Air-conditioning works by exchanging heat from inside a room to outside the room. It does this by compressing refrigerant gas, and then expanding it. When the gas expands, it gets cooler.
The gas is compressed by a machine called a compressor, which is noisy. Bigger compressors produce more powerful cooling – and more noise.
All the components of these machines are in a box that hangs out of the room. Switch one on and listen carefully. You will hear the compressor noise. Window-type air-conditioners are less desirable because of the noise. Hong Kong is noisy enough already!
These are quiet because the compressor is installed outside the building, separate from the air-conditioning unit installed inside the room. In older generation of split-type machines, the compressor is either running or not running.
The new generation of air-conditioners features variable speed compressors. This innovation allows the compressor to run slower when less cooling is required. You’ll save a lot of energy with one of these – electricity is not cheap in Hong Kong.
General offers a wide range of quality air-conditioners, from sophisticated inverter split-types, to single-unit window solutions.
It makes a lot of sense to choose an air-conditioner with heating as well as cooling.
All General inverter split-type air-conditioners also offer heating to keep you warm through Hong Kong’s chilly winter months.
The purchase price of an air-conditioner is only part of its lifetime cost – so choose one that’s electricity-efficient. You’ll need to ensure the one you buy is right for the room. It’s easy to overestimate or underestimate your needs. Ask for a professional assessment of your needs. Don’t forget maintenance too – it’s better to choose a brand like General that offers excellent support.
Getting the right machine will result in lower electricity bills for the life of the installation. General’s inverter-type air-conditioners are far more efficient and cheaper in the long-term.
Installing split-type air-conditioners in Hong Kong can be expensive and complicated because of how the buildings here are constructed. A poor installation could cause damage to your machine. Ensure you select a qualified technician to get your installation right.
Over time the cooling coil in air-conditioners become coated with micro-particles that decrease efficiency and produce smells. Your air-conditioner should be professionally cleaned regularly to keep it quiet, powerful, and energy efficient.
Make sure your machine is maintained by an experienced professional