General

Air conditioners are so much more effective than the common fan at cooling rooms for a number of reasons. They usually have many different features that work together to actively keep a space cool, whereas fans simply recirculate the same air around a room. One feature on an air conditioner that can be highly useful is the dry function. But what does dry dry mean on an air conditioner unit? The short answer is that it acts as a dehumidifier at the same time as cooling the room. In this article, we’ll investigate further what the dry setting on an air con unit is and what the benefits to it are.

What is the dry setting on my air conditioner? 

The dry setting on an air conditioner removes the moisture from the air in a room. For that reason, it can be very helpful to use in muggy climates or on days when it’s very warm and/o there’s been a lot of rain. Removing moisture from the atmosphere is beneficial as it can clear the air, making it feel a lot fresher. As a consequence, the air can feel cooler without actually being artificially cooled by your air conditioner unit. 

Having this dehumidifier option on your air conditioner can be a big advantage to your unit on days where it’s feeling very “close”. However, on days where it’s simply very hot with very little moisture in the air, you will need to set your air conditioner unit to cool to feel the air cool to a temperature that is comfortable for you.

Is it cheaper to run aircon on dry mode? 

It’s widely seen that the dry setting on an air conditioner unit is cheaper to use than the usual cool setting. The reason being is that the compressor does not have to work as hard as it does when cooling the air. It simply removes moisture from the air and so it can run at a lower speed. 

It can be a good way to keep air conditioner unit costs down, especially on days that are hot and humid due to rain keeping the air around you muggy. Taking the moisture out of the air can often be useful in these instances in cooling the atmosphere of a room. In some instances, users of the dry setting on their air conditioner units have seen their energy bills cut in half. The added benefit here is that units may have a longer shelf life as they have not worked as hard due to the lower speed required by the compressor part. 

Benefits of dry setting on air conditioners 

There are a couple of other benefits to the dry setting on air conditioners other than simply being cheaper to run than the cool function, including:

Useful in all seasons

Having a dry setting or a dehumidifier function on your air conditioner unit makes your air conditioner suitable for use throughout the year. If you live in a country or location where you have a rainy season as well as a hot dry season, you may find this incredibly advantageous. Being able to take the moisture out of a space in your home can make your house a far more comfortable place to be when it is clammy outside. 

Greener

In a day and age where we are all looking for more environmentally friendly ways to live, finding a method to decrease our energy usage is key. If the dry setting on your air conditioner unit uses less energy to cool your home effectively, it’s a win-win situation. Not only do you spend less money achieving the same aim, you’re helping to reduce your carbon footprint too. 

Conclusion

Knowing what all the functions are on your air conditioner can mean you leverage it to its optimum advantage. In this instance, of the dry setting, you’re also saving yourself money in the form of energy costs due to the dry setting requiring less electricity to run. Taking the moisture out of your room can be just as efficient in cooling your home, so on hot and wet days, it can be one of the best functions you can use.

When it comes to the scorching summer heat, poor air conditions are the hardest thing to bear. Whether it is extreme heat and dryness or extreme heat and moisture, no one likes hot dry air or sweaty humid summers. Both are difficult to deal with and come with many health risks like dehydration, hyperthermia, and heatstroke. Fortunately, thanks to modern technology, we have many useful electronics to provide comfort and manage indoor air quality. 

Depending upon the climate you live in, you probably have an air conditioner in your home or workspace, or you might have a dehumidifier. Or, maybe you have both! But do you need both? Or you might be using an AC when you should be using a dehumidifier?…

Confusing isn’t it? Well, allow us to help you as we answer one of the most puzzling questions about HVAC: is a dehumidifier like an air conditioner?

What Is A Dehumidifier?

Dehumidifiers remove moist air and increase air quality to help prevent muggy and soggy conditions. Dehumidifiers are also great for efficient water damage restoration as they reduce high moisture levels. Thus, they prevent mold, mildew, or rot.  

A dehumidifier draws in moist air and passes it over cold coils to cool down its temperature. The moisture is condensed and separated from the cool air. This water from the air drips into a tray or bucket. You can manually empty the bucket when it is full. On the way out, the air passes over hot coils resulting in warmer air to release – to restore the air to room temperature. Dehumidifiers do not have any external vent to expel the heat created by their condenser. This also warms the space indirectly, reducing the humidity levels even more. 

