Inverter AC vs Split AC: What is the difference & Which Is Better?
Almost everyone gets confused when buying a new AC, thinking which one is better for them or which AC will be a less burden on their pocket. While finding answers to these questions, many people think that Inverter AC and Split AC are the same thing, which is a mistake as both the AC’s are completely different.
In this detailed guide, we will discuss all about the Split AC and Inverter AC, their difference, power consumption, and which will put less dent on your pocket.
What is a Split AC?
A Split AC is a type of air conditioner that consists of two separate pieces, which are an Indoor unit (which is placed inside the room) and an Outdoor unit (which is placed outside of the room). Both of these units are linked with copper wires and power cords.
How does a Split AC Work?
A Split AC draws hot air from the room, cools it by passing the refrigerant through it, and then releases the hot air outside using the outdoor unit. The cooled air is then blown inside the room.
In a non-inverter split AC, the compressor always runs at a fixed speed. It turns ON when the room needs cooling and turns OFF when the room reaches the desired temperature.
There are two types of split AC:
- Non-Inverter Split AC: which has a Fixed Speed Compressor.
- Inverter Split AC: which has a Variable Speed Compressor.
Advantages of Split AC
- Slim and contemporary design.
- It’s less noisy as compared to Window AC.
- Effective cooling for medium to large-sized rooms.
- More affordable if it is a non-inverter model.
Disadvantages of Split AC
- Higher power consumption of non-inverter models.
- Temperature variations from time to time.
- Noise comes from the compressor during ON/OFF cycles.
What is an Inverter AC?
An Inverter AC is a type of Air Conditioner that works at different speed compressor. The compressor does not turn ON or OFF; instead, it changes its speed according to the room temperature.
How Does an Inverter AC Work?
After the desired temperature is achieved, the compressor does not turn OFF instead It slows down its speed and continues to cool the room. The power consumption gradually reduces instead of spiking back to the full load.
This is why it is important to understand the difference between Split AC and Inverter AC, as the workings of both the AC’s are different.
Advantages of Inverter AC
- Electricity bills are lower.
- Cooling speed is faster.
- The noise level is lower.
- There is no fluctuation in temperature.
- Long-term savings are better.
Disadvantages of Inverter AC
- Inverter AC is more expensive
- Maintenance cost is slightly higher.
- Repairing a PCB can be costly.
Difference between Inverter AC vs Split AC
This detailed comparison between Inverter AC and Split AC clearly explains the Inverter AC and Split AC difference, especially in terms of power consumption, performance, and long-term value.
| Parameter | Non-Inverter Split AC (Fixed Speed) | Inverter AC (Variable Speed) |
| Technology | Uses a fixed speed compressor that turns ON and OFF repeatedly. | Uses a variable speed compressor that adjusts speed continuously. |
| Compressor Operation | Runs at full capacity or completely shuts off. | Slows down or speeds up depending on the cooling requirement. |
| Inverter AC vs Split AC Power Consumption | Higher due to frequent restarting and full-load operation. | Lower because it runs at an optimized speed without a frequent restart |
| Power Usage (1.5 Ton, 8 hrs/day) | 1.6–1.8 units per hour. | 1.0–1.2 units per hour after stabilization. |
| Monthly Electricity Consumption | ~350–400 units | ~250–300 units |
| Annual Electricity Cost (@ ₹8/unit) | ₹33,600 – ₹38,400 | ₹24,000- ₹28,800 |
| Long-Term Savings (5 Years) | Higher electricity expenses over the years. | Can save up to ₹40,000- ₹50,000 over 5 years. |
| Cooling Speed | Fast cooling initially, but fluctuates. | Fast and stable cooling. |
| Temperature Stability | Noticeable fluctuations | Maintains consistent room temperature. |
| Noise Level | Moderate to high due to compressor ON/OFF cycles. | Low and steady operation. |
| Comfort Level | Slight temperature swings. | Smooth and comfortable cooling. |
| Initial Cost | Lower purchase price. | Higher upfront cost. |
| Long-Term Cost | Higher due to electricity bills. | Lower due to energy savings. |
| Maintenance Cost | Generally affordable repairs. | PCB repairs can be expensive. |
| Compressor Lifespan | More wear & tear due to frequent restarting. | Longer lifespan due to smooth operation. |
| Best For | Low usage i.e. 3–4 hours or guest rooms. | Daily use i.e.5+ hours or long-term savings |
| Energy Efficiency Rating | Lower ISEER rating. | Higher ISEER rating. |
| Electricity Bill Impact | Increases significantly in summer. | More controlled and optimized. |
| Inverter Split AC vs Fixed Speed Split AC | Fixed speed = constant full power. | Variable speed = smart power adjustment. |
If your priority is lower upfront cost, a non-inverter split AC is suitable. But if your priority is lower electricity bills, better comfort, and long-term savings, an inverter AC is the better choice.
