Share
Table of Contents
The Philippines is a picturesque tropical paradise with stunning landscapes, inviting beaches, and a rich cultural heritage. With its warm and sunny weather, the country attracts tourists from all over the world. However, living in this tropical haven can pose some challenges, particularly regarding the weather. The Philippine climate can be unforgiving, with soaring temperatures and high humidity levels, especially during summer.
Summer in the Philippines is often characterized by intense heat that can overwhelm locals and visitors. Daytime temperatures can easily climb above 30°C (86°F) and sometimes even reach the mid-30s (degrees Celsius). In addition to the heat, the humidity levels can be stifling, making it feel even hotter than the actual temperature. Stepping outside during these sweltering days can quickly become an uncomfortable experience.
Many Filipinos and residents turn to air conditioners to escape the oppressive heat and find respite. Investing in an air conditioning system for your home or office becomes a wise choice to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. An air conditioner provides cool and refreshing air, relieving the relentless heat outside. It becomes a sanctuary where you can relax, work, or spend time with family and friends without being drained by the scorching weather.
What Are the Benefits of Buying an Air Conditioner in the Philippines?
Air conditioners are expensive, but buying one is a wise and practical choice to combat this relentless heat. Air conditioners provide a refreshing escape from the sweltering outdoor weather, creating a relaxing and comfortable indoor environment.
Buying an air conditioner in the Philippines offers several significant benefits, given the country’s tropical climate. Here are the key advantages:
Relief from Tropical Heat
Being a tropical country, the Philippines is no stranger to scorching temperatures, especially during summer. The intense heat can make daily life uncomfortable and challenging, affecting productivity, sleep, and overall well-being.
In such a climate, an air conditioner is more than just a luxury; it is necessary to combat the scorching temperatures and high humidity. By creating a relaxed and comfortable indoor environment, air conditioners significantly improve the quality of life and enhance overall well-being in this tropical country.
Humidity Control
In the Philippines, the high humidity levels can exacerbate discomfort during hot weather. Humidity refers to the amount of moisture in the air, and it can often be relatively high in tropical climates like the Philippines. This high humidity can lead to a sticky and uncomfortable feeling, making it challenging to find relief from the heat, even in shaded or indoor spaces.
Air conditioners are crucial in regulating indoor humidity levels, contributing to a more pleasant and comfortable atmosphere.
Better Sleep Quality
A well-cooled bedroom promotes better sleep quality, and an air conditioner is a game-changer when creating the ideal sleeping environment, especially during the hottest nights.
Improved Indoor Air Quality
Modern air conditioners have advanced features, including filters that play an important role in purifying indoor air, offering significant benefits for overall health and well-being. These filters capture and remove airborne particles, such as dust, allergens, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and other pollutants, resulting in better indoor air quality.
Investing in an air conditioner with effective filters is an investment in better health and improved overall quality of life.
Health Benefits
Air conditioners contribute to heatstroke prevention, which is particularly important during heatwaves. They also reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth, promoting a healthier living environment.
Increased Productivity
Air conditioning helps in enhancing productivity in both homes and workplaces. By providing comfortable indoor temperatures, air conditioning creates a more conducive environment for work, promotes cognitive function, and contributes to better physical and emotional well-being.
Whether a home office or a large commercial workspace, air-conditioned spaces enable individuals to perform at their best, leading to increased efficiency, creativity, and overall success.
Preservation of Belongings
Controlling indoor humidity is essential for safeguarding furniture, electronics, and other belongings from potential damage caused by excess moisture. High humidity levels can lead to various issues that can negatively impact the condition and longevity of different household items.
By maintaining optimal humidity levels, you preserve the condition, appearance, and functionality of furniture, electronics, documents, and other valuable items. Investing in a dehumidifier or using air conditioners with dehumidification capabilities can effectively maintain the proper indoor humidity level, ensuring the long-term preservation of your cherished belongings.
Heat-sensitive Electronics
Air conditioners play a significant role in keeping electronic devices at an optimal temperature, preventing overheating, and protecting them from potential damage. By providing consistent cooling, air conditioners ensure that electronic devices function efficiently, have an extended lifespan, and maintain peak performance.
Whether in homes, offices, or data centers, air conditioners are indispensable in safeguarding electronic devices and ensuring their reliability and longevity.
Comfortable Living Environment
Air conditioners relieve the heat and create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere in your home. They facilitate entertaining, improve family time, and provide a comfortable setting for guests and visitors.
Air conditioning is pivotal in making your home a place where everyone can feel at ease, relaxed, and happy, no matter how hot the weather may be outside.
Energy Efficiency
Investing in a modern, energy-saving AC provides comfort during hot weather, leading to substantial money savings in the long run. By taking advantage of smart technology, high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER)/ Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings, and proper installation and maintenance, you can ensure that your energy-efficient air conditioner keeps you cool and your energy bills under control.
