Inverter or Non-Inverter? Which Aircon Should YOU Purchase?

Find yourself struggling to understand the sales rep when they say Inverter or Non-Inverter? “Urgh I just need an aircon” – Don’t worry! Just 5 minutes to read up on below will help you decide.

There are two main technologies to be considered when choosing which split air conditioner to install, the inverter and non-inverter air conditioner. Both these systems offer similar function but are different in terms of what type of compressor motor is running the system.

The compressor is that part of the unit that is responsible for compressing the refrigerant into liquid and then shuts off and allows it to expand. As this happens, the refrigerant begins to cool thereby producing the desired effect of cooling.

The Inverter Unit

– Variable Speed: 
On one hand, an inverter air conditioner unit which is considered as more sophisticated is made up of a variable speed compressor rather than at a fixed speed. Although this process is more complicated than it sounds but the essence of the variable speed is not to allow the compressor running at full power all the time it is put on but rather to control their operation as needed. This compressor is meant to constantly regulate the temperature as desired. 

– Energy Efficient: 
This is considered A-graded when it comes to energy-efficiency and also a more economic method to operate on. This means that for the inverter model, the cooling and heating is automated in an energy-efficient and smooth manner. This is done with a sensor adjusting the power according to the current temperature. This is similar to the way the pressure of a car is controlled when you either increase or reduce the pressure on the accelerator. 

– Quiet Sound: 
The inverter air conditioner is quieter in its operation. This is because unlike the non-inverters, they don’t automatically turn on and off every time they reach certain temperature limits; instead, they just cruise along maintaining and adjusting the temperature constantly.

Also, contrary to the operation of a non-inverter, the inverter uses less power and as a result, they work less. This also means that their wear and tear is less making them last longer. Compared to a non-inverter system, the inverter air conditioner unit is more expensive to buy but is considered to offer wise investment in the long term. 

The Non-Inverter Unit

– Fixed Speed: 
The non-inverter air conditioners are known as the most common air conditioner unit available in the market. When it comes to controlling the compressor, it does it in an “all or none” principle basis. The non-inverter air conditioner system is a model that operates by simply being switched on or off in controlling temperature. Rather than allowing the compressor to run at full power all the time it is on, the compressor motor here controls the compressor as needed. A constant amount of energy is delivered to the compressor which causes it to run at a fixed speed. 

– Noise:
 The non-inverter model usually turns on and off any time they reach a certain temperature considered to be their limit. This happens as the compressor is started and is then noticed to subsequently stop. It freezes for one minute and then another minute it starts getting hot.

As a result of this turning on and off to reach certain temperatures, the system is made to work harder and is also made to produce a whole lot of noise. Unlike the inverter, these models make a whole lot of noise a result of working harder. This also causes wear and tear on the system, making it not to last long as compared to the inverter air conditioner models.

– Costs Less: 
These air conditioners are significantly less costly compared to the inverter air conditioner unit.

One of the things to consider when purchasing an air conditioner system in order to know which will be best for you is how frequently and at what level the system will be used. Your pocket and also your environment will also play a part in determining what type of model you choose.

Courtesy of Aircon Servicing SG