Taking into account the rise of fuel clause charges, customers will effectively be paying a highly increased electricity bill this year. To reduce the pain of higher electricity bill in this summer, what you need is a more energy-efficient air-con that could help you save energy, space, time & money!

Fortress has sourced over 400 air conditioners from major brands so you can shop for your favourite brand all from one place. But with so many models to choose from, which one is right for you? No worries! Let us guide you step-by-step as I offer you the coolest advice to help you stay comfortable all summer long.

Air conditioning models that received 4.5 stars in previous years

The following air-conditioners have been listed in the recommended air-conditioner lists of local magazines and received an overall rating of 4.5 stars or above. Tested items include cooling capacity, energy efficiency, quietness, airflow and dehumidification performance.

Air Conditioner Type

To choose the most suitable air conditioner, first you need to find out what types are available and their features!

1. Window-type Air Conditioner

This is the most traditional type of air conditioner. It needs be installed in a window frame or air conditioner space within a metal bracket. Check the size of the model you like to see if it fits into the window space of your home before you buy. A window-type air conditioner comes with a refrigeration compressor and an exhaust device. When the compressor is on, you can hear it operating so the noise from this type of model will be greater than from a split-type air conditioner.

2. Split-type Air Conditioner

Split-type air conditioner is made up of two sections: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The compressor and cooling condenser tube is installed in the outdoor unit separate from the indoor air supply section. Split- type air conditioners come with a generally larger design with the compressor installed outside the wall. When it is on, it is generally much quieter than a window-type air conditioner. However, Installation is more complicated and may involve outdoor installation work at high heights. Therefore, you must choose a reliable contractor.

3. Portable Air Conditioner

Portable air conditioner has a similar structure as an ordinary window air conditioner, but its mobility makes the difference. Similarly, a mobile air conditioner releases cool air in the front and hot air in the rear. It requires a reserved space for thermal discharge and drainage. Otherwise, the indoor cooling effect cannot be achieved.

There are many different models of portable air conditioners available on the market equipped with additional functions, including heating, dehumidifying, air purification, etc. Customers can purchase a multi-purpose model per their own needs.

4. Inverter-type Air Conditioner

Inverter-type air conditioner can control the compressor to automatically adjust its speed within a certain range. It usually runs at a high speed in the beginning and lowers its speed when the room temperature reaches the preset value. It is different from the non-inverter-type air conditioner. The compressor of the non-inverter-type air conditioner cannot change its speed automatically. It can only run at a fixed maximum speed that consumes more power.

Air Conditioner Shopping Tips

Energy Efficiency Label

All air conditioner products are mandated to attach their energy efficiency labels. The labels are classified from Grade 1 to 5, based on the test results submitted by the importers, while the test are conducted by testing laboratories accredited by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department. Grade 1 products are the most efficient and conserve the most energy.

According to the information shown on the website of the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, for a window air conditioner, there is 11% energy saving for a Grade 1 labelled product over a Grade 3 labelled product; for a split air conditioner, there is 36% energy saving for a Grade 1 labelled product over a Grade 3 labelled product.

The more energy efficient an air conditioner is, the less electricity it consumes, and the more it helps to protect the environment while saving more money for its user.

Maintenance Tips for Window-type Air Conditioner

1. It is recommended that the filter, the air inlet, and the outlet should be washed once every two weeks in summer to prevent blockage of air that affects its performance.
2. Arrange regular inspections by experienced technicians to maintain and repair the air conditioner.
3. It is recommended to inspect the mounting brackets of the air conditioner every 3 years.

Maintenance tips for Split-type Air Conditioner

1. The longer the air conditioner is used, the refrigerating tube inside is more likely to be covered by particles which produce odour and affect the efficiency of the air conditioner. Regular cleaning for the air conditioner is advised to be done by professional technicians to ensure that it functions effectively, quietly and efficiently.
2. When you stop using the air conditioner, you should use the switch on the air conditioner itself to cut off its power supply. If it will not be used for a long time, you should pull the plug out from the socket.
3. Once you turn off an air conditioner, wait at least 3 minutes before you restart. Or its fuse may be damaged.

Steps to Purchase

Remarks:

1. Site survey is only available for split air conditioners. If the customer confirms the order of split air conditioner after the site survey, the charge will be refunded to the online e-shop account of the customer in the form of an e-coupon. If the customer does not purchase the split air conditioner for any reason after the site survey, the charge will not be refunded.
2. The delivery date and the installation date may have to be arranged as 2 different dates.
3. Please do not open the delivery box and wait for the technician to arrive and handle.
4. Please note that there will be additional charges for additional services. All additional charges shall be made in cash to the technician. Please refer to the installation price list.

