Split AC vs Window AC: Which is Best for Your Home?

When it comes to cooling your home, choosing the right type of air conditioner is crucial. The two most popular options are Split AC and Window AC. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, making it essential to understand which one is better suited for your needs. In this comprehensive guide, we will compare Split AC vs Window AC to help you make an informed decision. Additionally, we will discuss how OLX can assist you in finding the perfect air conditioner for your home.

What is a Split AC?

A Split AC consists of two main units: the indoor unit, which is installed inside the room, and the outdoor unit, which is placed outside the house. These units are connected by refrigerant pipes. The indoor unit contains the evaporator, while the outdoor unit houses the compressor and condenser.

Advantages of Split AC

• Quieter Operation: Split ACs are generally quieter than Window ACs because the compressor is located outside the house.
• Better Aesthetics: The indoor unit of a Split AC is sleek and can blend well with the room’s decor.
• Enhanced Cooling: Split ACs offer more powerful cooling and are better suited for larger rooms.
• Flexible Installation: They can be installed in various locations within a room, offering more flexibility in terms of placement.

Disadvantages of Split AC

• Higher Cost: Split ACs are usually more expensive than Window ACs, both in terms of initial purchase and installation. The price range for a window AC unit can vary from Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 30,000 whereas The price of a split AC can range from Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 60,000 or more.
• Complex Installation: Installing a Split AC requires professional help and can be more time-consuming.
• Maintenance: Split ACs require regular maintenance, including cleaning the indoor and outdoor units.

What is a Window AC?

A Window AC is a single unit that combines all components, including the compressor, condenser, and evaporator, into one box. This unit is installed in a window or a wall opening.

Advantages of Window AC

• Cost-Effective: Window ACs are generally cheaper to purchase and install compared to Split ACs.
• Easy Installation: They are easier to install and can be done without professional help.
• Compact Design: The compact design of Window ACs makes them ideal for smaller rooms and spaces.
• Maintenance: Window ACs are easier to maintain due to their single-unit design.

Disadvantages of Window AC

• Noise: Window ACs tend to be noisier as all components are housed in a single unit.
• Aesthetics: They can be bulky and may not blend well with the room’s decor.
• Limited Placement: Installation is limited to windows or walls that can accommodate the unit.
• Less Powerful Cooling: Window ACs may not be as powerful as Split ACs, making them less suitable for larger rooms.

Split AC Vs Window AC: Key Differences

Choosing the right air conditioning system can be a game-changer for your home or office comfort. Let’s explore the key differences between Split AC and Window AC to help you make an informed decision.

Price Comparison

• Split AC: Split ACs are more costly. The average cost is between Rs. 25,000 and Rs. 60,000, depending on brand, capacity, and elements.
• Window AC: Window ac are more modest, frequently costing between Rs. 15,000 and Rs. 30,000.
• Summary: Split air conditioners are more costly, however, they are more efficient & functional.

Energy Consumption and Efficiency

• Split ACs: They are known for their high energy efficiency, especially inverter ACs that modify blower speed to save power.
• Window AC: Window AC is less productive, however more up-to-date forms with energy-saving highlights are moving along.
• Summary: Split air conditioners are by and large more energy-productive, which could bring about lower power costs.

Space requirements

• Split AC: The frameworks require wall space for the indoor unit and open space for the condenser unit. Installation requires professional expertise and extra space.
• Window AC: They are compact since they are one unit that squeezes into a window or wall opening, occupying less indoor room.
• Summary: Split air conditioners require more installation space, while window air conditioners are more compact and simpler to introduce.

Cooling Capacity

• Split AC: They arrive in different sizes going from 0.8 to 2 tons or more, making them appropriate for both small and large rooms.
• Window AC: Accessible in capacities going from 0.8 to 2 tons, they are great for small to medium-sized rooms.
• Summary: The two models give equivalent cooling capacity, albeit split air conditioners are more efficient for bigger spaces.

Installation

• Split AC: It requires professional installation because of the two-unit framework (indoor and open-air). The installation process can be troublesome.
• Window AC: They are simpler to install because they come as a single unit that can be fixed on a window or wall. 
• Summary: Window air conditioners are simpler and more affordable to introduce than split air conditioners.

Style

• Split AC: It has a smooth and current style, as the indoor unit is compact. 
• Window AC: They are bulkier and less stylish as they distend from the window or wall.
• Summary: Split air conditioners are more stylish, and appealing and mix better with room decors.

Maintenance and Serviceability

• Split AC:  It might require more successive maintenance because of its unpredictable installation and two-unit plan.
• Window AC: They are simpler to repair since they comprise a solitary unit with additional accessible parts.
• Summary: Window air conditioners are frequently simpler and more affordable to keep up with.

Maintenance Cost

• Split AC: It has higher maintenance costs because of its complexity and requires professional maintenance.
• Window AC: It has lower maintenance costs and can troubleshoot common issues with DIY Methods.
• Summary: Window air conditioners are more easy to maintain.

Serviceability

• Split AC: Repairs can be more complex due to separate indoor and outdoor units (potentially higher repair costs).
• Window AC: They are simpler to fix and repair, with additional promptly accessible parts and administration choices.
• Summary: Window air conditioners are more functional and cost less to fix.

Which is better for you – Window AC or Split AC for Bedroom/Office?

Selecting the ideal AC for your bedroom or office depends on the room’s size and your needs. Window ACs excel in smaller spaces (up to 300 sq. ft.) due to their budget-friendly price and easy DIY installation. However, they have limited cooling capacity, operate noisily, block windows, and are less energy-efficient. 

Split ACs, on the other hand, are perfect for larger areas (up to 1200 sq. ft. or more) thanks to their superior cooling power, quieter operation, better air distribution, and energy efficiency that translates to potentially lower electricity bills. While split ACs boast a sleeker design that doesn’t obstruct windows, they come with a higher upfront cost and require professional installation.  

Ultimately, consider the room size, your budget, noise tolerance, installation preferences, and aesthetic desires to choose the AC that best creates a cool and comfortable environment for you.

Top 5 Models – Windows AC Vs Split AC

Split AC Models

Window AC Models

Split AC Vs Window AC – Takeaways

Choosing between a Split AC and a Window AC depends on various factors, including room size, budget, noise levels, and maintenance requirements. Split ACs offer powerful cooling and quieter operation but come at a higher cost and require professional installation. Window ACs are more budget-friendly and easier to install but may be noisier and less aesthetically pleasing. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs.

OLX provides a convenient platform to find both Split and Window ACs, offering a variety of options to fit your budget and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a new or used air conditioner, OLX can help you find the perfect solution for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which uses less energy, Window or split AC?

Split air conditioners use less energy because of their improved cooling qualities and modern technology. But with better designs, modern window air conditioners have also become more efficient.

Is it simpler to install a window AC than a split AC?

Since window air conditioners fit neatly into a window or wall slot, installing them could not be simpler. Professional installation is required for both the indoor and outdoor units of split air conditioners.

Which air conditioner is best for a large space?

Larger rooms work better with split AC because they provide more effective cooling and better air dispersion.

Can I find both split ACs and window ACs on OLX?

Yes, OLX offers a wide range of both split ACs and window ACs, both new and used, at competitive prices. You can explore different options and choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.

Can I install a split AC on my own?

No, split ACs require professional installation, as they consist of two units – the indoor unit and the outdoor unit, which need to be connected properly.