What You Should Know About Inverter Air Conditioner vs Non Inverter

With household heating and cooling technology constantly evolving, many of us may be looking to upgrade whatever solutions we have to keep our own homes comfortable.

If you’re in this very situation, you might want to consider weighing up the features and benefits (and the drawbacks) of the inverter air conditioner vs non-inverter system.

With inverter technology becoming more accessible to the domestic market, air conditioner manufacturers are taking advantage of this great energy-saving feature.

The significant savings you’ll enjoy – both with your power consumption and electricity bills – come down to the operational differences between the inverter and non-inverter motor. As your local heating and cooling experts, we’re here to explore the differences between inverter air conditioner vs non-inverter systems. That way, you can make the most informed choice possible for your home.

How Inverter Air Conditioners Work Differently from Non-Inverters

The main difference between how inverter air conditioning systems work compared to non-inverters is the compressor motor.

In conventional, non-inverter models, the fixed-speed compressor motor runs at only two speeds – on and off, or 100% and 0%.

On the other hand, an inverter-driven compressor keeps the motor turned on continuously and adjusts the motor speed to vary the temperature. This is more energy-efficient than turning the motor on and off repeatedly.

The inverter air conditioner vs non-inverter system comparison is similar to that of a marathon runner vs a sprinter. A non-inverter air conditioner is like a short-distance sprinter; it consumes more energy in short bursts. On the other hand, the inverter AC is the marathon runner, who goes at a steady pace and is more energy-efficient.

How Does the Compressor’s Speed Adjust?

The motor speed is adjusted by alternating the polarity of magnets so that they switch between attractive and repulsive forces. The switching attractive and repulsive forces rotate the motor.

The speed at which the polarity of the magnets is switched is controlled by the inverter-driven compressor, and this controls the motor’s rotation speed.

This means that if you’ve purchased a 6kW inverter split system air conditioner, it won’t always run at the full 6kW capacity. When you room needs minimal cooling, it will likely run at a lower capacity, but it can even run at higher than a 100% capacity for short periods if you need to heat or cool a room faster.

What are the Benefits of Inverter Air Conditioners?

Having an inverter air conditioner means you get to experience a range of great benefits.

• The potential for cheaper energy bills: Heating and cooling in the home accounts for 20 to 50% of your energy bill. When an inverter AC is used correctly, it can use up to 40% less energy than an inverter air conditioner. And those energy consumption savings typically translate to lower electricity bills.
• More consistent temperature control: An inverter AC delivers more stable and consistent temperature control. It doesn’t come with the fluctuations that occur with a non-inverter unit that constantly has its motor switched on and off. You’ll also reach your desired temperature quicker as an inverter air conditioner can run at over 100% capacity for short bursts (if your model has a boost or turbo mode).
• Quieter operation: The variable speed compressor motor means inverter air conditioning units are quieter too. Instead of working at full capacity all the time, an inverter AC runs at a lower and quieter capacity. By turning on and off continuously, a non-inverter air conditioner will be more annoying as it switches from silent to noisy repeatedly.
• Better humidity control: In addition to managing temperature better than non-inverter ACs, inverter air conditioning units can also regulate humidity levels in your home with greater ease.
• Greater lifespan (potentially): In non-inverter ACs, the constant switching on and off of the compressor motor leaves it more susceptible to wear and tear. Inverter systems are less vulnerable to that issue as they simply run continuously at lower loads.

From greater heating and cooling capacity to more energy-efficient performance, the inverter air conditioner offers worthy benefits for any homeowner.

Are There Any Disadvantages to Inverter Air Conditioners?

Between better energy efficiency and a quieter operation, it’s hard to think there’d be any disadvantages of inverter air conditioners. But like any major household appliance, the inverter air conditioner may not suit every household. There are some potential drawbacks to consider before settling on your inverter air conditioner vs non-inverter decision.

Firstly, inverter air conditioners will typically cost you more upfront than non-inverter ACs. Thanks to the more complex technology involved, an inverter AC comes with a higher price tag. But despite the higher upfront purchase costs, a regularly-used inverter air conditioner saves in ongoing running costs.

This also means parts can be more expensive if your unit needs repairs. On top of that, not all air conditioner installers will know the ins and outs of inverter technology. So, it’s even more important that you use an experienced and licensed air conditioner technician.

What’s the Advantage of Non-Inverter Air Conditioners?

In most cases, the advantages of inverter air conditioners far outweigh those of non-inverter ACs. An inverter system is usually the best air conditioner for domestic situations.

The only reason to choose a non-inverter air conditioner over an inverter AC is the lower upfront cost. Especially if you only plan to use your air conditioner sparingly and therefore cannot justify the upfront spend.

Almost all modern air conditioners on the market today are inverter models, though. With more and more inverter ACs coming onto the market, this upfront cost will be coming down over time.

Enjoy Energy Efficient, Cost Effective Heating and Cooling

You can enjoy the comfort and cost-effectiveness of an inverter air conditioner with Metropolitan Air Conditioning. Whether you’re after a ducted air conditioner or split system, our team of inverter AC experts won’t keep you waiting for expert service.

You can also enjoy your brand-new air con for no upfront cost with our range of convenient finance options**.  So, when you’re unexpectedly left with an old and broken air conditioner and need an upgrade, there’s no need to dip into your savings to cover the costs.

Contact Metropolitan Air Conditioning if you’re looking to invest in your home’s heating and cooling as well as save in the long run.  We can have an expert air conditioner installer at your door today*.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.