Greetings, comrades! Today I will talk about how to choose an air conditioner for an apartment. To my surprise, not a single article I read on climate technology explains what characteristics of an air conditioner indicate its real performance and economy. I decided to correct the situation and write such an article myself.
materiel
Principle of operation
Let's start with the principle of operation of any heat pump. The air conditioner belongs to this category of devices, since it is designed to transport thermal energy between the street and the house.
The full cycle of work consists of four stages:
- Compression of the refrigerant by the compressor. It is accompanied by heating freon by several tens of degrees;
- Cooling in the condenser(one of the heat exchangers), where freon gives off excess heat and goes into a liquid state of aggregation;
- Expansion valve passage. In it, the freon pressure drops sharply, and it evaporates. The process is accompanied by rapid cooling;
- Heating in the evaporator- the second air conditioner heat exchanger. A cold refrigerant takes energy from a warm environment compared to it.
Inexpensive mobile air conditioners cannot change the direction of the refrigerant circulation and work only for cooling, taking heat from the air in the room and transporting it to the street. Almost all modern window air conditioners and split systems are able to work both for cooling and heating.
General features
Regardless of the form factor and manufacturer, air conditioners have several common features:
- The air conditioner does not produce cold or heat. It only transports it from the evaporator to the condenser;
A window air conditioner installed indoors will not cool the air. Taking into account the heat generated by the compressor, it will begin to heat it.
- The effective thermal power of the device is greater than its electrical power. Simply put, for every kilowatt-hour of electricity consumed, it pumps several kilowatt-hours of heat into or out of the room;
- Freon is volatile and inevitably evaporates through the slightest gaps in the connections of highways and heat exchangers. Sooner or later, the air conditioner needs refueling. This is not a defect of the device - just its design feature.
Form factor
What can be the layout of the air conditioner?
Window
Monoblock with evaporator and condenser in one housing. It is placed in a window, window or opening in an external wall. The condensate collected on the evaporator is discharged outside.
Advantages:
- Extremely simple do-it-yourself installation: the device must be placed in the opening and plugged into the outlet;
- Possibility of dismantling without damaging the main walls.
disadvantages:
- High noise level (not less than 40-45 dB);
- Low energy efficiency (thermal output per kilowatt of energy consumption);
- Reducing the illumination of the room;
- The need to remove the device for the winter.
Price: at the beginning of 2017 - from 8000 rubles.
Mobile
This is also a monoblock, but it is arranged differently. The air is blown through the condenser by a fan and discharged outside through a corrugated plastic hose with a diameter of about 100 mm.
The condensate collected on the evaporator can be disposed of in one of two ways:
- It is collected in a container that has to be emptied every 2-4 hours;
The condensate tank full detector is a conventional push button switch with a spring. As soon as the weight of the container overcomes the elasticity of the spring, the compressor is switched off.
- It is evaporated by the air flow blown through the condenser and carried away to the street.
Advantages:
- Possibility of transportation. A mobile air conditioner is a good option for a rented apartment or cottage;
- Easy installation. You just need to bring the air hose to the street and plug the device into a socket;
- Small hole for hot air. If desired, the corrugation can even be connected to the ventilation duct.
disadvantages:
- High noise level (the compressor and the fan blowing the condenser are in the room);
- Low energy efficiency;
- For younger models - work only for cooling. There is no heating mode or it is implemented by a conventional heater with much lower energy efficiency compared to a compressor;
- Air flow from the air-conditioned room. The influx of hot air from the street, which compensates for it, further reduces the efficiency of air conditioning;
- The need to exhaust hot air outside;
- For models with a condensate tank, it is necessary to periodically empty this tank into the sewer.
Price: from 12000 rubles.
split system
The heat exchangers are divided into two blocks - internal and external. The indoor unit only contains the heat exchanger, fan and control circuits; in the external, in addition to the heat exchanger, there is a compressor. Blocks connect copper lines for freon and a power wire.
Advantages:
- Minimum noise level. Only the fan remains its source in the room;
- High energy efficiency.
disadvantages:
- The need for permanent installation;
- Difficult maintenance of the outdoor unit on the upper floors. The heat exchanger has to be periodically cleaned from dust that interferes with heat dissipation. Poplar fluff is a separate story: in June, when it flies from trees, the radiator of the external unit is covered with a fur coat with a felt density and a centimeter.
Price: from 12000 rubles.
Start-stop and inverter
All inexpensive air conditioners start the compressor when the temperature sensor readings differ from the set temperature. As soon as the air has warmed up or cooled down to the set value, the compressor and fans stop.
This scheme of work has several serious drawbacks:
- Large mechanical loads on the compressor and fan impellers at the time of startup;
- Large starting currents, reducing the resource of electronics in power circuits;
- Noise. The compressor and fan run at full speed, which somehow does not contribute to sound and healthy sleep;
- Impossibility of heating operation at low outdoor temperature. In cold weather, the oil in the compressor becomes viscous. During a cold start, the compressor may burn out due to excessive load.
The inverter air conditioner is spared these shortcomings due to a different mode of operation: thanks to double current conversion (alternating to direct and vice versa with frequency modulation), it can reduce the power consumed by the compressor, adjusting it to the current need for the thermal power of the device.
A side effect of the inverter power supply of the compressor has been an increase in energy efficiency: inverters consume one third less electricity for the same thermal power, saving you money. The lower limit of outdoor temperature during heating operation has shifted down and reaches -25 °С for the best models.
The vast majority of inverters are produced in the form factor of split systems. Among window appliances, inverters are very rare, and among mobile air conditioners they are not from the word “completely”.
An inverter air conditioner is better than a start-stop system in every way except cost. Two devices with the same thermal power and functionality, produced at the same enterprise, will differ in price by one and a half times.
