An air conditioner (AC) is no longer a luxury but a necessity, especially in the hot and humid climate of Bangladesh. However, buying an AC requires careful consideration to ensure you get the best performance and value for your money. Here are five key factors you must consider before making a purchase.
1. Choose the Right Type of AC (Split, Window, Portable)
There are different types of ACs available in the market, and selecting the right one depends on your room size, installation options, and budget.
Split AC
- Provides powerful cooling and operates quietly.
- The indoor and outdoor units ensure efficient air circulation.
- A bit expensive but offers long-term performance.
Window AC
- A single-unit AC is installed in a window.
- More affordable but can be noisy.
- Suitable for small rooms.
Portable AC
- Can be moved easily and does not require permanent installation.
- Best for rental apartments or temporary cooling needs.
- Not suitable for cooling large rooms effectively.
- Select the Right Capacity (BTU Rating) Based on Room Size
An AC’s capacity is measured in BTU (British Thermal Unit), which determines its cooling power.
Recommended BTU Ratings:
| Room Size (Sqft) | Suggested BTU |
| 100-150 | 5000-6000 |
| 150-250 | 7000-8000 |
| 250-350 | 9000-10000 |
| 350-450 | 12000 |
| 450-550 | 14000 |
| 550+ | 18000+ |
- If your room gets direct sunlight, consider adding 10-15% more BTU.
- For rooms with multiple occupants, an additional 1000 BTU is recommended.
Inverter vs, Non-Inverter – Which one to choose?
Inverter AC:
- Consumes 40-50% less electricity.
- Operates quietly and lasts longer.
- Maintains a stable temperature efficiently.
Non-Inverter AC:
- Consumes more electricity due to frequent on/off cycles.
- Less energy efficient in the long run.
- Lower initial cost.
- Check Energy Efficiency Rating (EER) to Save Electricity
An AC with a higher EER will reduce your electricity bills.
EER Ratings and Efficiency:
| EER Rating | Energy Efficiency |
| 8-10 | Average |
| 10-12 | Good |
| 12+ | Excellent |
- Choose an AC with a 4 or 5-star rating for the best savings.
- Higher EER means lower electricity bills and better performance.
- Choose a Reliable Brand with Good After-Sales Service
Buying an AC from a well-known brand ensures durability and better customer support.
Popular AC Brands in Bangladesh:
- General – Durable but expensive.
- LG – Energy-efficient with advanced features.
- Samsung – Smart AC with good cooling performance.
- Gree – Good cooling efficiency at a reasonable price.
- Walton – Affordable and locally available.
Conclusion
Buying an AC is a long-term investment, so choosing the right one is crucial. If you consider the type of AC, BTU rating, Inverter vs Non-inverter, energy efficiency, and after-sales service, you can easily make the best purchase decision.
