Installing air conditioning before the hot season: Is it wise to opt for energy-efficient Inverter technology?

As the last waves of chill bid farewell, the scorching heat of summer, resembling burning embers, is on its way. Many HVAC experts suggest that now is the opportune time to install air conditioning. The reason being, as soon as the hot season arrives, the prices of air conditioners are expected to surge by 1-2 million dong per unit. Moreover, incidents of air conditioner malfunctions and fires become almost inevitable.

1. Installing air conditioning before the hot season: Is it wise to opt for energy-efficient Inverter technology?

As the last waves of chill bid farewell, the scorching heat of summer, resembling burning embers, is on its way. Many HVAC experts suggest that now is the opportune time to install air conditioning. The reason being, as soon as the hot season arrives, the prices of air conditioners are expected to surge by 1-2 million dong per unit. Moreover, incidents of air conditioner malfunctions and fires become almost inevitable.

Installing air conditioning before or during the hot season?

Traditionally, towards the end of April and the beginning of May, the intense heat of summer makes its appearance. Consequently, the prices of air conditioners also heat up during this period. Currently, the prices of various types of air conditioners range from 5 - 15 million dong per unit, depending on the model.

The 9,000 BTU Inverter air conditioner is widely favored among brands for its affordability, ranging around 10 million VND, and suitability for small bedrooms in Vietnam.

However, according to Mr. Nguyen Kien, owner of an electronics and refrigeration store: 'During the hot season, the price of air conditioners increases by 2 million VND/unit. Despite such high prices, they always sell out every year. If you need one, it's recommended to install it now.'

'Not only does the price go up, but in the hot season, it's challenging to find technicians for installations. Because, during this season, air conditioners run continuously, leading to malfunctions. Technicians prefer repairing over installing,' says Mr. Kien.

Explaining this, Mr. Kien shares: 'In the hot season, continuous operation often leads to overloads and breakdowns. Technicians charge around 300,000 - 400,000 VND just for a quick repair, not including gas pumping and spare parts.'

'When it comes to installing air conditioners, technicians only get a labor fee of 250,000 VND/person, and it takes time for drilling, installation, with no additional charges except for the copper wire. Meticulous owners or those with some experience may find it acceptable,' Mr. Kien adds.

Is Inverter Air Conditioning truly energy-efficient for households?

Sharing insights about the energy-efficient Inverter air conditioner, Mr. Kien believes: 'Inverter air conditioners employ modern digital technology. They can regulate room temperature through a circuit board without the need for relays or temperature sensors like traditional ones.'

'There are several advantages, such as maintaining a stable room temperature, being health-friendly, and saving electricity. However, if used for households, careful consideration is needed,' says Mr. Kien.

Explaining it in a straightforward manner, Mr. Kien says: 'Inverter air conditioners only truly save electricity when running continuously throughout the day. The savings are significant compared to the price difference between traditional and Inverter air conditioners.'

'Because Inverter air conditioners only save about 20% of energy consumption. If households are away all day and only return home in the evening to use it, the savings won't compensate for the price difference until the air conditioner breaks,' shares Mr. Kien.

Currently, Inverter air conditioners have a higher price, around 1.6 - 2 million VND/piece more than traditional ones, and during peak hot seasons, the price difference can double. Moreover, when replacing gas, the gas cost for Inverter air conditioners is in the millions. While refilling gas for traditional air conditioners only costs around 300,000 VND.

Not to mention repairs, as they are smarter, fixing malfunctions in Inverter air conditioners is more complex and costly. Mr. Kien notes: 'This Inverter air conditioner often encounters circuit board issues, and each repair costs millions. Not every technician knows how to fix it. When a customer's air conditioner is broken, I have to take it to Ly Nam De Street to get the team of technicians there to fix it.'

'One drawback is that when the outdoor temperature exceeds 38 degrees Celsius, the Inverter air conditioner loses its energy-saving feature. It may even consume more electricity due to the inverter switch. Improper placement of the two outdoor units by homeowners can also cause the air conditioner not to function efficiently,' adds Mr. Kien.

'Therefore, Inverter air conditioners will maximize energy-saving features when installed in offices, restaurants, cafes, hotels, etc. For households, they may not be as effective and economical as traditional air conditioners,' notes Mr. Kien.

Currently, some stores also sell used Japanese Inverter air conditioners, which are imported from Japan via sea freight. However, few merchants dare to sell this type of product because the long sea transport can expose the air conditioner to salty moisture, potentially causing damage. Therefore, even if the selling price is lower, buyers should be cautious with this type of air conditioner.