Multisplit system
This is the name of a set of one external unit and several internal ones. The temperature in multiple rooms with indoor units can be controlled independently. There is only one limitation: the mode of operation of the air conditioner (cooling, heating, ventilation or dehumidification) is common to all.
For a purchase
So, on what grounds can you choose an air conditioner in an apartment?
Step 1: Choose a Form Factor
Window air conditioner is better to choose if:
- You are not ready to spend a large amount on the purchase;
- Your window has an appropriately sized vent or you are ready to remodel the frames to install the appliance.
A mobile air conditioner is a smart choice for rental housing or dorms. It is easy to transport and can be installed in any room.
With a stationary installation in your own apartment, the choice is obvious - a split system.
Step 2: decide on the mode of operation
If the unit is going to be used only for air conditioning during the peak of the summer heat, you can look at inexpensive "start-stop" split systems and window air conditioners without heating mode.
In practice, the heating mode is very useful in the off-season and on cold summer days. I already wrote that the air conditioner is many times more economical than any heater.
For constant work on cooling throughout the summer and when using the air conditioner as a heating device in winter (both are practiced in the warm regions of the country), an inverter split system is purchased. Due to its cost-effectiveness, your purchase will pay off within two to three seasons.
Step 3: choose power
How to choose the correct heat output of the air conditioner?
It is customary to indicate it in obscure British thermal units (BTU). One BTU is the amount of heat that can increase the temperature of one pound of water by 1 degree Fahrenheit.
As a rule, the heat output in BTU is linked directly to the area of the room:
- 7000 BTU corresponds to an area of 20 m2;
- 9000 BTU - 25 m2;
- 12000 - 35 m2;
- 18000 - 50 m2;
- 24000 - 60 m2.
When working for cooling, you can focus on these figures, but when using the air conditioner as a heating device, you cannot.
The fact is that many factors in addition to the area act on the need for heat in a room:
- Ceiling height;
- The quality of wall insulation;
- Outdoor temperature;
- Dimensions and structure of window glazing.
Suppose that the heat engineering calculation gave us a heating power of 3.5 kilowatts. How to choose an air conditioner for an apartment that meets its needs for heat?
- Manufacturers often list the actual power for heating and cooling modes on the indoor unit case;
- 1 kilowatt of thermal power corresponds to 3400 BTU. 3.5 kW correspond to 3.5 * 3400 = 11900 BTU (taking into account the real power line - 12000).
In inverter air conditioners, the value of thermal power is not constant, but varies depending on the operating mode of the compressor. The technical documentation always indicates the rated power, but the minimum and maximum values \u200b\u200bare often not advertised.
Step 4: Pay attention to economy
Three parameters indicate the energy efficiency of the device:
- The actual energy efficiency class (scale from G to A);
- EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) - the ratio of thermal power in cooling mode to consumed electrical power;
- COP (Coefficient of Performance) - the same ratio, but for the heating mode.
COP and EER values are always different: COP is slightly higher. The fact is that during the operation of the compressor, a noticeable amount of heat is released, which is absorbed by the refrigerant.
The energy efficiency class allows you to weed out the least economical devices. However, the highest class A includes all air conditioners with EER above 3.2 and COP above 3.6.
Class A includes the best start-stop models of air conditioners and almost all modern inverters. For the best inverters, COP reaches 4.9-5.2, EER - 4.2-4.5.
If these parameters are not specified in the documentation, you can calculate them yourself. The instruction is ridiculously simple: divide the rated thermal output of the air conditioning system in the appropriate mode by its electrical output.
The actual EER and COP values vary depending on the temperature difference between the air conditioner coils. In the cold and at high temperature in the room, when the split system is operating for heating, the COP can drop from the nominal 4.2 to 2.2. At high street temperatures and +16 in the apartment, EER will also decrease by a couple of times relative to the nominal value.
Step 5: Explore More Features
The choice of an air conditioner for an apartment is often influenced by a set of secondary functions of the device. Pay special attention to the following options:
- Plasma filter. This is a really useful thing: cold plasma quickly rids the air of odors and dust;
- Timer. Programming the on and off of the air conditioner is beneficial in terms of energy savings;
I set the timer when the air conditioner is on heating so that it warms the air by the time I wake up. In the evening, it turns off shortly before lights out.
- Damper control(at least their mobility in the vertical plane). Continuous mixing of the air in the room with movable shutters makes it possible to achieve its uniform heating and cooling.
For the indoor unit, the norm is 30 dB or less. The best air conditioners are no louder than 19 dB.
The reasonable maximum noise level of the external unit is 45 dB. At a higher volume, his work will be heard through closed windows.
Step 7: choose a manufacturer
The last stage is the choice of the manufacturer.
Disputes about which air conditioner to choose have been ongoing on thematic forums for more than a decade. Online rating tables are a dime a dozen. I will not bore you with abstract reasoning and will simply share my own experience in operating split systems.