What Is an Air Conditioner?

The purpose of air conditioners is to reduce the level of heat in a room. Air Conditioners cool down the hot air and make the indoor environment more comfortable during summers. 

Air conditioners have a condenser, compressor, evaporator, and expansion valve. Warm air is pulled in and passed over the evaporator and then to the condenser. The condenser cools down the warm air and releases the warmth outside of the room while the cool air is released in the room. Unlike dehumidifiers, Air Conditioners have an external vent to release the heat of the condenser.

Dehumidifier or Air Conditioner – Which is Better?

Now that you know what an air conditioner and humidifier are, it is time to address the million-dollar question; is a dehumidifier like an air conditioner? While both are similar, the primary difference that separates air conditioners and dehumidifiers is the purpose. Air conditioners cool the air in a room, whereas dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air. 

Here’s the kicker: as air conditioners release cold air in a space, they also remove – some amount of – moisture from the air. Yet, air conditioners do not eliminate humidity levels as efficiently and effectively as dehumidifiers. 

Dehumidifiers are usually less expensive than air conditioners. However, they will never cool the temperature of a room like an AC. It will surely keep humidity low and prevent dampness, mildew, mold, and condensation. 

On the other hand, air conditioners are expensive and use a lot of electricity to run. However, they will keep you cool during the hot season better than any humidifier ever will.

Nowadays, there are air conditioners that also work as a dehumidifier in the winter season. They do a decent job of keeping the room dry and warm, but they are not suitable for high humidity levels. For example, if you live by the ocean, you will need a humidifier because the moisture level is high. 

Conclusion 

The choice between an air conditioner and dehumidifier depends upon different factors like the location of the home, budget, and personal preference.

You want to install or replace a new HVAC system, and you are probably facing some difficulty choosing between a heat pump and an air conditioner. Right? A lot of people think that a heat pump and air condition unit are the same. So, is a heat pump and air conditioner the same thing? Well, NO. There are some major differences between the two.

Today, we will cover the basics of a heat pump and an air conditioner and how they differentiate from each other.

What is a Heat Pump?

A heat pump is the heart of an HVAC system. Heat pumps are used for both heating and cooling. Heat pumps release heat in both directions – from the outside to the inside (heating) and from the inside to the outside (cooling).

A heat pump contains a compressor, valves, and fans. Heat pump transfers heat from the air in the room with the help of a substance called a refrigerant. As it cycles through the system, the refrigerant undergoes variations in temperature and pressure. As the indoor air passes through the cold coils, the refrigerant condenses the air and cools it down. The cool air is released in the room, making the temperature cooler and more comfortable during the summers.

On the other hand, the heat pump pumps the air from the outside and reduces its temperate to release warmer air indoors. Thus, increasing the indoor temperature in winters.

What is an Air Conditioner?

An Air conditioner or AC unit cools down the temperature of indoor air during the hot seasons. Air conditioners pull in the hot air from a room and condense it as it passes over the cold coils. The fan blasts the cold air back into the room while the heat from the condenser is released outside the room through an external fan and vent. Gradually, the heat inside the room is released outside while cool air is blown in the room.

What is the Difference between Heat Pump and Air Conditioner?

The confusing part is that a conventional AC unit and heat pump of an HVAC system look identical from the outside. People think that just because they look the same, they might as well buy either one. However, there are noticeable differences between the two.

In the summertime, the heat pump and air conditioner perform the same. They both cool down the indoor temperature. Mechanically what is going on inside the unit is also identical.

The primary difference between a heat pump and an air conditioner is that in the winter months, the heat pump absorbs the heat from outside and brings that heat to the inside.

However, heat pumps can be very inefficient for colder areas where temperatures drop below the freezing point. Thus, most heat pumps work with a furnace for efficient heating in winters. They can help your furnace save some money on utilities.

Conclusion

Both heat pumps and air conditioners are essential components of an HVAC system. Whether you need a heat pump, an air conditioner, or both, depends upon the area and climate you live in.

Home air conditioners are nothing short of a saviour during soaring temperatures. They keep you cool and comfortable, no matter how hot it is outside. However, to ensure its seamless performance, regular AC maintenance is a very important part of using the machine.

