Final update date: June 24, 2025 at 12:22 PM
In addition to the moldy smell, Panasonic's room air conditioner that I used for 10 years has now started to make strange noises as the indoor unit operates, I replaced the Daikin air conditioner S224ATCS-W (CX series, 2024 model) with automatic filter cleaning function.
When replacing the product, it is easy to buy from a major mass retailer, considering the hassle of removing and collecting the old model, and arranging installation work, but at major mass retailers, you will have no choice but to buy the latest (2025 model) expensive model.
Therefore, in order to purchase a slightly more sophisticated model at the lowest possible price, I purchased an outdated model from a year ago (DAIKIN S224ATCS-W, for 6 tatami mats) online via Kakaku.com.
We asked the wholesale company (Mr. Air Conditioner) to arrange for removal and installation of the old model (Panasonic CS-225CFR).
table of contents
Selecting the model of room air conditioner
I have used room air conditioners from Daikin, Hitachi, and Panasonic so far, but in my opinion, I feel that Daikin is the best in terms of durability, performance and practicality.
The Pana machine's heat exchanger in particular is light and cheap, and I was disappointed to see that it bent immediately after a little touch with my finger when I cleaned it before.
In contrast, Daikin is made sturdy, including the pipes. Please note that you should not touch the heat exchanger directly with your fingers, so please be careful 🤦♀️
In addition, when selecting the model, we also considered Panasonic's Aeolia CS-224DEX-W (DEX series), which has the same functions as the S224ATCS (CX series). Below is a comparison table of its features.
| function | Daikin CX | Pana DEX |
|---|---|---|
| Air cleansing | Streamer | Nanoe |
| Dehumidification | 9 levels of dryness | Comfortable dehumidification |
| Wind direction adjustment | Up, down, left and right | Up, down, left and right |
| filter | Anti-viral filter | Anti-viral filter |
| Cleaning function | And | And |
| Wireless LAN | Standard equipment | Standard equipment |
| Drying clothes | none | And |
| Unique driving function | No wind | AI fast adaptation |
| Energy saving standards achievement rate | 87% (2027) Annual electricity bill: 19,359 yen | 92% (2027) Annual electricity bill: 18,414 yen |
As mentioned above, both the Daikin (S224ATCS) and the Panasonic (CS-224DEX-W) models have almost the same specifications.
At first glance, the "AI Comfortable" feature of the Pana Machine seems to be a groundbreaking and attractive feature, but after researching reviews online, I have found that there are many poor reviews, such as the example below. This is thought to be a disadvantage of prioritizing energy-saving functions.
・It's energy-saving, so it won't get cold right away
・If there are no people, it will automatically become a power saving mode
・If the outside temperature is low, the outdoor unit will be turned off.
・If you leave your extremely hot or cold rooms to AI, it will take 30 minutes for them to be comfortable.
- AI comfort and AI-only functions are too bad... I learn more, but I don't feel like I'm learning at all.
- When you drive with an AI system when you want to cool down a hot room...even if you press the button, the wind just pops out.
In contrast, Daikin's "Windless" function automatically adjusts the air volume and up and downward direction, sending air upward when air conditioning and downward when heating, preventing wind from hitting your body directly. It's a simple function, but very effective and practical. However, the Pana machine does not have this feature.
Additionally, Daikin's 9-Stage Dry allows you to manually set the strength of the dry in 9 levels, but Panasonic's comfortable dehumidification is automatically controlled to prevent it from getting cold. Dehumidification tends to get cold, so some people may want to adjust it manually, while others may want to adjust it automatically as much as possible. In that case, Daikin is the one that can be set in detail manually.
The Pana Ki's clothes drying function adjusts the temperature and humidity that makes clothes dry easily, and is for those who want to dry indoors while out. This feature is not included in this Daikin model. The Pana aircraft is also slightly ahead of the rate at which energy saving standards are achieved.
In addition, the filter cleaning robot that is uniquely equipped with Pana Machine, and the ability to expel dust outdoors is maintenance-free and very convenient, but it seems to be one of the concerns that increases the risk of breakdowns at present.
Incidentally, as with all air conditioners, it seems that the best way to save on electricity bills is to set the operation mode to automatic operation. On Daikin air conditioners, select "Auto" on the remote control button.
In automatic driving mode, the optimal operation is performed according to the situation indoors and outdoors, reducing unnecessary power consumption.
Features of DAIKIN S224ATCS
The features of Daikin's room air conditioner S224ATCS are as follows:
- Compact design
Although it is 250mm tall and 265mm deep, the "diagonal cut" shape cuts the top of the main body to improve the efficiency of sucking.
The stylish and compact design, which won the Good Design Award, provides a high degree of freedom in installation and is easy to install in limited spaces above windows.
- Equipped with automatic filter cleaning, it is easy to clean
After the air conditioner is finished operating, the filter dust is automatically brushed and collected into the dust box. Reduces clogging of the filter.
