💸 Window vs Split AC: Which Costs Less to Run? [2025 Ultimate Guide]

1. Introduction

The modern energy-efficient world means that, in addition to comfort, the most suitable air conditioner is based on cost-effectiveness. When it comes to window vs. split AC, which one is cheaper to run is one of the top questions asked.

Whether you're replacing your old air conditioner or buying your first air conditioner, knowing the price will help you save hundreds, even thousands, of dollars for years to come. This guide makes it easy, explaining everything from real-world installation, energy consumption and energy bills, to maintenance - so you can make the best decision: both in your pocket and inside your home.

2. Understanding Window and Split ACs

What is a Window AC?

A window AC is small in size and can be installed on a window frame. It has everything; compressor, condenser and evaporator in a single box. Window ACs are easy to set up and are mostly used to cool a single room.

What is a Split AC?

Split conditioning systems are made of two core elements; an indoor and a unit and an outdoor compressor. Split ACs do this through increased energy efficiency and quiet operation, with the added bonus of a sleeker, more modern design and being connected through pipes.

Key Structural Differences

Feature | Window AC | Split AC

Design | Single unit | Two-part system

Installation | Easier, self-setup | Requires professionals

Space usage | Blocks window | Wall-mounted, discreet

3. Initial Cost Comparison

Installation Costs

• Window AC: Generally, user friendly, less expensive to install (~ 500-1500).
• Split AC: requires an expert to install the same which costs an approximation of 2500-5000 rupees.

Unit Prices

• The prices of a 1.5 Ton Window AC are between 25,000 and 35,000 rupees.
• The price of a 1.5 Ton Split AC is about 30000Rs. to 45000 Rs.

Additional Expenses

• Split ACs typically require support brackets, extra copper piping and drilling—to elevate overall installation cost.

4. Power Consumption & Energy Efficiency

Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)

• EER is a cooling per watt of electrical. The higher the better.

BEE Star Ratings

• The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) assigns star ratings (1 to 5).
• Split ACs usually offer 3–5 stars, whereas window units often max out at 3 stars.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER)

• A contemporary climate-adjusted rating is SEER. Split ACs have a higher SEER rating.

5. Real-World Electricity Consumption

Window AC Power Usage

• Out of the 1.5 Ton window AC (3-star) ~1.5–1.6 kWh/hour.
• 8/hrs running = ~ 12.8 kWh / day = ₹ 12.8/day (on ₹ 10/units).

Split AC Power Usage

• A 1.5 Ton Split AC (5 star inverter) consumes ~0.9-1.2 kWh/hour.
• 8 hours/day = running ~9.6 kWh/day → Rs 96/day.

Monthly Difference: Around ₹900–₹1,000 in savings with split ACs.

6. Cost of Running Each Type

Here’s a snapshot of how much it costs to run each AC type:

Usage Pattern | Window AC (₹) | Split AC (₹)

Daily (8 hrs) | 128 | 96

Monthly (30 days) | 3,840 | 2,880

Yearly (6 months) | 23,040 | 17,280

7. Cooling Efficiency and Performance

• Area of room: Split air conditioners cover areas that are larger in terms of safety, cooling speed, and coverage.
• Types of compressors: The current split ACs use the inverter technology feature, which modulates its speed and also uses less power.

8. Noise Levels and Comfort

Parameter | Window AC | Split AC

Noise level | 50–60 dB | 25–45 dB

Comfort | Moderate | High

Split ACs are whisper-quiet, making them ideal for bedrooms and home offices.

9. Maintenance and Servicing Needs

• Area of room: Split air conditioners cover areas that are larger in terms of safety, cooling speed, and coverage.
• Types of compressors: The current split ACs use the inverter technology feature, which modulates its speed and also uses less power.

💰 Annual service cost:

• Window AC: ₹500–₹1,000
• Split AC: ₹1,000–₹2,000

10. Space and Aesthetic Considerations

Split ACs are sleek and modern in appearance and decongest windows. They blend in more with interior design and do not interfere with sunshine or breeze.

11. Portability and Flexibility

Window ACs can be uninstalled and transferred more easily and therefore are suitable for people who rent places. Split ACs take more effort and money to move.

12. Environmental Impact

• The common refrigerants used with split ACs are R32 and R410A, greener substitutes to their older counterpart R22.
• Inverter technology equates to less wastage of energy and a reduced carbon footprint.

13. Smart Features and Technology

Split ACs are leading as they have the following features:

• WiFi connectivity
• Voice control😊
• Smart thermostats

Smart features are)>on the rarest of occasions present in window ACs.

14. Which One is Better for Apartments?

Window ACs: Suitable for a small room and temporary installation.

 Split AC: Ideal for spacious or more rooms, long term savings, silent cool.

15. Summary: Which AC Type Costs Less to Run?

When it comes purely to electricity bills the split air conditioner nails it simply because of its efficiency and inverter compressor. It is more expensive initially however, due to the minimized power consumption you save more in the end

Factor | Winner

Running Cost | Split AC

Installation Cost | Window AC

Portability | Window AC

Cooling Performance | Split AC

16. External Resources and Tools

• BEE Star Label: AC calc
• U.S. DOE Energy Savings Tips

17. FAQs About Window vs Split ACs

1. Would a window AC cost more electricity in consumption that a split AC?

Yes, the window ACs use 20-30 percent higher power than inverter split ACs.

2. Of the two, which is more economical?

Split ACs are energy efficient and also are cheaper in terms of the monthly bills making them preferable.

3. Can people turn to window AC when they switch into renting houses?

Yes the price is cheaper to fix and plastic to remove easier i.e. they can be used in a rented home.

4. What is a split AC life span?

Silly MF. 8-12 years when it is maintained properly.

5. Are inverter technologies that can be achieved on window ACs possible?

Split ACs provide better efficiency and some models will provide it but it is uncommon.

6. What will be my annual savings using a split AC?

Some 5,000Rs-6,000 will be saved on a similar window AC per year

18. Conclusion

Where the decision between window AC and split AC will be made will depend on your pocket, area and long-term interests. If you are looking for a cooling system with low noise and energy-saving features, then a split AC is worth the investment. Still, a window AC has its own role, especially in the short term or even when it comes to portability.