10 Best Hot & Cold ACs for Every Season [August, 2024]

With summers getting harsher in India, having an effective air conditioning system at home or office is essential. Hot and cold ACs have become quite popular as they allow cooling in the scorching summers along with useful heating functionality during colder winter months. Choosing the right hot and cold AC for your needs is important since it impacts electricity usage, performance, durability and of course the budget. Modern inverter ACs with intelligent temperature control offer better efficiency but can be expensive. This buyer’s guide compares the latest and bestselling hot and cold split AC models from top brands like LG, Voltas, Samsung, Daikin, Hitachi and more. We simplify the process by detailing the vital specifications, advanced features, expert recommendations, user reviews and pricing across capacity options. Whether you need a 1 ton inverter AC for your small bedroom or a powerful 2 ton 5 star-rated model for the living room, our analysis helps you select the perfect match as per room size and your unique preferences. So read on to find which are the highest rated and most energy efficient hot and cold air conditioners being sold in India currently along with pros-cons of each option.

1. Panasonic 1.5 Ton 3 Star Hot and Cold Wi-Fi Inverter Smart Split AC

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Description

The Panasonic 1.5 Ton hot and cold Wi-Fi Inverter Smart Split AC comes with a copper condenser coil for better cooling, a 7 in 1 convertible mode for flexibility, AI and Wi-Fi connectivity for smart controls, PM 0.1 and dust filters for clean air, and an inverter compressor for energy savings.

Key Features

• 1.5 Ton capacity
• 3 Star BEE 2023 rating
• Hot & cold AC with 7 in 1 convertible modes
• Wi-Fi enabled smart controls via Panasonic Comfort Cloud App
• Inverter compressor for uniform cooling and lower electricity bills
• Copper condenser for faster cooling
• Twin Cool inverter technology for wider temperature set range
• PM 0.1 filter to trap ultra-fine dust and harmful particles
• Self-cleaning and anti-corrosion Blue Fin condenser
• Stabilizer free 160V-290V operation

Our Expert Opinion

This Panasonic hot and cold split AC offers some of the latest smart connectivity and air purification features for the modern Indian home. The inverter compressor, copper condenser and 7 in 1 flexibility provides very good cooling performance. With AI-enabled controls and voice assistant support, it is also futuro-ready. The only drawback is the relatively lower 3 star 2023 BEE rating.

2. Daikin 1.8 Ton 3 Star Inverter Split AC

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Description

The Daikin 1.8 Ton hot and cold Inverter Split AC comes with a 100% copper condenser, 3 star energy efficiency, inverter compressor technology, auto-restart and self-diagnosis features.

Key Features

• 1.8 Ton capacity
• 3 Star 2023 BEE rating
• Hot & cold inverter AC
• 100% Copper condenser for faster cooling
• Energy efficient R32 refrigerant
• Inverter compressor for uniform cooling
• Auto fan speed adjustment
• Auto air swing and restart features
• Stabilizer free operation
• Self-diagnosis for easy maintenance

Our Expert Opinion

As a leading air conditioner brand, Daikin offers reliable performance. This split AC has all the essential features for a mid-range home or office model. The inverter compressor improves energy savings compared to fixed-speed types. Easy maintenance, flexible air flow and uniform cooling make it a decent choice. However, the 3-star rating means it is not the most efficient.

3. LLOYD 1.5 Ton 3 Star Hot & Cold Inverter Split AC

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Description

The LLOYD 1.5 Ton hot and cold Inverter Split AC comes with 5 in 1 modes, copper condenser, inverter technology, PM 2.5 and anti-viral filter, stabilizer-free operation and red decorative strip on white body.

Key Features

• 1.5 Ton capacity
• 3 Star 2023 BEE rating
• Hot & cold AC with 5 in 1 flexibility
• 100% Copper condenser coil
• Inverter compressor for energy savings
• PM 2.5 air filter to remove fine particulates
• Anti-viral filter protection
• Decorative red strip on sides
• Auto restart and self-diagnosis
• Stabilizer free 160-270V operation

Our Expert Opinion

LLOYD offers some useful features in this hot and cold inverter AC like air purification filters and decorative design. Performance is decent but not exceptional due to the average 3-star energy rating. It provides good value for money but after-sales service support remains a concern for the brand. Useful for small to medium rooms.