FAQ

Q: How will I know about the details of installation?

• Window air conditioner: If you need our installation service at your purchase, we will notify your of the installation date through email in 1-2 working days upon receiving your order.
• Split air conditioner: If you need our installation service, our customer service department will contact you about the payment and the site survey in 1-2 working days upon receiving your order. We will contact the customer to confirm the installation and additional charges after the site survey. Delivery and installation will only be arranged after we receive the installation charges.

Q: Could you arrange the delivery and the installation to be done on the same day?

The delivery date and installation date may have to be arranged separately. The technician will arrange and contact you for the installation date on the same day of delivery.

Q: Is the installation service included in the purchase of product?

• Window air conditioner: Standard installation service is not included in your purchase. Please note that there will be additional charges for extra items (e.g. dismantling of the old window air conditioner). All additional charges shall be made in cash to the technician. Please refer to the installation price list.
• Split air conditioner: Charges for site survey and installation are not included in your purchase. Payment for installation and site survey charges should be made before delivery to ensure that your choice of air conditioner is suitable for the use and installation at your designated place, and to confirm the charges for installation and site survey. The service charge for each site survey is $100 (The charge for outlying islands, Discovery Bay and Ma Wan address is $200).
If the installation service is needed, our customer service department will contact you in 1 to 2 working days for payment of site survey and service details upon receiving your purchase order for the split air conditioner. After the site survey, we will contact you again to confirm the installation and additional charges. Delivery and installation will be arranged after all the payments are made.

Q: Will the charge for the site survey be refunded?

If the customer confirms the order of split air conditioner after the site survey, the charge will be refunded to the online e-shop account of the customer in the form of an e-coupon. If the customer does not purchase the split air conditioner for any reason after the site survey, the charge will not be refunded.

Q: May I open the delivery box by myself when received?

If you choose to use our installation service when you purchase, please do not open the delivery box. Please wait for the technician to arrive and handle.

Air Conditioner Smart Choice Tips

Save Energy

1. Save Energy

The compressor of an inverter-type air conditioner auto adjusts its output according to changes in room temperature. Once it starts up, it will run at a higher speed to ensure the room temperature reaches the pre-set temperature quickly. Once the difference in room temperature decreases, it will run more slowly to maintain the room at a constant temperature you can pre-set. This kind of air conditioner consumes the most energy at the beginning of operation.

The compressor of a non-inverter-type air conditioner consumes more power when it switches between full on and off. In contrast, the compressor of an inverter-type air conditioner does not stop, but runs at a constant speed to provide air conditioning at a lower power consumption rate and therefore saves more energy.

2. R32 Refrigerant

Air conditioners with new R32 refrigerant can save more energy. They are more environmental friendly and offer stronger cooling power. R32 refrigerant does not damage the ozone layer and its Global Warming Potential (GWP) is significantly lower than other refrigerants. Other advantages include higher cooling capacity and greater energy efficiency.

Save Space with Multi-function

Currently there are many air conditioners equipped with added dehumidifying or heating functions. This makes them more versatile and eliminates the need to purchase an additional dehumidifier or heater. You can save space and enjoy greater convenience with these multi-purpose machines.

Besides, heat pump air conditioner can make the room warm in winter and cool in summer. The refrigerant used in the heat pump air conditioner is different from those in traditional air conditioner. It can flow in both directions. Apart from dissipating heat, the refrigerant used in the heat pump air conditioner can also extract heat from the outdoors and release warm air into the room.

Save Time without Scaffolding

Some split type air conditioners are just 420mm in height or window-type split designs. The exterior design of the indoor unit is similar to a general split unit except that the outdoor unit has a smaller exterior and can be installed on most window platforms or window sills. This makes it much more convenient to install than wall-mounted split units.

Save Electricity

Some accessories can help you make most of your air conditioner with smart elements to take your quality of life to another level.

1. Electric Fan

Using a fan to blow cool air from the air conditioner to different corners of the home can help cool more effectively. Enjoy a better cooling effect and save on your electric bill at the same time.

More Fan Models>

2. Smart Remote Control

Smart remote control can monitor the temperature and humidity of your home. Switch on your air conditioner remotely, and pre-set operations automatically to come on in certain areas.