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If you are an amateur in the world of indoor cooling, you may look to compare inverter vs non-inverter AC units. Some of the best air conditioners, after all, feature one of these two design choices. So what is an inverter in an AC, do you need one, and how do these two types of units differ? Keep reading to find out.
Before you can understand the differences here, you must learn how an inverter air conditioner works in the first place. Inverters help control the electrical usage of a system, and this is true even when comparing a single-stage vs a two-stage air conditioner. Inverters were added to modern AC units in an attempt to regulate electrical consumption and reduce temperature fluctuations by lowering the compressor motors speed when the room is cool. Compared to a model without an inverter, where the compressor runs full speed until the room reaches the desired temperature and then shuts off. If you are having issues with your AC, like wondering why your window unit keeps turning off, check out our article for some useful tips.
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In other words, inverter-based AC units are often more efficient with fewer frustrating temperature fluctuations, even if you are looking for the best LG air conditioner. You may also be interested in learning the differences between electric and gas AC as well. However, here are some more contrasts between inverter and non-inverter. There could also be differences in fixing an air conditioner compressor based on if it has an inverter or not.
Insider Tip
Once a room is cool, inverter air conditioners lower the speed of the compressor motor to save energy and refrigerant required to cool the air.
In nearly all cases, an AC outfitted with inverter technology will boast increased energy efficiency over standard non-inverter units. If you are looking to cut down on that monthly utility bill, go with the best inverter air conditioner. As a matter of fact, the vast majority of AC units advertised with Energy Star certifications include inverters for regulating the electrical current and minimizing temperature fluctuations.
Non-inverter AC systems are cheaper to purchase and install than inverter-based systems due to being an older technology. Traditional non-inverter systems were the only game in town until around 20 years ago, making them ubiquitous and extremely budget-friendly, particularly when shopping for one in the used market. Expect to pay 20 percent more for a brand new inverter AC unit when compared to a non-inverter model.
STAT: The compressor refers to the part of the aircon unit that compresses the refrigerant gas into a liquid form. Once this occurs, the refrigerant begins to cool, creating the cool air that regulates the temperature in the room. (source)
The actual cooling power is a draw, as it largely depends on the various motors and other specifications. However, inverter-based air conditioners will cool a home much quicker than a non-inverter model. Inverter AC units easily run at their rated cooling capacity and work to efficiently and speedily cool a room or whole home as soon as it is turned on. Non-inverter, or old-school, AC units, take a bit longer to get going.
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