4. Daikin 1.5 Ton 3 Star Hot & Cold Inverter Split AC

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Description

Daikin 1.5 Ton hot and cold Inverter Split AC comes with 100% copper condenser, 3 star rating, inverter compressor, PM 2.5 filter and stabilizer free operation.

Key Features

• 1.5 Ton capacity
• 3 Star 2023 BEE rating
• Hot & cold inverter AC
• 100% copper condenser
• Inverter compressor technology
• PM 2.5 filter to trap fine particles
• Self-diagnosis for easy maintenance
• Auto air-swing and restart
• Stabilizer free 160-290V operation

Our Expert Opinion

As an established brand, Daikin offers reliable air conditioners with decent cooling capacity and build quality. This 1.5 Ton split AC has the essential features for a mid-range home model including inverter compressor and air filter. Performance is good but energy efficiency is just average with a 3-star 2023 rating. Suitable for small to medium rooms.

5. LG 1.5 Ton 3 Star Hot & Cold DUAL Inverter Split AC

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Description

The LG 1.5 Ton hot and cold Dual Inverter Split AC comes with 100% copper condenser, 3 star rating, dual rotary inverter compressor, 5 in 1 flexible modes and HD filter with anti-virus protection.

Key Features

• 1.5 Ton capacity
• 3 Star 2023 BEE rating
• Hot & cold dual inverter AC
• 100% copper with Ocean Black fin protection
• Dual rotary inverter compressor
• 5 in 1 flexible cooling modes
• 4-way auto air swing
• HD filter with anti-virus protection
• Low gas detection feature
• Auto clean and restart features
• Stabilizer free 145-290V operation

Our Expert Opinion

As a premium brand, LG offers good quality and advanced technology in its air conditioners. This hot and cold split AC comes with a fast cooling dual inverter compressor and flexibility of 5 in 1 modes for better user comfort. Virus and dust filtration is also good. But energy efficiency is just average at 3-stars for 2023 standards. It is also relatively expensive. Best suited for medium rooms.

6. Hitachi 1.5 Ton 3 Star Shizen 3100S HP Hot and Cold Expandable Inverter Split AC –

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Description

The Hitachi 1.5 Ton Shizen 3100S hot and cold Inverter Split AC comes with copper condenser, 3 star rating, expandable inverter technology, dust filter and self-cleaning functions.

Key Features

• 1.5 Ton capacity
• 3 Star 2023 BEE rating
• Hot & cold inverter split AC
• 100% copper condenser
• Expandable inverter compressor
• Taciturn sound reduction
• Dust filter included
• Flexible mode and louver design
• Self-cleaning and diagnosis
• Auto fan speed and restart
• Stabilizer free 140-290V operation

Our Expert Opinion

Hitachi is known for reliable and durable air conditioners. This hot and cold split AC has decent cooling capacity with good energy savings from the expandable inverter compressor. Noise levels are lower than typical models. Air filtration is basic and 3-star 2023 energy rating is average. Better suited for small to medium rooms. Offers decent value for money.

7. Voltas 1.5 Ton 3 Star Hot & Cold Inverter Split AC Copper

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Description

The Voltas 1.5 Ton hot and cold Inverter Split AC comes with 100% copper condenser, 3 star rating for 2023, inverter compressor, adjustable 4-in-1 cooling modes and anti-dust filter.

Key Features

• 1.5 Ton capacity
• 3 Star 2023 BEE rating
• Hot & cold inverter AC
• 100% copper condenser
• Inverter compressor for uniform cooling
• Adjustable 4-in-1 cooling modes
• Anti-dust filter included
• Self-diagnosis for easy maintenance
• Auto air swing and restart
• Sleep and turbo modes
• Stabilizer free 160-270V operation

Our Expert Opinion

As one of the largest AC brands, Voltas offers good after-sales service support across India. This hot and cold inverter split AC has decent cooling capacity and all basic functions. Energy savings from the inverter compressor is also good. However, air purification is basic and energy rating is just average for a 2023 model. It is affordably priced for the features.

