air conditioner in living room

AIR CONDITIONER BUYING GUIDE

AIR CONDITIONER
BUYING GUIDE

Air conditioners are essential during warmer days, especially during peak summer. Whether you're looking for an efficient split system, the year-round comfort of a reverse cycle, or the flexibility of a portable air conditioner, here's everything you need to know about air conditioners from all the best brands, including Fujitsu, Samsung, Hisense and Panasonic.

Which Air Conditioner Is Right For You?

There are many different kinds of air conditioners, and one of them is the perfect match for your cooling needs, some even offer heating for all year round comfort. Split systems and window wall air conditioners are a great choice for individual room control while portable air conditioners are a flexible cooling option that can be moved as needed.

Split System Air Conditioners

What size split system do I need? That depends on whether it’s for a bedroom or lounge room, and how big the room is you’re trying to cool. Air conditioner capacity is measured in kilowatts (kW). The higher the value, the more heating or cooling the air conditioner is capable of. Buying the right size unit is very important as air conditioners that are too big will waste energy, while under-sized ones will not cool the room sufficiently. Not sure where to position a split system? The internal part should be positioned away from any heat-generating appliances such as ovens, up on the wall so cool air is distributed around the room, never above electrical fittings for safety reasons, and somewhere that suits the style of the room. Position the external part in the shade (if possible), away from dust and falling tree leaves, and in a spot that won’t be too noisy for you or the neighbours.

Window Wall Air Conditioners

Window wall air conditioners efficiently cool a room by drawing in warm air, cooling it through the refrigeration process, and expelling the cooled air back into the space. Window wall air conditioners are a practical choice for those looking for a cost-effective and straightforward cooling option, especially in situations where a central air conditioning system may not be feasible. The compact design and easy installation make them a popular choice for cooling individual rooms with simplicity and effectiveness.

Portable Air Conditioners

Portable air conditioners offer a flexible and convenient cooling solution for various spaces. These units are easily movable, allowing you to cool different rooms as needed. With a simple installation process that typically involves venting hot air through a window, portable air conditioners provide an effective way to regulate temperatures without the need for permanent installation.

Some portable air conditioners use evaporative cooling to lower the temperature in the room. A fan draws warm air through water-saturated pads, causing the water to evaporate and cool the air in the process. Evaporative coolers are particularly effective in dry climates, where the added moisture contributes to a more comfortable and cool indoor environment. Portable air conditioners are a great choice for renters or individuals looking for a versatile cooling option that can adapt to changing needs and living arrangements.

Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners

Reverse cycle air conditioners are a type of split system that efficiently extract cool air from the outside to cool the interior during warmer months, and they can reverse the process to heat the space in colder weather. Reverse cycle air conditioners are a great choice for climates that get hot and cold throughout the year and can be placed in any room with a suitable external wall.

Inverter System Air Conditioners

Inverter system air conditioners are a type of split system that uses inverter technology to control the compressor motor's speed, adjusting to the cooling (or heating in some models) needs of the space more efficiently than traditional air conditioners with fixed-speed compressors. Inverter system air conditioners are a great choice for more precise temperature control and can be placed in any room with a suitable external wall.

Air Treatment

Air purifiers use filters to remove particles like dust, allergens, bacteria and pollutants from the air, enhancing the overall air quality in your home. Some models will also heat or cool and are a great choice for people with allergies and those with pets.

Air Conditioner Glossary

We’ll break down all the tech talk and acronyms that you need to know.

Split System Air Conditioner

A split air conditioner consists of two main components: an indoor unit (evaporator) and an outdoor unit (condenser). They are connected by refrigerant lines and can cool a single room or multiple rooms, depending on the configuration.

Window Wall Air Conditioner

A window wall air conditioner is a self-contained unit designed to be mounted in a window or a hole in a wall. It is a compact and cost-effective cooling solution for single rooms or small spaces.

Portable Air Conditioner

A portable air conditioner is a self-contained unit on wheels that can be moved from room to room. It typically requires a window or vent for exhaust and is suitable for cooling individual rooms.

