Wondering if inverter air conditioners are worth the investment? With temperatures in the Philippines reaching 40 degrees Celsius, having an energy-efficient AC is essential for comfort without high electricity consumption.
Finding the right unit can be daunting, with questions about type, budget, and whether they really cut costs. Luckily, we have a fact-checked buying guide by mechanical engineer Leo Rea and a list of the top 10 inverter ACs from trusted brands like LG and Samsung.
A Mechanical Engineering graduate and currently a project manager. He has always been interested in the HVAC/R industry. His family also owns an air-conditioning business, where they supply airconditioners in commercial and industrial areas.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 05-24-2023).
Table of Contents
To maximize energy savings, there are factors you should consider before buying an inverter air conditioner unit. Learn about these considerations below:
There are different types of air conditioning units available in the market today. You can narrow down your choice by looking at the most popular ones below.
If your house cannot be affixed with ducts, you could opt for a split-type air conditioner. You can have the compressor and condenser out of your living space and get an indoor air-handling unit to control the temperature and air volume inside the room.
This indoor unit is usually wall-mounted and releases cold air sideways with the help of the fans inside. Most people prefer this as it saves more space inside their homes than a window-type unit. It also looks sleek, so it can blend with your home's aesthetics better.
However, it requires wall drilling and raceway installations to connect with the condensing unit placed outside. With that said, you might need to plan all those out before the installation.
Among the different types of air conditioners, the window-type is probably the most common air conditioning unit you will see in a Filipino household. You can find this commonly installed in smaller rooms or confined spaces since it only requires a small rectangular hole to be put in place.
Given its popularity and efficiency, window-type units are the best for condo units as some rooms are already designed with a holed wall. Aside from the portable air conditioner, the window-type is more convenient and an all-in-one appliance that requires minimum installation cost.
Depending on how the building was designed, some developers would prefer hidden outdoor units. The design of the air conditioner must be considered before the construction.
If you don't want to break down walls or take down a portion of your window, a portable air conditioning unit can work best for you. All you need is a working power outlet inside the room as the appliance can be conveniently moved wherever needed.
Just make sure to consider the correct cooling capacity that your area requires so that you don't end up with a low-powered unit that won't be able to cool your entire area.
If you prefer getting a portable aircon unit, it would be best to get one with outlet and inlet hoses attached as this type is more efficient in cooling than those with exhaust only.
The most important thing to consider in making this purchase is the size of the room it is supposed to cool. Knowing the appropriate cooling power needed for a specific room will keep your electricity consumption lower and your power bill reasonable. For a 20 sqm room, at least 1.5 HP is preferred.
To ensure the energy efficiency of your air conditioner, check the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of your unit. The allowed minimum EER for air conditioners is 9.1. The relationship between the EER and electricity consumption is indirectly proportional: the higher the EER, the lower your electricity bill is! Another plus? A higher EER means it's a more environment-friendly unit!
Who wants extra noise in your room anyway? Limit the unnecessary noise by choosing an aircon that operates quietly. The best way to confirm this is by checking the unit's noise level or sound level that is usually indicated on its specifications. You might also want to refer to this guide to gauge how quiet a particular decibel is.
Most inverter air conditioners operate on 30-60dB, but choosing the lowest noise level possible would be best, so you can place it in different areas in your home, like your bedroom and workspace without worrying about being interrupted during your work or rest.
Purchasing an air conditioner promises comfort, but it shouldn't be at the expense of the environment. Understanding the different types of refrigerants in your air conditioner can help you decide the best environmentally-friendly unit to purchase. These are the most common types of refrigerants:
Even though the CFCs and HCFCs are already phased out, you may still stumble upon them when buying older units. Hence, it is best to double-check and be conscious about the units that we are purchasing. This way, we can be assured of our health, and we could be at peace knowing that it's not harming the environment.
An aircon is considered both a luxury and a necessity in the Philippines, so when we purchase one, we try to look for the unit that can give us a bang for our buck. If you want to do this, it is a good idea to look for one with additional features that can offer you convenience in the long run.