What Kind of Air Conditioner Should I Buy?
Air conditioners come in various types, each designed to cater to different cooling needs and preferences. Understanding the differences between these types of AC can help you make a knowledgeable decision when choosing the proper AC for your home or space.
Split Air Conditioner
Split air conditioners are famous for homes and offices when cooling specific rooms or areas. This type of AC consists of two central units: an indoor unit (blower) and an outdoor unit (compressor). The blower is typically mounted on a wall or suspended from the ceiling inside the room, while the compressor is placed outside the building.
The split air conditioner offers several advantages, including efficient cooling, quiet operation, and better control over the temperature in individual rooms. It allows you to set different cooling settings for multiple areas, offering a more personalized cooling experience.
Window Air Conditioner
Window air conditioners are self-contained units designed to be installed in a window or a hole in the wall. They are suitable for cooling smaller spaces such as single rooms, small offices, or apartments. The unit houses all the components, including the compressor, evaporator, condenser, and fan, within a single casing.
One of the critical advantages of window aircon is its affordability and ease of installation. They are relatively straightforward to set up, making them a popular choice for renters or those who need a temporary cooling solution. However, they may not be as energy-efficient or offer the same level of cooling as larger split or central air conditioning systems.
Portable Air Conditioner
Portable air conditioners are versatile cooling devices that can be moved from room to room. They are ideal for spaces where permanent installation is not possible or practical. Portable ACs typically come with wheels for easy mobility and feature a flexible hose that vents hot air through a window or a vent.
The convenience of portability makes these units popular for cooling individual rooms or apartments. However, portable air conditioners may have slightly lower cooling capacities than larger fixed units, and the exhaust hose requires proper positioning for efficient operation. If you’re interested in portable aircon, here are some of the best portable aircons and mini aircons.
Central Air Conditioner
Central air conditioning is a highly effective whole-house or large-space cooling system. It consists of a centralized unit outside the house, which cools the air and distributes it through ducts to various rooms.
This system ensures even cooling throughout the entire living space, eliminating hot spots and maintaining a comfortable environment. Central AC systems offer thermostat control, reduced noise levels, and energy efficiency, resulting in potential cost savings on energy bills.
Though it requires professional installation and initial investment, its long-term benefits make it an excellent choice for those seeking efficient and effective cooling for the entire home.
What Factors To Consider Before Buying an Aircon
Before buying an air conditioner, you should consider several other factors to make the right choice for your specific needs and preferences. Here are some essential elements to take care of:
Room Size
Determining the area’s dimensions you want to cool is essential to ensure you choose an air conditioner with the appropriate cooling capacity.
The cooling capacity of an air conditioner is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). It indicates the amount of heat the unit can remove from the air within an hour. Air conditioners with higher BTU ratings can cool larger spaces, while those with lower BTUs suit smaller areas.
To calculate the required cooling capacity for your room, consider the square footage and other factors such as the number of occupants, the number of windows and doors, insulation quality, and heat-generating appliances. Here’s a general rule of thumb:
- 100 to 150 square feet: 5,000 to 6,000 BTUs
- 150 to 250 square feet: 6,000 to 8,000 BTUs
- 250 to 300 square feet: 8,000 to 10,000 BTUs
- 300 to 350 square feet: 10,000 to 12,000 BTUs
- 350 to 400 square feet: 12,000 to 14,000 BTUs
- 400 to 450 square feet: 14,000 to 16,000 BTUs
However, remember that these are general estimates, and other factors, such as local climate and the room’s layout, can affect the required cooling capacity. It’s always best to consult the air conditioner’s manufacturer specifications or seek advice from a professional to ensure you select the right-sized unit for your specific needs.
Installation
Consider each type’s installation process and costs when choosing an air conditioner. While portable air conditioners may be the easiest to set up, split and window units may require professional installation to ensure proper performance and energy efficiency. Central air conditioning systems necessitate expert installation due to their complexity and the need for ductwork. Proper installation is crucial to getting the best out of your air conditioner and ensuring optimal cooling for your living space.
Maintenance and Filter Cleaning
Before buying an air conditioner, consider the ease of maintenance and filter cleaning for long-term use. Ensure that there is a nearby service center for convenient repairs, and opt for a reliable AC model that is less prone to breakdowns. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the air conditioner’s longevity and efficiency.
Warranty
Reviewing the warranty terms and conditions is vital when considering different air conditioner models. Check the duration of coverage, what components are covered, any exclusions, and the process for making a warranty claim. A standard manufacturer’s warranty for air conditioners often ranges from one to five years, depending on the brand and model.
Energy Source
It’s necessary to ensure that the AC model you choose is compatible with your home’s electrical system to avoid installation or operational issues.