The quote “prevention is better than cure” works aptly for an air conditioner, as maintenance prevents more damage. Regular servicing is essential not just for the efficient performance of AC, but also to increase its life. So if you’re wondering how often should you service your home air conditioner, then keep reading this article to find out.

Frequency of servicing an Air Conditioner

The frequency of servicing an AC primarily depends on how often it’s used in your home. For instance, if the climate in your region is hot and humid all year round, you would probably use the AC daily. In that case, it’s recommended to get the air conditioner serviced at least two times a year.  On the contrary, if you use the AC only during summer months, servicing it only once a year is acceptable.

Signs that your air conditioner needs servicing

Sometimes the air conditioner itself gives you warning signs that it requires maintenance. Now that you know how often you should service your home air conditioner, let’s discuss how to identify the signals.  

Increased Noise Levels

If you notice that your air conditioner has suddenly become noisy than it was before, then it’s time for service. The strange sounds could be because any of its parts is malfunctioning. A buzzing noise could also indicate loose parts or even refrigerant leaks. Seek the help of HVAC professionals and get it rectified before it gets further damaged.

More energy consumption

It’s a known fact that an AC with a high energy-efficiency ratio (EER) is ideal for homes. But is your electricity bill also soaring high just like the temperature even after having such an AC? Then it’s time to get the AC serviced as the higher energy consumption is a sign of its inefficiency.  Save yourself from expensive electricity and improve your AC’s performance at the same time with regular servicing.

Less cooling

If you’ve noticed that your AC unit isn’t cooling your home much at all, then it may be time for a service check. It can be extremely annoying if an air conditioner does not do its job of cooling the room as desired. The main cause of this is low refrigerant in the compressor. Get a trained technician to check to refrigerant levels and fill it with the correct amount.

Unusual Smell

A foul smell from your air conditioner is a major indicator that its servicing is essential. A musty smell indicates the accumulation of dirt, mold, and fungus due to moisture and humidity. This can lead to AC’s poor performance and can also put your health at risk. If you experience wheezing, cough, or nasal stuffiness or throat irritation, it could be because of the mold in the AC. You should also pay attention if other burning or pungent smells arise out of the AC as it indicates a leak in the system.

Excessive water leakage

Few drops of water dripping from an AC is normal if the climate is humid. However, when the leakage is excessive, you must immediately get it serviced. Some of the most common reasons for this leakage are clogged drainage, frozen evaporator coils, a dirty filter, or a low refrigerant level.

There are a few things that you can do yourself to improve the operation of AC, such as cleaning or replacing the air filters regularly and clearing the clogged drains. However, ensure to be extra cautious while you do the cleaning yourself. Do not make any move to open the system if you’re not familiar with the parts of AC.

Conclusion

It’s always ideal to hire an HVAC professional to service your AC every year. Doing so ensures that your AC gives its best performance for the longest time.  Save yourself from the panic of emergency air servicing by servicing it once or twice a year. The bonus? Enjoy the cool air, comfortable home, and reduced bills every warm season of the year.

Air conditioners have become the epitome of convenience and an inescapable part of our everyday life. With numerous choices available, making a decision to purchase the perfect air conditioner for your needs can be an overwhelming task. In recent times, split system air conditioners have become one of the most sought-after options and has taken over the market with its advanced technology, easier installation process, energy efficiency, and enhanced air-purification features.

What is a Split System Air Conditioner?

You may have found yourself wondering, “What does a split system air conditioner mean?” As the name suggests, these types of air conditioners have parts that are split into two. It has an outdoor and indoor unit that is linked by a conduit.

The outdoor unit is usually located on the exterior wall of the room that requires to be cooled. It consists of the compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and condenser cooling fan. The indoor unit is placed inside the room and boasts the evaporator coil, air filter, and the cooling fan.  

A split system air conditioner uniformly cools the room and is very easy to operate. It’s usually accompanied by a remote and the maintenance is also very cost-effective as compared to traditional AC.

Types of Split System Air Conditioner

A split AC can be wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, or floor-mounted depending on the type of indoor unit. The most popular one for homes is the wall-mounted AC which is compact and easily cools the room. The ceiling-mounted or concealed AC and floor-mounted AC are perfect for office spaces and large halls.  

Multiple split ACs allows you to cool different rooms by connecting different indoor units to a single outdoor unit. It saves installation space and allows independent temperature control in every room that has an indoor unit.

