure the unit meets these technical specifications: 100 to 550 sq. ft. / 5,000 to 12,000 Btu/h.
For a whole house, consider a central air-conditioning system, which is much more expensive.
Individual AC units: Wall-mounted, window, or portable air conditioners
Discover the pros and cons of each type.
Window air conditioner (vertical or horizontal)
Pros: Affordable, practical for renters, relatively simple installation.
Cons: Often noisy, bulky (blocks part of the window), must be installed each spring and stored during winter.
Wall-mounted air conditioner
Pros: Durable, often quieter, offers good energy efficiency.
Cons: More expensive, requires installation in a wall-mounted sleeve, more complex installation.
Portable or mobile air conditioner
Pros: Easy to move, no permanent installation, flexible for cooling different rooms.
Cons: Less efficient than fixed models, more expensive than a window AC, water collection tank to empty, requires an exhaust hose for hot air and regular draining of the condensation tank.
Central systems: Ductless split, heat pump, and central AC
If you want to cool your entire home, several options are available. Here are the pros and cons:
Ductless split air conditioner
Pros: An outdoor unit combined with indoor diffusers provides targeted cooling; can be installed in central points of each room. Cooling capacity ranges from 9,000 to over 35,000 Btu/h.
Cons: More complex installation than portable or wall-mounted models, higher cost.
Ceiling-mounted unit
Pros: Discreet, installed in the attic, high cooling capacity up to 5 tons (60,000 Btu/h).
Cons: Difficult maintenance, potential air leaks through ceilings, possible condensation in ductwork.
Central heat pump
Pros: Offers both heating and cooling, provides year-round comfort, cools efficiently in summer and heats in winter.
Cons: Expensive, sometimes noisy, be cautious of claims of substantial savings.
Central air conditioner
Pros: Distributes cool air evenly throughout the home via ventilation ducts, offers improved temperature control.
Cons: Complex installation, high cost, requires regular maintenance to maintain optimal performance.
Why have your air conditioner installed by a professional?
Hiring a professional HVAC installer ensures that your wall-mounted, ductless split, or central air conditioner operates at peak performance. Professional installation guarantees proper operation and compliance with safety standards. It is also essential for maintaining your AC’s warranty.
How to maintain your air conditioner to extend its lifespan?
Good maintenance ensures efficiency and longevity, whether your AC is portable, wall-mounted, or central. Clean the filters regularly and schedule an annual tune-up. These simple steps help prevent breakdowns, maintain energy efficiency, and keep you comfortable all summer long. Read our advice on How to properly maintain your air conditioner for the summer.
Warranties and reliability: How to choose a durable air conditioner?
Make sure your air conditioner is backed by a solid warranty. Depending on the type of air conditioner or HVAC system, coverage typically ranges from 5 to 10 years:
Window or wall-mounted AC: 5 years, parts and labour
Ductless split: 5 years parts and labour; 10 years on the compressor
Central systems: 10 years parts and labour
Avoid cheap models with only a one-year warranty.
Our practical tips for shopping for an air conditioner
To maximize your chances of making a good purchase:
How to stay cool in summer without an air conditioner?
Don’t want to invest in an air conditioner? A well-chosen fan can make all the difference. For effective cooling, consider room size, noise level, and energy use. Read our tips to help you choose the right fan.
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