If you are shopping for a new air conditioner in Malaysia, you have probably noticed that every brand now offers both “inverter” and “non-inverter” models. Sales staff will tell you that inverter is better and worth the higher price, but is that really the case for your specific situation? Let us break down the real differences, do the maths on energy savings, and help you decide which type makes sense for your Malaysian home.
How Non-Inverter Airconds Work
A non-inverter aircond (also called a fixed-speed unit) operates in a simple on-off pattern. When you set the temperature to 24 degrees Celsius:
- The compressor starts at full power
- It runs at maximum capacity until the room reaches 24 degrees
- The compressor shuts off completely
- The room gradually warms up
- When the temperature rises above the set point, the compressor kicks back on at full power
- The cycle repeats
This on-off cycling means the compressor is either running at 100 percent capacity or not running at all. There is no in-between. Every time the compressor starts up, it draws a surge of electricity, similar to how turning a light on and off repeatedly uses more energy than leaving it on.
How Inverter Airconds Work
An inverter aircond uses variable-speed compressor technology. Instead of turning on and off, the compressor adjusts its speed to match the cooling demand:
- The compressor starts at high speed to cool the room quickly
- As the room approaches the set temperature, the compressor gradually slows down
- Once the target temperature is reached, the compressor runs at a very low speed to maintain it
- If the room warms up slightly (someone opens a door, sunlight increases), the compressor speeds up just enough to compensate
The compressor never fully shuts off during normal operation. It continuously adjusts its speed, which is far more energy-efficient than the stop-start pattern of non-inverter units.
Real Energy Savings in Malaysian Conditions
This is where the numbers matter. In Malaysia, where airconds run 8 to 16 hours daily throughout the year, the energy savings from inverter technology are significant.
Energy Comparison (1.5 HP Wall-Mounted Unit)
| Metric | Non-Inverter | Inverter |
|---|---|---|
| Average power draw | 1,100-1,300W | 600-900W |
| Monthly electricity (8 hrs/day) | ~264 kWh | ~162 kWh |
| Monthly electricity (12 hrs/day) | ~396 kWh | ~243 kWh |
| Monthly TNB bill (8 hrs/day) | ~RM145 | ~RM89 |
| Monthly TNB bill (12 hrs/day) | ~RM218 | ~RM134 |
| Annual savings | - | RM670-RM1,000 |
Calculations based on TNB progressive tariff rates for residential customers and typical Malaysian ambient temperatures of 32-35 degrees Celsius.
The actual savings depend on how long you run the aircond, the ambient temperature, room insulation, and the specific efficiency rating of the unit. But as a general rule, inverter airconds use 30 to 50 percent less electricity than comparable non-inverter models.
Upfront Cost Comparison
Inverter airconds cost more to purchase and install. Here is what you can expect to pay in Malaysia as of 2025:
1.5 HP Wall-Mounted Unit Prices
| Brand | Non-Inverter | Inverter | Price Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daikin | RM1,200-1,500 | RM1,800-2,400 | RM600-900 |
| Panasonic | RM1,100-1,400 | RM1,700-2,200 | RM600-800 |
| Midea | RM800-1,100 | RM1,200-1,600 | RM400-500 |
| Haier | RM750-1,000 | RM1,100-1,400 | RM350-400 |
| Samsung | RM1,200-1,500 | RM1,800-2,300 | RM600-800 |
Prices include standard installation. Actual prices vary by retailer and promotion.
Payback Period
The key question is: how long does it take for the energy savings to pay back the higher upfront cost?
Using the numbers above:
- Extra upfront cost for inverter: approximately RM500-800
- Annual energy savings: approximately RM670-1,000
Payback period: 6 to 14 months
After the first year or so, the inverter unit is saving you money every single month for the rest of its 10 to 15 year lifespan. Over the lifetime of the unit, that adds up to RM7,000 to RM15,000 in electricity savings.
