When things start heating up outside, you want them to be cooling down inside. The humble air conditioner has become an important part of an Australian summer.

But not everybody can afford air conditioning. Not only do you have to consider the cost of the unit, which typically ranges from $200 for a portable system to up to $12,000 for a split or ducted system, but you also have to factor-in installation, running and repair costs into the budget.

The real cost of air conditioning

Deciding on the best air conditioner for your home is very important. An efficient system is one that is the right size for your home: too small and you’ll have it cranked up all summer, too big and you’re paying for a whole lot of power you don’t need. 

Air conditioner maintenance

Air conditioners do require regular maintenance. They have air filters that protect the indoor fan and coil from being blocked up with dust and will need cleaning and/or replacement. The filter in a split system should be cleaned every 3 – 6 months. You can clean the filter with a vacuum or with a mild detergent and rinse the filter clean with water. Split systems have their own special needs, as do ducted air conditioning units. They should be checked by an air conditioner service repairman every year.

Plan for the best air con you can get

With the rising costs of energy the smart consumer wants to know how much a heating or cooling system will cost to run before they make their decision on which system to buy. To prevent "bill shock", which some consumers experience after installing and running their new heating or cooling appliance, online calculators estimate the running cost of your chosen system, or compare it with another. You can find a calculator here. 

Let your fingers do the walking

Getting a competitive quote means getting at least three quotes from different businesses. Look for professionalism, a no-nonsense approach, punctuality – and no little surprises when you get the bill back. You can find local air conditioning installers here. 

Once you have three quotes, compare them, and check to see if they have any customer testimonials. Happy customers are a good indicator of a fair quote.

Air con installation 101

• How long? The job will normally take 2 to 3 hours;
• Charges? Installation is usually a fixed charge, and includes the air conditioning unit; You’ll be given a warranty for any defects and faulty parts;
• Experience/qualifications? Look for a licensed air conditioning installers.