The air conditioning market has changed radically in the last ten years. What was once considered a luxury for a few has become a widespread necessity, driven by climate change and increasingly accessible and efficient technologies. But choosing the right system is not simple: there are many types available, the technical differences are significant, and a wrong choice can cost years of higher bills than necessary.
What an air conditioner is and how it works
An air conditioner is a device that transfers heat from one environment to another, cooling or heating a room depending on the season. The physical principle it is based on is the refrigeration cycle: a refrigerant fluid circulates between an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, absorbing heat from the indoor air in summer (cooling) or from the outdoor air in winter (heating).
The key component that revolutionized the sector is the inverter compressor, widely introduced in the 2000s. Unlike old on/off systems that cycled on and off, the inverter compressor continuously adjusts its speed based on the desired temperature, maintaining a stable climate and reducing consumption by up to 40% compared to traditional technology.
When an air conditioner operates in heating mode, it acts as a heat pump: it does not generate heat by burning fuel (like a boiler), but extracts it from the outside air and transfers it inside. This process is much more efficient than electric resistance: for every kWh of electricity consumed, a good inverter air conditioner produces 3-4 kWh of heat (the so-called COP, Coefficient of Performance).
To know: modern air conditioners can effectively heat even with outdoor temperatures down to -15°C/-20°C, thanks to "cold climate heat pump" technology. They are no longer just a summer device.
Main types of systems
The market offers different types of air conditioners, each suitable for specific needs. Knowing them is the first step to making the right choice.
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Monosplit
One indoor unit connected to one outdoor unit. Ideal solution for air conditioning a single room. Easy to install, low cost.
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Multisplit
Multiple indoor units (from 2 to 8) connected to a single outdoor unit. Perfect for apartments and small houses. Reduces the number of external motors.
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Ducted
Air is distributed through hidden ducts in the false ceiling. Invisible and silent solution, ideal for high-end renovations.
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Monoblock / Portable
Does not require permanent installation. Suitable for renters or those who want a flexible solution. Less efficient than split systems.
Monosplit: the most common choice
The monosplit system is the best-selling solution in Italy for residential use. Composed of an indoor unit (called "cold head" or evaporator) and an outdoor unit (the motor or condenser), it is installed relatively quickly — one or two working days — and has purchase and installation costs contained compared to other systems.
It is the ideal choice for air conditioning a single room: bedroom, living room, study. If you want to air condition multiple rooms, you can opt for multiple independent monosplits or switch to multisplit.
Multisplit: efficiency for the entire home
The multisplit system consists of a single outdoor unit connected to multiple indoor units. The main advantage is aesthetic and practical: only one motor on the balcony or external facade, with related benefits in terms of noise, space, and visual impact. Each indoor unit can be controlled independently, setting different temperatures in each room.
The limitation of the multisplit is that all indoor units are "linked" to the outdoor unit: if it breaks down, the air conditioning is lost throughout the house. Also, multisplit systems require careful sizing by a technician, because the power of the outdoor unit must be calibrated based on the number and size of the indoor units.
Ducted: invisible and silent
The ducted system is the most elegant solution: the indoor unit is hidden in the false ceiling, and the treated air is distributed through discreet vents integrated into the ceiling or walls. There are no visible indoor units, no direct noise in the room, no aesthetic impact. The cost is significantly higher than traditional split systems, and installation requires the presence of a false ceiling.
Energy classes: what they really mean
Since 2021, the European Union has introduced a new energy label for air conditioners, which has made the classification stricter than before. Classes range from A+++ (the most efficient) to D (the least efficient, for products with the worst energy performance).
| Class |
Seasonal efficiency (SEER) |
Estimated savings vs class D |
Indication |
| A+++ |
SEER > 8.5 |
up to 50% |
Outstanding |
| A++ |
SEER 6.1 – 8.5 |
30–45% |
Excellent |
| A+ |
SEER 5.1 – 6.1 |
20–30% |
Good |
| A / B |
SEER 3.6 – 5.1 |
10–20% |
Acceptable |
| C / D |
SEER < 3.6 |
— |
Not recommended |
The key parameter for evaluating cooling efficiency is the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio): it indicates how many kWh of cooling the air conditioner produces for every kWh of electricity consumed, on a seasonal basis. The higher it is, the more efficient the device. For heating, the equivalent parameter is the SCOP (Seasonal Coefficient of Performance).
