Aircon Buying Guide: Aircon Types and Everything You Need to Know

Thinking about getting an aircon but not sure which one to choose? We got you! If you want to stay cool during the hot Philippine summers or you simply want to upgrade your home, this guide will help you pick the best aircon for your space. 

The right aircon isn’t just about cooling—it affects your comfort, energy bills, and even how efficiently your space stays chilled. So, let’s break it all down and make choosing the perfect aircon a breeze! 

Air conditioners come in different types, and choosing the right one depends on your needs, budget, and space. Before buying, consider factors like your room size, energy efficiency, noise level, and installation requirements. Here are the most common types of aircon units: 

Different Types of Aircon Unit: 

1. Window Type Aircon – The most common and budget-friendly option. 

• Best for small to medium-sized rooms (e.g., bedrooms, small apartments). 
• Easy to install since it fits in a window or a wall opening. 
• Generally noisier than other types because the compressor is part of the unit. 
• More affordable in terms of upfront cost but may consume more electricity. 

2. Split Type Aircon – A modern, energy-efficient option that consists of two parts: an indoor unit and an outdoor compressor. 

• Provides quieter operation since the compressor is placed outside. 
• More energy-efficient, especially when using inverter technology. 
• Aesthetic and space-saving, as it mounts on a wall instead of taking up a window. 
• Requires professional installation, which can be costly. 

3. Portable Aircon – A flexible option that doesn’t require permanent installation. 

• Ideal for renters or people who move frequently. 
• Can be placed anywhere as long as there’s a nearby window or exhaust outlet. 
• Typically less powerful than window or split-type units, so best for small spaces. 
• Can be noisy because the entire cooling system is inside the unit. 

4. Cassette Type Aircon – A high-powered aircon usually installed in ceilings. 

• Ideal for large spaces like living rooms, offices, or commercial areas. 
• Provides even cooling with four-way airflow. 
• Requires professional installation and may be expensive. 

You might have heard about inverter aircons, but what exactly does it mean? 

An inverter aircon uses advanced technology to regulate the speed of the compressor motor, which means it doesn’t need to turn on and off constantly. Instead, it maintains a steady temperature by adjusting its power based on the room’s cooling needs. 

Inverter Aircon:

• More energy-efficient (saves up to 30-50% on electricity bills). 
• Provides a more stable temperature without sudden changes. 
• Quieter operation. 
• Higher upfront cost but more savings in the long run. 

Non-Inverter Aircon: 

• Runs at a fixed speed, meaning it turns on and off to maintain temperature. 
• Less expensive initially but consumes more electricity. 
• Can cause noticeable temperature fluctuations. 
• Often noisier compared to inverter models. 

If you plan to use your aircon frequently, an inverter model is worth the investment. If you’re looking for the best inverter aircon brands, we have a curated list just for you!   

Horsepower (HP) is a measure of an aircon’s cooling capacity. Choosing the right HP is crucial because an underpowered unit will struggle to cool your space, while an overpowered one will lead to unnecessary energy consumption. 

Use this guide to determine the right HP based on your room size: 

• 0.5 HP – Up to 10 sqm (ideal for small bedrooms or offices). 
• 1.0 HP – 11-15 sqm (suitable for average-sized bedrooms). 
• 1.5 HP – 16-20 sqm (for master bedrooms or small living rooms). 
• 2.0 HP – 21-25 sqm (for large bedrooms or medium-sized living rooms). 
• 2.5 HP and above – 26 sqm and up (best for large living rooms, open spaces, or offices). 

Pro tip: If your room has multiple heat sources (e.g., direct sunlight, multiple occupants, electronics), consider getting a slightly higher HP for efficient cooling. 

Picking the right size is just as important as choosing the right type. If you get an aircon that’s too small, it will struggle to cool the room. If it’s too big, it will cycle on and off too frequently, leading to energy waste and uneven cooling. 

When selecting the right aircon size, consider: 

• Room size (sqm) – Larger rooms need higher HP. 
• Ceiling height – High ceilings require stronger cooling power. 
• Room insulation – Poorly insulated rooms lose cool air faster. 
• Sun exposure – Rooms with direct sunlight heat up faster, needing stronger cooling. 

Example: If your bedroom is 12 sqm, a 1.0 HP split-type or window aircon is a good choice. For a 20 sqm living room, consider a 1.5 to 2.0 HP unit. 

Living rooms are typically larger and accommodate more people, requiring an aircon with more cooling power. 

• For small living rooms (15-20 sqm): 1.5 HP split-type or window aircon. 
• For medium living rooms (20-30 sqm): 2.0 HP split-type or cassette aircon. 
• For large, open living rooms (30 sqm and above): 2.5 HP or multiple units for even cooling. 

If your living room is part of an open-plan space, a split-type inverter aircon with a higher HP is recommended for efficiency. 

Investing in the right aircon means more comfort and lowering your energy costs. With Shopping Mall, staying cool has never been this easy and affordable. Browse through our collection of air conditioners, compare models, and find the best aircon that suits your space and budget. 

So why wait? Shop now and enjoy hassle-free installment plans with Shopping Mall!