8. LG 1.5 Ton 3 Star Hot and Cold Inverter Split AC-Ez Clean Filter

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Description

The LG 1.5 Ton hot and cold Inverter Split AC comes with 100% copper condenser, 3 star 2023 rating, inverter compressor technology, EZ clean filter and auto-restart capability.

Key Features

• 1.5 Ton capacity
• 3 Star 2023 BEE rating
• Hot & cold inverter AC
• 100% copper with Ocean Black protection
• LG DUAL inverter compressor
• EZ clean anti-bacterial filter
• Auto air swing and restart
• Low gas detection
• Sleep and fast cooling modes
• Stabilizer free operation
• 10 years warranty on compressor

Our Expert Opinion

As a premium brand, LG offers reliable performance and technology in its air conditioners. This hot and cold inverter split AC provides good cooling capacity with decent dust filtration. The smart inverter compressor improves energy efficiency. However, the 3 star 2023 rating is average for energy conservation. It is also relatively expensive. Better suited for small to medium rooms.

9. Voltas 2 Ton Hot & Cold Split AC

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Description

The Voltas 2 Ton hot and cold Split AC comes with 100% copper condenser coil and base BEE star rating for energy efficiency along with turbo and sleep modes.

Key Features

• 2 Ton capacity
• Base 2023 BEE star rating
• Hot & cold split AC
• 100% copper condenser
• Adjustable cooling modes
• Eco and sleep functions
• Air swing and LED display
• Anti-dust and dehumidifier features
• Timer on/off settings
• Stabilizer free 170-270V operation

Our Expert Opinion

Voltas is a reliable Indian AC brand offering good after-sales network. This basic hot and cold split AC model has a decent 2 Ton cooling capacity good for medium to large rooms. Performance is good but energy efficiency is just average with no inverter compressor. Air filtration is also limited. It is an affordably priced option for homes needing only basic functions.

10. Carrier 2 Ton 5 Star AI Flexicool Inverter Split AC

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Description

The Carrier 2 Ton hot and cold Inverter Split AC comes with 100% copper condenser, 5 star 2023 rating, AI-enabled inverter compressor, 6 in 1 convertible modes, dual filters and auto-clean coating feature.

Key Features

• 2 Ton capacity
• 5 Star 2023 BEE rating
• Hot & cold inverter AC
• 100% copper condenser
• AI Flexicool inverter compressor
• Convertible 6-in-1 modes
• PM 2.5 and anti-bacterial filters
• Auto-cleanser condenser
• Stabilizer free 140-270V operation
• 10 year warranty on compressor

Our Expert Opinion

As a global brand, Carrier offers premium build quality and technology in its ACs. This 2 Ton inverter split model stands out with an energy efficient 5 star 2023 rating, smart AI compressor and advanced filtration. Cooling is excellent with flexible modes. Dual protection from dust and germs is also useful. The high price may not suit all budgets but it is currently among the best hot and cold ACs in India.

Feature Comparison for Hot and Cold AC in India

How to Choose the Best Hot and Cold AC

Here are some tips for choosing the right hot and cold air conditioner in India:

Size in Tonnage: Select 1 to 1.5 ton model for small rooms, 1.5 to 2 ton for medium rooms and 2+ ton capacity for larger spaces. Also factor the room height and exposure to sun.

Energy Ratings: Higher BEE star ratings above 3 indicate better energy conservation. Inverter ACs offer more savings than fixed speed compressors.

Condenser Type: Copper condenser coils provide faster and more uniform cooling compared to aluminum. They also last longer.

Advanced Features: Consider models with inverter compressors, air filters, flexible cooling modes, IoT/WiFi controls etc for better performance.

Brand Reputation: Choose reputed brands offering better build quality, technology and after-sales service. Premium models tend to perform better.

Price and Budget: Hot and cold ACs range from around 25k to 100k based on capacity, features and brand reputation. Set your budget limit before choosing a suitable model.

Warranty Coverage: Split ACs come with 1 year overall warranty. Check for extended coverage up to 5 years on key parts like compressor.