Now that we know what a split system air conditioner means, let’s look at some of its amazing benefits.

Benefits of a Split System Air Conditioner

Energy Efficiency

One of the prime reasons for the growing popularity of split system air conditioners is its energy-efficient technology. Unlike centralized AC, the split AC does not require ductwork that uses a lot of energy for heat exchange. This significantly reduces the electricity bill, making it a perfect choice if you’re looking for budget-friendly options.

Although a split-system air conditioner seems more expensive than a Window AC initially, it’s wallet-friendly in the long run. The higher energy-efficiency ratio (EER) of the split AC lets you cool your home without burning a hole in your pocket.

Whisper Quiet Operation

Nothing can match the comfort of relaxing in a cool and quiet room. A split system air conditioner is your best bet for this comfort as it is designed to be quiet. The noise levels in the room are minimal as the condenser and compressor are placed in the outdoor unit. The average noise level of the quietest split AC is as low as 32 decibels that makes it whisper quiet. You can also reduce the fan speed of the split system air conditioner to reduce the noise further. It’s time to wave goodbye to the noisy AC window and install a split system air conditioner in your home for a peaceful sleep.

Sleek and Stylish Design

Every homeowner desires their homes to be modern and aesthetically pleasing, even if it’s small. The split-system air conditioners redefine elegance with its compact design that blends perfectly with your room décor. The absence of bulky ductwork makes it a perfect choice for your homes. You can even decorate it, add some stickers to it or even paint it to enhance the beauty of your room.

Enjoy comfortable and peaceful living every day by opting for a split system air conditioner. Once you have chosen a split air conditioning system, there’s no looking back as it’s a reliable AC option for every season.

With so many different specifications and numbers on AC models, it can be difficult to tell what everything means. When you’re purchasing a new unit or researching a possible upgrade, you want to be able to know all the options that are available to you. If you’ve been searching for a machine and wonder, “What does 2 ton air conditioner mean?”, then keep reading this article.

What Does a Ton Mean? 

Whenever someone hears “ton”, they often believe it’s a unit of weight. This can get extremely confusing when looking at air conditioning units as it does not reflect the weight but rather the rate of heat transfer.

The term ton, in this context, refers to the melting rate of ice at 32°F. So one ton of ice

(2,000 pounds) takes 286,000 BTUs to melt it completely. If that ice block melts evenly over the day (this would exclude other variables that could make it melt faster or slower) it would absorb heat at around 12,000 BTU per hour. For context, a BTU stands for British Thermal Units and 1 BTU has the equivalent heat production of a lit match if it’s allowed to burn all the way down.

In short, the ton system refers to how much heat is absorbed by your machine, and therefore how quickly your home is cooled.

How Much More Heat Does a 2 Ton Air Conditioner Absorb? 

So what exactly does a 2 ton air conditioner mean? This is when the machine will be able to absorb heat at a faster rate than a 1- or 1.5-ton machine. However, if you want to understand the exact calculations and measurements for these units, then we’ve worked it out for you below.

Through understanding the calculation for a 1-ton unit, we can work out how much a 2-ton machine would absorb. To work out the BTU per hour from a 2-ton machine all you need to do is multiply 12,000 BTU by 2 which equals 24,000 BTU per hour.

Should I Choose a 2 Ton AC for My Home? 

Even though a 2-ton air conditioner absorbs heat faster, that does not mean it’s the right fit for your home. If your property is on the smaller side, then there will be less air to cool anyway. This means that buying a higher tonnage machine may not be useful to you as you’ll constantly be turning it on and off instead of keeping your home at a consistent temperature. Not to mention the fact that the fluctuations in power consumption from doing this could affect your bills dramatically.

However, if you have a larger home, then going for something above 2-tons may be the answer. It’s all dependent on the size of your home and how much space you have to fill with cool air.

How Much Does a 2-Ton Machine Cost? 

Finding an efficient and high-quality machine can equate to a cost of anywhere between $600-$1000. These are brand new models and would be top of the range for their ton specification. There may be cheaper options available if you choose to search for second-hand options.

It’s always handy to check out old stock from stores as they may have 2-ton AC units at a lower cost and will still fit them for you. One of the cons of finding a second-hand AC unit from another civilian is that you would have to fit it yourself or hire someone to fit the machine for you.