Horsepower is one of the numbers you see on the unit’s label when buying an air conditioner. If you’re unfamiliar with it, we’re here to help! As the the largest aircon and appliance services provider in the Philippines, we at Teko.ph, are here to help with a quick guide on aircon horsepower.
What is Aircon Horsepower?
Horsepower is a measure of the amount of power that a machine can produce. It basically measures the capacity of an air conditioner to cool the room depending on the size of the space. It is also used to determine the units needed in a building and the fan size for a home cooling system.
Remember: The higher the number, the more powerful and capable it is in cooling a larger area. This rating will give you an idea of how much power you need for optimum comfort in any space.
Other Factors to Consider
Shopping for an air conditioner does not end with looking at the numbers on its label. Here are other things to consider, aside from the indicated horsepower:
Insulation: A well-insulated room should have thick solid walls, doors, and windows with little to no gaps, and an insulated ceiling or roof. These can help keep cool air inside while keeping heat away.
Room size: An AC that’s too big for the room will consume more energy, while a smaller one for a room will operate longer to reach your intended room temperature. For a 6-11 square meter room, a 0.5 HP air conditioner could be enough. On the other hand, a 1-HP aircon may be enough for an 18-22 square meter room.
Number of occupants: Because the human body emits heat, you should also consider the number of people using the room. As a rule of thumb, you’ll need a higher HP for more than two people.
Windows: Naturally, a window facing the east lets heat in at sunrise, while west-facing ones warm a room more in the afternoons. Take note of this part of the room, plus the size of the window. Curtains and other shades, like outdoor trees, help prevent the heat from entering, too.
Conclusion
Before investing in an air conditioning unit, measure your room size accurately. Compare it to the HP or capacity of the AC you’re eyeing. Prioritize choosing from The Best Aircon Brands in the Philippines to get efficient after-sales service and readily accessible spare parts if needed.
If its power is too low for the dimensions of your space, it may not be able to cool the room down adequately. In the long run, it may also cost you more with its electricity consumption. You may use this tool to know how much power your chosen AC unit consumes.
