Inverter vs non-inverter AC
How the two kinds work, which suits the way you use your AC, and what to expect when one needs a repair.
- Visit charge: told to you on the call, before we visit
- Warranty: 90 days on the work done
What is the difference between an inverter and a non-inverter AC?
An inverter AC changes its compressor speed to match the room, so once the room is cool it slows down instead of switching off and on. A non-inverter, or fixed-speed, AC runs its compressor at full speed and switches it off and on to hold the temperature. Inverter ACs usually use less electricity when they run many hours a day, but cost more to buy and can cost more to repair.
How each one works
In a fixed-speed AC the compressor has two states, on at full power or off. When the room reaches the set temperature it stops. When the room warms up again it starts. Each start draws a surge of current.
In an inverter AC, an electronic drive board in the outdoor unit controls the compressor speed. It runs fast to cool a hot room, then slows down and keeps running gently to hold the temperature. This gives steadier cooling and fewer power surges.
Which suits you
- Many hours a day, most of the year: an inverter AC usually saves enough on the bill to cover its higher price over time
- A few hours on the hottest nights only: a fixed-speed AC can be the cheaper choice overall
- A bedroom where noise matters: an inverter runs slower most of the time and is usually quieter
- An area with poor voltage: check the voltage range on the spec sheet of either type, and read our guide on stabilisers
Compare the star label, not the word inverter
The BEE star label on both kinds is based on ISEER, a measure of how much cooling the AC gives for the power it uses across a season of use. A 5 star fixed-speed model and a 3 star inverter model can be compared on the same label. Check the yearly units figure printed on the label too.
What repairs look like
Both kinds share the same basics: coils, fan motors, gas pipes and the drain. Gas leaks, dirty coils and fan faults are repaired the same way.
An inverter AC adds the drive board and a compressor made to run at many speeds. When the board fails, the part is specific to the model and costs more than the simple relay and capacitor in a fixed-speed AC. See inverter AC repair for what a technician checks.
Questions
Can a non-inverter AC be converted to an inverter AC?
No. The compressor, the outdoor board and the controls are different. You would have to replace most of the outdoor unit, which costs close to a new AC.
Does an inverter AC cool faster?
It can run its compressor faster than its rated speed for a while to bring down a hot room, so it often feels quicker at the start. After that, both hold the temperature, the inverter more steadily.
Do inverter ACs need more servicing?
No. Both need the same filter cleaning and a yearly service. Keeping the outdoor coil clean matters for both.
Last updated 2026-11-08
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