| Image | Manufacturer and comments |
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LG: average. It does not shine with either efficiency or functionality: the best inverters have COP not higher than 4 at a minimum operating temperature of -5 degrees. But LG split systems can boast of reliability: I have never encountered a breakdown of one of them. |
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carrier: reliable, functional, uneconomical. The inverter purchased in 2016 for the children's room pleased with the richness of the settings for the operating modes and upset with the low values of COP and EER (3.6 and 3.25, respectively). In addition, the air conditioner does not turn on after a blackout. All modern split systems after a power outage are able to return to the last mode of operation. |
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De Longhi: high-quality air conditioners, for some reason not appreciated by the Russian market. With average functionality and efficiency, these devices, according to my personal statistics, rarely fail. |
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Midea: another representative of the middle level. In Midea air conditioners, first of all, low cost and efficiency are attractive (for the only “start-stop” air conditioner installed in my house, the COP is not inferior to inexpensive inverters and is equal to 3.61). As a disadvantage, I would write down an inconvenient and bulky remote control with indistinct designations of button functions. |
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Samsung: in terms of characteristics - above average, in terms of workmanship - fierce horror. Both air conditioners purchased two years ago (by your humble servant and his neighbors) failed: one during the warranty period, the other immediately after it ended. Not only that: the body of the indoor unit changed color in the first year and turned from snow-white to yellow. I do not recommend. |
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Gree and devices produced at the factories of this company under other brands - Tosot, Cooper&Hunter. Rating: excellent. Inexpensive air conditioners (at the time of purchase in 2012-2013, inverters with a capacity of 9-12 thousand BTU cost 20-24 thousand rubles) please with the absence of breakdowns and high energy efficiency (COP 4.2-4.95). Indoor units in automatic fan speed control mode are almost silent. Filters can be easily removed for cleaning. The total experience of continuous (I emphasize: round-the-clock and year-round) work of the eldest of the air conditioners is 4 years. |
In summer, the air conditioners in my house work for cooling: in Sevastopol, where I live, from June to August, the temperature is +30 and above. In winter, they are also responsible for heating the house.
Conclusion
I hope that I was able to answer all the questions of the dear reader. You, as always, will find additional materials in the video in this article. I look forward to your additions to it. Good luck, comrades!
All brands of air conditioners, regardless of category and price, have a similar set of functions.
They are equipped with:
- remote control;
- heating and cooling mode (a heat pump is included in the configuration);
- ventilation;
- drainage;
- maintaining the set temperature at the automatic level;
- on and off timers;
- filters.
Brands of air conditioners have their positive and negative sides.
The main criteria by which you can make the right choice of device when buying, include:
- reputation of the manufacturer;
- the level of product reliability;
- technical parameters of the installation;
- application of innovative air treatment technologies;
- availability of additional features;
- economical use of electricity;
- price.
Let's consider all the above points separately.
Manufacturer reputation
Many are interested in which brand of air conditioner to choose. Just like the automotive industry, the HVAC market has its own leading companies that have built a positive reputation over the years.
There are brands of air conditioners in the middle segment, there are also cheap units with a unified design.
Premium Products
The best brands of air conditioners are Daikin and Mitsubishi. They represent products of the highest class, guaranteeing their high quality and durability. Such devices are distinguished by innovative schemes, comfort in use and economy. General Fujitsu can also be included in this group.
During the warranty period, factory assembly defects are recorded in no more than 0.2% of products. With proper use, the life of these units is approximately 12 years.
These brands of air conditioners, reviews of which are the most positive, produce devices with advanced error protection systems during operation. The configurations contain self-diagnosis and protection circuits that can shut down the unit automatically upon error, reset or danger.
The units are distinguished by silent operation of both the indoor and outdoor units. With a standard minimum indoor unit rating of 26-28 dB, it actually makes no sound.
The best brands of air conditioners produce units that operate at any temperature. They are distinguished by exquisite design and small size.
Most of the devices included in the first-class segment are not assembled in Japan, but this does not affect their quality and price. The reason lies in the fact that robots are used in the assembly of products, and the human factor is minimized. So, for example, Daikin units are assembled in Japan, Thailand and Belgium. They have a high level of functionality and three years from the place of issue. In addition, each production has a narrow profile specialization. For example, in Belgium, one unit of a split system is assembled, and the other unit is manufactured in Thailand.
Features of the units that make up the first group
- Daikin. By tradition, the models of this company are considered to be the best in the world market. At the same time, they do not have any special advantages over the brands of the premium segment, but in some respects they are the undisputed leaders. The air conditioners of this company have higher quality circuits and compressors, improved fan balancing, improved self-diagnosis and protection functions.
- Mitsubishi Heavy. Well-known brand of the elite group. Its models are distinguished by a high level of reliability, low pressure protection, quiet operation and a high energy saving rate. They are collected in Japan and Thailand.
- General (General Fujitsu). Air conditioners of this company are distinguished by reliability and stability of operation. When they are assembled, innovative technologies are used. Assembly is carried out at the factories of the company. The General Fujitsu air conditioner brand is represented by three varieties: Fujitsu General, General Fujitsu and Fuji Electric. Assembly is made in Thailand, China and Japan.
Middle class
The middle segment includes many brands. For example, these include Mitsubishi Heavy, Hitachi, Carrier, LG, Samsung, Sanyo, Sharp, Panasonic, Toshiba. These brands of air conditioners are divided into upper and lower class.
The upper class consists of products made in America and Europe, while the lower class consists of products made in Korea. As a rule, the assembly of structures is carried out in the countries of Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines).
Air conditioners of the middle segment also have a high degree of reliability in operation. At the same time, the price for them is significantly lower than for analogues of the premium class. It should be noted that many additional features of branded models are not used by users at all.
The difference with the high class is the use of more unified protection and self-diagnosis systems, as well as a shorter service life. If you want to buy a working air conditioner with a good price-quality ratio, then it is better to opt for a second-class device.
There are no striking differences between models within the middle segment. The exception is the brand of air conditioner DeLonghi. Its models are able to work year-round, which is ensured by factory adaptation to winter conditions. But they have a downside. They are quite noisy when working.
economy class
These are air conditioners of a cheap segment with a simple configuration. They are going to North Korea. Products are represented by a wide range of different brands: General Climate, Ballu, Neoclima, Aeronik, RiX, AEG, Electrolux, etc.
When choosing a Chinese unit, you should pay attention to which plant it was assembled at.
Only Chinese brands of household air conditioners differ in reliability: Gree, Midea, Chigo, Haier, LG, Hyundai, Rolsen, Samsung, Shivaki, Gree, Ballu, General Climate, Aerotek. The devices produced by them under their original names occupy the lower level of the middle segment.
