What Is the Difference Between Inverter and Non-Inverter Air Conditioners?

Hannah
3 min readNov 12, 2023

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Malaysia has a tropical climate, so it can get really hot sometimes. And with the growth of cities, industries, and climate change, the country needs efficient cooling solutions more than ever.

If you’re a homeowner or business owner in Malaysia, you’ll need to decide between an inverter and non-inverter air conditioner to keep everyone cool and comfy. But what’s the difference between these technologies?

In this post, we’ll break down the differences between inverter and non-inverter ACs and talk about their pros and cons so you can pick the best one for your property.

Inverter vs Non-Inverter AC

An inverter air conditioner has a compressor that can run at different speeds to cool your room more efficiently and quietly than a non-inverter AC. It’s like having a car with cruise control: the AC adjusts its speed to match the cooling demand, so you don’t have to keep turning it on and off.

Non-inverter air conditioners have a one-speed compressor, so they rev up and down all the time to keep your room cool. This wastes energy and makes a lot of noise because they always turn on and off.

The Pros and Cons of Inverter vs Non-Inverter AC

Inverter ACs were first introduced in the late 80’s and early 90’s in Japan as an efficient alternative to the traditional non-inverter ACs. But while they come with many benefits, they also have a few drawbacks, as do non-inverter air conditioners.

Inverter AC: The Efficient Choice

Pros:

  • Energy-efficient because they operate at variable speeds
  • Lower noise levels, ideal for quiet environments
  • More precise temperature control
  • Reduced humidity for longer operation
  • Longer lifespan than traditional ACs
  • Eco-friendly as they consume less energy and produce fewer emissions

Cons:

  • Higher upfront cost
  • Expensive repairs due to complex technology

Non-Inverter AC: The Traditional Alternative

Pros:

  • Lower upfront cost
  • Easy to maintain and repair due to less complex
  • Effective cooling in larger spaces
  • Readily available
  • Wide range of features available like sleep mode and turbo mode

Cons:

  • Higher energy consumption
  • Less precise cooling temperature
  • Noiser operation
  • Shorter lifespan

Which Type of AC Is Right for You?

Inverter ACs have a higher upfront cost than non-inverter ACs because they save more energy in the long run.

Inverter ACs can save up to 30–50% of electricity compared to non-inverter ACs. This means that the long-term energy savings from an inverter AC can easily outweigh the higher upfront cost.

But, the actual energy savings from an inverter AC will vary depending on the climate, the size of the room being cooled, and how often you use it.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

Whether you opt for an inverter or a non-inverter air conditioner, your choice should align with your lifestyle, usage patterns, and budget. For those who plan on using their AC regularly or for extended periods, an inverter AC is a wise investment. Conversely, for less frequent use, a non-inverter AC may be more cost-effective.

For expert advice and top-notch air conditioning solutions tailored to the Malaysian climate, visit Sifu Air Conditioning Services. Our team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect cooling solution for your home or business.

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