Inverter Air Conditioner: A Complete Guide (for Beginner)
More and more people are switching to inverter air conditioners nowadays. People who are using inverter air conditioners often have positive comments. So, what are inverter air conditioners? How are they different from normal air conditioners and should you use inverter air conditioners?
I’m an air conditioning engineer. I use both inverter air conditioners as well as normal air conditioners for many years. So, for anyone who wants to understand inverter air conditioners even if you are not a technical person, this is the post for you.
It is easy for me to just tell you that inverter air conditioners are different from normal air conditioners (duh?) or, inverter air conditioners save more energy than normal air conditioners.
However, I think it is important to have at least an overview of inverter air conditioners so that you can make an informed decision. After all, an air conditioner often stays with us for more than 10 years.
What are Inverter Air Conditioners?
Inverter air conditioners are energy-saving air conditioning units equipped with an inverter-driven compressor. An inverter-driven compressor has the ability to increase or decrease its rotational speed thereby enabling inverter air conditioners to regulate their cooling capacity based on the needs.
Often, people who own inverter air conditioners tell you that inverter air conditioners can sometimes be noisy, especially during startup. However, they also may praise that inverter air conditioners provide much more comfort.
From research and survey to purchasing, installing and owning an inverter air conditioner, every step is a user experience. So, it makes sense for me to explain what are inverter air conditioners to you by going through these steps.
Types of Inverter Air Conditioners
There are a few types of inverter air conditioners available in the market. The most common type of inverter air conditioner is the split unit or sometimes known as the mini split.
Apart from that, western countries have inverter window air conditioners. Furthermore, they also have inverter centralized split air conditioners or better known as variable-speed air conditioners.
The word “inverter” refers to the compressor of the air conditioner. As long as the compressor of the air conditioner can regulate its speed and hence, its capacity, the air conditioner is considered as an inverter air conditioner.
However, some air conditioners are “partially inverter”. Meaning that they don’t have as much speed control as inverter air conditioners. These air conditioners are often known as two-stage air conditioners.
Installation of Inverter Air Conditioners
The installation of inverter air conditioners is 99% the same as normal air conditioners or non-inverter air conditioners. The only difference between them is the wiring work between the indoor and outdoor units.
Some technicians may charge more for the installation of inverter air conditioners due to the additional wiring work. Nonetheless, most inverter air conditioners have the same installation price as non-inverter air conditioners, especially if inverter air conditioners are very common in your area.
Maintenance of Inverter Air Conditioners
The maintenance of inverter air conditioners I would say about 80% the same as non-inverter air conditioners. In terms of basic cleaning work, both inverter and non-inverter air conditioners are exactly the same.
However, when it comes to part replacement, inverter air conditioners may be more expensive due to the additional inverter drive and electronic board.
Inverter air conditioners are more “intelligent”. So, they need an electronic board for controls.
Some people may tell you that inverter air conditioners break more easily, especially the electronic board. Also, we know that electronic boards are generally fragile.
However, inverter air conditioners today are extremely reliable. The one I used almost every day for more than 10 hours has never stopped working due to parts failure for almost 4 years now (touch wood).
Of course, the brand does matter. Low-quality inverter air conditioners are more likely to give off in a few years or sometimes, in a few months.
That’s why things like inverter air conditioners that involve some electronics and technologies are better to go for a more reputable brand.
Environmental Impact of Inverter Air Conditioners
Although we don’t really “see” it, inverter air conditioners have less impact on the environment. Inverter air conditioners are significantly more efficient than non-inverter air conditioners. Hence, electricity consumption is lower and thus, less fuel is being burned for electricity generation.
Many people have a misconception about the environmental impact of air conditioners. The truth is that air conditioners by themselves do not emit harmful gases that can pollute the environment but the high electricity consumption does.
“Air conditioners by themselves do not emit harmful gases that can pollute the environment but the high electricity consumption does.”
Right now, the world is still relying mostly on fossil fuels and natural gas for electricity generation. Power plants burn fuels to provide power but also emit harmful gases at the same time.
So, inefficient or power-hunger air conditioners are indirectly causing more pollution to the environment.
In certain cases, air conditioners do cause a direct impact on the environment. They run on a type of chemical mixture called refrigerant which is harmful to the environment if leaked.
However, refrigerants nowadays are significantly less harmful than before, especially the R32 refrigerant. So, if you care about the environment, choose an R32 inverter air conditioner.