Air conditioners of the third group have the lowest cost. However, they can be an excellent choice with limited financial resources.
The disadvantages of such units include the following:
- The marriage rate is 1%. The biggest problem is the lack of work stability and quality. The rejection rate in different batches may vary, which is a problem for the service. Also, their service life is short. For example, models from the manufacturer LG have been working for 7 years.
- The modification does not provide protection against misuse. The user must thoroughly familiarize himself with all the intricacies of the operation of the unit, which are indicated in the instructions.
- For most models, the outdoor unit makes noise during operation.
- A significant disadvantage is the fact that the devices have a unified control system. The configuration contains a small number of sensors, as a result of which the stability of the device is limited to a narrow temperature range. For example, low-cost devices often have such a problem as freezing of the radiator of the indoor unit at temperatures below plus 10-15 ° C. If such units are supposed to be used for cooling the premises in the summer, then this fact is not significant.
Thus, air conditioners belonging to the third segment can be successfully used in everyday life, provided that the owner has well studied the basic rules of operation. However, it is necessary to use all devices correctly, regardless of their level of quality and price.
Features of air conditioner compressors
The main part of any air conditioner is the compressor. It is located in the outdoor unit of the unit and promotes the circulation of freon between the outdoor and indoor unit.
Compressor configuration can be rotary, reciprocating and scroll. The scheme of household air conditioners, as a rule, includes a rotary or scroll type. Piston modifications are applicable in industrial units.
The main characteristics of the part include:
- power consumption;
- power during refrigerant circulation;
- noise level;
- durability;
- the size.
All global brands are fighting to improve these indicators. When choosing compressors, companies have planned two approaches.
First approach
Its main advantage is the acquisition of parts at a low price. At the same time, it is distinguished by a high level of quality, as manufacturers constantly introduce innovative technologies and strictly monitor the assembly process.
Compressors are purchased from world-class manufacturers. The main brands are Toshiba/GMCC, Guangdong, Meizhi, Compressor Co, Guangdong Meide Holding, Samsung, Copeland, Hitachi, Bristol.
Second approach
The second approach involves the production of their own parts on the basis of their factories. This is how the brands Mitsubishi Electric, Panasonic, Fujitsu General LTD, Daikin do.
This method allows the assembly of compressors that meet the specifications of air conditioners. Thus, there is a simultaneous development and implementation of new parts in their own products. Increased factory quality control.
The degree of real reliability of air conditioners
It is necessary to understand the difference between the concepts of "reliability" and "reputation". Currently, many leading companies have transferred the assembly of their equipment to China, and not all air conditioners from popular brands are highly reliable.
On the other hand, there are a number of industries in the DPRK that produce good products and constantly modernize the design of air conditioners. Such units can last quite a long time.
Technical possibilities of installation
Air conditioners belonging to the same segment and having approximately the same technical indicators may have differences in some details that make it difficult or impossible to install an air conditioner from one manufacturer, but allow the installation of another. For example, the indicator of the maximum length of the route for a unit with a capacity of 2.1 kW can differ by 5 m, which helps to limit the installation of the model with a large inter-unit distance.
Modern principles of air treatment
Firms use various modifications of electrostatic plasma filters to purify the air. The principle of ionization, admixture of oxygen, coating of the heat exchange device and creation of filter elements also differ.
Many of these options are nothing more than a marketing trap. However, some of the models of air conditioners are characterized by high technical performance.
Availability of additional features
Marketers are constantly studying all the new products on the climate market. Specialists offer a wide range of additional functions.
A knowledgeable specialist will help to make a difference between really needed innovations and attempts to increase the price of a product or win the competition due to nuances.
Economical consumption of electricity
Like any device that operates on electricity, the air conditioner consumes a certain amount of current. The topic of efficient energy consumption has gained extraordinary popularity in our time, so all the leading brands are trying to release a device with a high level of efficiency and make the configuration more economical.
As a rule, devices from leading brands have a high rate of efficiency. Such units are classified as class A.
Among the devices of the middle segment, you should opt for inverter models. These units operate with variable compressor power and are more economical.
air conditioner cost
What should be the cost of the unit? Today, there are many models of a cheap segment in stores. The price of split systems manufactured in the DPRK starts from 12-14 thousand rubles.
To make a rational purchase, you should:
- evaluate how the device is suitable for your needs;
- compare brands that have similar technical parameters;
- choose the most suitable model;
- compare among themselves all the prices offered in stores for this air conditioner;
- cross out the most expensive and cheapest options from the list (it is possible that there is some kind of catch here);
- call several companies that offer goods at an average price;
- ask your questions to their representatives.
On a note
Today, the Internet is replete with many offers from various air conditioning installation specialists. Some of them have developed personal online stores selling electrical equipment and are luring customers with low installation prices.
Such offers should not be taken into account. This is dangerous! You won't get a real hardware warranty.
Choosing an air conditioner
What brand of air conditioner to choose for an apartment, house or office? The most important parameter is the area of \u200b\u200bthe room in which the device is supposed to be installed. With its high rate, a powerful unit is required. If the power is too low, then the air conditioner simply will not be able to cool the room, and if it is high, then the energy consumption may not justify itself. In addition, the device will turn off and on too often, as the required air temperature will be reached by it quickly. Constant switching will lead to a quick failure of the unit.
The average figure should be about 2.5 kW of power for cooling a room with an area of 25 m 3.
If there are powerful heating devices in the room or there are usually many people in it, then the power level of the air conditioner may be higher.
The type of unit plays a big role. Consider the features of the functioning of each type separately.