- Delivers comfortable airflow to every corner of your room
Auto swing (up/down/left/3D)
- Daikin's unique airflow control ensures less waste and more comfortable
In winter, the heat boost keeps you warm, and in summer, the ceiling airflow (windless operation) is not easily exposed to direct winds, delivering quick and comfortable air conditioning throughout the room.
This reduces uneven air conditioning and leads to avoid unnecessary operation.
*Cannot be used when air blowing or when the operation is set to be at night.
- Daikin is a "safe design"
■Daikin's unique compressor with high durability, low vibration and low noise
Daikin uses a unique swing compressor that allows you to efficiently bring out power.
Because it moves smoothly, there is less vibration and wear, and less compression loss of refrigerant gas, making it possible to operate with high efficiency.
The control board on the brain is coated on both sides to increase durability.
■Adjustable anti-viral filter
The dust collection filter uses an antiviral electrostatic filter, which maintains the cleanliness of your room.
■Internal clean water installed
The condensation water is used to clean the dirt from the heat exchanger, and the streamer is discharged and air is also used to operate the air and dry.
* (Anti-viral filter) testing organization: Boken Quality Evaluation Organization, General Incorporated Foundation
Test results: After 2 hours of contact with the virus solution, a reduction of 99% or more was confirmed. Tests are conducted with one type of virus.
* (Internal water clean) If air drying is sufficient, the heating and drying operation will not be performed.
The indoor temperature drops significantly, so please use it when there are no people in the room, such as when you are out. We recommend doing it about once a month.
- "Room temperature patrol"
If the room temperature is too high or low, the air conditioner sensor detects it and notifies you via voice, and automatically performs cooling and heating operations.
It can be used safely in the rooms of the elderly and children.
*This does not prevent the effects of high or low temperatures on the body.
*Since the indoor unit detects the temperature and operates automatically, depending on the installation situation of the indoor unit, the temperature may not be accurately detected and may not operate.
*The air blower may be operated to detect the air conditioner even when the air conditioner is stopped.
*It will not work even if the setting is set during a power outage or when the breaker is off.
- Wireless LAN adapter is standard equipment
It has a built-in wireless LAN adapter and can be operated using the smartphone app "Daikin Smart APP". It can be operated inside or out, and controls the comfort of your room at any time.
■The GPS of the air conditioner and smartphone work together to support driving when you go out or return home.
"Notice of forgetting to go out" will notify you that you have forgotten to turn off if you leave the area around your smartphone while the air conditioner is operating.
If necessary, you can remotely stop the air conditioner operating via the app. By preventing unnecessary driving, it also contributes to saving energy.
During "Welcome Back Driving", the air conditioner will automatically start operating when your smartphone is within the set range around your home. You can stay in a comfortable air environment even when you get home.
*The smartphone app "Daikin Smart APP" must be installed.
- 24/7 Reliable support
Even if something goes wrong, Daikin Contact Center accepts consultations 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Purchase DAIKIN S224ATCS-W
Daikin's room air conditioner, the S224ATCS-W, which is an outdated model of the year, was purchased from a wholesale company (Mr. Air Conditioner) for 71,800 yen via Kakaku.com.
At the time, this model was also sold at Japanet Takata, and was sold at a trade-in price of 114,800 yen (plus standard installation work fee, recycling, collection and transportation fee).
Mass retailers (in the case of K's Denki) do not sell the old models, and the successor model (S225ATCS, made in 2025) is sold for 195,800 yen (Mass retailer model AN255ACSK-W, standard installation work fee included).
After researching, it seems that the S224ATCS and its successor model, the S225ATCS (AN225ACSK), have the same functionality just because of the difference in the release year and the price of the main unit, so I think it would be much better to buy the S224ATCS, an outdated one-year model, online.
S224ATCS-W removal and installation details
| project | Amount | Applicable |
|---|---|---|
| Standard construction (up to 4m piping) 2.2kw | 16,800 yen | |
| Removal work | 8,000 yen | |
| recycling | 990 yen | |
| Collection and transportation costs | 4,000 yen | |
| Air cut valve (drain check valve) installation work | 4,400 yen | Inaba Denko Soundproofing Insectproof Valve for Air Conditioner Otomechan DHB-1416 (500 yen on Amazon) |
| Drain insulation | 1,100 yen | Drain tube insulation in the wall |
| plan | 35,290 yen |
The air conditioner was removed and installed by the wholesaler (Mr. Air Conditioner) who purchased the product. We were able to make a reservation for the construction work a week after the product arrived.
The above construction details were submitted by the affiliated contractor, Shinsei Gumi.
The above details add to the additional work to install an air-cut valve to suppress the sloshing noise emitted from the air conditioner's drain pipe during strong winds. If I did the construction myself, it would cost 500 yen...💦
This contractor has a lot of work history, and has also submitted a three-year warranty after the construction is completed along with the business card of the construction manager, making it seem like a proper company, but I get the impression that the construction costs have been somewhat high.
