Innova, Qlima, and Olimpia Splendid will be the three most popular brands for monoblock air conditioners in the Netherlands in 2026. Innova excels in quiet operation and energy efficiency, Qlima scores well on price-quality ratio for larger spaces, and Olimpia Splendid is the best choice if you prioritize compactness and easy installation. Which brand suits you best depends on your room size, budget, and personal preferences. In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions so that you can make an informed choice.

What are the main differences between Innova, Qlima, and Olimpia Splendid?

The three brands each target a different market segment. Innova focuses on premium quality with low noise production and high efficiency, Qlima offers a broad product line with models for both small and large spaces at an attractive price, and Olimpia Splendid is an Italian brand with a strong reputation for compact design and ease of use.

Specifically, there are three main differences that determine the choice:

Power range: Olimpia Splendid and Innova focus primarily on spaces up to approximately 35 square meters, while Qlima offers models that can also handle larger spaces of 50 square meters and more.
Noise level: Innova is known for the quietest models in its class, followed by Olimpia Splendid. Qlima is slightly louder, but still acceptable for daily use.
Drainage system: All three brands use a hose that vents warm air through a window or wall, but the diameter and flexibility of the hose differ by brand and model, which affects the installation.

If you already know which room you want to cool, you can via the air conditioning selection wizard Quickly see which capacity and type best suits your situation.

Which brand of monoblock air conditioner is the most energy-efficient?

In 2026, Innova will be the most energy-efficient brand among the three. Innova models feature inverter motors that automatically adjust compressor power to current demand, causing them to consume significantly less power than units that simply switch on or off. Qlima and Olimpia Splendid also offer efficient options, but Innova's EER values are higher on average.

When assessing energy efficiency, two concepts are important:

EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio): The ratio between cooling capacity and power consumption. The higher the EER, the more energy-efficient the device. Innova achieves an EER of over 3,0 across multiple models.
Energy label: Always check the European energy label. Models with label A or higher are the most energy-efficient. Innova and Olimpia Splendid generally score better here than entry-level models from Qlima.

Keep in mind that a monoblock air conditioner is inherently slightly less efficient than a split air conditioner, because the heat exchanger is located entirely within the room. However, the most energy-efficient choice within the monoblock category is and remains Innova.

How quiet is a monoblock air conditioner from Innova, Qlima, or Olimpia Splendid?

Innova is the quietest brand of the three, with models starting at around 42 decibels on the lowest setting. Olimpia Splendid follows with noise levels between 44 and 50 decibels, depending on the model and setting. Qlima models typically produce between 48 and 55 decibels, which is comparable to a quiet conversation or background music.

For comparison: a normal conversation is around 60 decibels and a whispered voice around 30 decibels. Consequently, an Innova monoblock air conditioner on the lowest setting is barely audible in a bedroom, whereas a Qlima on the highest setting is noticeably present. For use in bedrooms or home offices, Innova or Olimpia Splendid is the better choice. Qlima is perfectly suitable for living rooms or workspaces where some background noise is acceptable.

Which monoblock air conditioner is the easiest to install?

Olimpia Splendid is the easiest to install of the three brands. The units come with an extensive window seal and a flexible exhaust hose that fits most standard window openings without modifications. Innova also scores well on ease of installation, while Qlima requires more customization for the hose connection on some models.

In principle, you install a monoblock air conditioner yourself in three steps:

Place the device on a stable surface near a window or wall opening.
Connect the exhaust hose and attach the window seal so that warm air is directed outside.
Connect the device to a standard 230-volt socket.

If you want to install the air conditioner permanently and neatly through a hole in the wall instead of through a window, professional drilling is required. For this, it is advisable to hire a specialist who drills the hole to the correct diameter and angle without damaging the structure.

For what room size is each monoblock air conditioner suitable?

As a rule of thumb, you need approximately 80 to 100 watts of cooling capacity per square meter for a normal ceiling height of 2,6 meters. Based on this, the three brands can be classified as follows:

Innovate: Most suitable for rooms of 15 to 35 square meters. Ideal for bedrooms, small living rooms, and home offices.
Olimpia Splendid: Suitable for rooms of 10 to 30 square meters. The compact models are excellent for small apartments and attic rooms.
Qlima: The widest range, with models that can handle spaces from 15 to 55 square meters. Suitable for larger living rooms, office spaces, and studios.

When determining the required capacity, also take into account insulation quality, solar radiation exposure, and the number of people in the room. A poorly insulated attic room requires more capacity than a well-insulated living room of the same size. Via the pricing tool you can quickly get an indication of what is needed for your situation.

Which monoblock air conditioner should you choose in 2026?

In 2026, Innova is the best overall choice for those who prioritize quiet operation and energy efficiency in rooms up to 35 square meters. Choose Olimpia Splendid if compactness and ease of installation are decisive factors. Opt for Qlima if you want to cool a larger space or are willing to allocate a larger budget for extra features such as Wi-Fi control and a wider power range.

Summarized:

Best for bedrooms and home offices: Innova, due to the low noise level and high energy efficiency.
Best for small apartments and attic rooms: Olimpia Splendid, due to its compact size and easy installation.
Best for larger spaces and offices: Qlima, due to the wide power range and the availability of more powerful models.

Still unsure? Then use the selection wizard to find the most suitable model based on your specific situation.

How De Betonboorder helps with the installation of your monoblock air conditioner

Installing a monoblock air conditioner through a window is simple, but for a permanent and neat solution, you need a hole in the wall. That is exactly where we come in. De Betonboorder professionally drills the necessary pass-through for your air conditioner's exhaust hose, regardless of whether it involves concrete, brick, or another surface. This ensures the installation looks neat and you will never need to use a window seal again.

We drill custom-sized holes for the drain hose of Innova, Qlima, or Olimpia Splendid models.
Our professionals work meticulously and leave the workplace clean and tidy.
In many cases, we can schedule a professional within two working days.
We work throughout the Netherlands, for private individuals as well as for companies and contractors.

Do you want to know how much it costs to drill a through-hole for your air conditioner? Then check out our pricing tool for a quick indication. Or contact us directly via our craftsman page and we will take care of the rest.

Innova vs Qlima vs Olimpia Splendid: the best monoblock air conditioner of 2026