Split ac vs window ac power consumption is a crucial consideration when selecting an air conditioner (AC), since it has a direct impact on energy costs and overall effectiveness. Split air conditioners and window air conditioners are the two most popular varieties for homes and small businesses.
Understanding their power usage trends can help customers
Split ac vs window ac power consumption is a crucial consideration when selecting an air conditioner (AC), since it has a direct impact on energy costs and overall effectiveness. Split air conditioners and window air conditioners are the two most popular varieties for homes and small businesses.
Understanding their power usage trends can help customers make an educated decision based on their cooling requirements, budget, and long-term savings.
Based on a number of variables, including energy economy, cooling performance, installation needs, and maintenance, we will compare the power consumption of split air conditioning and window air conditioning in this post.
Understanding Power Consumption in Air Conditioners
The Split ac vs window ac power consumption depends on multiple factors, including:
- Capacity (Tonnage): An air conditioner's cooling capacity is expressed in tons. The power usage increases with tonnage.
- Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER): The Indian Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (ISEER), or EER, is a measure of an air conditioner's efficiency. Better efficiency is indicated by higher ratings.
- Compressor Technology: Inverter compressors utilize less electricity compared to non-inverter types by altering their speed depending on cooling demand.
- Usage and Room Size: Energy consumption is influenced by the size of the space, the frequency and duration of use, and other factors.
- Ambient Temperature and Insulation: It takes less work to cool rooms with improved insulation and a lower ambient temperature.
💬 Myth: "Window ACs always consume less power than Split ACs."
✅ Fact: A 5-star inverter Split AC consumes less power than a 3-star Window AC in the long run.
Read More: ACES
Split ac vs window ac power consumption
1. Basic Differences in Power Consumption
|
Feature |
Split AC |
Window AC |
|
Power Consumption |
Consumes more power in non-inverter models, but inverter models are energy efficient |
Generally consumes less power in lower capacities but may be inefficient in larger rooms |
|
Energy Efficiency |
Higher due to better compressor technology and energy-saving features |
Lower due to limited technology and single-unit design |
|
Cooling Performance |
Faster cooling with better air distribution |
Takes longer to cool the room |
|
Ideal Room Size |
Suitable for medium to large rooms |
Suitable for small rooms |
Key Takeaway: In the long term, split air conditioners—especially inverter models—tend to be more energy-efficient than window air conditioners.
-Power drawn by the Non-Inverter (standard) AC during Office Hours
2. Power Ratings and Energy Efficiency
The Bureau of Energy Efficiency, or BEE, in India assigns a star grade to air conditioners. An air conditioner with a 5-star rating uses less energy than one with a 3-star rating or less.
- Window AC (1.5 Ton, 3-star rating): Power consumption ~1.3 to 1.5 kW per hour.
- Split AC (1.5 Ton, 3-star rating): Power consumption ~1.4 to 1.6 kW per hour.
- Split AC (1.5 Ton, 5-star rating with inverter technology): Power consumption ~0.9 to 1.2 kW per hour.
Observation: Over time, an inverter split air conditioner may use a lot less electricity than a window air conditioner with the same rating, even if a standard split air conditioner can use a little more.
Average electricity bills comparison by state.
3. The Role of Inverter Technology in Power Saving
Non-inverter air conditioners use more energy since they operate at a set pace and turn on and off often. Conversely, inverter air conditioners use less power since they modify their compressor speed according to the ambient temperature.
- A 1.5 Ton 5-star inverter Split AC consumes 30-40% less power than a non-inverter model.
- Due to design constraints, window air conditioners—even those equipped with inverter technology—are less efficient than their split air conditioner counterparts.
Thus, if power consumption is a concern, opting for an inverter Split AC is the best choice for long-term savings.
4. Electricity Consumption Calculation
To calculate the monthly electricity cost of using an AC, we use the formula:
Power Consumption (kW)×Usage Hours per Day×Days per Month×Electricity Rate (per kWh)\text{Power Consumption (kW)} \times \text{Usage Hours per Day} \times \text{Days per Month} \times \text{Electricity Rate (per kWh)}
For example, assuming an electricity rate of ₹7 per kWh, using a 1.5 Ton AC for 8 hours daily:
-
Window AC (1.5 Ton, 3-star, 1.4 kW power consumption)
1.4×8×30×7=₹2,352 permonth1.4 \times 8 \times 30 \times 7 = ₹2,352 per month -
Split AC (1.5 Ton, 5-star inverter, 1.0 kW power consumption)
1.0×8×30×7=₹1,680 permonth1.0 \times 8 \times 30 \times 7 = ₹1,680 per month
This shows that an inverter Split AC can save around ₹672 per month compared to a Window AC of similar capacity.
A Quick Decision Guide
Not sure which AC to buy? Answer these questions!
- Is your room bigger than 120 sq. ft.? → Get a Split AC
- Do you want lower upfront costs? → Get a Window AC
- Are you looking for long-term electricity savings? → Get an Inverter Split AC
Pros and Cons of Split AC and Window AC in Terms of Power Consumption
Split AC
✅ Pros:
- Higher energy efficiency, especially with inverter technology
- Faster cooling and better air distribution
- Lower noise levels
❌ Cons:
- Higher initial cost
- Complex installation process
Window AC
✅ Pros:
- Lower initial cost
- Easier to install and maintain
❌ Cons:
- Consumes more power over time, especially in non-inverter models
- Noisier operation
- Less effective cooling for larger rooms
Which AC Should You Choose Based on Power Consumption?
Choose a Split AC if:
✔ You seek long-term savings and use the air conditioner for more than eight hours every day.
✔ You need cooling for a medium to large room (120+ sq. ft.).
✔ You like improved looks and quieter functioning.
Choose a Window AC if:
✔ You need an AC for occasional use (less than 5 hours daily).
✔ Your room size is small (up to 120 sq. ft.).
✔ You have a lower budget and prefer a simple installation.
Conclusion
When comparing Split ac vs window ac power consumption, the key takeaway is:
- Compared to window air conditioners with the same star rating, non-inverter split air conditioners use a little more energy.
- When compared to non-inverter versions, inverter split air conditioners are up to 30–40% more energy efficient.
- Window ACs are cheaper initially but costlier in the long run due to higher power consumption.
- If power efficiency is a priority, a 5-star inverter Split AC is the best choice despite the higher upfront cost.
In conclusion, a split air conditioner (particularly an inverter type) is a better investment for long-term savings and effective cooling, even if a window air conditioner is best for customers on a tight budget who use it occasionally.