Window Air Conditioner vs Split System Air Conditioner

Choosing the right air conditioner for your home can be tricky, especially when faced with options like window air conditioners and split systems.

Both types offer cooling relief during hot days, but they have key differences that may make one more suitable for your needs than the other.

Window air conditioners are compact, easy to install, and often more affordable, while split systems provide powerful cooling, greater energy efficiency and quieter operation. In this blog, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each type, comparing factors like energy efficiency, installation, cooling capacity and costs.

By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which air conditioner fits your home and lifestyle best, helping you stay cool without breaking the bank.

Window Air Conditioner: The Classic Cool

Let’s start with the window air conditioner, often referred to as a box air conditioner or wall air conditioner. By design, window air conditioners are compact, self-contained units that fit into your window (or a hole in your wall, hence the term “window/wall air conditioner”). These units offer an effective and efficient way to cool your rooms and have been a popular choice for years.

One of the main advantages of window air conditioners is their simplicity. These units are straightforward to install, particularly if you already have a suitably sized hole in the wall. Even for larger models, installation remains fairly simple, and there’s usually no need for significant renovation work.

Window air conditioners come with a range of features, like a remote control for easy operation and temperature adjustments. They also commonly have built-in filters, which are essential for maintaining air quality in the room. With regular cleaning, these filters keep your air clean and fresh, enhancing cooling efficiency.

Window air conditioners are effective standalone cooling systems, making them an “only air conditioner” option for many Australians. This type of air conditioner is also often a more economical choice for cooling individual rooms or smaller spaces.

Over time, they can save you money on power bills as they focus on cooling specific areas instead of your entire home. Some models even offer a reverse-cycle feature, allowing both cooling and heating.

Split System: The Sophisticated Approach

Now let’s turn our attention to split system air conditioners. These air conditioners comprise two parts: an indoor unit mounted on the wall and an outdoor unit housing the compressor. This separation led to their “split system” moniker.

Split-system air conditioners are designed to cool larger spaces and multiple rooms at once. This makes them a favoured choice for larger homes or offices. These systems are also usually quieter than window units as the noisy compressor is located outside.

Installation is a bit more complex for split systems compared to their window counterparts. They require a small hole in the wall for connecting pipes, while the outdoor unit needs a sturdy base for installation.

Similar to window units, split systems also feature handy remote controls for easy temperature adjustments. Their filters need regular cleaning, like window units, to maintain air quality and cooling efficiency.

One of the standout features of split systems is their aesthetic integration into your home’s decor compared to the more industrial look of window-wall air conditioners. For some, this factor may sway their decision when choosing between the two.

Just like window units, split system air conditioners come in a range of capacities. However, the cooling efficiency of split systems is generally higher than window units. This is because of their larger size and more powerful motors, making them capable of cooling larger spaces faster than window air conditioners.

To cool (or heat) multiple areas, a split system can become a multi-head system, with several indoor units attached to one outdoor unit.

Energy Efficiency Comparison

When it comes to energy efficiency, the difference between window air conditioners and split systems can significantly impact your electricity bill. Here’s how they compare:

• Window air conditioners:
  • Generally less energy-efficient than split systems.
  • Ideal for cooling smaller rooms but may struggle with larger spaces, leading to higher energy use.
  • Some models come with energy-saving features, but they tend to consume more electricity overall due to older technology.
  • May need to run for longer periods to maintain a consistent temperature.
• Split system air conditioners:
  • Typically more energy-efficient, thanks to modern inverter technology that adjusts power based on cooling needs.
  • Great for cooling larger spaces and maintaining a stable temperature with less power consumption.
  • Often come with higher energy ratings, leading to lower operating costs in the long run.
  • Higher upfront cost, but energy savings make up for it over time.

Choosing the more efficient system can save you money while keeping your home comfortably cool.

Cooling Performance and Capacity

When comparing window air conditioners and split systems, cooling performance and capacity are essential factors to consider. Here’s how they measure up:

• Window air conditioners:
  • Best suited for cooling smaller spaces, such as bedrooms or small living rooms.
  • Limited cooling capacity, which can make it less effective in larger or open-plan areas.
  • Provides immediate cooling but may struggle to evenly distribute cool air throughout a room.
  • Works well in milder climates or as a supplemental cooling option for single rooms.
• Split system air conditioners:
  • Designed to cool larger areas and even entire homes when multiple units are installed.
  • Offers more powerful and consistent cooling performance with better airflow.
  • Features adjustable temperature controls and often includes zoning options for targeted cooling.
  • More efficient at maintaining a steady temperature, especially in extreme weather conditions.

For larger spaces or homes with varying cooling needs, split systems typically outperform window units.

Installation Process and Costs

The installation process and costs differ significantly between window air conditioners and split systems. Here’s a breakdown:

• Window air conditioners:
  • Relatively simple to install, often a DIY project with basic tools.
  • Requires a window with the right dimensions, as the unit is placed directly in the window frame.
  • Installation typically takes less time and doesn’t require professional help, reducing upfront costs.
  • Can be easily moved or removed during colder months.
  • Costs are lower, both for the unit itself and installation, making it a budget-friendly option.
• Split system air conditioners:
  • Requires professional installation due to the complexity of mounting the indoor and outdoor units.
  • Installation involves drilling and possibly modifying walls, which adds to the overall cost.
  • Takes more time and planning but offers a cleaner and more permanent setup.
  • Higher installation costs, but long-term benefits in performance and energy efficiency.

Consider your budget and space limitations when deciding between the two.

Maintenance and Longevity

Maintenance and longevity are important factors when choosing between a window air conditioner and a split system. Here’s how they compare:

• Window air conditioners:
  • Easier to maintain since most components are within a single unit.
  • Filters need regular cleaning or replacement, especially during heavy use.
  • Prone to dirt buildup, which can affect performance if not maintained.
  • Shorter lifespan, typically lasting 8-10 years with proper care.
  • Easily replaceable due to lower costs but may require more frequent replacements compared to split systems.
• Split system air conditioners:
  • Requires more detailed maintenance, including professional servicing of both indoor and outdoor units.
  • Filters also need cleaning, but the system may have advanced features like self-cleaning.
  • Higher durability and typically lasts longer, around 15-20 years with regular maintenance.
  • Professional inspections are recommended to ensure long-term efficiency and avoid costly repairs.

Investing in proper maintenance can extend the lifespan and efficiency of either system.

Keep Your Cool − Make the Right Decision

When choosing between a window air conditioner and a split system, it all comes down to your specific needs and budget. Window air conditioners are affordable, easy to install and work well in smaller spaces, making them a great option for those looking for quick, temporary cooling.

On the other hand, split systems offer more powerful and efficient cooling, especially for larger areas, but come with a higher upfront cost and more complex installation.

If you’re looking for long-term savings and a quieter, more efficient solution, a split system may be the better choice. Ultimately, both options have their strengths, so consider factors like room size, energy efficiency and installation costs to find the right fit for your home.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.