The Pros and Cons of Window-Type and Split-Type Aircons

In a tropical country like Philippines, it’s a huge comfort to have an aircon at home. But, you don’t need to put an air conditioner in every room. Just one in the bedroom can do wonders in improving comfort. More than the comfort it brings, installing an aircon in your home is also necessary for health reasons, such as for those suffering from asthma or allergies.

One of the considerations when buying an air conditioner is whether to get a window-type or a split-type unit. Much like other appliances, there are certain pros and cons for both window-type and split-type aircon units. However, before you decide on the type, you should first determine the right cooling capacity of the aircon you’re going to buy.

Figuring Out the Correct Aircon Capacity

It doesn’t matter if you buy the most energy-efficient inverter aircon in the market. If you buy an under- or overpowered aircon, you’ll end up wasting energy. For a simple computation, the basic formula is the area of the room in square meters multiplied by 500. This means that a 20-square-meter room will need an aircon with a 10,000 kj/h capacity. This is equivalent to a 1.0 hp aircon.

Aside from the size of the room and the right horsepower, there are also other factors to consider. For example, the number of people occupying the room may also affect the aircon’s cooling capacity. This is because the human body emits heat, which contributes to the ambient temperature of the room. Another factor would be the number of items in the room. Objects such as tables, chairs, and even pillows will absorb cool air and will make the aircon work harder to cool the space.

Other factors that will influence the aircon’s cooling capacity are the number of windows in the room and sun-facing walls. The more windows there are, the more heat can come from the outside. The same goes for walls that face the sun. If you want, you can insulate the room to help the aircon achieve better efficiency.

Pros and Cons to Consider

Now that the most important parts are out of the way, you can now decide on what type of aircon you should get. Below, we discuss some of the main concerns you should take into consideration.

Space 

Split-type aircons have two units: the indoor unit, which is connected to a heat pump, and the outdoor unit that houses the condenser and compressor. Meanwhile, window-type aircons have just one unit that contains all the components. If you don’t have an ideal space to put the outdoor unit or only have a small room to cool, then it’s better to get a window-type aircon.

Ease of Installation

Window-type air conditioners are easier to install and uninstall. Essentially, you just have to place it or pull it out carefully from the wall or window cut-out. Thus, if you’re renting or you move residences a lot, it’s better to get a window-type aircon. However, the advantage of a split-type aircon is that you don’t need to put a hole in the wall or window to install it.

Cooling Capacity

Again, the cooling capacity of an aircon depends on its horsepower output. However, split-type air conditioners usually have larger vents with varied swing functions. Thus, they can blow more air and can cool a room more efficiently.

Power Efficiency

Split-type air conditioners are often believed to be more efficient. However, what you should look at is the aircon’s EER or energy efficiency rating. An aircon’s EER is the amount of cooling that can be delivered per watt of energy consumed. The higher the EER, the more energy-efficient the aircon is. Usually, you will also see star ratings where five is the highest. Considering these, both window- and split-type aircons can be highly energy efficient.

Cost

If you’re a more practical individual and conscious about your budget, split-type aircons are definitely more expensive. When you opt for inverter models, the price will climb up a little more. It’s better to think of the energy savings down the line, however, rather than the initial investment. This way, you’ll appreciate the return on investment more.

Maintenance

When it comes to maintenance, it’s easier to clean a window-type aircon whether you DIY or ask a professional. You can also clean a split-type aircon by yourself but you need to be extra careful. Troubleshooting is also much easier for window-type units.

Noise Levels

Many Filipinos are used to the loud droning of window-type aircons. However, when you switch to a split-type aircon, you’ll appreciate how much quieter quiet it is.

Looks

What’s great about split-type aircons is that they’re installed above eye level. Therefore, they don’t interrupt the decor as much as window-type aircons. Moreover, split-type air conditioners don’t block natural lighting. Finally, split-type aircons come in different colors as opposed to window-type ones that are generally white in color. 

Thinking about getting a new air conditioner for your home? Remember these points of comparison so you can make the best choice.