What do most of us living and/or working in the city do when we feel hot and bothered by the intense heat of the day?
We switch on the air-conditioner, of course! One thing’s for sure, though, and that is, each time we use the convenience of this amazing cooling machine, we somehow know, at the back of our minds, that we might be running an extra high electricity bill in return for this comfort. So, how can you be smart about this?
Have You Ever Wondered How Your Air-Conditioner Works?
An air conditioning machine takes in the surrounding air and filters it from impurities such as dust and so on. Next, the air is cooled down, normally through a cooling agent, or refrigerant. The cool air is then released back into the surrounding area (room where the machine is in), while draining out excess moisture and venting out excess heat. The room will now be cooled down, although with somewhat drier air.
Air-conditioners are a must in our country, just as how other countries have a need for heaters during cold seasons! In both cases, the use of electricity rises inevitably as a consequence. We are, however, fortunate in a way, since our Suruhanjaya Tenaga started testing and rating air conditioners independently. Now, we have the option of choosing a machine with a higher star rating, whereby such a model will ensure that we save some money while enjoying the comforts an air conditioner has to offer.
So, to get the most out of your air conditioner without having to fork out extra on your electric bills, look for an energy efficient machine! You can do this by simply checking on the machine’s Star-ratings – always go for the model with as many stars as possible, taking into account of course, how much you’re able to afford. While you’re at it, do also check out the model’s Cooling Seasonal Performance Factor (CSPF), as well as its Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER), and choose the highest ratings for these too.
Inverter Vs Non-Inverter
In a nutshell, inverter air conditioners are more energy efficient than non-inverter ones. The latter has only one fixed speed (i.e. max speed). And once it reaches the desired room temperature, it turns off, only to turn on again later when the room temperature rises. This not only takes up more power usage, but might potentially be noisy too. On the other hand, an inverter air conditioner is able to adjust and regulate its compressor motor speed without having to switch off completely. Instead it will slow down and use less power to maintain the temperature.
If you happen to be looking for an energy-efficient air-conditioner, we have a few of our faves for you to check out!
Sharp 1.0HP J-Tech Inverter Plasmacluster Ions AHXP10WMD
This super-trendy model features a plasmacluster ion technology for a purifying effect! Due to the efficiency of its compressor, it gets to boast 5-stars in the Energy Star rating , with a 14m airflow reach. Its other great features include an Auto Operation Mode, Gentle Cool Air System and a Baby Mode.
Hisense 1.5HP Inverter R32 Air Conditioner AI13KAG
This 2020 model is not only easy on your wallet, but it also comes with a nice long warranty of three years. It features a LED temperature display, and a peacefully quiet operating mode. The Hisense 1.5HP Inverter R32 Air Conditioner AI13KAG uses (100%) copper cooling pipes and features a Louver Works State Memory which remembers the position it was turned on last.
HITACHI 1.0HP Deluxe Inverter Series R32 Air Conditioner RAS-SH10CKM
This model from Hitachi features its own manual Frost Wash function that helps to keep dust from collecting over the sensor. Silent and powerful, it even detects human movement and directs airflow accordingly! Other spectacular features include Nano Titanium Stainless Pre-Filter, Nano Titanium WASABI Air Purifying Filter and a Sensor Dry Operation.
Panasonic 1.5HP X-Deluxe R32 Aero Series Air Conditioner CS-XPU13WKH
This air-conditioner model has been lauded as one of the best if you or a family member is an allergy sufferer. It helps eliminate dust, mould, pollen, and any other particles as small as PM2.5 from your indoor air for a purifying effect! In addition, it’s also known to help deal with odors left behind by cigarette smoke and other culprits including the good ol’ durian! This particular model isn’t too drying on your skin either, and it has an artificial intelligence that can adjust temperatures according to your room environment. It can also be connected and controlled via your Smartphone!
Haier 1.0HP DC Inverter R32 Air Conditioner HSU-09VNR18
This 4-star rated machine is exceptionally affordable, and you can own one for under RM1,000. The Haier 1.0HP DC Inverter R32 Air Conditioner HSU-09VNR18 comes with a warranty of three years, and a Smart Clean feature, with a PID Inverter Control, strong air flow, as well as a turbo mode. It is an exceptionally quiet machine with a user-friendly remote control.
Mitsubishi 1.0HP Inverter R32 Air Conditioner MSY-JP10VF
Apart from a list of special features including the Fuzzy Logic “I-Feel”, Prefilter, as well as a Plasma Anti-Allergy Enzyme Filter, the Mitsubishi 1.0HP Inverter R32 Air Conditioner MSY-JP10VF also has a dual barrier to reduce the amount of dust that can get into the unit, making maintenance a breeze! In addition, its purifying filter and vanes are removable when it’s cleaning time.
DAIKIN Deluxe Inverter R32 Air Conditioner FTKU28AV1L
Known for its Green Tea Filter feature, the DAIKIN model 1HP Deluxe Inverter R32 Air Conditioner also boasts a 3-D Air Flow as well as an ECO-Mode. Apart from opting for a Smart Control (so you can control it via your Smartphone), you can also add on an anti-corrosion coating for its external fins to go with its great performance.
