The increasing global temperatures trigger a growing need (and desire) for comfort. It is also well-known that the country is at a huge risk of environmental changes due to global warming. That said, the climate will only increase over time, and it’s safe to assume that the nation will still be plagued by more intense heat, dry weather and droughts.
Today, air conditioning is no longer a luxury. Still it has become a necessity in Australia, and when it comes to air conditioners in Australia, split systems are the most popular because of their flexibility with separate indoor and outdoor units. In this post, we’ll talk about the best air conditioners in Australia that you can buy for your home.
Key features to look for
Energy efficiency
High energy efficiency is vital for split-system air conditioners today. You can check the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings that indicate the level of energy efficiency. Sleep mode, timer, and eco modes are also great features that contribute to the energy efficiency of the unit.
Air Purifying
The 2021 Digital Energy Futures study showed that there is a changing relationship between heating in cooling brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change. It found that there is an increase in the number of consumers looking for air conditioners that purify the air to ensure their properties have safe and healthy air.
The ability of air conditioners to purify the air has long been a sought-after feature, especially for those who have asthma or allergies. Split systems with an air purifying feature come with a filtration system that eliminates harmful pollutants and improves the air quality inside the home.
Climate control
Modern split system air conditioners now come with a climate control feature. This feature lets you control the climate in your home. Newer models can connect to your Wi-Fi network that will let you control the unit via your smartphone. This feature is useful so you can set the exact temperature when you get home.
Night set mode
Another key feature you should look for in an air conditioner is the night mode. This ensures the room doesn’t get too cold or too hot while you’re asleep. The feature adjusts the temperature gradually to an optimal level for sleeping so the airconditioner runs smoother and quieter when you’re sleeping.
Multiple operating modes
In line with air conditioner modes, here are some more that can make your air conditioner efficient:
· Auto mode: Switches to the proper mode to keep the room at the desired temperature automatically.
· Dry mode: Dehumidifies the air and provides just the right amount of cooling.
· Fan only: Blows air without drying, heating, or cooling. This is ideal if you only want a cooling breeze.
· Eco mode: Reduces power consumption as it adjusts the thermostat. Degree or two.
Humidity control
A must-have feature, especially if you live in a humid state, like Queensland (QLD). This feature dehumidifies and humidifies indoor air. It works by drawing or withdrawing moisture from the outdoors and transferring it to your living space.
Top air conditioner brands
Daikin Cora
Daikin is indeed, one of the top air conditioner brands in Australia today. The Cora wall split air conditioner is ideal for those who seek extra comfort and energy efficiency. It’s a reverse cycle air conditioner using next-gen R32 refrigerant with 66% lower global warming impact. With Coanda Airflow, its discharge horizontal louvres allow for faster cooling and can be directed left and right.
The Daikin Cora also guarantees better indoor air quality approved by the National Asthma Council Australia with Sensitive Choice butterfly symbol. You don’t need to worry about how it will fit your space because it boasts of a compact design.
Other extra features of the Cora is its Intelligent Eye, an infrared human detection sensor that allows for energy saving more when the room is unoccupied for 20 minutes. It can also prevent draft as the airflow can be directed towards or away from you. The Daikin Cora also has air purification using titanium apatite deodorising air filter that traps microscopic particles, deactivates bacteria, and decomposes odours.
Hisense J Series
The Hisense J Series collection comes in varying capacities—2.5kW, 3.5kW, 5.3kW, 7.1kW, and 8kW. They are reverse cycle air conditioners that make them ideal for seasonal climates. It comes with a silver ion filter, an antibacterial device that keeps the air free from bacteria and impurities. The air conditioner also has a self-clean evaporator that frosts and defrosts it to ensure a clean unit.
It uses eco-friendly R32 refrigerant that delivers ultra-low energy consumption and effective power saving. You can also control it by voice via Amazon Alexa or Google Home or control it through your mobile phone app and Wi-Fi connection.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Ciara
MHI is a premium brand in Australia for air conditioners renowned for its performance and for creating powerful systems. The brand has been around for over 130 years. One of the top air conditioner models that they have is Ciara. Ciara is a line of split systems popular for their sleek Italian design. The unit has compact and lightweight and packed with cutting-edge features like Wi-Fi and voice control.
It also has a reverse cycle option and jet air technology, in which airflow is regulated using the same blade technology used in jet engines, which produces powerful, yet efficient airflow. The Ciara line also boasts Clean Air Technology to deliver allergen and odour free air. It has two levels of silent mode on the outdoor unit.
Fujitsu Comfort Range
Fujitsu General is a popular global brand for its split-system air conditioners. It’s safe to say that Australia has a soft spot for the brand, with some dubbing it as “Australia’s favourite air conditioner.”
When it comes to split systems, their Comfort Range is one of the top choices today. The Comfort Range variers in capacity—2.5kW, 3.4kW, 4.2kW, 5.0kW, 6.0kW, 7.1kW, 8.5kW, and 9.5kW. One of the top features of this unit is that it can automatically switch between operating modes based on the temperature setting and room temperature to maintain comfort. As for its outdoor unit, the heat exchanger is equipped with a blue fin treatment that makes it more resistant to corrosion in coastal areas.
Its i-PAM inverter technology also guarantees high power output without losing efficiency. And you don’t need to worry about the noise, it features a Super Quiet Mode.
Haier Tempo Series
Haier is known for its home appliances, including their split-system air conditions. The Tempo Series is one of the top choices because of its technology and affordability. It comes in various capacities from 2.5kW to 9.0kW.
The Tempo Series is designed for Australia with its cooling and heating ranges that are perfect for Australian conditions. It also has a Self-Clean function that allows you to clean the unit at the touch of a button. Other than that, it has an Eco Mode that improves efficiency and saves you money on electricity bills.
Similar to the other air conditioners in this guide, you also get full control of the unit. You can set it up fast for voice control capabilities like Google Home or Amazon Alexa.
Energy-efficient upgrades and incentives
Upgrading your home to energy-efficient appliances and systems will improve its overall efficiency. Some common energy-efficient upgrades for solar systems are:
· Inverters: Upgrading your inverters can improve the overall efficiency of your solar panels.
· Solar trackers: Solar trackers can boost your energy production by optimising solar positioning throughout the day.
· Battery storage: A solar battery will let you store excess solar energy for use during peak demand on when there are grid issues.
· Energy-efficient appliances: Replacing inefficient appliances with energy-star rated models can reduce your overall energy consumption.
· Solar thermal systems: A solar system can provide hot water and heating, reducing your grid reliance.
A lot of states in Australia provide incentives and rebates to encourage the adoption of renewable energy technologies, such as solar systems and energy-efficient upgrades. An example is the feed-in tariff (FiT) that lets homeowners sell excess solar energy back to the grid at a premium rate.
Some states also provide rebates or grants to help cover the costs of solar system installation or energy-efficient upgrades. There are also some cases when you may also be eligible for tax deductions or credits related to your solar system investments.
Air conditioning is a necessity in Australia due to the increasing global temperatures and the country’s vulnerability to extreme weather events. Split systems are particularly popular for their flexibility and efficiency. Invest in a high-quality split system air conditioner so you can enhance your comfort, improve your indoor air quality, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Make the step towards an energy-efficient home. Go solar today! Energy Matters is a top solar quotes provider in Australia. Get your FREE solar quotes now!