When buying a new air conditioner, it is very easy to become overwhelmed with all the variables. Knowing the right things to look for in buying an air conditioner can significantly reduce the aggravation, and more importantly, save you money both now and later. When you go to buy an air conditioner, what are the things you need to consider while shopping?

1. When buying an air conditioner, it is important to understand the government energy efficiency ratios. (otherwise known as EERs) Generally speaking the higher the EER the better. Energy Star ratings means that it is among the better models, and has an EER of at least 10.7. Air conditioners are now required to clearly display each models EER when placing it up for sale.

2. Get the correct size air conditioner for the correct sized room. A room that is small with a large air conditioner will have a humidity problem, while a small one in a large room will not cool properly. This is among the most common mistakes made by people when buying an air conditioner. Most major retailers will have charts to go by at the store.

3. What type of plug does the air conditioner take? If you do not have that plug in at your window you are planning to install in, you are pretty much out of luck. Make sure you check this detail when you buy your air conditioner.

4. Also, make sure the window unit will fit in the window chosen. Some units will not fit, while others will leave much to big of a gap. Some gap can be filled in, but large gaping holes will be an insulation problem at the least.

5. Read the instructions and make sure you will be able to install the unit. This is very important if you live alone. Even the smallest window air conditioners can weigh a ton, and some windows are not built to support that type of weight. Do your homework and you will save a ton of headaches.

6. Check the noise level before buying a window unit. Some like air conditioners loud, while others like them quiet. If sound is remotely an issue, have them run one for you.

7. Decide which “extras” you really need. Things such as digital display, remote controls, and the like are becoming more and more common on air conditioners. Figure out which of these features are important to you before going shopping, and stick to your guns unless you can get extra features for less money. Spend the bulk of the money based on EER rating. This will save you on your home energy bill in the long run, and be worth the money spent.