Split AC vs Window AC: What is the best AC for you?

As the days get hotter, you’re probably on the lookout for the best ways to keep it cool – especially the rooms where you spend most of the time working or sleeping. When shopping for an air conditioner, you’re most likely to be pulled into the split AC vs window AC debate.

So what are the key differences between a split AC and a window AC, and how do you choose one over the other? We help answer all such queries, so read on.

The key differentiating factor is the design. Window AC, as the name suggests, is a single unit that is mounted in a dedicated window frame. The front with the buttons and vents faces the inside of the room, while the rest of the mechanism juts out the back.

Split AC essentially ‘splits’ the unit into an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit doesn’t require a dedicated window space and can be wall mounted, while the outdoor unit with the compressor is placed outside.

Window AC only requires a single space in a window, and is easy to install. But with a maximum capacity of 2 tons, Window ACs are best suited for smaller apartments.

ALSO READ: AC installation: What to expect and what is included in the cost?

Split AC needs space indoors and outdoors for the installation of the two units and requires professional help. They are usually mounted closer to the ceiling and are designed to quickly cool larger spaces. With a wider range of cooling capacities available in the market, Split ACs are ideal for bigger apartments and office spaces.

Electricity consumption is based on the air conditioner’s star rating; the higher the rating, the more efficient is your ac. A 5 Star AC can theoretically consume up to 10% less energy than a 4 Star AC.

So if you’re buying an AC for periodic usage in a small room, a 3 Star or Star-rated AC should suffice. But for larger rooms and extended usage, a 5 star AC will be the most efficient.

However, the inverter technology is the big game-changer in the AC category. Window ACs or Split ACs with inverter technology are far more efficient than non-inverter ACs since their compressor can operate at different capacities. Based on the room temperature, a 1.5-ton inverter ac can automatically alternate between 0.5-ton to 1.5-ton capacities to cool the room while consuming less electricity. A non-inverter won’t have such flexibility.

There’s no competition here, as split ACs produce little to no noise, making them perfect for classrooms or offices. Since the compressor is fitted into the outdoor unit, all the noise-producing grunt work happens outside the room.

In a window ac, all the mechanism is fitted into a single unit that is placed on your windowsill, so there’s no way to keep the noise at bay. Even when not operating at heavy loads, window ACs tend to produce a fair amount of noise.