Window mounted air conditioners
These are inexpensive and compact models that are installed in the window. They have a unified design in which all parts are in one block. Currently, such devices are installed extremely rarely, since they are very noisy during operation and it is impossible to mount them on metal-plastic windows, unless, of course, a hole for the unit has been provided in advance.
Mobile modifications
This option is acceptable for those who rent an apartment for a short period. They also gained popularity among summer residents. The mobile structure does not require assembly and dismantling. This is a portable model. The disadvantages include noise during operation, high weight and a small cooling area (not higher than 25 sq. M).
Features of split systems
Brands of air conditioners for apartments are very popular. They launched the production of split systems, which include two blocks - indoor and outdoor. The distance between them can be 20 m. The configurations operate almost silently, are small in size and have a variety of options.
These models include upgraded air filters. They have a good regulation system. The configurations are designed for a room ranging from 15 to 90 square meters. m. The best brands of air conditioners for a split-modification apartment are Daikin, Panasonic, Toshiba, Samsung, Midea, Hitachi, Electrolux.
Features of multi-split systems
From previous models, such devices differ in the number of blocks located inside. Usually in their design there are from two to five, there is also one external one. This is a good configuration for an office or home. However, the models are expensive.
Often, the installation of multi-split systems is resorted to when it is impossible to install many units on the front side of the building. For example, the building belongs to the category of architectural monuments or the owners do not want to spoil the appearance of the home.
According to many experts, the best brand of home air conditioner is Hitachi. In the domestic market, the company has managed to establish itself as a reliable company. The units of this company have always been distinguished by innovative technologies that are reflected in the appearance of many modern air conditioners. The first Hitachi Multizone multi-split systems were an example for many manufacturers, as they provided a high level of comfort and energy savings.
The constant influx of investments in the company's technological developments allows us to say that the company remains one of the leading companies in the market today. The combination of low price and excellent performance makes Hitachi multi-split systems an excellent choice for homes or offices.
VRF and VRV systems
They are advanced types of multi-split systems. Models are designed for cooling large areas from 150 to 500 square meters. m.
Configurations are multizone. This implies the possibility of connecting several indoor units to the outdoor unit, which allows you to maintain the desired temperature in rooms with different microclimates.
Channel construction
Such models belong to semi-industrial configurations. Their installation is carried out behind a false ceiling covering the internal unit of the device. Cold air is distributed through a system of outlets, also located in the space between the ceilings.
This model is suitable for creating a comfortable climate in a small cottage, office or five-room apartment. Duct configurations can solve the ventilation problem.
The disadvantages include the difficulty of separately setting the temperature in different rooms and the need to install suspended ceilings.
Cassette models
This view is similar to the previous one and also needs false ceilings. The difference lies in the scheme of the indoor unit. Cassette devices distribute cold air through the part of the unit located below. It has a standard size of 600 x 600 mm.
Such air conditioners cannot disturb the interior, as they are invisible. From below, only a decorative grille is visible.
Cassette configurations distribute air evenly in all directions. One device is able to cool a fairly large space.
Floor and ceiling views
This type is compact. The depth indicator of the indoor unit is from 18 to 25 cm.
Installation is carried out either at the bottom of the wall or on the ceiling. In the first case, the air will go up, and in the second it will take a horizontal direction along the ceiling.
Floor-to-ceiling units provide cooling for rooms ranging from 50 to 200 square meters. m.
Column types
Such air conditioners received the additional name "cabinet". As a rule, they are mounted in large hotel lobbies, restaurants, conference halls, shops and other large premises. They do not require installation. Devices create a powerful air flow, which is directed upward. The desired temperature is reached very quickly even in the largest room.
precision models
The word precision is English. Translated into Russian, it means "accuracy".
These are standalone devices. Are applied to point maintenance of the set temperature, humidity and air circulation.
As a rule, they are used in technological rooms, where maintaining the desired temperature is extremely important. For example, they are installed in machine rooms, server rooms, as well as in museums, book repositories, laboratories with chemical reagents.
Precision configurations withstand heavy loads and can operate year-round without shutting down.
Conclusion
Which brand of air conditioner is better is up to you. Here, much depends on the type and area of \u200b\u200byour premises, as well as financial capabilities. Of course, it is better to purchase models of time-tested brands. The operation of these units is more stable.
The first thing to consider when choosing an air conditioner is the possibility of installing it indoors. As a rule, only a few types of air conditioners are used for the home.
coolcondition.com- Suitable for apartments, cottages and almost any residential premises.
- Advantages: heating function, minimum noise, high-quality air filtration, a huge selection of models.
- disadvantages: Uneven cooling and heating of large rooms.
- Price: on average from 15,000 rubles for 20 m² + installation.
Wall split system - the most popular and versatile type of air conditioners. It includes an indoor unit, which is mounted on the wall in the room, and an external unit, mounted on the facade of the building. The distance between them can reach 20 meters.
Not air circulates between the blocks, but freon. In cooling mode, it takes heat from the room and brings it out. In multi-split systems, there may be several indoor units, but at the same time they are all connected to only one outdoor unit. Such systems are suitable for air conditioning several rooms at once or one large hall when indoor units are placed in its various parts.
Installing a split system can cost as much as an air conditioner.
However, do not try to do everything yourself: if malfunctions are found, problems may arise with warranty repairs.
homethods.com - Suitable for country houses and small premises where it is not possible to install a split system.
- Advantages A: Ability to move, no need to pay for installation.
- disadvantages: higher noise level, bulkiness, limited power - no more than 3 kW on average.
- Price: on average from 15,000 rubles for 20 m².
You can install a mobile air conditioner yourself. It is enough just to place it on the floor in the right place and bring a flexible air duct through a window or hole in the wall - a hose with a diameter of about 10 cm and a length of up to 1.5 m.
