Window AC vs Split AC Power Consumption – Which One Uses More Electricity?
While purchasing an Air Conditioner, many consumers look for Window AC vs Split AC Power Consumption, which can help them determine which air conditioner can provide them with lower electricity bills. The Electricity Consumption of air conditioners has become one of the major concerns, as Air Conditioners can consume almost 40-60% of the electricity in houses during peak summer season in India. This indicates that if you do not use the right air conditioner, you may be compelled to pay higher Electricity Bills.
In this detailed guide, we will compare Window AC and Split AC Power Consumption, electricity bills, efficiency, etc., so that you can use the right Air Conditioner for your home.
Window AC vs Split AC Power Consumption
It is important to know what each type of Air Conditioner is before moving to the comparison between the two Air Conditioners in terms of power consumption.
What is a Window AC?
A Window AC is an Air Conditioner in which all components, including the compressor, condenser, and evaporator, are contained within one unit.
What is a Split AC?
A Split AC has two components:
Indoor Unit – This unit is fixed inside the room to blow out cooled air.
Outdoor Unit – This unit is fixed outside the building.
Split ACs are generally quieter and have advanced technology in comparison to Window ACs.
Window AC vs Split AC Differences
Here are a few differences between the Window and Split AC:
| Category | Window AC | Split AC |
| Electricity Consumption | Slightly higher due to compact single-unit design. | Slightly lower due to better cooling efficiency. |
| Cooling Efficiency | Suitable for small rooms. | Better cooling distribution for medium to large rooms. |
| Noise Level | Noisier because the compressor is inside the same unit. | Quieter because the compressor is located outside. |
| Upfront Cost | Lower purchase price. | Higher purchase and installation costs. |
| Long-Term Savings | Moderate electricity savings. | Slightly better electricity savings over time. |
| Maintenance | Easier due to single-unit structure. | Maintenance required for both indoor and outdoor units. |
Window AC vs Split AC – Quick Power Consumption Comparison
| Feature | Window AC | Split AC |
| Design | Single unit system | Indoor + outdoor unit |
| Compressor Technology | Mostly fixed speed | Inverter and non-inverter options |
| Power Consumption | Slightly higher | Lower in inverter models |
| Cooling Efficiency | Moderate | Higher |
| Noise Level | Higher | Lower |
| Electricity Savings | Moderate | Better with inverter technology |
As can be inferred from the above comparison, Split ACs, particularly inverter ones, use less power compared to traditional window ACs.
How Power Consumption Occurs in Both ACs
Window AC Power Consumption
The power consumption process in window ACs is as follows:
- The compressor runs on full power
- The compressor is switched ON and OFF
- Every time it is switched ON, additional power is consumed
- The rate of cooling is not constant
- The power consumption of a 1.5-ton window AC is 1.2 to 1.6 units per hour.
Split AC Power Consumption
The power consumption process in Split ACs is as follows:
- The compressor is working at full power.
- Switches OFF when it reaches a particular temperature.
- Consumes more power as it is switched on and off frequently.
The power consumption of a 1.5-ton capacity split AC is around 1.2 to 1.5 units per hour, depending on its efficiency.
Split ACs are better in terms of distribution of cooled air and power consumption when compared to Window ACs.
Window AC vs Split AC Power Consumption Per Month
Assumptions:
- Daily AC usage: 8 hours
- Electricity cost: ₹8 per unit.
Window AC:
Average consumption: 1.4 units/hour
1.4 × 8 × 30 = 336 units
336 × ₹8 = ₹2,688 per month
Split AC:
Average consumption: 1.3 units/hour
1.3 × 8 × 30 = 312 units
312 × ₹8 = ₹2,496 per month
Monthly Difference
You can save approximately ₹150–₹200 per month with a split AC compared to a window AC, depending on the model and star rating.
Over 5 years of usage, this difference can still result in noticeable electricity savings.
