What’s the difference between an inverter and a fixed speed air conditioner?

Choosing a new air conditioning unit for your home or business is no easy task. Things like building size, floor plan design, ventilation, price and energy consumption need to be considered in the search for the best results. That’s why knowing the difference between fixed speed and inverter split system technology is essential.

What is a fixed speed system?

Fixed speed air conditioners, also known as standard or non-inverter, present a straightforward, single speed motor operation: on and off. Once the desired temperature is reached, they turn off, turning back on only when the temperature rises to a set level. This means fixed speed systems operate at either full or no capacity at all. As you may have guessed, this on and off cycle causes unnecessary waste of electricity and fails to keep constant room temperature.

But it’s not all dark and gloomy for these machines. Their main advantage compared to inverter split systems is a lower upfront cost, which is good if you have a tight budget for a new unit. And, because they don’t use as many moveable parts to control the compressor motor speed, repairing charges are usually cheaper as well.

However, if you are after a reliable, low maintenance and energy-efficient air conditioner that will save you even more money down the road, an inverter split system may be a better choice.

What is an inverter system?

Inverter system air conditioning has been developed to fix the temperature variations and energy waste of fixed speed ACs once and for all. This technology uses variable speed to gain full control over the compressor motor for optimal performance.

How does it work?

Like the engine of a car, the inverter system increases speed at the start, producing enough power to achieve desired temperature fast, later fine-tuning its operation to maintain the indoor climate it created, without the thermal fluctuations of a single speed air con.

What are the benefits of the inverter system?

In addition to reaching set room temperatures quickly, and effectively sustaining them, inverter systems avoid the bursts of energy of single speeds, providing a quiet operation that’s perfect to whisper you into slumber mode on hot nights. These overachievers offer a great reduction in energy consumption while still providing a powerful operation.

To take advantage of all these clever features, visit our website and have a look at our inverter system air conditioners for residential and business applications, or call 13 COOL to speak with one of our consultants.

Find out even more ways to create your ideal environment to beat the heat this summer on our blog.