What are the Difference Between Inverter and Non-Inverter Air Conditioners?
The difference between an inverter and a non-inverter air conditioner is hardly noticeable. But, if you look closely, inverter air conditioners are quite distinctive:
- Inverter air conditioners are more expensive than non-inverter air conditioners.
- Inverter air conditioners provide much more comfort than non-inverter air conditioners.
- Inverter air conditioners are more efficient than non-inverter air conditioners.
- Inverter air conditioners are quieter than non-inverter air conditioners after running for a while.
- Inverter air conditioners generally have more features than non-inverter air conditioners.
- Inverter air conditioners don’t have an overcooling issue most of the time.
Check out my ultimate comparison between inverter and non-inverter ACs.
The most obvious difference between an inverter and a non-inverter air conditioner is that an inverter air conditioner is more expensive. In Malaysia, an inverter air conditioner is about 30% more expensive than a non-inverter air conditioner with similar specifications.
The second thing you’ll notice about inverter air conditioners is that manufacturers offer more models and features for inverter air conditioners. It’s not hard to guess because inverter air conditioners are more efficient and therefore, it is important for them to promote and advance green technology to help the environment and comply with green policies set by the government.
Thirdly and the most beneficial one is that inverter air conditioners are more efficient. If you pay attention to the energy star rating, only inverter air conditioners have 5-star. Non-inverter air conditioners are always 2-star or 3-star, indicating that they are not very efficient.
Other differences between an inverter and a non-inverter air conditioner include comfort and noise during operation. In addition, inverter air conditioners hardly come by an overcooling issue because they can always reduce their capacity to provide the best comfort.
Are Inverter Air Conditioners Better Than Non-Inverter Air Conditioners?
By now, you will agree that inverter air conditioners are indeed better than non-inverter air conditioners in terms of performance and specifications.
However, whether or not an inverter air conditioner is better for you is another story to tell. I believe that the best air conditioner is the one that suits your needs.
If you don’t use the air conditioner very often or you don’t pay for the electricity, why care about efficiency? Vice versa, if you use the air conditioner for long hours or you have to pay for the electricity, why not invest in inverter air conditioners so that your monthly electricity cost is lower?
See my post about whether inverter air conditioners really save electricity.
It all comes down to your needs and preferences. So, the price may be the only thing that left you on the edge between an inverter and a non-inverter air conditioner.
What is the Price of Inverter Air Conditioners?
Depending on where you live, the price of inverter air conditioners varies. Nonetheless, a good rule of thumb is to multiply the price of a normal air conditioner with the same capacity by 1.3 to estimate the price of an inverter air conditioner.
Air conditioners’ capacity can be found in BTU or Ton or horsepower or kW depending on where you live. If you happen to live in the following countries, I can give you some guidelines on the price of inverter air conditioners.
Inverter Air Conditioner Prices in Malaysia
Following is the estimated price of standard inverter air conditioners by capacity in Malaysia. Standard means the entry-level models that don’t have fancy features.
| Capacity | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| 1.0 HP | RM 1650 |
| 1.5 HP | RM 2000 |
| 2.0 HP | RM 3250 |
| 2.5 HP | RM 3600 |
Following is the estimated price of premium inverter air conditioners by capacity in Malaysia. Premium models usually have more features like WiFi mobile app control.
| Capacity | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| 1.0 HP | RM 2250 |
| 1.5 HP | RM 2750 |
| 2.0 HP | RM 4000 |
| 2.5 HP | RM 4400 |
When Should You Use Inverter Air Conditioners?
Inverter air conditioners are best for people who need cooling every single day because the return on investment is often as quickly as one year. The more you use the air conditioner, the better your return on investment.
Furthermore, if you are buying air conditioners for your own house, you probably have to pay for the electricity. Thus, using inverter air conditioners can save you a significant amount of money every single month.
“Always use inverter air conditioners if you always need air conditioning. You’ll save a lot of money.”
On the flip side, if you are not really using the air conditioner, it makes sense for you to go for the cheaper non-inverter air conditioners. Besides, if you plan to install the air conditioner in the guest room where it’ll be seldom in use, you may go for a non-inverter air conditioner.
In addition, if you are installing air conditioners in a house that you plan to rent out soon, you may also go for non-inverter air conditioners assuming that the electricity bill is paid by the renter.
