Choosing the right air conditioner for your Albuquerque home can seem overwhelming, but this guide breaks the process down into easy steps. We will walk through key factors like budget, installation, energy efficiency, features, and BTU capacity to help you select the best cooling option for your space and needs.

Properly sizing and installing an AC unit takes expertise, so don’t hesitate to enlist the help of HVAC professionals. With some thoughtful planning using the tips below, you’ll stay cool all summer long!

Determine Your Budget

The first step is deciding your budget, as AC units range widely in price. Here’s an overview:

• Basic portable units with simple controls start around $300 to $500. These offer temperature adjustment and a few fan speeds.
• More advanced window units cost $400 to $700. Their flexible installation offers more placement options.
• Portable air conditioners with maximum mobility but maximum costs run upwards of $700.
• Ductless mini split systems require the highest initial investment, around $900 for one indoor/outdoor zone. Costs scale to the thousands for systems cooling multiple zones. But mini splits save energy over time.

Installation: DIY vs Professional

Next decide if you want to install the unit yourself or hire an HVAC technician.

Portable ACs are by far the easiest for DIY installation. You simply need to attach the exhaust hose and window ventilation kit. Most portable units include the necessary installation parts.

However, permanent AC options like window units, wall units, and mini splits require significantly more skill, time and care to install properly. Consider if you are equipped for the task:

• Window units involve mounting brackets, curtains, foam seals and other finicky steps.
• Wall units require cutting a precise hole in the wall to exact measurements.
• Ductless mini splits need professional installation in most cases. The technician must run refrigerant lines from the outdoor compressor to the indoor unit(s).

PTACs also demand technical wiring and ductwork skills.

If want to skip the installation headache, call an HVAC pro for anything more complex than a portable unit.

Evaluate Electrical Needs

Also assess if your home’s electrical system can support the AC unit. Key notes:

• Most standard portable ACs plug into 110-120 volt household outlets. More powerful portable models may require 220-240 volt circuits.
• Other permanent AC types like window, wall units and PTACs typically need 220-240 volt circuits. If your home’s wiring can’t handle it, call an electrician.

Seek Out Energy Efficient Models

Today’s AC units range wildly in energy efficiency. In general, portable units are less efficient than permanently installed types. All that hot air leaking from a portable’s exhaust hose lowers efficiency.

When comparing units, look for higher Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) numbers, which indicate how efficiently it cools. Also check for the Energy Star label, meaning it meets strict energy standards.

Out of permanent AC systems, ductless mini splits tend to be the most energy efficient since they lack ductwork that loses cooled air.

Manage Water Condensation

An operating AC produces water condensation, which various types handle differently:

• Window units and wall units have a base that slopes or a drain hose to divert water outside.
• Ductless mini splits are very efficient, so the outdoor unit handles moisture. The indoor unit rarely needs to drain.
• Portable ACs collect water in a tank you must periodically empty. Alternatively you can attach a condensate drain hose.

Evaluate Portability Benefits

If you want to wheel room air conditioning between spaces, portable units offer maximum mobility thanks to built-in casters. The trade-off is they provide less cooling power and efficiency than permanently installed options.

Alternatives like ductless mini splits, PTACS and vertical ACs get mounted or hardwired semi-permanently in one location. While you surrender portability, their cooling abilities are superior.

So consider whether you prioritize mobility or maximum air conditioning power.

Tailor AC Type to Floor Plan

Analyze your floor plan to select the optimal system:

• If cooling multiple rooms, zoned systems like mini splits work well. Portables can move room to room but only cool one space at a time.
• Window units obviously require nearby window access. Wall units need exterior wall placement.
• Central AC and PTACs can utilize existing ductwork if available. Ductless systems don’t need any.
• The outdoor compressor of ductless, window and PTAC units needs open airflow. Mind yard space when placing it.
• Note ceiling height for PTACs, which mount high on walls or ceilings. Portables occupy floor space.

Get Professional BTU Calculations

It’s vital to properly match BTU cooling capacity to your room(s). Undersized units won’t keep you comfortable while oversized wastes energy. Have an HVAC technician calculate the ideal BTUs for your exact square footage and climate conditions.

As a very rough estimate:

• 100 to 300 square feet = around 5,000 BTUs
• 300 to 600 square feet = 6,000 to 8,000 BTUs
• Larger spaces demand 8,000+ BTUs

But again, BTU needs vary greatly. Do not size an AC unit without expert input!

Compare Special Features

Finally, think through useful bonus features that suit your needs:

• Programmable thermostats for custom cooling schedules
• Dehumidifier mode for muggy climates
• Multiple fan speeds for adjustable airflow
• Auto-swing vents to spread air throughout the room
• Quiet sleep mode for nighttime use
• Smart app control for remote management
• Washable filters for cleaner air if you have allergies/pets

Make a Pros and Cons List

Once you’ve narrowed down the AC choices, make pros and cons lists for each model under consideration. Compare the features and capabilities to your home layout, budget, lifestyle and priorities. Consider mobility vs. power, noise levels, efficiency ratings, smart controls and more.

Making lists helps organize the research and ensures you select the system optimal for your exact cooling needs and living situation. Carefully weighing pros and cons prevents buyer’s remorse down the road.

Conclusion

Picking the ideal AC unit involves researching types, installation factors, efficiency ratings, features and properly sized capacity.

If you need guidance selecting the best air conditioner for your Albuquerque home, call the local experts at Day & Night Plumbing at 505-974-5797. Their HVAC pros can assess your space and recommend the perfect cooling system. Stay cool in the New Mexico heat!