Comfort Comparison
Beyond energy savings, inverter airconds provide noticeably better comfort:
Temperature Stability
Non-inverter units create temperature swings of 2 to 4 degrees Celsius as the compressor cycles on and off. You might feel the room get slightly warm, then suddenly very cold, then warm again. This is especially noticeable when you are sleeping.
Inverter units maintain temperature within 0.5 to 1 degree of the set point. The cooling feels more consistent and natural, without the hot and cold fluctuations.
Noise Level
The compressor startup in a non-inverter unit produces a noticeable sound, both from the outdoor unit and the indoor unit. This happens every 10 to 20 minutes during operation.
Inverter units run more quietly because the compressor operates at a steady, lower speed most of the time. This is a significant advantage for bedrooms, especially for light sleepers.
Cooling Speed
Inverter airconds can actually cool a room faster initially because they can briefly run the compressor at speeds above the rated capacity. This “turbo” mode gets the room cold quickly, then the compressor slows down to maintain the temperature.
Maintenance and Durability
Repair Costs
One area where non-inverter units have an advantage is repair costs. Non-inverter technology is simpler, with fewer electronic components. If something breaks, repairs tend to be cheaper.
Inverter units have more complex electronics (the inverter board itself, additional sensors, and control circuits). If the inverter board fails, replacement costs RM400 to RM800 depending on the brand. However, modern inverter boards are quite reliable, and failures are not common within the first 5 to 7 years.
Lifespan
Both types, when properly maintained, last 10 to 15 years. The common claim that non-inverter units last longer because they are “simpler” has not been supported by our experience. What affects lifespan most is maintenance quality, not the type of compressor technology.
Maintenance Requirements
Both types need the same maintenance schedule: standard cleaning every 3-4 months and chemical wash once a year. There is no difference in maintenance requirements or costs.
When Non-Inverter Still Makes Sense
Despite the clear advantages of inverter technology, there are situations where a non-inverter unit might be the better choice:
- Very limited budget: If you simply cannot afford the higher upfront cost and need cooling now, a non-inverter unit is better than no aircond at all.
- Short-term use: If you are renting a property for less than 2 years and taking the aircond with you is not practical, the payback period may not justify the higher cost.
- Seldom-used rooms: A guest room that is only used a few days per month will not accumulate enough running hours for the energy savings to be meaningful.
- Backup or supplementary unit: If you need a second unit for occasional use, the lower upfront cost of non-inverter makes sense.
When Inverter Is the Clear Winner
For most Malaysian households, inverter is the better long-term choice, especially if:
- The unit will be used daily (bedroom, living room, home office)
- Running hours exceed 6 hours per day
- You plan to stay in the property for 3 or more years
- Comfort and quiet operation are priorities (especially bedrooms)
- You want to reduce your TNB electricity bill
Energy Star Rating Matters Too
Regardless of whether you choose inverter or non-inverter, pay attention to the energy star rating. In Malaysia, airconds are rated from 1 to 5 stars:
| Star Rating | Annual Energy Cost (approx.) |
|---|---|
| 1 star | RM1,800-2,200 |
| 2 stars | RM1,400-1,800 |
| 3 stars | RM1,100-1,400 |
| 4 stars | RM800-1,100 |
| 5 stars | RM600-900 |
Based on 8 hours daily use, 1.5 HP unit.
A 5-star non-inverter can be more efficient than a 3-star inverter. Always compare the specific energy ratings, not just the inverter label.
Our Recommendation
For the average Malaysian household in Petaling Jaya or the Klang Valley, we recommend an inverter aircond with a minimum 4-star energy rating. The higher upfront cost pays for itself within the first year, and you get better comfort, lower noise, and significantly lower electricity bills for the next decade.
If budget is a concern, look for sales events during Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, and year-end sales when aircond brands typically offer their biggest discounts. You can often find a quality inverter unit at close to non-inverter prices during these promotions.
At PJ Kool Aircond Service, we install all major brands and can help you choose the right unit size and type for your specific room and budget. We also offer professional installation that ensures your new unit performs at its best from day one.
Ready to install? See our aircond installation service for pricing, supported brands, and how to book a professional installation in Petaling Jaya.