Types of Hot and Cold ACs in India

Technology Used

• Fixed Speed: Basic and affordable but noisy operation with higher electricity bills
• Inverter: Energy efficient technology for uniform cooling and lower running costs

Condenser Material

• Aluminum: Affordable option but prone to corrosion over time
• 100% Copper: Better cooling performance and longer lifespan

Air Circulation

• Fixed AC: Basic model with limited air flow flexibility
• Swing/Smart Flow: Adjustable louvers for better circulation across room

Capacity in Tonnage

• 0.8 to 2 Ton: For small to very large rooms respectively
• Multi-split: Connect multiple indoor units on single outdoor AC

Smart Controls

• WiFi & Voice Controlled: For automation and remote operation through mobile apps
• IoT Enabled: Futuristic models with AI adaptability and self-diagnosis

Usage, Maintenance and Care Guide

Usage Tips

• Set 25oC temperature for optimal cooling and lower electricity usage
• Clean air filters every 2 weeks for better performance
• Keep doors/windows closed in AC room to minimize dust and pollen
• Use sleep, eco or dry modes for night time operation
• Direct air flow away from people and not towards them

General Maintenance

• Get annual servicing before summer season for better performance
• Check for gas/refrigerant leaks and get rectified
• Clear dust collected in outdoor unit coils using a brush/vacuum
• Tighten any loose connections in the AC pipes/chords

Care Measures

• Install stabilizer if voltage fluctuations exceed AC limits
• Use voltage surge protector for added safety
• Clean air filter, fins and coils carefully without damage
• Switch off and drain water if not using AC for long time
• Cover AC when not in use to prevent dust accumulation
• Transport AC upright when shifting home

Energy Saving Tips

• Find the right room size to tonnage capacity
• Set timer for limited operation hours
• Use sleep mode at lower temperature
• Clean filters and coils properly
• Keep doors and windows closed
• Avoid obstructing air flow outside or near vents

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Water leakage – Drain pipe jam or faulty installation
• Noisy operation – Loose parts or improper compressor function
• Poor cooling – Low refrigerant, dirty filters/fins or improper size
• High electricity bills – Faulty compressor, inadequate insulation or incorrect usage

If problems persist, contact the technician for inspection and repair.

FAQs about Hot and Cold ACs

Q. Why are hot and cold ACs needed in India?

Hot and cold ACs are designed to provide effective cooling in summer and useful heating functionality for colder winter months. Indian weather conditions necessitate such convertible ACs with flexible temperature regulation.

Q. What is the difference between inverter and non-inverter hot and cold ACs?

Inverter ACs use variable speed compressor that adjusts cooling based on heat load. This allows faster cooling, lower electricity usage and more uniform temperature than non-inverter models.

Q. How much does it cost to install a hot and cold AC in India?

Installation charges are typically around Rs. 3500-4000 for wall mounted indoor unit and outdoor unit placement up to 15 feet apart. Additional charges may apply for difficult installations.

Q. What should be the ideal thermostat setting for a hot and cold AC?

Around 25°C is considered the best temperature setting for optimal cooling at lowest electricity usage. Reduce below 25°C only during extreme heat or for rapid cooling needed.

Q. How often should I service my hot and cold AC?

Annual servicing before summer ensures proper cleaning, refrigerant gas charging and parts lubrication or repair if needed. This improves performance and lifespan. Preventative maintenance avoids big breakdown repairs later.

Q. What are the best hot and cold AC brands in India?

Some leading brands with reliable hot and cold ACs are Daikin, Hitachi, LG, Samsung, Voltas, Panasonic, Blue Star, Carrier etc. Higher priced premium models often provide better build quality, technology and durability.

Q. How can I reduce my electricity bill from hot and cold AC usage?

Use inverter ACs, set appropriate temperature of 25°C or above, adequately size per room, add insulation if needed, set timer for limited hours, regular maintenance of filters and fins, and keep doors/windows closed.

Q. What refrigerant is used in hot and cold ACs?

Early models used R22 refrigerant but newer ACs now use more eco-friendly R32 or R410A refrigerant in line with regulations on reduced impact to ozone layer.

I hope this detailed blog gives you all the necessary information on hot and cold air conditioners currently available in the Indian market. Please let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions on selecting the right hot and cold AC as per your home or office needs.