Most mobile air conditioners are designed for an area of no more than 20–30 m². Models capable of cooling 40-50 squares are much less on sale. Yes, and they cost at least 25,000 rubles. Consider them only if there are no other options.
Where can I buy:
Pay attention to the compressor
The advantage of split systems will be an inverter compressor. The control unit in such air conditioners converts the alternating supply current into direct current and then again into an alternating current of the required frequency. This allows you to control the speed of the compressor motor and smoothly regulate the temperature in the room.
However, it is more important for the buyer to know that inverter air conditioners are more reliable and more economical. Yes, they are more expensive, but the overpayment upon purchase is offset by bills for. Compared to non-inverter counterparts, the difference in energy consumption can reach 30-40%.
Determine the right power
Everything is simple here: the larger the area of \u200b\u200bthe room, the greater the power should be. In an ordinary apartment with a ceiling height of not more than 3 m, for every 10 m² there should be at least 1 kW.
Accordingly, if the air conditioner is installed in a room of 20 m², it is necessary to consider models with a minimum of 2 kW. However, you don’t have to worry about all this, since the product cards usually indicate what area the air conditioner will handle.
If there are a lot of electrical appliances in the room, especially computer equipment, it is better to consider air conditioners with a slightly higher power.
Also consider the location. South-facing rooms are usually warmer. This is another reason to think about increasing power.
In both cases, you can choose a model designed for a large area. Plus 5 m is usually enough.
Check for the right modes
Heating
This function is designed for the off-season, when there is no heating in the room, and it is cold outside.
In heating mode, heated freon enters the indoor unit of the split system, and cooled freon is output In many split systems, outdoor units can operate at -7°C. At lower temperatures, the heating power drops and there is a risk of icing on the outdoor unit.
Some inverter models are able to heat the room, even when it is -25 ° C outside the window.
dehumidification
This mode makes it easier to endure the sweltering heat and prevents the spread. This feature is now standard on most air conditioners.
Ventilation
This mode circulates the air in the room. As a rule, the compressor and fan of the outdoor unit of the split system are turned off, only the indoor one works. Do not confuse this mode with the influx of fresh air from the street.
Air cleaning
Coarse filters are in almost every air conditioner. They block dust and larger particles like fluff and wool. Filters must be removed and cleaned at least once every few months.
Much more important is the fine filter, which is able to capture the smallest, various odors and cigarette smoke. Such filters cannot always be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or rinsed with water. If necessary, filters should be changed immediately.
Consultants in stores can say a lot of flattering words about some newfangled filter, but they, of course, will keep silent about the need to replace it in a month or two.
For example, catechin filters can be used for about 30 days. After this period, they are not only useless, but also cause an unpleasant swamp smell.
Ionization
This mode is understood as the saturation of the air with air ions, which should provide a surge of strength and well-being in general.
This mode cannot be called marketing noodles, however, many people do not feel any effect from ionization.
Air ions are air particles that carry an electric charge. Under natural conditions, air saturated with air ions is present on the slopes of high mountains, near waterfalls, on the banks of mountain rivers, seas and oceans.
Oxygen saturation
Under this mode of operation, completely different mechanisms can be implied.
- A special generator that uses the physical method of gas separation. It consists of two separators that absorb and remove nitrogen to the street, and return oxygen to the room.
- A special membrane that, when air is sucked in, retains nitrogen molecules, but allows oxygen to pass through.
- An air exchanger for supplying fresh air from the street and removing air with a high concentration of carbon dioxide from the room.
Simple domestic split systems cannot supply fresh air to the room. They only "drive" the air inside the room, cooling or heating it. The refrigerant, freon, circulates through the tubes between the blocks themselves.
Check out more features
- Sleep mode or night mode. With it, the air conditioner will make less noise at night and automatically lower the temperature by several degrees.
- Turbo mode. Allows you to quickly reach the set temperature. To do this, the air conditioner operates at increased power, but not more than half an hour.
- Defrosting the outdoor unit. Function for using the air conditioner in the cold season, when outside the window is not higher than 5 °C. Not needed for those who do not plan to heat the air in the room.
- Self-diagnosis- self-determination of system malfunctions.
- WiFi support. Allows you to control the air conditioner from your smartphone. Not needed if you have a convenient remote control.
- Motion Sensor. The ability to switch to energy saving mode with minimal activity in the room.
- Air flow regulation. Allows you to set the direction of air flow, which may well save you from if you sleep directly under the air conditioner.
Don't Forget Energy Efficiency
Air conditioners have an energy efficiency coefficient for cooling mode (marked EER - Energy Efficiency Ratio) and heating mode (COP - Coefficient of Performance). They are calculated according to various formulas, but in the end, all values \u200b\u200bare reduced to classes familiar to household appliances: from A (highest) to G (lowest).
Depending on the operating mode, the energy consumption class of the air conditioner may be different. For example, in cooling mode - A ++, and in heating - A +.
If you wish, you will have to fork out pretty much for the unit itself. Prices for class A +++ split systems start at 60,000 rubles. However, overpaying is not always worth it.
For example, if we compare models designed for 25 squares, then class A +++ air conditioners consume an average of 500-600 watts of energy, and A ++ analogues - 700-800 watts. In this case, the difference in their price can reach 50%. With a limited budget, it is better to find the best option for the A ++ class.
inventorairconditioner.com To this day, air conditioners with energy class B, C and even D are also on sale. These are either very powerful systems for large areas, or the cheapest models. But it's not worth saving. A model with energy class A and above will be more expensive by only a few thousand rubles. This overpayment will quickly be beaten off in electricity bills.
Buyer's checklist
- For an apartment, first of all, consider wall-mounted split systems. Such units are excellent for various climatic conditions and temperature extremes. Yes, there is a wide range of prices.
