HomeHub: Buying Guide for Air Conditioners

Don’t you feel hot these days? With the weather skyrocketing to over 30 degrees recently, nothing beats being indoors with the air conditioner on full blast and sipping on an ice-cold drink. Due to Singapore’s hot and humid climate, most people have become dependent on air conditioners on a daily basis. Choosing the best one for your home is crucial as this counts as a long-term investment. No idea where to start? We’re always here to help!

Interior Designer: The Association

 

Table 1: Types of air conditioners available in the market

Variety	Daikin	LG	Mitsubishi Electric	Samsung
Inverter	♦	♦
Non-Inverter	♦
Single Split Inverter		♦	♦	♦
Multi Split Inverter			♦	♦
Window		♦	♦	♦
Floor Standing				♦

 

Table 2: General comparison of the different types of air conditioners

Inverter	Non-Inverter	Single Split Inverter	Multi Split Inverter	Window	Floor Standing
Usually of better quality	Cheaper than inverter - difference can range between $600 to $800	Connects one indoor unit to an outdoor unit	Connects multiple indoor units to outdoor units	More troublesome to install and only fit standard-sized windows	Simple to install and fit an array of window types
Has longer compressor life span	Compressor starts and stops repeatedly depending on pre-set temperature	Installs simply and unobtrusively to buildings with no need for ductwork	Installs simply and unobtrusively to buildings with no need for ductwork	Generally less expensive. Prices vary with cooling capacity.	Generally more expensive
Very quiet		Delivers a sophisticated air conditioning solution to single zone interior spaces at an affordable price	Provides individual control of room temperature settings	Generally quite noisy as they work and rumble against window sills	Noise level varies according to models

 

1. Non-Inverter

-For people who want a more economical option -If you don't mind the constant sound of the compressor starting up and stopping

We recommend: DAIKIN’s Non-Inverter Single Split (R-410)

Key features: -Sophisticated and stylish flat panel design -Highest Energy-Efficiency rating for non-inverter type aircon -High quality clean air (air-purifying filter with photocatalytic deodorising function) -Quiet sound levels

 

2. Single Split Inverter

-For people who want to keep the entire process simple -You'll be able to enjoy minimal temperature fluctuation compared to having a non-inverter

We recommend: LG’s BSNQ126B4A2 Single Split Inverter V

Key features: -Triple filter -19 DB quiet operation -Energy saving solution -Auto cleaning

 

3. Multi Split Inverter

-For large-scale / heavy usage -If you have multiple air conditioners within a space, this is a more energy-efficient option

We recommend: Mitsubishi Electric’s Starmex MSY Series Wall Mounted Type

Key features: -Adjusts capacity in response to conditions such as the difference between outside and inside temperature -Runs more efficiently and reduces energy costs -Capacity ranges from 2.5 kW to 7.1 kW (you can mix and match to build a customised air conditioning system that is just right for your home)

 

4. Window

-For people who appreciate ease of installation -These units are designed to cool a single room with more cooling power than portable units

We recommend: Samsung’s Multi Split Outdoor Unit

Key features: -Virus doctor -Bigger fan - wider and further air flow -Digital inverter compressor - energy saving

 

5. Floor Standing

-For people who want convenience and portability -These units are used mainly to cool specific areas you want

We recommend: Samsung’s AF9000 Inverter Floor Standing

Key features: -Virus doctor -Bigger fan - wider and further air flow -Digital inverter compressor - energy saving

 

We hope the information above can help you make a more informed choice when it comes to choosing an appropriate air conditioner for your home. Do you have a favourite? At the end of the day, I guess anything works as long as it saves us from the unbearable heat.