Indoor Unit

The part of the air conditioner that is located indoors. It contains components such as the evaporator coil and blower, and is responsible for cooling or heating the indoor air and distributing it throughout the room or building.

Outdoor Unit

The part of the air conditioner that is located outdoors. It contains components like the compressor and condenser coil, which release heat from the refrigerant into the outdoor environment to enable the cooling or heating process.

Condenser

The condenser is a component of an air conditioner that releases heat from the refrigerant to the outside environment. It is typically located in the outdoor unit.

Evaporator Coil

The evaporator coil is the indoor component of the air conditioner that absorbs heat from the indoor air and allows the refrigerant to evaporate, cooling the indoor space.

Compressor

The compressor is responsible for pressurizing the refrigerant, raising its temperature, and circulating it through the system. It is often referred to as the "heart" of the air conditioner.

Filter

A filter is a component that captures dust, debris, and allergens from the air as it passes through the air conditioner. Regularly changing or cleaning the filter helps maintain air quality and system efficiency.

Airflow

Airflow refers to the movement of air through the air conditioning system, including the rate and direction of air circulation. Proper airflow is essential for efficient operation.

Air Purifier

A device designed to improve indoor air quality by removing airborne contaminants, allergens, and pollutants from the air. Some air conditioners double as air purifiers.

"We all love summer but when balmy weather turns sticky and uncomfortable, it’s time to think about your home’s cooling. With the right cooling appliances, you can make any room in your home one you want to spend time in.” - Scott Bazley, The Good Guys Buyer – Seasonal

Watch Our Helpful Air Conditioner Buying Guides

From split systems to portable coolers, our buying guides encompass all the essential information for discovering the perfect cooling solution tailored to your needs.

How To Create The Perfect Temperature

Now that you've chosen the type of air conditioner you want, it's time to create an optimised setup that keeps you cool all summer. Here are our tips and guidance to help you achieve a top-quality air conditioner arrangement that enhances your comfort to the fullest.

How Much Power Do I Need?

Buying the right size unit is very important as air conditioners that are too big will waste energy, while under-sized ones will not cool the room sufficiently.

When selecting the right-sized air conditioner for your space, consider the below:

•For a room 10m2 to 20m2, a 2.6kW unit should cool the room;
•For a room 20m2 to 30m2, a 3.5kW unit should cool the room;
•For a room 30m2 to 45m2, a 5-6kW unit should cool the room; and
•For a room 45m2 to 65m2, a 7-8kW unit should cool the room.

If you have any questions or want to know more, visit your local The Good Guys store before making your final choice. Our friendly, knowledgeable team members can help you find the right solution for your home and budget. Learn More About The Good Guys Home Services

Installing Your New Air Conditioner

Professional installation is an absolute must for peace of mind, as it will help you stay protected under the warranty in case anything goes awry. Need to get your new air conditioner installed fast? The Good Guys Home Services can organise a licensed and insured professional to do it all for you - including helping you find the perfect spot for your air conditioner.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep your air conditioner running smoothly, preventing issues like clogged filters and ducts that can affect airflow and the unit's cooling (or heating) performance in your home. While you can do this yourself, it is generally recommended that you have your air conditioner thoroughly cleaned by a professional every year. A professional clean can increase airflow and efficiency, remove mould and odours, and kill and remove harmful bacteria.

Energy Efficiency

The energy rating label makes it easy to compare how much energy an appliance uses in comparison to other makes and models of the same size. The more stars you see, the more efficient the appliance will be according to standardised testing in Australia. But how does all this help you? Using the energy rating to make your choice will help give you a good indication of how much money you’ll spend running it.

For more information visit the Australian Government Energy Rating website: https://www.energyrating.gov.au

Watch Video's About Air Conditioners

Year-Round Climate Contro

With a contemporary design, Fujistu split system air conditioners are an efficient heating and cooling solution.

Breathe Easier

Enjoy a stream of perfectly purified cool air in summer or warm air in winter with Dyson.

Create Your Own Safer Air Zone

Perfect for larger rooms, Breville air purifiers keep the air clean and allergen-free with their 4-stage purification system.

More Tips, Advice & Buying Guides

FAQs