Mini Split Vs Window AC Units (Compare Pros, Cons & Efficiency)

With the summer months rolling in, it has become ever-so-necessary to have an efficiently functioning air conditioner.

If you live in a small home or a place with no proper ductwork, central air conditioning would not be a viable option. This leaves you right in the middle of choosing a mini-split Vs window unit. Both these cooling systems come with their disadvantages and advantages.

Therefore, read on as we delve deep into the differences and similarities while discussing which one is right for you:

Pros & Cons Of Mini Split Air Conditioners

Let us start by discussing mini-split air conditioners. These mini split AC variants mainly differ from a central AC by having a single outdoor unit instead of a duct system, and every zone contains an indoor unit.

Most of these systems can heat in the winter and cool in the summer, and they are relatively easy to install.

Below are some of the pros and cons of mini split air conditioners:

What We Like

• Small size and flexible to heat and cool
• Less energy loss due to absence of ductwork
• Highly secure as they only need to have a small hole in the wall
• Easy installation than the conventional HVAC systems

What We Don’t Like

• They are expensive as compared to their forced air counterparts
• Many do not like the aesthetics of an indoor unit
• It requires an adequate drainage system; otherwise, the excess water seeps into the walls

Pros & Cons Of Window Air Conditioners

A window air conditioning unit fits into the space formed when a window sash is opened. In the past, most window air conditioners were made for double-hung/single-hung windows, but newer units are made for sliding/casement windows.

However, homeowners have begun to mount long-lasting sleeves along the wall to accommodate the air conditioner. Therefore, when a window air conditioner unit is installed in the wall, it doesn’t block any window. This form of installation is known as built-in.

These units also rely on refrigerants to absorb the heat inside the house and disperse it out in the open, explaining why their backs seem to be designed like radiators. When choosing between the window unit vs the split system, it’s crucial to recognize that the former brings many positives to the table that make it better than the split.

Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of the window air conditioner unit:

What We Like

• They have a comparatively lower noise output and enhanced efficiency
• Can cool more than a single room
• No intervention required for drainage to the exterior
• They are most common and easy to find

What We Don’t Like

• The window in which the unit is installed is blocked during the entirety of the unit installation
• Higher security risk as it is fixed in a big window or hole
• The drainage might drip
• Their relocation is quite a hassle as they are difficult to remove

Window AC Vs Split AC – Key Differences

Window or wall air conditioners vs mini-split AC systems is still a close-fought match; however, there are some glaring inconsistencies with one of the variants.

A window unit would make life easy since it can be commonly found, and the ensuing installation process is straightforward.

But is it really the best option if you live in a rental house and move around consistently?

With so many questions, here are some of the critical variables that must be considered before buying a top rated split system or window air conditioner.

Security

No matter how a window air conditioner is installed, the process still offers a security risk. Even though it is considered safe to install them in an upstairs window, your home is still vulnerable to both thieves and bad weather.

On the other hand, installing a mini-split unit only requires contractors to drill small holes in a wall. All the refrigerant lines, power cables, and suction lines are passed through that tiny hole, linking both the indoor and outdoor units.

Therefore, with the split AC, the security of your house is not compromised. This means that in the security aspect of window AC or mini-split, split ACs are safer.

Flexibility

While the window AC unit can cool a room efficiently, it cannot do much more. However, advanced models come accompanied by digital displays, multiple fan speeds, and remote controls.Meanwhile, most split AC models also have remote control capabilities alongside added advantages that cannot be found in window units.

One of the most notable differences is that they allow for zoned climate control, meaning that their temperatures can be regulated in particular rooms. These systems are termed multi-split AC systems and multiple indoor mini splits are added to different rooms.

Additionally, the outdoor and indoor units can be positioned differently to achieve optimal efficiency, aesthetic appeal, and comfort.

Convenience

The debate over a window unit vs split system is not complete without discussing ease-of-use!

With window ACs, you can no longer use the window; this results in a lack of ventilation and a complete absence of natural light – both necessary for a comfortable and healthy living environment.

Installing a split air conditioning system can help you avoid these problems, as it allows you to stay comfortable and cool without losing an entire windows.

Efficiency

Energy efficiency is where the battle lines are most effectively drawn. This aspect turns the entire split-type vs window-type inverter battle into a one-sided affair.

Even though inverters are energy efficient, when talking about window ac vs split ac electricity consumption – even with the inverter –  most window air conditioners are energy inefficient.

In this section, split-type air conditioners are the undisputed winners.

Noise

Most window air conditioning units are very noisy, although some models are better than others. There are ways to make them quieter but they are still louder than split systems.

Split AC systems are somewhat noisy as well; however, they are quieter than their window-shaped counterparts.

Therefore, if you are significantly concerned with noise, you would be delighted with a split air conditioning system.

Price

The window unit vs. split system comparison is incomplete without a discussion based on financial implications.

The price between models of either kind varies a lot. Generally, split systems are pretty expensive with many wondering if they’re worth the cost. However, they use less electricity than window units in the long run.

Window units may be cheaper up front, but use more electricity and cost more over the long run. In either case, a split AC sounds like a better investment in the long term.

People Also Ask (FAQ)

Do mini-splits heat and cool rooms?

Yes, ductless mini-splits can offer heating and cooling. Heat pumps are similar solutions also worth considering. Learn how ACs and heat pumps differ to understand this better.

Do window AC units heat and cool rooms?

Many newer models of window air conditioning units have a feature of heating alongside cooling. However, they consume a lot of energy than when they are cooling.

Window versus split ACs, which is better in very humid conditions?

The cooling-only split air conditioning systems are the better options for highly humid conditionss

Split System or window units, which AC type is better in colder climates?

Split air conditioning systems can also release hot air into your room during the winters; therefore, mini split AC are the better option for colder climate or in wintertime.

Conclusion

Window wall air conditioner vs. split system is a comparison that will remain relevant to you until you finally buy a unit.

Though both are good choices if you want to cool your room, a cold room is not the only factor of importance when choosing between the two. Multiple factors must be considered when choosing between a mini-split vs. a window unit.

And with our guide, we hope you’re in a position to make an informed decision.