- It is worth buying mobile household air conditioners only in rooms where it is not possible to install a split system with an outdoor unit.
- Cassette air conditioners are an excellent choice for rooms from 50 m² with a false ceiling. For small rooms they are not even considered.
- Before buying, check the support for the features you really need, as well as check the life of the filters.
- When choosing a model, pay attention not only to the cooling area, but also to the energy efficiency of the system. Anything below class A can significantly increase electricity bills.
Almost everyone asks this question, and the reason lies in the huge number of brands, models and functions - the eyes run wide, and even the price spread at first often plunges into a slight shock. In this article I will try to help you with the choice and put everything in its place.
Every year, with the advent of summer, the demand for air conditioners increases significantly. At this moment, most of our fellow citizens are thinking about purchasing this useful, but expensive device. And due to the fact that the modern market of air conditioners is saturated with a huge scattering of brands and models with various options, functions and characteristics, not to mention the range of prices, it is not surprising to get confused about which air conditioner to choose for your home.
After all, in order to make the right choice, you need to know by what criteria to evaluate applicants. As these notorious criteria, I propose to single out three: quality, practicality and, of course, cost. All three criteria are of approximately equal importance, since. the quality of the device reflects not only consumer characteristics (such as noise level), but also its resource or the number of years that your new split system will serve you faithfully. Practicality is no less important, because by purchasing a condo with a heating mode, you get a significant advantage - the ability to heat up in the off-season, when it is already cold at night and the heating period has not yet begun.
So, how to determine which air conditioner to choose in an apartment and not face the inconvenience associated with its installation and operation itself? In this article, we will try to cover this important issue.
Which air conditioner to choose: Requirements for applicants on the shelves
The main points on which we decide which air conditioner to choose for an apartment are:
Price;
Producing country
Types and modification;
Power (performance) and power consumption;
Appearance and dimensions;
functional set.
Each of these criteria is determined by the relevant features of your apartment and your budgetary possibilities.
Which air conditioner to choose: Which company's air conditioner is better - the price and quality of air conditioners
When we think about the question of which air conditioner to choose, then, undoubtedly, we take into account the brand and the country of origin, and they, in turn, often dictate the price for them.
For more than 60 years, Japan has occupied the first position in this market segment. Most of the inventions related to refrigeration were made there, so Japan is considered the undisputed leader of the industry and sets the overall pace for the entire industry. In this regard, when choosing an air conditioner for a Japanese-made apartment, you can absolutely count on the highest quality of the products offered, but their prices are among the highest on the market. Mitsubishi, Daikin, Fujitsu General and Toshiba are worth noting as the best Japanese manufacturers. Manufacturers Panasonic, Hitachi, Sanyo and others are in catching up positions both in terms of quality and technology, and in terms of prices, which will be about 10-30% lower than the previously mentioned competitors.
We can include devices from Italy (Aermec), the USA (McQuay) and South Korea (, Hyundai, Samsung) to the middle category.
The cheapest, both in terms of cost and quality, are, of course, split systems made in China (Zanussi and Midea, etc.), and it is also worth adding Electrolux, assembled not in Germany, but in other countries.
But do not forget that not everything that glitters is gold, and not everything that is expensive is good. The bottom line is that for a number of very high-quality and expensive goods, you can sometimes get an impressive discount. Depending on the load and time of the year, various promotions are held for climate equipment in various companies, thanks to which you can get expensive air conditioning at a much lower price.
For example, it is possible to get FREE(!) installation when buying air conditioners Daikin. The Daikin FTXB series in itself is one of the most favorable in terms of price and quality, because for a relatively small amount you get an air conditioner from an industry leader manufactured in Europe! And as a gift, you also get delivery with installation, which is currently the best offer in the category of premium air conditioners.
Wall-mounted split system Hyundai H-AR2 Ultra series
Which air conditioner to choose: Power and other technical characteristics of split systems for an apartment
The compressor and its power are responsible for the main task for us - cooling (or heating). Understanding this, you need to select the power of the device based on the size of the room that it will process. For reference: 10 sq.m. area, a power (cooling capacity) of 1 kW is needed, which means for a room of 20 sq.m. at least 2kW of cooling power is required.
It is important to consider that you do not need to buy a conder that is significantly more powerful than it is required. The power reserve should not exceed 30%. Otherwise, the efficiency of your system will be lower and the average power consumption higher.
The main modes that all modern air conditioners have are cooling mode, heating mode, blowing or ventilation mode, air purification and dehumidification mode, automatic maintenance of the set temperature and air flow adjustment. In addition to standard features, the most modern models are equipped with additional options, such as air ionization, a fine filter, fresh air supply from the street, a winter start system, a plasma air purifier, spot cooling or heating, and others. All this pleasure, of course, increases the cost of goods.
And, of course, the most important part of each split system is the remote control, which displays the set temperature indicators and the included modes, as well as configures all the parameters of the air conditioning system.
Which air conditioner to choose: Types of air conditioners for an apartment
With regard to the types of structures and installation method, they are divided into three key areas:
Monoblock - having one block (window and mobile);
- split systemsconsisting of one indoor unit (wall, cassette, channel or ceiling) and one outdoor unit.
- multi split systems, consisting of several indoor units (wall, cassette, channel or ceiling) connected to one outdoor unit.
Window monoblock LG
Which air conditioner to choose: Monoblock air conditioning system
The monoblock system, also known as a window system, as a type is almost a thing of the past. Its only advantage is its low cost. But the disadvantages, such as noisy operation, blockage of the window opening and installation in double-glazed windows, associated with a number of problems, force this type of cooler out of the market. But still, we note that in some cases the installation of such a system may be justified (for example, for installation in retail kiosks). This type of device has also undergone modernization over time. Among them, versions with additional functions have appeared, such as air heating mode and remote control, and their design has also become more stylish.
