In today's ever-evolving world of home appliances, air conditioning units have become an indispensable part of our lives. They help us stay cool and comfortable indoors when it's scorching outside. When it comes to purchasing an air conditioner, the options seem endless, with various brands, models and star ratings to choose from. Among these, the star rating system is often a crucial factor in decision-making, with 5-star and 3-star ACs being two popular choices.
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deep into the world of air conditioning, unveiling the key differences between 5-star and 3-star ACs. By the end of this exploration, you'll be equipped with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision when selecting the perfect cooling solution for your home.
What is a Star Rating?
A Star rating for an AC in India is given by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE). It is a standard to measure the efficiency of electrical appliances, helping consumers make informed decisions about their purchases. An AC gets a star rating on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest efficiency and 1 being the lowest. This straightforward system makes it easier for consumers to understand and compare the efficiency of different air conditioner models.
The determination of an AC's star rating is a meticulous process that takes into account two crucial factors:
Cooling Capacity: This factor measures how effectively an air conditioner can lower the indoor temperature and provide a comfortable environment. AC units with higher cooling capacities are more efficient at cooling larger spaces, making them ideal for bigger rooms or areas with high heat loads.
Power Consumption: Equally important is the power consumed by the AC during operation. A more energy-efficient AC uses less electricity to achieve the desired cooling effect. The BEE assesses the power consumption of each AC model under standardised conditions to ensure accuracy and fairness in the rating process.
How is the Star Rating calculated?
The star rating or an Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) is calculated by dividing the annual heat removal capacity by the power consumed by the AC in a year.
the EER serves as the basis for assigning a star rating to the AC. This means that an AC will receive a rating of 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 stars depending on where its EER falls within a specific range.
5-Star Vs 3-Star AC
There are multiple differences between 5-star and 3-star ACs. These are discussed as follows:
Star Rating
A 3-star split AC has an Energy Efficiency Rating between 3.5 and 3.99, while a window AC with the same star rating falls within the range of 2.9–3.09. Conversely, a 5-star split AC boasts an EER of above 4.5, whereas a 3-star split AC has an EER above 3.3.
It becomes evident that a direct comparison of AC efficiency based solely on their star ratings can be misleading. For instance, a 3-star rated split AC may prove to be more energy-efficient than a 5-star rated window AC, underscoring the need to delve deeper into the specific EER values when assessing the true energy-saving potential of these appliances.
Cooling and Power Consumption
A 5-star AC gives you better cooling than a 3-star AC. That is, a 5-star AC removes more heat than a 3-star AC at the same time, thereby cooling the area faster.
Power Consumption
A 5-star AC consumes less power than a 3-star one to remove the same amount of heat from the same room. That is, a 5-star AC consumes a lesser amount of electricity than a 3-star AC. This in turn translates to lower monthly/bimonthly electricity bills. This could be a huge boon, especially if you reside in regions with high temperatures and/or humidity.
Cost
Another difference between 5-star and 3-star ACs is that 5-star ACs cost higher than 3-star ACs. This is because of the presence of more efficient components in the former such as variable-speed fans.
Noise
3-star ACs could be slightly more noisy, whereas 5-star ACs are almost sound-free.
Durability
Most 5-star ACs are more durable than their 3-star counterparts. This is because of the better equipment and technology that goes into the manufacture of a 5-star Air conditioner.
Deciding on Which AC to Buy
A 3-star AC can be purchased at a lower upfront price. This means, if you live in a region with a moderate to cool climate, and the AC usage is very sparing, you can buy a 3-star AC. On the other hand, if your AC usage is going to be high, a 5-star AC could be a better investment for you.
However, if you are environmentally conscious and don't mind bearing the extra cost to contribute to the same, you should always go for a 5-star AC.
Further still, only the star rating of the AC won't help in optimising its energy usage. It's also important to choose the right tonnage of the AC as per the area it will cool. Choosing a very small AC albeit 5-star, for a very large area will still lead to a lot of energy consumption as the AC will have to remove a lot of heat continuously.
Conclusion
In conclusion, as we've explored the intricacies of 5-star and 3-star ACs in this article, it becomes evident that the choice between these two categories goes beyond their star ratings alone. Factors such as cooling capacity, power consumption and noise levels all play a vital role in determining the right AC for your specific needs. By being informed about these differences, you can make a well-informed decision that not only ensures comfort but also aligns with energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness in the long run.
If you're in the market for an AC and need financial assistance, consider visiting Tata Capital today. Tata Capital offers a range of EMI options with repayment periods spanning from 3 months to 2 years, making it easier for you to purchase your desired air conditioner.
10 October 2023
5 mins read
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