Finally, if you care about the environment and feel like saving energy is kinda good also, go ahead and use inverter air conditioners.
Check out my 9 reasons to buy an inverter air conditioner.
Inverter Air Conditioner Brands
Nowadays, almost all air conditioner brands have inverter models. However, there are only a handful of reputable brands that have reliable inverter air conditioners.
Following are my top 3 brands for inverter air conditioners:
- Daikin
- Panasonic
- Mitsubishi
However, it doesn’t mean that other brands are not good. It’s just that I’m confident to recommend the above 3 brands for inverter air conditioners to my friends and family. That’s why I only listed them in this post.
Best Inverter Air Conditioners
There are many different inverter air conditioners available on the market. Some models have more features while other models are cheaper. So, which are the best inverter air conditioners?
In my opinion, the Daikin R32 FTKF series is a solid choice of inverter air conditioners. Next is the Panasonic R32 PU series of inverter air conditioners followed by the Mitsubishi R32 JS series.
If I were shopping for inverter air conditioners, I will definitely start by comparing the above three series. Although they don’t have fancy features, they have the best value for money.
My Recommended Inverter Air Conditioner
If you ask me to pick one inverter air conditioner, I will choose the Daikin R32 FTKF25B (1.0 HP) for the bedroom and FTKF35B (1.5 HP) for the living room. For a larger room, I will suggest the FTKF50B (2.0 HP) or the FTKF71B (2.5 HP).
Generally, a 1.0 HP inverter air conditioner is enough for a room with a floor area of about 150-200 square feet. For a 201-300 square feet room, you should be using a 1.5 HP inverter air conditioner.
If your room floor area is about 301-450 square feet, you may need a 2.0 HP inverter air conditioner. For a 451-600 square feet room, you should be using a 2.5 HP inverter air conditioner.
Conclusion
Inverter air conditioners are better than non-inverter air conditioners in terms of performance and specifications. However, people who don’t use the air conditioner frequently may not find inverter air conditioners attractive. Instead, it makes sense for them to go for the cheaper non-inverter air conditioners.
Nonetheless, from the environmental perspective, inverter air conditioners are recommended as they are more efficient, use less electricity and help to make the world a better place for tomorrow.
Not Sure Which Inverter Air Conditioner to Choose?
Choosing an inverter air conditioner depends on your room size, usage hours, budget, electricity cost, brand preference, installation condition, and comfort expectations. If you are unsure which capacity, model, or setup is suitable for your home, you can request HVAC advisory support before buying.
What do you think about this post? Leave a comment down below!
Hi, I am looking to install two Panasonic inverter air conditioning units in a holiday rental. If I fit a coin operated meter for the guests will this have an adverse effect on the units? Is there an ‘inverter friendly’ coin meter? The installation guy said they are harmful to the units as they don’t give them time to cool down before the power shuts off.
Hi, yes. A coin meter if not modified or properly controlled will often just cut the main power to the air conditioning units. Normally, when an AC unit is switched off using the controller, the fan will run for a while to dry out the coil, the compressor oil will circulate back and other safety systems will run for a while to ensure everything is normal before they all stop. Cutting the main power will hurt the system in long run.
However, there is a way out.
If you can get a coin meter and add a relay (dry contact), then get the wired controller from Panasonic, you could tap the coin meter into the “remote on/off” or “force stop” terminal on the wired controller to CUT SIGNAL (not power) to the AC units. That way, you stop the AC from being turned on without harming it.
This would need some study to see if the wired controller is capable of doing that. See if the installation guy can help.
Thank you.
I have a new home with Inverter System. I want to replace the no-frills themostat with a WiFi one. Does the Inverter System need a special themostat?
Thanks
In Indonesia, inverters have a very low penetration in the market. every salesperson (both big box and small stores) said “Inverter air conditioners break more easily; Once they break, they keep breaking; Maintenance costs more; Few technicians know how to service them; Some technicians are scared to clean them.”
In North America, almost everything is inverter. So, it does make sense to me why they have such a bad reputation.
Aqua, Gree, and Midea all have 5 years parts, labor and refrigerant guarantee. In five years, the 30% energy savings may have paid for the air conditioners.