An A+++ air conditioner with SEER 8.5 consumes about half the energy of a model with SEER 4.0 to produce the same cooling. On an annual basis, for 500 hours of summer use and an energy cost of €0.30/kWh, the difference can be €100-200 per year — which over 10 years more than pays back the higher purchase cost of the more efficient model.
How to properly size the air conditioner
One of the most common mistakes when buying an air conditioner is choosing the wrong power for the room size. An air conditioner that is too small won’t reach the desired temperature; one that is too large cools too quickly, doesn’t adequately dehumidify the air, and consumes more than necessary due to frequent start-stop cycles.
Power calculation: BTU and kW
The power of air conditioners is measured in BTU/h (British Thermal Units per hour) or kW. The conversion is simple: 1 kW = 3,412 BTU/h. The most common models for residential use range from 9,000 BTU (about 2.6 kW) to 24,000 BTU (about 7 kW).
A rough estimate suggests calculating about 100 W (340 BTU) per square meter in environments with good insulation, average exposure, and a standard height of 2.7 m. This value rises to 130-150 W/m² for south-facing rooms, with large windows, or in buildings with poor thermal insulation.
Small room
15–25 m² → 9,000 BTU (2.6 kW). Typically: bedroom, study, studio apartment.
Medium room
25–40 m² → 12,000 BTU (3.5 kW). Typically: living room, small open space.
Large room
40–60 m² → 18,000 BTU (5.3 kW). Typically: large living room, open space.
Very large room
60–90 m² → 24,000 BTU (7 kW). Typically: open space, open floor.
These are approximate estimates: for an accurate assessment, especially in atypical environments or multisplit systems, it is always advisable to rely on a qualified technician who performs a thermal load calculation according to the UNI EN 12831 standard.
Advanced features: what to look for in 2025
Modern air conditioners have become true smart appliances, with a range of features that improve comfort, efficiency, and air quality. Here are the main ones to consider when purchasing.
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Built-in Wi-Fi and smartphone control — Allows you to turn on the air conditioner remotely before returning home, set weekly schedules, and monitor real-time energy consumption.
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Dehumidify mode — Reduces air humidity without lowering the temperature too much. Particularly useful in transitional seasons or on muggy days.
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Anti-allergenic and antibacterial filters — Trap dust, pollen, mites, and bacteria. Essential for those suffering from allergies or asthma.
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Auto-clean / Evaporator self-cleaning — The air conditioner automatically dries the internal evaporator after use, preventing mold and bad odors.
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Latest generation inverter (DC Inverter / Twin Rotary) — Technology that ensures ultra-fast startup, very low noise, and maximum efficiency.
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Compatibility with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit — To integrate the air conditioner into home automation and control it by voice.
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Sleep/night mode — Automatically adjusts the temperature during the night to ensure maximum sleep comfort.
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Presence sensor — Detects if there are people in the room and automatically adjusts the power, avoiding waste when the space is empty.
Installation and maintenance: what you need to know
Installation
The installation of a split air conditioner must be carried out by a certified F-Gas technician (the certification required by law in Italy and the EU for handling refrigerant gases). The technician handles the placement of the units, drilling the pass-through hole, laying the refrigerant pipes, and making the electrical connections.
The installation cost generally ranges between 200 and 500 euros for a single-split unit, depending on the complexity of the job (length of pipes, presence of scaffolding, type of building). For multi-split systems, installation costs are proportionally higher.
Maintenance
A poorly maintained air conditioner consumes more energy, cools less effectively, and can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Periodic maintenance is therefore a matter of both efficiency and health.
Tasks you can perform yourself include monthly cleaning of the indoor unit filters (usually they are removed, rinsed with lukewarm water, and allowed to dry), checking that the air vents are not blocked, and visually inspecting the outdoor unit to remove leaves or debris.
