Heating efficiency scores are based on the model's ACOP (Annual Coefficient of Performance) – a measure of efficiency that factors in standby power consumption when the unit's not in use. Our scores are more precise than energy star ratings.

Based on the range of airflow on the lowest to highest fan speed settings. Ideally, air conditioners should have a gentle airflow on low settings and a powerful airflow on high. The wider the range of airflows, the better the score.

Our priority is reviewing the models you'll see in stores, major online retailers and from installers. To do this, we check what's in stores and online, and survey manufacturers to find their latest models. We'll also test models that a lot of members have requested.

We've been reviewing air conditioners of various sorts for decades now. CHOICE participates in relevant Australian Standards committees and regulatory forums so we can keep an eye on industry trends and air conditioner regulations. We no longer lab test split-system air conditioners, but we review based on extensive analysis of manufacturer and government registry data.

We get data on each model directly from manufacturers and cross-check it against the government registration database. Scores are then calculated with a lot number-crunching, spreadsheets and careful data-checking – just the sort of thing CHOICE people like to do!

We review split-system air conditioners twice a year, once for summer and once for winter.

Testing air conditioners requires a very specific laboratory, with controlled indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity. While CHOICE does have high-quality laboratories, including thermal labs for testing fridges, we don't have a lab suited to air conditioner testing – it would be too expensive to construct and maintain. So instead, when we need an air conditioner tested, we send it to a qualified external lab. But most of our split-system air conditioner reviewing is based on data analysis as described above.