Energy Efficiency & Star Rating
In the comparison between window AC and split AC in terms of power consumption, the star rating of BEE is a crucial point.
- 1 Star AC → Worst in terms of efficiency
Consume highest power and are cheaper, but not recommended.
- 2 Star AC → Normal efficiency
Consume less power compared to 1 Star AC.
- 3 Star AC → Balanced efficiency
Consume moderate power.
- 4 Star AC → Good efficiency
Consume less power and are recommended.
- 5 Star AC → Best in terms of efficiency
Consume less power and are recommended.
Why Split AC May Use Slightly Less Power
- Better Air Distribution- The split AC provides better air distribution, which helps in cooling the room quickly. This can reduce the power consumption of the AC.
- Improved Heat Dissipation- The split AC has better heat dissipation, as the AC’s compressor is placed outside the room. This enables the AC to function better.
- Larger Cooling Coverage- The split AC provides larger cooling coverage, which can reduce the time taken for the AC to cool the room.
- Better Energy Efficiency Models- The split AC has better BEE ratings, which can reduce the power consumption of the AC.
Initial Cost vs Long-Term Savings
| Factor | Window AC | Split AC |
| Purchase Price | Lower | Higher |
| Electricity Bills | Slightly higher | Slightly lower |
| Installation | Easy (but still requires professional installation) | Requires professional installation |
| Maintenance | Simple | Slightly complex |
| Long-Term Savings | Moderate | Better |
Though ACs cost higher in the initial purchase, they can offer better efficiency as well as lower electricity consumption in the long run.
Which AC is Better for You?
Choose Window AC If:
- Your Budget is Limited- Window ACs are more affordable than Split ACs.
- Your Room Size is Small- Window ACs can function better for small rooms.
- Your AC Usage is Low- If the AC usage is for less than 3-4 hours, then the power savings of the Split AC will not make a huge difference.
Choose Split AC If:
- Your AC Usage is High- If the AC usage is for 6-10 hours, then the Split AC will save more power.
- You want Quiet AC- The Split AC runs on less noise compared to the Window AC.
- You Want Better Cooling- The Split AC cools better than the Window AC.
- Your Main Concern is for Saving Electricity- Inverter Split AC saves more power.
Conclusion
In comparison to Window AC and Split AC power consumption, it has been found that Split AC, especially inverter technology, consumes less power and offers higher cooling efficiency.
However, in certain situations, Window AC can be a viable option:
- You have a limited budget.
- Your room size is small
- Your AC usage is limited
However, in situations where you need to operate your AC on a regular basis, it’s always best to invest in a Split Inverter AC, which will help you save on your electricity bill in the long run.
Though it is Important to keep in mind that before buying an AC, you should make a note of your:
- Room size
- How long you use AC.
- Electricity rate in your area.
- Star rating of the AC.
- Your budget
By choosing the right AC for your usage, you can save thousands of rupees on your electricity bill in the long run.
Additional AC Power Consumption Guides
At NoBroker, we help you understand the power consumption of different types of air conditioners. Our guides provide clear insights on energy usage for window ACs, split ACs, and various ton capacities, helping you choose an energy-efficient AC and reduce electricity bills.
Explore our resources to make informed decisions about your cooling needs.
FAQ’s
1. Which type of AC uses more electricity, Window or Split?
Ans- Window AC uses slightly more electricity than Split AC because it has fixed speed compressors.
2. Does Split AC save electricity?
Ans- Yes, Split AC, especially the inverter variant, saves electricity because it has a compressor with varying speed according to the need.
3. Is Window AC cost effective?
Ans- Window AC is cost-effective in terms of investment but may cost more in terms of electricity consumption than split AC.
4. Which type of AC should be used in small rooms?
Ans- Window AC should be used in small rooms.
5. Is it worth investing in a Split AC even if it costs more?
Ans- Yes, if you need to use it for longer periods in a day, then it would be cost-effective in terms of electricity charges.