The average price for removing and installing the air conditioner is probably around 30,000 yen, but if you want to keep it a little cheaper, you could have asked a client to "Kurashi no Market." It could probably be around 5,000 to 8,000 yen cheaper.
For reference, the average cost of installation (removal) of air conditioners※Below is the following:
1) Average cost of installation of air conditioners
| Air conditioner installation (Cooling capacity 2.2-4.0kW) | 13,500 yen - 17,000 yen |
| Air conditioner installation (Cooling capacity of 5kW or more) | 21,000 yen - 23,000 yen |
2) Cases and estimates of additional work required for installing an air conditioner
| Removal work | 6,500 yen to 10,000 yen +Air conditioner/recycling ticket: 990 yen |
| Air cut valve installation work | 2,000-4,000 yen |
*This is based on the results of a survey of average lifestyle market costs as of February 2025, as well as air conditioner installation costs at various mass retailers.
Installation of the DAIKIN S224ATCS-W
Below we will upload the gallery of the indoor unit after installation of the DAIKIN S224ATCS-W, as well as the outdoor unit and the dedicated app "Daikin Smart APP".
S224ATCS-W indoor unit
An indoor unit has been installed in the living room. The drain pipe and cables for the CS antenna are passed through the wall hole for the air conditioner.
S224ATCS-W outdoor unit
An outdoor unit was installed on the balcony. The drain pipe is equipped with an air cut valve (DHB-1416) made by Inaba Denko.
S224ATCS app "Daikin Smart APP"
By installing DAIKIN's dedicated app, "Daikin Smart APP" (Android/iOS version) on your smartphone and connecting the smartphone and air conditioner to a wireless LAN, you can operate the air conditioner from your smartphone via the Internet (the setting when purchasing is "off").
DAIKIN Room Air Conditioner CX/C Series Instruction Manual
Summary
The DAIKIN S224ATCS-W is a brief review, including a comparison with the Pana machine before the replacement, as shown below (shared with Kakaku.com).
The only choice for air conditioning is Daikin, but the unpleasant noise from the indoor unit is a concern.
I bought a replacement from a Panasonic CS-225CFR. From a wholesale company via Kakaku.com71,800 yenI bought it from. The construction was requested by the affiliated contractor, Shinsei Gumi, which was introduced by the dealer. The cost of removal, disposal and installation work (plus air-cut valve installation) of the old model35,290 yen(count 107,090 yen) was.
【Design】
It has a simple and clean design.
【Ease of use】
Easy Direct Remote Controls have large buttons that are often used, and all buttons are located on one side of the remote control, making them easier to use than the lidded remote controls you see on current Panasonics.
"Windless" operation is a function that Pana machines do not have, and it automatically adjusts the air volume and up and down direction, making it difficult for the wind to hit the body directly, making it simple yet very practical and convenient.
Additionally, the air filter has an automatic cleaning function, making it easier to maintain the filter.
【Power】
Both the air conditioning and heating will immediately cool the room (warm) so it is very powerful. Currently, it is operating in "automatic" mode, as it focuses on saving electricity.
【Quietness】
Both the indoor and outdoor units operate quietly, but I'm concerned about the continuous "boo" sound coming from the indoor units. It's not a loud sound, but it's a physiologically unpleasant sound, so it's quite a concern.
【Size】
It's very compact. It has an automatic filter cleaning function, so although it has a slightly protruding position, it is smaller in width and height compared to the Panasonic.
[Disinfection and deodorization]
In addition to the standard anti-virus filter, it is equipped with a streamer air purification function, so you can expect a sufficient effect.
When air conditioning or drying, the streamer's internal clean is automatically operated with air and heating operation for up to 140 minutes after the operation is completed, drying the inside of the air conditioner. In that case, the electricity bill per session※is up to 4 yen.
If you perform manual internal clean using the "Water/Internal Clean" button, which is recommended to perform once a month, the inside of the air conditioner (heat exchanger) is cleaned with condensation water and the streamer is cleaned, further suppressing mold growth.
However, mold always develops over time, so in any case, regular cleaning by a professional will likely be necessary.
In addition, manual internal cleaning costs up to 57 yen (1.85kWh).
【Review】
This is the second time I've purchased Daikin's air conditioners in 10 years, and I'm impressed by the considerable advances in the streamer's air purification function, automatic air filter cleaning function, and the air conditioner operation on a smartphone.
Daikin is an unwavering top manufacturer in the field of air conditioning equipment, and I think it is the most reliable manufacturer in terms of durability, performance and practicality.
This unit does not come with the humidification function or energy-saving modes like the "Nurusara" series, but it has plenty of other functions, making it a very cost-effective model.
This time, I think it was good that I was able to purchase a highly functional model at an affordable price, except for the problem of the unpleasant noise of the indoor unit being a one-year-old model.
※Calculated as the estimated power charge per unit price of 31 yen/kWh (tax included) [revised in July 2022].
