Window Fan vs. Air Conditioner - Differences, Pros & Cons

T The top priority for any homeowner when the heatwaves come is keeping cool. Without the help of specialty systems and units, however, this is impossible. There is one common debate you have likely already encountered and a question you probably ask yourself as you search for a cooling system – which is better? An air conditioner, or a window fan?

These two popular means to make your day better even if the thermometer indicates high temperatures outdoors will be pinned against each other in the following to help answer this question. Their pros, cons, operational manner, running costs, everything will receive a thorough analysis, so make sure that you read until the end to reach an informed conclusion and even receive some useful tips along the way.

Introduction to Window Fans

These systems are available in many varieties, ranging from small-size metal models to quiet models that are perfect for the bedroom. To achieve the best ventilation possible, opt for a model that is comprised of at least two fans (more fans, better circulation). Another feature that amps performance is a reversible motor that lets you switch between intake and exhaust so that you can switch depending on conditions (if the air is colder outdoors set it to pull it inside and vice versa). Ideally, it should come with a remote for convenient control and a thermostat that would help lower running costs.

Close up of Window Fan

Do Window Fans Work?

To cool your place as efficaciously as possible with the fan setup, you should use it throughout the night to bring in the cold air and push the hot air out. Balance is key with this, so if there is one fan ejecting the hot air, there should be one fan bringing the cool air in. Air circulation is a fan’s purpose, so you must use it to your advantage to create proper thermic comfort indoors with its assistance.

Pros

• Most models feature reversible motors. As aforementioned, this allows you to switch from intake to exhaust and is conversely reliant on temperature conditions within the room and outdoors.
• A cost-effective solution to keep cool in summer. You can reduce running costs further by operating it at night when the temperatures drop considerably outside so that the indoor environment is kept cooler over the day. Seeing how electricity is cheaper at night, you can see why this is a perk you should exploit.
• More efficient at changing the room temperature as opposed to box fans as they pull in cool air and eliminate warm air, taking advantage of actual temperature changes.
• Improved air circulation as opposed to pedestal models and other types of fans.
• If you have multiple windows in the chamber, you can install a unit in each to generate a cross-breeze that cools the chamber even if the temperatures indoors and outdoors are alike.

Cons

• The gaps around it as well as those in it if the openings are large-sized enough provide easy passage for insects into your home.
• As opposed to tower fans and pedestal fans that oscillate and allow more freedom when it comes to their placement and positioning, it is not as straightforward to guide the airflow with window-mounted units.
• Can present a breach in the security of your home. They are much easier to remove by intruders who want to unlawfully enter your home.

Introduction to Air Conditioners

How does it work?

Well, the exact answer relies on the specific type in question. However, there is a basic functioning that generally applies and describes the operation of any unit type. The heat indoors is absorbed inside the unit and blown over the evaporator coil that cools the air as it is filled with a cooling solution also known as refrigerant. The cool air is blown into the chamber to cause the temperature to lower. When the refrigerant absorbs the heat, it turns into a gaseous state and travels toward the compressor.

As it reaches the compressor, the gas is squeezed between solid objects so that the raised pressure and temperature prepare it for the condensation procedure. In a state of superheated vapor, the refrigerant reaches the condenser and is exposed to the air outside which absorbs the heat and lowers its temperature, turning it back to its liquid state. When the heat is expelled outside, the refrigerant travels back to its former position in the evaporator for the cooling cycle to start all over again.

The humidity extraction aspect: While it runs, the AC extracts dampness from the hot air pulled inside. Thus, it diminishes humidity levels. Nevertheless, if you have checked RH levels and the hygrometer indicated that they are still over the safe and healthy 60% range, you must take action. In this situation, use a room dehumidifier to decrease air moistness and avoid lowering indoor air quality because of air contamination with mold spores.

Types

To make matters easier, we will take a look at what defines each category so that you get a better idea of what an AC system provides. What you must remember regardless of the model you end up with is that with proper sizing of the AC and upkeep work done on time, you will benefit from lower temperatures indoors regardless of how hot it gets outside.

Window AC Units

Classic window AC:

Suited for standard double-hung windows, these are the most ordinary models utilized for cooling indoor spaces. Installing a window AC is a fairly comprehensive procedure that you can follow through with fine on your own. To benefit from optimal performance for the maximum lifespan of a window AC, which is usually 10 to 15 years, make sure to clean it as instructed – basic daily cleaning if there is mold growth inside the unit, clean the filters monthly and replace them every 3 months or as advised in the manual, and do the seasonal deep cleaning when you turn the AC on after a break that likely lasted a few months.

