What to Consider Before Buying an Air Conditioner
Before choosing an AC, keep these key points in mind:
❄️ 1. Type of AC
- Split AC — Room‑specific cooling, quiet operation
- Window AC — Affordable and compact
- Portable AC — Easy to move, no permanent installation
- Cassette / Ducted AC — Best for large homes
🌡️ 2. Capacity (Tonnage)
Match AC capacity to room size:
| Room Size (sq ft) | Recommended AC |
|---|---|
| Up to 120 sq ft | 0.75 Ton |
| 120–180 sq ft | 1.0 Ton |
| 180–250 sq ft | 1.5 Ton |
| 250+ sq ft | 2.0 Ton or more |
⚡ 3. Energy Efficiency
Look for higher BEE star‑rating (3★, 4★, 5★) and inverter technology for lower electricity bills.
💨 4. Features to Consider
- Inverter Compressor — Saves energy
- Air Purifying Filters — Removes dust & allergens
- Sleep Mode / Timer — Better comfort & savings
- Wi‑Fi / Smart Control — Remote control via phone
📊 5. Maintenance & Warranty
Consider:
- Annual service cost
- Warranty on compressor & PCB
🥇 Top Air Conditioner Types Compared
| Feature | Split AC | Window AC | Portable AC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooling Power | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Installation | Fixed | Fixed | Plug‑and‑play |
| Energy Efficiency | High | Moderate | Low–Moderate |
| Noise Level | Quiet | Moderate | Noisy |
| Price | 💲💲💲 | 💲💲 | 💲💲 |
| Best For | Medium–Large rooms | Small–Medium rooms | Temporary / rental homes |
🔍 Best Air Conditioners for Home in 2026
1. Split Air Conditioner — Best Overall for Homes
Split ACs provide strong cooling performance, low noise, and high efficiency — ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, and larger spaces.
Look For:
- Inverter compressor
- 3★–5★ BEE rating
- Anti‑corrosion coating
- Air purifying filters
✔ Pros: Quiet, efficient, stylish design
✘ Cons: Higher installation cost
2. Window Air Conditioner — Best Budget Friendly
Window ACs are compact and cost‑effective solutions for small to medium rooms.
Look For:
- Good cooling capacity for room size
- Dust filter and auto‑restart function
✔ Pros: Affordable, easy install
✘ Cons: Moderately noisy
3. Portable Air Conditioner — Best for Flexibility
Portable ACs don’t require permanent installation, perfect for rented homes or temporary cooling.
Look For:
- Easy wheel‑based mobility
- Multiple speed modes
✔ Pros: Install anywhere
✘ Cons: Less powerful cooling
⚖️ Side‑by‑Side Comparison
| Feature | Split AC | Window AC | Portable AC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Medium/Large rooms | Small rooms | Flexibility |
| Energy Efficiency | High | Medium | Low |
| Noise Level | Low | Moderate | High |
| Portability | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Price Range | 💲💲💲 | 💲💲 | 💲💲 |
| Maintenance | Moderate | Low–Moderate | Low |
🛠 AC Maintenance Tips
🔹 Clean filters every month
🔹 Schedule annual servicing
🔹 Keep outdoor unit dust‑free
🔹 Check refrigerant levels regularly