Advantages & Disadvantages of Inverter Air Conditioner [EXPLAINED]

When Japanese company, Toshiba developed the first inverter compressor around 1980, their mission was to solve certain problems encountered with regular AC systems. Little did they know that their invention would be a game-changer in the world of air conditioners.

Four decades later, almost every air conditioner brand and manufacturer has adopted the inverter technology. While there are numerous reasons why inverter ACs have become so popular across the world, it also has a few drawbacks.

What is an Inverter Air Conditioner?

Basically, an inverter AC is different from non-inverter ACs because of its compressor and how it works. It is an air conditioner in which current is converted to suit temperature per time.

Also, the compressor motor speed is regulated continuously to control the refrigerant flow rate and cool the air as it is needed.

Unlike regular compressors that turn off at intervals, the compressor of the inverter AC does not. Its speed is unique and can be adjusted.

If you’re looking to buy an AC and the inverter variant has crossed your mind, you’ve come to the right place.

In this post, we’ll show you the many advantages and disadvantages of an inverter air conditioner, so that you can make your choice from an informed position.

Advantages of Inverter Air Conditioner

There are several advantages of an inverter air conditioner, and we’ll examine a number of them.

1. Reduced Energy Consumption

The simple reason lies in the fact that the compressor of the inverter AC unit does not go on and off like other units. This makes its relative energy consumption lower than that of other units.

When you consider a regular window or split AC, there is a jump in electricity usage each time the compressor turns on.

This is different with an inverter AC, as the compressor only comes on when the entire HVAC system is turned on. This saves a lot of money on electricity bills.

2. Room Size Suitability

An inverter air conditioner also has an edge over other types because it is suitable for large and small rooms.

While it will perform optimally in smaller rooms, it will do likewise in larger rooms but will require a lot more energy to perform. This is not the case with regular ACs that struggle to meet up with rooms beyond their scope.

3. Reduced Noise and Vibration

This is also quite important. Nobody wants to go to bed in a room where the AC makes a disturbing, creaking noise. It can be a restless and uncomfortable night.

This has to do with the continuous turn on and turn off of the AC. With an inverter AC, there is less noise and more calm in your home during operation.

The Inverter AC’s compressor simply slows down when it gets too cold and does not release unbearable noises.

4. Higher Cooling Rate

The cooling rate you get with an inverter air conditioner is also significantly higher than what a regular split or window AC offers. This is why it is one of the most popular AC types among households in the world.

5. Suitable for Solar Power

As a result of the inverter technology, the AC unit is able to run smoothly on solar energy, as against other ACs that lack such compatibility. This is also another way to save cost on energy bills in the long run.

6. Uniform Room Temperature

The way an inverter air conditioner works is such that allows for uniform and stable room temperature around the room.

Unlike many regular units that will cool one part of the room and find it difficult to cool the other part, the inverter AC has no trouble whatsoever.

7. Managed Load Fluctuation

It is quite common to notice fluctuating load disruptions with regular ACs. This is not the case with inverter air conditioners as they work quite perfectly when the load changes, like in the case of events, conferences and large offices.

Disadvantages of Inverter Air Conditioner

Despite its obvious advantages, an inverter air conditioner has its own fair share of drawbacks. These include:

1. Higher Price

Well, all of those benefits certainly do not come without a price. Compared to regular window or split air conditioners, inverter ACs cost about 25% more. This means a higher initial investment.

2. Maintenance Cost

An inverter AC also has more complex components and parts, making it more expensive to maintain and repair.

So, if this is what you need, you must be prepared for the immediate and long-term financial obligations.

3. Less Dehumidification

It is no longer strange to find air conditioner units that are also excellent dehumidifiers.

This may not be the case with an inverter AC, especially if the temperature is not extremely low. This is because the level of chilling is determined by the heat load.

4. Risk of Increased Power Usage

An inverter AC compressor works by adjusting its speed to the heat load. When it gets extremely hot or there is a leak, the speed of the compressor will increase greatly, forcing energy consumption to rise.

This is also the case with low-capacity inverter ACs which are forced to run their compressor at great speed.

Top 3 Reliable Inverter Air Conditioners

1. Midea U Inverter Window Air Conditioner [Value for Money]

It is also very easy to operate and features Alexa for voice control. This is part of its App Control mechanism, using your iOS or Android devices. All of these offer ease and convenience. It is also very easy to install.

2. DAIKIN 9,000 BTU Ductless Mini-Split Inverter Air Conditioner [Best Features]

This is a very functional unit and its features make using it very easy and convenient. Talking about convenience, this split AC unit has an app feature for connecting it to your phone. There’s also a remote control for added flexibility.

For extra features, the Daikin split unit has a deodorizing filter for odorless cooling or heating.

What’s more, pushing the POWERFUL button on the remote will give you a performance boost for the next 20 minutes, even if the AC is already operating at optimum.

3. Pioneer Inverter Air Conditioner WYS009G-19 [Best Price]

This product is 9,000 BTU and fits our budget category for price and quality. Using the Ductless Inverter technology, this unit posts SEER 18.

It can be used for both cooling and heating with ultra-quiet operation for use in small to medium spaces. There is also a 5-year coverage for its powerful inverter compressor and other parts.

Final Words:

Inverter air conditioners are a valuable resource for making the air in your home more comfortable and pleasant.

If you’ve been looking to purchase a product, this article gives you a broad and comprehensive perspective on the pros and cons of an inverter AC and the reasons why you may want to consider it.

Any of the three products here are a great fit for your home, office, or business area and will give you great value for your money.