If the temperature of the place you live in is high during the larger part of the year, you need an AC to stay comfortable. Your AC should be able to meet your specific need. Two kinds of AC are equally popular – the inverter AC and the non-inverter AC. If you want to buy an AC which would be ideal for keeping your home cool, you should be aware of how they work and what sets the two types apart.
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Non-inverter or a normal split AC is more common out of the two as is less expensive. This AC has a default compressor which makes the unit less advanced. An inverter AC is more costly and more advanced too, using a controlled compressor. While an inverter AC is more expensive to buy, it is cheaper to run.
So how are an inverter AC and a normal split AC different from each other?
Comparison between an Inverter AC & a Non-inverter (normal split) AC: what is better?
Let us compare different aspects of both types to understand how they differ.
Speed
The variable-speed compressor of an inverter AC lets it function according to the requirement. The compressor regulates the AC’s temperature. Whereas, a non-inverter AC has a regular compressor that starts and stops. Its compressor keeps switching on and off for setting the needed temperature. The-fixed speed inverter (or non-inverter) consumes more energy while providing the desired temperature. This is because its compressor cannot adjust its speed.
Cost
The non-inverter AC will always be the winner when the cost comparison is done. An inverter AC is expensive, but it also operates cheaper and more smoothly. The energy-efficient technology of inverter AC units adds makes them more valuable. You will need to spend more even while installing an inverter AC. But your power bills will be lesser than what they will be while using a non-inverter AC.
Efficiency
The above two aspects have established that the functionality of an inverter AC is better than a regular AC. It consumes less energy as its compressor can regulate the temperature. As a result, your home will consume less electricity when you use an inverter AC. A normal split AC that has no inverter will use more electricity and even unnecessarily. Therefore, your electricity bill will see a steep jump. Thus, an inverter AC is not only energy-efficient but will also help to keep your power bill in check. Also, inverter ACs are comparatively eco-friendly because they consume almost 50% less energy than a normal AC.
Noise
The compressor of a non-inverter AC keeps switching off and on, to set the needed temperature and maintain it. But the compressor of an inverter AC keeps regulating the energy. The unit does not need to turn off and on. Thereby, an inverter AC operates quietly, almost making no noise.
Operation & Technology
An inverter changes DC into AC and vice versa. Through adjustment of the electricity supply, this smart machine regulates the compressor’s speed. And this in turn controls the temperature. Whereas, the technology of a split AC without an inverter is simpler. The AC unit cannot control the electricity supply. Its fixed-speed compressor adjusts the temperature as and when required.
Performance
To be honest, both a non-inverter AC and an Inverter AC perform quite well and keep a room cool. It is difficult to say which is better by comparing just the performance. Having said that, the controlled compressor of an inverter AC adds to its versatility and makes it stand ahead of a non-inverter AC. The compressor of a non-inverter AC is unable to automatically adjust to the sensing of the thermostat.
You also have to take a look at the climate and your cooling needs. A non-inverter works quite well in moderate climates. If you have to cool a lot, you might want to take a look at an AC with an inverter.
Pros and Cons of an Inverter AC
The study of the various aspects of the two types of air-conditioners makes the inverter AC seem flawless. But there are both pros and cons to it. The following factors can help you make a decision to see what is the right option for your house.
PROS:
- Smart investment
The functionality and durability make buying an inverter AC a smart choice. Though it is more expensive, the AC unit is more flexible, long-lasting, and reliable.
- Noiseless
A normal split AC makes loud noises when it turns on and off. An inverter AC unit regulates the temperature consistently and the compressor doesn’t suddenly turn on or off. As a result, this AC hardly makes any noise while cooling a room.
CONS:
- High cost
An inverter AC is more costly than a non-inverter AC. A normal AC does not use as advanced technology. The components of an inverter AC are expensive too. Also, the installation charges for an inverter-AC are higher.
PROS and CONS of non-inverter AC
It might seem that there is nothing positive about a non-inverter AC. But that is untrue, it has its set of pros and cons.
PROS:
- Affordable
Nothing beats the price factor of an air-conditioner when it is a non-inverter AC. Because it is cheaper, it is a popular choice for many people without a disposable income. They cannot afford an inverter AC, which makes a normal split AC more accessible.
CONS:
- High power bill
The biggest disadvantage is that a non-inverter AC can make your power consumption go high. This is only because of how its compressor functions. If you do not operate it carefully, it can be difficult to manage the electricity bill amount.
- Noise
The loud noise coming from a non-inverter AC can irritate you while you are working or sleeping. The compressor of this unit has to abruptly turn off and on to cool the room at the desired temperature.
- Durability
Because of the constant turning off and on, the AC unit’s system becomes wary. This affects its life span.
Which AC is better? Which AC should you buy?
You should buy an AC which can fulfill your requirements. The points listed above will help you to make an informed decision. Additionally, take into consideration how frequently you are going to use the AC and also what settings you would want it to have. Also, the temperature that you would like your room to be in.
The function of an AC is to keep a room cool and the people in it comfortable. If you don’t plan to use your AC frequently, you can buy a normal split AC. But if you plan to use it often, you should ideally go for an inverter AC. In the long run, it will prove to be a smarter investment.
Resources
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