Most air conditioners are designed to run on electricity, the standard power source for residential cooling appliances. However, within the category of electric-powered air conditioners, there may be variations in voltage and current requirements. Here are some factors to consider regarding the energy source:
- Voltage Requirement: Check the voltage rating of the air conditioner to ensure it matches the electrical supply in your home. In the Philippines, the standard voltage for residential power outlets is 220-240. Some large-capacity air conditioners require higher voltage outlets, so verifying the voltage compatibility is needed.
- Circuit Capacity: Confirm that your home’s electrical circuit breaker can support the air conditioner’s power requirements. Air conditioners draw significant power, so ensuring the circuit can handle the load without tripping is essential.
- Outlet Type: Check the type of electrical plug on the air conditioner and ensure it matches your home’s outlets. Sometimes, you may need an adapter or plug converter to connect the AC to your electrical system.
Cooling Capacity
Choosing an air conditioner with the appropriate cooling capacity is vital for optimal performance. If the unit is too small for the space, it will struggle to cool the room efficiently, resulting in longer cooling cycles and increased energy consumption.
On the other hand, if the air conditioner is too large for the area, it may cool the room quickly. Still, it won’t run long enough to adequately dehumidify the air, leading to a clammy and uncomfortable environment.
Energy Efficiency
When shopping for air conditioners, paying attention to their EER or SEER ratings is necessary. These ratings indicate the unit’s energy efficiency, with higher values signifying better efficiency.
Air conditioners with high EER or SEER ratings consume less energy to produce the same cooling output than units with lower ratings. Choosing an energy-efficient model can significantly reduce your energy consumption, leading to substantial savings on your utility bills over time.
Noise Level
Choosing a quiet air conditioner can significantly enhance your overall comfort and quality of life, especially if noise sensitivity is a concern. By paying attention to the decibel rating and considering your personal preferences, you can find an air conditioner that provides efficient cooling while maintaining a peaceful and tranquil living space.
Features
Choose an AC with a thermostat for setting and maintaining a specific temperature, a timer for scheduling on/off cycles, a remote control for convenient adjustments, fan speed settings for flexible airflow control, and a sleep mode for improved sleep comfort.
Brand and Reliability
While the best aircon brands may come with a slightly higher price tag, the peace of mind and benefits they offer in terms of performance, durability, and customer support make them a worthwhile investment. Before making a purchase, consider reading customer reviews, consulting professional recommendations, and researching brand reputation to make an informed decision.
Budget
Consider your budget and balance it with the features and specifications you desire.
Maintenance
When selecting an air conditioner, consider the ease of cleaning and maintenance for long-term use. Ensure that there is a nearby service center for convenient repairs, and opt for a reliable AC model that is less prone to breakdowns.
Climate Considerations
Living in the Philippines, particularly in regions with scorching temperatures and high humidity levels, can be challenging. The tropical climate can lead to discomfort, difficulty breathing, and a feeling of stickiness due to excessive moisture in the air. To combat these issues, it becomes crucial to prioritize an air conditioner with superior dehumidification capabilities.
Dehumidification is the process of reducing the moisture content in the air, making it less humid and more comfortable. While regular air conditioners help cool the air, they may not be as effective in controlling indoor humidity levels. Air conditioners with enhanced dehumidification capabilities are designed to eradicate excess moisture from the air, creating a more pleasant and healthier living environment.
By carefully evaluating these factors and doing thorough research, you can choose an air conditioner that meets your cooling needs and fits well within your budget and lifestyle.
What Are Some Other Alternatives to Air Conditioners?
In the Philippines, where the climate can be hot and humid, finding alternative cooling solutions to air conditioners can be beneficial. Here are some:
- Fans: Electric, ceiling, and tower fans are standard, affordable cooling options. They provide air circulation and help create a breeze, offering some relief from the heat.
- Evaporative Coolers (Swamp Coolers): Evaporative coolers use water to cool the air through evaporation. They are effective in dry climates and more energy-efficient than air conditioners.
- Heat-Blocking Window Films or Shades: Applying heat-blocking window films or using shades on windows exposed to direct sunlight can help reduce indoor temperatures.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation using exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom. Open the windows and let the cooler air circulate.
- Insulation and Reflective Roofing: Properly insulating your home and using reflective roofing materials can help keep indoor temperatures cooler.
- Shade Structures: Creating shade structures or awnings outside your home can block direct sunlight and reduce indoor heat.
While these alternatives may not provide the same level of cooling as air conditioners, they can effectively reduce the discomfort of hot weather and help you save on energy costs. Combining different methods is essential to find the best cooling solution that suits your needs and budget.
Final Thoughts
Investing in an air conditioner in the Philippines is a decision that brings numerous benefits. The advantages are clear, from escaping the intense heat and humidity to improving indoor air quality and preserving your belongings.
Whether for your home, office, or commercial space, an air conditioner ensures you stay comfortable, enabling you to make the most of every moment, even on the hottest days. So, don’t let the sweltering heat take a toll on your daily life; instead, embrace the benefits of an air conditioner and create a cool sanctuary in the heart of the tropics.
