Overview
This guide uses Selection Logic so you can choose by need and evidence. Key traps: cooling capacity (tonnage) calculation; efficiency grade misuse; cooling vs heating specs.
Theory anchor: T1 Matching Theorem—good choices match your needs, not "objectively best" configs.
Step 1 → Need clarification (M1)
Use M1 Need Clarification to define real usage and constraints.
Scenario analysis
| Scenario | Primary considerations |
|---|---|
| Bedroom | noise, inverter, temperature control |
| Living room | capacity, airflow, room match |
| Heating | heat output, auxiliary heat, region |
| Efficiency & cost | efficiency grade, usage, electricity cost |
Example need list
- Must-have: key metrics for main scenario
- Nice-to-have: experience and convenience
- Bonus: support, brand, expansion
Step 2 → Allocate cognitive budget (T2)
These products are typically medium-to-high value and low reversibility. Use T2 Cognitive Budget and Decision Reversibility to allocate time.
Suggested time: need clarification 30 min; evidence gathering 2–2 h; comparison 1 h.
Step 3 → Multi-dimensional evaluation (M2)
Use M2 Multi-Dimensional Evaluation. In this guide, stress: Stress: cooling capacity—size by room area, height, orientation, insulation; not “bigger is better” efficiency label—new vs old standards differ; heating—heat output and region suitability matter.
Evaluation dimensions
| Dimension | Sub-items | Evidence sources |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling/heating capacity | cooling/heating output, room size | specs, calculation |
| Efficiency | APF, efficiency grade, standard version | labels, standards |
| Noise & comfort | indoor/outdoor noise, inverter, control | measurements, users |
| Install & service | install standards, warranty, brand | service, reputation |
Weight example
Per T1, set weights by your needs, e.g. Cooling/heating capacity 35%%; efficiency 25%%; noise & comfort 25%%; install & service 15%%.
Step 4 → Bias & persuasion hazards
- Anchoring effect: don't anchor on high-end prices; fix budget and needs first.
- Confirmation bias: write criteria before browsing; avoid justifying a favorite.
- Halo effect: brand and marketing carry value assumptions—see T1.2.
- Specs and claims: rely on measurements and third-party data; beware claimed vs actual.
Step 5 → Decision + validation (M5)
Apply M5 Decision Validation.
Checklist: core needs met (fit score); within budget; satisficing threshold (T4.2); still satisfied after cooling-off.
Post-purchase: Need consistency—after 1–3 weeks, check real usage vs expectations, key metrics, regret points.