Here are a few features to look out for when choosing an air conditioner:
From ₱36,998
Type | Split Type |
---|---|
Cooling Power | 1HP |
Applicable Room Size | 18 to 22 sq. m |
EER | 11.9 |
Power Consumption | 835W |
Noise Level | 22dB |
Refrigerant | R32 |
Additional Features | Ultrafresh Filter,Dual Clean System, Self-Cleaning, Eco Sleep Timer |
From ₱26,495
As part of Kolin's Quad Series, this inverter aircon centers on cost savings, cleaner air, comfort, and convenience. With its full DC inverter, it helps you save more energy, up to 65%. It also uses a multi-stage filtration system to improve the quality of the air you breathe. Moreover, this unit has a high-power compressor and a smart controller that allows you to manage it anytime and anywhere conveniently.
It is eco-friendly, too. It uses an R32 refrigerant with an energy efficiency ratio of up to 14.2. Another advantage of this inverter aircon unit is that it is fast-cooling - it can cool your room quicker than older models of air conditioners! As a reliable brand, Kolin offers cooling units built to last years in your home, making it a worthwhile investment for your comfort and peace of mind.
Type | Window Type |
---|---|
Cooling Power | 1.5HP |
Applicable Room Size | 23 to 27 sq. m |
EER | 11.6 |
Power Consumption | 1140W |
Noise Level | 51 / 49 / 48 dBA |
Refrigerant | R-32 |
Additional Features | Multi-Stage Air Filtration System, Self Diagnosis, Quick Cooling |
From ₱23,780
Have you ever left your home, doubting whether you turned off your appliances before leaving? Or do you wish to return to a room that is already cooled to a specific temperature? LG's air conditioner lets you do just that, as it comes with an app that allows you to control the unit from anywhere you are!
In addition to this advanced technology, it also features quiet operation that won't disturb your sleep and a sleek, modern design that gives your room an urban and updated look. Furthermore, to fulfill its energy-saving claim, it utilizes a dual inverter compressor, ensuring lower electricity consumption and up to 70% greater energy savings.
Type | Window Type |
---|---|
Cooling Power | 1HP |
Applicable Room Size | 18 to 22 sq. m |
EER | 11.1 |
Power Consumption | 900W |
Noise Level | 44 dB |
Refrigerant | R32 |
Additional Features | WiFi Connection, Filter Alarm Function, Energy Saver Function,Anti-Bacterial Filter |
From ₱24,851.9
This full DC inverter air conditioner is the result of a combination of Japanese technology, Taiwanese design, and Filipino craftsmanship. The smaller and lighter build provides efficient cooling comfort while using less window space. Its R410A refrigerant is globally accepted, which cools effectively and does not contribute to ozone depletion and higher bills.
The Self-Diagnose feature can troubleshoot your unit instantly, and its Auto Sweep function is designed for widespread cooling. A user-friendly remote control is also provided for easier control and setting. Meanwhile, its AION air filter can eliminate dust and other airborne microbes—it is also detachable for hassle-free maintenance. Users remarked that it operates quietly and cools the room quickly, plus, it's aesthetically pleasing.
Type | Window Type |
---|---|
Cooling Power | 0.6HP |
Applicable Room Size | 6 to 11 sq. m |
EER | 13.3 |
Power Consumption | 526W |
Noise Level | Not Specified |
Refrigerant | R410a |
Additional Features | R410a No-Noise Operation, Self-Diagnose Function, Versatile Mode Settings |
From ₱64,240
Type | Split Type |
---|---|
Cooling Power | 2HP |
Applicable Room Size | 28 to 40 sq. m |
EER | 15.1 |
Power Consumption | 1320W |
Noise Level | Not Specified |
Refrigerant | R32 |
Additional Features | "Hybrid Cooling,Econo Mode,Mold Proof Operation, Coanda Effect |
From ₱29,559
Type | Window Type |
---|---|
Cooling Power | 1HP |
Applicable Room Size | 12 – 18 sq.m |
EER | 11.56 |
Power Consumption | 1140W |
Noise Level | 51 / 46 / 43 dB |
Refrigerant | R32 |
Additional Features | Self Diagnosis, Soft Start, Dehumidifying |
From ₱33,458
Type | Split Type |
---|---|
Cooling Power | 1HP |
Applicable Room Size | 18 to 22 sq. m |
EER | 14.26 |
Power Consumption | 870W |
Noise Level | 37/22 dBA |
Refrigerant | R32 |
Additional Features | Good Sleep, Dehumidification, Quiet Mode |
From ₱18,894
Type | Split Type |
---|---|
Cooling Power | 1HP |
Applicable Room Size | 18 to 22 sq. m |
EER | 11.6 |
Power Consumption | 820W |
Noise Level | 41/33/30 dB |
Refrigerant | R410A |
Additional Features | Faster Cooling, 5-in-1 Health Filters, Quiet Operation |
From ₱21,498
Combining its eco-friendly and smart technologies, Midea's 1.5HP Inverter Window-Type Air Conditioner is the best choice for any household. It uses R32 refrigerant, which is economical and environment-friendly at the same time. It also utilizes a full DC inverter that cools the room faster and provides more value for your money.