At the moment, mobile air conditioners are gaining popularity, and the reason for this is their unique feature - the possibility of self-transportation. Although they have one significant drawback - the notorious noisy work. This type does not require installation, all you need to do is just plug it into an electrical outlet and bring a hose outside through a window or window through which warm air is removed from it. They, as a rule, are designed for a small area (no more than 25 sq.m.). The cost of the "mobile phone" will be a little higher than that of the window.
Wall split system LG
Which air conditioner to choose: Split systems
Any split system has one outdoor and one indoor unit. Thus, the main source of noise - the compressor, located in the outdoor unit, is mounted outside the room, and the indoor unit, which is installed in the room, operates almost silently. The blocks communicate with each other by means of an electric cable and a freon line.
There are several subspecies of split systems, and they all differ from each other in the type of indoor unit, the choice of which depends on the technical conditions of a particular room. Wall-mounted air conditioners are considered the most common and attractive models, but if it is not possible to install it on the wall, you can buy yourself a cassette, duct, ceiling or floor type.
Which air conditioner to choose: Multi-split system
A multi-split system with one outdoor unit is capable of serving several rooms at once, and this happens due to the ability to connect from 2 to 5-6 indoor units of any type to it. Installation of devices of this type is much more complicated and expensive due to the fact that multi-split systems, similar to the performance of several split systems, always turn out to be more expensive in themselves, and also require more material when distributing power and freon lines. Moreover, it is likely that in this case you will face additional costs for the installation of false ceilings, as part of the communications may have to be carried out along the ceiling. Therefore, when planning to buy a multi-split system, it is important to consider that such systems require a mandatory preliminary calculation, even before repairs are carried out in your apartment. And one more disadvantage of this system that is worth noting is the lack of the possibility of room-by-room adjustment of the operating mode, which means that it is impossible to turn on the unit for heating in one room and for cooling in the other.
In connection with the foregoing, we summarize that the installation of a multi-split system is justified only in one case - if it is not possible to install several outdoor units (corresponding to the number of indoor units)
Which air conditioner to choose: inverter or not
In this section, we will consider questions that are important to many: what is an inverter, and is it worth buying an inverter air conditioner. If you are thinking about buying an inverter split, then you should consider that, in essence, it differs from a non-inverter one only in the presence of a smooth control of the outdoor unit compressor, due to which certain energy savings and noise reduction of the outdoor unit are achieved. So is it worth buying an inverter condo? The answer lies in its price. Any "inverter" costs significantly more than its younger brother without this technology. The difference, depending on the manufacturer, can be up to 30%, and the energy savings are about 20%. Accordingly, if we are talking about a large number of units with strict electricity restrictions, then this decision will be justified, but when installing a couple of units in an apartment, the electricity savings will be only 0.2-0.3 kW, and the overpayment upon purchase will be significant.
Which air conditioner to choose: Choosing the right place to install an air conditioner in an apartment
We have already figured out a little about how to choose an air conditioner in an apartment, and now the key task is to choose the place where we will mount it. Installing an air conditioner, and to be precise, choosing the right place to install an air conditioner, is a process that requires a balanced and correct decision, and all because it cannot be taken and rearranged to another place, as can be done with a fan or air cleaner.
In many respects, its further successful functioning depends on the chosen place for the split system. The optimal place for installation in an apartment can be determined by following a few simple rules:
Rule 1 - avoid direct exposure of people to the flow of cold air
Direct exposure of the air flow to people in the room is not only undesirable, but even dangerous. The thing is that the jet of air that the unit throws into the space is colder than the rest of the room air by 7-15 degrees Celsius. The ingress of this stream can cause not only poor health, but even threaten with a cold. The air flow of your air conditioner must be directed so that it passes where people are not too often. A number of Daikin air conditioner models are already equipped with the unique Smart Eye function, which prevents direct airflow from reaching people in the room.
Not true! With this placement, a stream of cold air will blow directly at you.
Rule 2 - Install the wall unit at the head of the bed
When choosing an installation location in the bedroom, most of us wonder how it would be most acceptable to place the split system in relation to the bed, on which wall. When it is not possible to place the indoor unit as far from the bed as possible, it should be mounted exactly above the head (although many are afraid of such a scheme, it is the only correct one in such a situation, because the flow will not be directed to the head, it gets to the legs, which we often all covered with a blanket, and therefore protected).
The most correct way to place the air conditioner in the bedroom
Rule 3 - leave at least 10 centimeters between the top cover of the unit and the ceiling
The most reasonable and advantageous location of the indoor unit is when there is free space from the ceiling, which is at least ten centimeters, but if the conditions do not allow hanging the air conditioner at such a height, then the minimum distance between the unit and the ceiling is at least 3 cm
Rule 4 - do not create an obstacle for blown air
It is unacceptable to install indoor units above chests of drawers or cabinets when the distance to the bottom of the unit is less than 70-100 centimeters, and also refuse to place the indoor unit where there is an obstacle for the exhaust air. With such a scheme, the air flow will have an incorrect circulation, in addition, the operation of the system will be much less efficient, and air exchange will deteriorate.
How to choose a place to install an air conditioner
Rule 5 - do not place the indoor unit far from the outdoor unit of the split system
A prerequisite is a small length of the route. An extended route makes installation more expensive, and, secondly, it significantly reduces the efficiency of the split system.
Which air conditioner to choose: Outcome
So what is the best air conditioner for an apartment? For an apartment, it is definitely better to use non-inverter wall-mounted split systems, and they should be placed as close as possible to the outdoor units, taking into account the fact that their air flow should not fall on people. I hope that our article helped you with your choice and wish you a successful purchase!
Which air conditioner to choose
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