Purchasing a new air conditioner may appear to be an easy process, as most people opt for brands they are familiar with and prices that are within their budget.
But apart from these considerations, you will need to choose either an inverter or non-inverter air conditioner.
Here are some of the differences and factors to bear in mind as you make your decision between the two.
What is an inverter air conditioner?
Inverter air conditioners use a controlled compressor to reduce energy use. The compressor is the part of the air-conditioning unit that turns refrigerant gas into liquid form, which then produces cool air.
Inverter aircons control the frequency of the electrical current that goes to the compressor so it can run at different speeds and be more energy efficient.
Inverter systems usually begin at a low speed, consuming significantly less power, before gradually increasing until they reach maximum capacity.
Upon reaching the right temperature, the inverter compressor does not entirely shut down. Instead, it runs at a reduced speed to maintain the set temperature, minimising energy waste and allowing users to enjoy a more consistent level of coolness.
What is a non-inverter air conditioner?
Non-inverter air conditioners are less advanced and use a standard compressor that cannot regulate the speed, so the machine will either cool the space at full power or not at all.
It will start at full capacity and shut off once the desired temperature has been reached. As a result, it consumes more electricity, and is less energy efficient than the inverter type.
Inverter advantages
- Save on energy bills
The compressor on an inverter unit adjusts itself at varying speeds at different times, which significantly reduces energy usage. In fact, an inverter aircon can save you up to 58% on energy bills.
- Less noisy
Due to the variable speed of the compressor motor and the fact that it does not always run at full capacity, inverters operate more quietly, resulting in a peaceful environment.
- Performance and durability
An inverter’s compressor motor runs continuously at variable speeds, reducing wear and tear. Since the motor does not switch on and off as much, it minimises power load, allowing it to last longer.
Another advantage is faster cooling, as the compressor is intended to constantly regulate temperatures. Non-inverter units, on the other hand, start and stop, resulting in fluctuating degrees of coolness.
Inverter disadvantage
- High cost
The inverter air conditioner unit is more expensive to purchase than a non-inverter system, but it is regarded as a good investment in the long run.
Non-inverter advantage
- More affordable
In general, there are no substantial advantages to using a non-inverter over an inverter. The only benefit it has is affordability, as non-inverters are less expensive than their inverter counterparts, making them a more suitable option if you are on a tight budget.
Non-inverter disadvantages
- Noise
Since a non-inverter air conditioner turns on and off at specific times, it is expected to be noisier than an inverter type. Consequently, these may not be the best choice for those who prefer a quiet environment when working or relaxing.
- Energy consumption
If you use non-inverter air conditioning regularly, you may notice an increase in your electricity bills.
- Less durable
The non-inverter air conditioner frequently switches on and off, which wears out the system over time and reduces its lifespan.
All in all, both types of aircons can do their job well, which is to keep your home comfortable during hot seasons. Even though inverter air conditioning has more advantages, don’t forget to consider other factors such as how much you want to spend, and how often you’ll use the unit to cool down your home or workspace.
This article first appeared in kaodim.com.
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