In a country like the Philippines where the dry season can get unreasonably hot and humid, an aircon can help ensure one’s comfort. In addition, a well-maintained air conditioner can also help prevent allergy attacks and relieve symptoms of asthma. In short, this appliance offers plenty of benefits aside from cooling.
If you don’t have an aircon at home yet, you might want to consider a window-type aircon. It’s one of the most popular choices for Filipinos due to a variety of reasons. Here are some of them:
- It’s More Affordable
When choosing between a split-type and window type aircon, price is one of the biggest considerations and the latter is the clear winner. For reference, a 1 HP window-type aircon is cheaper by an average of Php 10,000 compared to a 1 HP split-type model from the same brand.
Beyond the list price, a window aircon unit is also cheaper to operate, especially if you’re only going to use it for a few hours a day (e.g., at night, when you’re sleeping). Even if you don’t get an inverter unit, you’ll still end up with a lower electricity bill than when you get other types of air conditioner.
2. It’s Easy to Install
One of the biggest differences window-type aircons have compared to split or even tower aircons is the composition. Split and tower aircons have indoor and outdoor units, while a window-type aircon is a single piece with all the parts inside the framework.
This means that with the right tools and an instruction manual, you can easily DIY the installation of a window-type aircon. It’s still best to hire a professional to install your aircon to avoid any issues, of course. However, if you have prior experience, you can definitely install a window-type aircon on your own.
In addition, due in part to popularity, many condos and houses for rent or sale already come with provisions for window-type aircons. This further takes a lot of the preparation work out of your hands so you can immediately proceed with installing the unit.
3. It’s Energy-Efficient
Some people think that a split-type aircon is more efficient than a window-type one. However, the real answer to this debate is “it depends.” The key is to make sure that you purchase a unit that has a great energy efficiency ratio or EER. The higher the number, the better.
You should also get the right capacity of aircon based on the size of the room you’re trying to cool. If you get a too-big unit, the room will cool down much faster but the aircon won’t run its full cycle and waste electricity. Meanwhile, if the unit is too small, it will take more time and energy to cool down a room. It will also get overworked and cause it to break down sooner. Either way, you’ll end up wasting energy whether you get a split-type or a window-type unit.
For maximum efficiency, you should consider an inverter-type window aircon if you’re planning on using it for more than 8 hours a day. You’ll definitely shell out a bigger amount at the beginning, but the monthly savings on your electricity bills will more than make up for the initial investment.
4. It’s Space-Saving
There are a lot of Filipinos who live in relatively small homes or condo units. With a window-type aircon, you don’t have to worry about it taking up floor space. Thus, you have more room to set up your furniture and appliances the way you want.
To be fair, split-type aircons also don’t take up a lot of space since they’re wall-mounted. However, considering the budget, installation difficulty, and size of the room to be cooled, a window-type aircon is still the better choice most of the time.
5. It’s Ideal If You’re Not a Permanent Resident
There are times when you have to temporarily live somewhere. A good example is if you’re staying at a dorm to be closer to your workplace or if you’re a newly wed couple renting an apartment while waiting for the construction of your dream home.
With a window-type aircon, it’s easier to move from place to place and take the unit with you. All you need to do is to unplug the unit, remove it from the window or wall, and then pack it away. The same can’t be said about split-type or tower aircons.
As you can see, a window-type air conditioner has a lot of advantages. Moreover, manufacturers are continuously updating their products. Aside from inverter technology, there are window aircons that also feature air purifiers and smart-cooling functions. Some models can even be connected to an app so you can easily control the settings using your smartphone.
At the end of the day, purchasing an air conditioner is all about your comfort. It’s up to you to decide how you can achieve that goal in a way that suits your budget and personal preferences. If a window-type aircon meets all of your requirements, then by all means go for it!