Difference in Power Consumption
This is one of the main points of difference between the two models, and the difference in how much power Inverter AC vs Split AC uses is how the compressor works. A split AC that doesn’t have an inverter runs at full speed and turns on and off all the time, which uses more power. An inverter AC, on the other hand, changes the speed of its compressor based on the temperature in the room, which saves energy.
Inverter ACs use 20–40% less electricity than regular fixed-speed split ACs, especially when they are used for long periods of time every day.
To understand this difference clearly, here is an example of Inverter AC vs. Split AC Power Use
Let us assume that:
- 1.5 Tonn AC
- 8 hours of use every day
- The cost of electricity is ₹8 per unit
- 30 days of use
For 1.5 Ton Split AC without an inverter:
- Average use: 1.7 units per hour
- 1.7 times 8 equals 13.6 units per day.
- Monthly use: 13.6 × 30 = 408 units
- Monthly bill: 408 × ₹8 = ₹3,264
For 1.5 Tonn Inverter AC:
- Average use: 1.15 units per hour
- 1.15 × 8 = 9.2 units used every day
- Usage each month: 9.2 × 30 = 276 units
- Monthly bill: 276 × ₹8 = ₹2,208
Bill for Non-Inverter Split AC is ₹3,264
Bill for Inverter AC is ₹2,208
Which gives us Monthly Savings of- ₹1,000
And Savings of ₹12,000 or more per year
This makes it very clear why inverter split AC costs more in the long run than non-inverter split AC.
Is a Split AC with Inverter Technology the Best Choice?
Most of the air conditioners you can buy today are Split ACs with Inverter Technology. So, when people compare “inverter AC” to “normal split AC,” they are really comparing:
Fixed-speed split AC vs Split AC with an inverter
The term “split AC” only refers to the design of the indoor and outdoor units. The term “inverter” refers to the compressor technology inside the unit.
An inverter Split AC is a better choice for most homes because it is more energy-efficient, provides consistent cooling, and saves money in the long run.
Who Should Buy an Inverter Split Air Conditioner?
An individual would benefit from purchasing an inverter split air conditioner if they:
- Will use the air conditioner for more than 5 to 6 hours a day.
- Want to lower their power costs.
- Desire a constant temperature (no fluctuations) throughout the year.
- Plan to use the air conditioner for many years to come.
As an inverter air conditioning unit runs more efficiently, it will be more suited to heavy daily use.
Who Should Buy a Non-Inverter Split Air Conditioner?
An individual may also want to consider purchasing a non-inverter (fixed-speed) split air conditioning unit if they:
- Will only use the air conditioning unit for 3-4 hours a day.
- Are looking for the most economical option available.
- Are purchasing the unit for occasional use (i.e., using it in a guest room).
In these situations, the initial cost savings will outweigh the long-term savings from an inverter unit.
Which is Better, Inverter AC or Split AC?
When assessing these two options, you are ultimately looking to compare,
Inverter Split ACs vs. Normal Split ACs
Generally, for standard home use, the inverter split ACs tend to offer all the benefits over the traditional fixed-speed split AC, such as:
- Less power usage
- Better cooling comfort
- Less noise produced
- More electricity savings long-term
Whereas, when you don’t need much cooling & you have a tighter budget, a non-inverter split AC will help meet your needs effectively.
Looking at popular brand comparisons can also help in making an informed decision. For instance, you can explore comparisons like Daikin vs LG AC, Samsung vs LG AC, or Daikin vs Panasonic air conditioners to understand which brands offer better inverter technology and performance.
FAQ’s
1. What is the difference between inverter AC and split AC?
Ans- A split AC refers to the design (indoor and outdoor units), while an inverter AC refers to the compressor technology. Inverter AC uses a variable-speed compressor, whereas a normal split AC uses a fixed-speed compressor.
2. Is an inverter AC more efficient than a split AC?
Ans- Yes. Inverter ACs are generally 20–40% more energy-efficient than regular fixed-speed split ACs, helping reduce electricity bills.
3. Is the price difference worth buying an inverter AC?
Ans- If you use your AC frequently or daily, the higher upfront cost of an inverter AC is usually recovered through lower energy bills.
4. What does inverter split AC mean?
Ans- It refers to a split AC that uses inverter (variable-speed) compressor technology.
5. Can a split AC be inverted?
Ans- Yes. Many modern split ACs come with built-in inverter technology and are called inverter split ACs.