Currently, our new rental only has 2200VA service for 5 fairly large bedrooms. Previously, there were 4 air conditioners but we have no idea how well they worked because the house has been empty for 2+ years and a thief stole the coolant lines. Decided it was better to buy new than trying to get those old ACs to work. The nameplates of the old standard ACs (two 1PK, one 1/2pk and one unknown) totaled 12.3 A (or maybe 14.3) but max house current is 2200VA/220V = 10A!
So, they were ok if they didn’t start them all at the same time?
For sizing, 4 rooms 0.75 pk and 1 room 1.5 pk, but inverters that I am looking at don’t come in 0.75 pk. If I add up the rated watts of Gree 5 star inverter split AC, there’s no way unless they really do run at much less than their rated power most of the time.
2200VA = 2200 W
one 1.5 pk @ 1170W + four 1.0 pk @ 655W = 3790 W
Can easily upgrade to 3500VA but that increases the price 18%, which wipes out half of the 30% savings of going with an inverter.
Some guides say that we could use three 0.5 pk, then
one 1.5 pk @ 1170W + four 0.5 pk @ 350W = 2578 W
But that would be pushing them. I can’t tell if an stressed 0.5 pk will use more or less energy than an underutilized 1.0 pk. All 0.5 pk are 4 star instead of 5 star so maybe that would wipe out any savings.
I don’t understand the data.
4 star 0.5 pk: 5000 btu/h uses 350W, so 5000/350 = 14.3 Btu/h/W
5 star 1.0 pk: 9000 btu/h uses 655W, so 9000/655 = 13.74 Btu/h/W
5 star 1.5 pk: 12100 btu/h uses 1170W, so 12100/1170 = 10.34 Btu/h/W
The 4 star appears more efficient than the 5 star, but the star rating is a seasonal rating. Another 1.5 pk model has a higher Btu/h/W but only 4 star instead of 5 star.
Rooms are 13.5, 11.8, 12.1, 11.5, 20.5 m2
Accounting for sun and one has a large master bathroom, I get:
14.8, 11.8, 12.1, 11.5, 23.5 m2 in Jakarta, Indonesia
Perhaps I first buy a 0.5 pk for our smallest or least used room and see how it works but that could be a waste of money.
Thank you for the advice! It will be helpful. My wife and I live in Atlanta, Georgia, but are currently in the process of building a vacation home in Puerto Rico, out of concrete. In Puerto Rico they use inverters. Of which I know nothing about. So your article will be helpful. The only real concern I have is that two of the rooms are long. The kitchen/living room area is about 550 square feet. This room is pretty well protected from the direct sun and heat. This room is down stairs. The other room is upstairs and is about 325 square feet with a vaulted ceiling. Unlike downstairs, the longest wall receives a direct hit from the western sun. I’ve already decided not to put any windows in this wall. However, I was planning to put the inverter on this wall close to the seating area. The only other option is to put the inverter towards the back of the room, the north wall, in the staircase, which would still blow into the seating area. This room is 13 X 25. Do you have any thoughts and sizes of inverters for these two rooms?
If the walls and roof are well insulated, a 18k BTU unit would be good for the 550 sqft kitchen/living room, and a 12k BTU unit would be good for the upstairs 325 sqft room. Thank you.
I am looking at installing some AC units to my holiday home in Italy.
I’ve seen one Ariston system online that has one inverter and 4 AC units.
Link below :
https://megaclima.it/climatizzatori-a-parete-/3414-ariston-climatizzatore-quadri-split-alys-r-32-99912-con-quad110xd0c-o-inverter-wi-fi-optional-classe-a.html?tpid=T1lDRlhvdVkrT05MZERUSCtPcjFiQlYzNFkyMXZXdDNFc2VVa3phY3RMQXltTW1qVVoxUlpzdFFZQTNKTFZOSg2
My question is, would this inverter have the capacity for me to add an additional AC units in the future?
If not, can you recommend any Ariston inverters, or or similar priced brands that would have the capacity to add on an additional AC in the future.
Thanks
Steve
This inverter unit should have a total capacity of 48k BTU. Since your total AC units capacity is only 39k BTU (9+9+12), you have a spare 9k BTU. However, this inverter unit may only have 4 ports which means you can only connect maximum 4 AC units. If so, in the future, you can only upgrade the existing AC unit (eg: from 9k to 12k) instead of adding one more AC unit. Thanks.
I need the quietest possible portable A/C for our living room of ~450 sf. What do you recommend?
Hi, check out these portable AC deals on Prime Day. I think the ZAFRO one is quite good on noise level.