Split AC vs Window AC Which is Best?

Split systems and window air conditioners are the most popular alternatives to central AC. First, you need to understand: split AC vs window AC which is best and more practical? These devices can be installed almost in any building and don’t require big-time constructional remodeling. But there are some significant distinctions between these two types of AC. So if you are wondering, which one to choose, keep reading this article. We provide a concise and detailed guide to help you make the right choice.

Difference between window AC and split AC

To begin with, let’s determine the difference between these two types of air conditioners.

What is a split air conditioner?

A split-system (also called split AC or mini-split) consists of two units. The compressor/condenser part is installed on the outer wall of the building, while an evaporator part is located indoors. Tubes that run through a small hole in the wall connect these two units. (You can find out more about split ACs in this article how do mini splits work).

Window AC is a single unit that holds all the essential parts in one box. Such ACs are designed to be installed in a window opening or in a dedicated hole in the wall.

The table below summarizes all the major distinctions between a window AC and a split system

* – Only if the window is fitted for an AC unit. Otherwise, it will require some carpenter’s work.

Power consumption difference between window AC and split AC

We believe this topic deserves a little more attention. Many families are concerned about cutting down their energy consumption. Some of them want to save money on electricity bills. Others are concerned about the environment and try to go green as much as possible. Since very few of us are willing to give up the comfort an air conditioner provides, we need to make sure we choose the most efficient solution.

It is commonly believed that window ACs consume more power than split ACs. However, you can find window ACs that are more energy efficient than particular split-systems with the same cooling capacity. Window AC unit power consumption largely depends on the insulation. If it’s not installed properly, hot air might penetrate into the room through seams between the unit and the window frame. That will force the AC to work harder and thus, increase power consumption.

Also, many people complain that their window ACs do not provide a desirable cooling effect while running on their maximum capacity. That can happen if the unit sizing is wrong. The thing is, window ACs cannot put out more than 24,000 BTUs per hour. If the room is large, that will not be enough. As a result, consumers try to get the most out of their units by running them all day at full capacity. Needless to say, electricity bills don’t make anyone happy.

Useful tips

To avoid such mistakes, you need to choose the correct cooling AC capacity for your room. You can find comprehensive charts online (such as this one).  They work for both window ACs and split-systems. With these guidelines, you will never go wrong.

If you feel that your air conditioner does not cool well enough, it might not be its fault. Often times the problem lies in poor air circulation. This is often the case with irregular-shaped rooms, angled hallways, and multi-level homes. You need to learn how to circulate air with fans in order to solve this problem.

In fact, there is not much power consumption difference between window AC and split AC. However, split-systems generally use more advanced technologies. Therefore, it is easier to find an economical split air conditioner than a window unit with the same energy efficiency rating.

What air conditioner should I buy?

The choice depends on many factors. Both types of air conditioners have advantages and disadvantages. The ultimate choice depends on your needs. Here are some tips that will help you make up your mind.

Which AC is better: split or window?

Sometimes, choose a particular system of cooling rooms, based on the provision.

Split-systems work best in the following cases:

• the room you need to cool down is larger than 1,500 square feet.
• you need air conditioning in several rooms. Then you can install a multi-split system. This is a more efficient solution than buying a separate window unit for each room.
• you want to avoid excessive noise.
• this is going to be a permanent installation and you are willing to bear all the costs.
• you care about the aesthetics of the room.

Situations, in which window AC is preferable:

• the room size is less than 1,500 square feet.
• you are looking for an affordable solution and don’t want to pay an installation fee.
• there is a window you can dedicate for the purpose. Ideally, the size of the dedicated opening matches perfectly with the size of the unit.
• you don’t care about the noise.

Inverter Air Conditioning Technology

When it goes about cooling and conditioning, energy-efficiency matters. We all aim at saving energy. What does the California Building Code specify? All low-rise residential buildings are to meet its performance standards. They have to comply with energy budget requirements. High SEER and EER ratings are beneficial.

So, the latest in the HVAC industry, inverter technology is becoming popular. What is the difference? It involves compressor motor and power conversion. Power inverter is a part of this sophisticated system. It changes circuitry from DC to AC and vice versa.

This smart electronic device controls torque and speed of the motor. It adjusts system’s performance according to your room temperature. You don’t have to turn your HVAC appliance on and off. Therefore, inverter air conditioners are:

• quiet;
• energy-efficient;
• ecologically-clean;
• user-friendly.

Inverter units maintain constant temperature in your room. They provide users with maximum comfort. When you turn your air conditioner on, it runs full speed. Afterward, inverter lowers it. It saves refrigerant and electricity.

How Does Window Type Inverter Air Conditioner Works?

There are many inverter-based split AC systems. All leading manufacturers offer them: Mitsubishi, Cooper&Hunter, Pioneer brands are among others. These dank air conditioners are smart and advanced. A Dual-inverter window air conditioner model exists nowadays.

LG company introduced it recently. It’s a quiet device, so you can install it in your bedroom or nursery. Inverters regulate their speed according to heat load of your room. It’s space matters. But amount of thermal quantity necessary to cool your environment is not stable. It differs, depending on your climate, time of day or night.

Traditional AC units also maintain the temperature you set. They use thermostats to sense the temperature. But they operate at full capacity and stop as they cool the room. Your room air temperature increases at 1-2 degrees. Compressor starts again. So, it runs not as smoothly as an inverter device.

How does your AC system’s motor work? It operates by:

• electric circuit;
• magnets;
• attractive and repulsive forces.

Inverter changes polarity of electromagnets and, therefore, current direction. Hence, its circuitry is more complicated than regular conditioning technology. Smart devices include electronic components like diodes, optocouplers and electrolytic capacitors. Their initial price and maintenance cost is higher.

Inverter units are not the most efficient in non-insulated rooms. At extreme noon temperatures that exceed 113 °F, they may not do their best. Additionally, you are to size your inverter AC device properly. It helps you to achieve your target temperatures and adequate dehumidification.

Conclusion

In general, people prefer to buy window units for small rooms or rental apartments. Window units are easy to install and take down in case a tenant decides to move. Split systems (especially multi-splits) are often installed in large homes and offices. There are great options in both product categories. Whether you need the best mini-split system or a window type inverter air conditioner, the market has something to offer. So what is your choice going to be?