And it only produces 42dB of noise, so you can relax at home without any disturbances. For maximum convenience, you can use the remote control, your smartphone, or a voice assistant to change the settings. Customers gave it high ratings, saying it's very quiet and easy to use.
Type | WIndow Type |
---|---|
Cooling Power | 1HP |
Applicable Room Size | 18 to 22 sq. m |
EER | 12.2 |
Power Consumption | 794W |
Noise Level | Below 42 dB |
Refrigerant | Not Specified |
Additional Features | Fast Cooling, Silent Mode, WiFI enabled |
From ₱14,995
This portable air conditioner is ideal for those with installation or wall space limitations. With no complicated installation required, it offers convenience and mobility with its smooth-gliding wheels. But despite its portability, it doesn't compromise performance. Equipped with three filters, it effectively eliminates bacteria, germs, dust, pollen, and mold, ensuring you breathe cleaner air.
The unit also features Follow Me technology, enabling the remote to function as a thermostat, extending the cooling range while directing cool air towards you. However, it's important to note that this unit is an inverter-grade air conditioner, not a premium inverter model. While it helps save on energy consumption, it may not match the efficiency of premium inverter units.
Type | Portable Type |
---|---|
Cooling Power | 1HP |
Applicable Room Size | 18 to 22 sq. m |
EER | Not Specified |
Power Consumption | Not Specified |
Noise Level | Not Specified |
Refrigerant | R410a |
Additional Features | Air Purifying Filters, Follow Me Technology |
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
An inverter air conditioner can save electricity if you select the correct size, but it won't be as efficient if you happen to choose the wrong size for your space. With that said, to save electricity, start by purchasing an aircon with a horsepower (HP) that is suitable for your area.
Aside from the floor area and horsepower, you should also turn off your aircon after 4-5 hours to reduce the stress and electrical consumption of the unit. Considering these tips in your next aircon purchase may save you electricity costs that you can allot to improve other aspects of your home!
Air conditioners should be professionally cleaned quarterly. However, there are a couple of ways to clean your aircon at home without a professional for proper maintenance.
Clean the condenser coils and water pan:
If you are not properly trained, it isn't recommended to clean the AC unit yourself, as there is a possibility that your unit might get damaged and void the warranty contract. This may also cause more damage than solutions as it may affect the fans and other electrical controls in the system.
According to aircon technicians, you should have your aircon professionally cleaned twice a year or every 6 months, and your aircon filter every 2 weeks. However, this can also be contextual since some air conditioners are placed in dusty and busy areas. Thus, the unit accumulates more dirt causing unnecessary stress to your air conditioner.
Remember to clean the filters weekly!
Living in the tropics means that the outdoor temperatures, no matter what the season is, will be warm throughout the year. Hence, you should choose a cooling unit that freshens up your home. To expand your choices, check out some helpful links below!
Re-editor: Rica Victoriano
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1:Carrier|Crystal 2 Inverter |FP-53GCVBS010-303P
No. 2:Kolin|Window-Type Inverter Air Conditioner|KAG145WCINV
No. 3:LG|Dual Inverter Window Type Aircon|LA100EC
No. 4:Hitachi|0.6HP Compact Window Type Full DC Inverter Aircon|RA06HSV
No. 5:Daikin| 2HP D-Smart King Wall Mounted Split Type Inverter Aircon |FTKZ50WVM/RKZ50WVM
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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