Professional maintenance, recommended at least every 2 years, includes cleaning the evaporator and condenser, checking the refrigerant gas charge, inspecting electrical connections, and examining the condensate drainage system. The cost is generally between 80 and 150 euros for a single-split unit.
Important: refrigerant gas loss is one of the most frequent causes of performance decline. If the air conditioner no longer cools as it used to, before replacing it, it is always worth having the gas charge checked by an authorized F-Gas technician.
The main brands on the Italian market
The Italian market is dominated by Japanese, Korean, and, in recent years, Chinese brands. Here is an overview of the most established players, with their main characteristics.
Premium range
Daikin (Japanese) is considered by many the absolute reference for build quality, reliability, and service network. The Stylish and Perfera series models are among the best sellers in Italy. Mitsubishi Electric and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (two distinct companies, both Japanese) are equally appreciated for quietness and performance in cold climates. Panasonic completes the Japanese reference quartet.
Mid-range
LG and Samsung (Korean) offer an excellent quality-price ratio, with refined design and highly developed smart features. Toshiba, now Chinese-owned but with production in line with Japanese standards, is another reliable choice in the mid-range.
Economic range
Haier, Hisense, and Midea (all Chinese) have strongly entered the European market in recent years, offering products with good technical specifications at prices significantly lower than premium brands. Quality has improved considerably compared to a few years ago, but the after-sales service network is still less widespread than that of Japanese and Korean brands.
Tax deductions and incentives: how much you save
The purchase and installation of a new generation air conditioner can benefit from tax incentives that significantly reduce the final cost of the intervention.
The 50% Renovation Bonus (IRPEF deduction, to be spread over 10 annual installments) applies to the installation of air conditioners replacing existing systems, if the intervention is part of a renovation of the heating/cooling system of the housing unit. The maximum deductible expense is 96,000 euros.
The 65% Ecobonus applies instead to the installation of high-efficiency heat pumps (air conditioners with high SEER and SCOP) replacing existing winter heating systems. To benefit from this incentive, the air conditioner must meet specific technical efficiency requirements and must be installed by a technician who provides the appropriate certification.
In both cases, payments must be made via bank transfer with a detailed description. It is always advisable to check the updated conditions with an accountant before proceeding, as the regulations on building bonuses are subject to annual changes.
Practical tips for daily use
Even the most efficient air conditioner can be used poorly, resulting in energy waste and reduced comfort. Here are some good practices to get the most out of your system.
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Do not set extreme temperatures — The optimal temperature in summer is between 24°C and 26°C, not lower. A difference of more than 7°C compared to the outside temperature can cause health problems (drafts, headaches).
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Use shutters and curtains — Darkening windows exposed to the sun drastically reduces the thermal load of the environment, allowing the air conditioner to work less.
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Do not leave doors and windows open — It seems obvious, but it is one of the most common habits that nullify the effectiveness of the air conditioner.
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Use the dehumidify mode on humid days — Sometimes lowering humidity is enough to feel fresh without excessively cooling the environment.
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Clean the filters regularly — Dirty filters increase consumption by 10-15% and reduce air quality. They should be cleaned every 2-4 weeks during periods of heavy use.
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Use the timer and programming — Turning on the air conditioner 30 minutes before returning home and turning it off 20 minutes before leaving optimizes consumption without sacrificing comfort.
Conclusion: the right investment for home comfort
Choosing an air conditioner is not a decision to be rushed, attracted by the lowest price or the current offer. It is an appliance used for 10-15 years, influences daily quality of life, and significantly impacts the energy bill. Taking the necessary time to choose — evaluating the type, power, energy class, and features — is an investment that pays off with comfort and savings over time.
Final advice: always rely on a certified F-Gas installer for installation, do not neglect periodic maintenance, and take advantage, where possible, of available tax deductions to reduce the initial investment. A well-chosen, well-installed, and well-maintained air conditioner is one of the best investments you can make for your home's comfort.