Vertical window AC:

When it comes to cleaning and maintenance, these chores are the same with vertical units as they are with standard window models. The dissimilarity is that vertical ACs are designed for installation in sliding windows, their elongated shape making them perfect for this objective.

Casement window AC:

Just as with vertical units, casement ACs have the same requirements as standard window models do, the difference once again relying on the fact that they install in casement windows, not the classic double-hung windows that are commonly found in most homes. Beware that there is some extra work involved with installing it on your own as you have to build a wood support base for the AC so that its weight does not overwhelm the windowsill.

Portable AC Units

Classic portable AC:

The more convenient cooling solution since you can as you like around the house. As long as you vent the portable AC unit either outdoors or in a different room for the hot air to not end up back in the area it is expected to cool, you will benefit from a rapid lowering of the temperature to achieve thermal comfort.

Dual hose portable AC:

The dual hose design uses two separate exhaust hoses. One of them works to expel the hot air outside, while the other hose draws in air from the exterior. The air indoors is cooled in the AC and returned to the room. But what is the objective of pulling in air from outside? It employs it to cool the compressor and condenser coils. Due to this intelligent setup, it flaunts a superior cooling capability that makes it the preferred choice in areas where summers get hot.

Through the Wall AC Units

To follow through with setting it up, you have to cut a hole in the wall through which you slide the AC. Installation is trickier with these units as there can be electrical and plumbing structures in the wall, so it is best to call in an expert for the procedure rather than take chances. Unless your carpentry and home improvement skills are serious, do not set it up on your own.

Technician Installing RV Air Conditioner

Special Mention – RV AC Units

As the name states, it is intended to cool the RV. It installs onto the roof and you can install the RV air conditioner on your own as it is not a task that requires advanced skills but rather basic wiring skills and attentiveness when it comes to following instructions. Maintenance is required only twice per year, which is another plus as all that is required of you is to clean the dirt and dust that has gathered on the condenser and unclog the coils.

Pros

• Rapid and effective cooling is provided regardless of how high the temperature is indoors.
• Wide variety of types and models to pick from to find the one that suits your needs and expectations.
• The multitude of available options also spells good news when it comes to financial possibilities as there are models suited for all budgets.
• AC units generally assist in removing allergens, which improves indoor air quality. For this to be valid, however, you must maintain the system properly.
• Lower temperatures indoors decrease the chances of insects and parasites posing an issue.

Cons

• If used in a room where moisture levels are already low, it will lower them further, which poses an issue. In case the hygrometer indicates the humidity sits at less than 30%-40%, use an ultrasonic humidifier to solve the problem and raise air dampness back to healthy levels.
• If you don’t replace the filters or clean them on time, you might end up with worsened indoor air pollution. In turn, allergens and other airborne pollutants will provoke health issues or worsen allergies and asthma.
• The air circulation produced by the AC eases the transmission of infectious respiratory diseases. This is why companies and a lot of buildings don’t turn on their AC units anymore since the COVID-19 outbreak issue as air circulation would prove hazardous to all of the people in that space if one of them is infected.

Is It Cheaper to Use a Window Fan or AC?

Air conditioners might be more effective when it comes to cooling as they lower the temperature in the room, but there is a major downside to their operation – the costs involved with it. It is estimated that a window AC unit costs 14 cents per hour, and a central AC unit costs 36 cents per hour. In contrast, a window fan only costs about 1-2 cents per three hours of use, considerably less as opposed to AC systems.

However, while window fans are cheaper to run than ACs, their lower score in the cooling performance department takes away from their glory when it comes to budgetary wins. What we advise is that you use both. Yes, you read that well. Use a window fan and an AC together for optimal results both when it comes to cooling results and running costs.

As the fan will circulate the cool air produced by the AC better, you won’t find yourself turning the thermostat at as low of a temperature as you would without the fan. Thus, you will end up replacing the costs of running the AC considerably using a system that doesn’t draw much power.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Conclusion

Hands down, the AC reigns supreme in terms of cooling an indoor space as it lowers the temperature and maintains it at your desired level through its functioning. The fan is more of an air circulator rather than an air cooler, but it does keep you cool, the breeze it generates hitting your skin to provide thermal comfort.

However, as aforementioned, your best guess would be to combine the two systems and use them simultaneously. This way, the thermostat temperature won’t have to be set as low as you set it before, and the air will be cooled considerably faster, so you won’t spend as much on the bills as you would without using both products at the same time.

Regardless of the option you ultimately go for, either one of the two or both, at least now you are aware of all the facts regarding both systems and can make an informed decision to solve your needs and make sure your expectations are met.