How to choose a split system

Very often thoughts on buying a split-system are visited on a hot summer day. After all, the main purpose of this device is cooling the room. There are many different models of split-systems and in order to understand them, you need to familiarize yourself with their varieties.

Definition of split systems

The most popular type of air conditioning is split systems. They are used to maintain optimal indoor climate. In the apartment, in an apartment building or in an enterprise, these units are installed to create favorable temperature conditions.

Depending on the scope of application of the split-system there are:

1. Split systems for small areas:

• , wall-mounted,
• , wall-mounted multi-split systems,
• floor air conditioners.

2. Split systems for medium-sized rooms:

• channel-ceiling,
• cassette or column,
• "type-in".

3. Split systems for large rooms:

• central air conditioners,
• air conditioners-cabinets,
• roof and attic air conditioners,
• precision air conditioners.

Household split-systems are used in living areas from 2 to 120 sq.m. The main task is to cool the warm air. Sometimes used as an additional heater.

Commercial split systems effectively cool areas from 80 to 350 sq.m. Suitable only if the area of ​​the whole object is more than 200 square meters.m. Otherwise, it is cheaper to put the usual household split-system.

Split systems, the price of which is the highest, are industrial air conditioners. Are used in areas over 300 sq.m. The main distinguishing feature is permanent work for 10 years. Practically do not require care and repair.

Two-way split-systems

Wall-mounted or dual-block split-systems are most often used in apartments, houses, small shops or offices.

They consist of two blocks:

• external,
• internal.

The indoor unit is responsible for draining condensate, and it also supplies air cooled by the outdoor unit. Both units are connected by copper tubes through which coolant circulates. In most air conditioners it's freon. Since the motor is located inside the outdoor unit, the noise level in the room is low enough.

The location and type of indoor unit are chosen independently, guided by the features and size of the room. Advantages of dual-block split-system:

• low noise level;
• optimum cooling power from 1.5 to 8.5 kW;
• reasonable price;
• rapid cooling of living quarters;
• compactness;
• remote control;
• many additional functions;
• various design solutions;
• energy saving.

Disadvantages of dual-block split system:

• small area of ​​operation;
• lack of ventilation function of fresh air;
• impossibility of transportation with frequent relocations.

1. Split system, reviews about which are most positive - this is an inverter-type air conditioner. It differs from the usual one in that when the air is cooled, when the desired temperature has already been reached, it does not turn off, but reduces the power of operation and constantly maintains the set temperature. The usual split system is switched on and off, thereby using electricity much more than inventory.

2. Multiple split systems are distinguished by the fact that two to five external units are connected to the outdoor unit. They are installed, for example, in offices or, if the design of the facade of the house does not allow the installation of many outdoor units.

Duct split systems

Ducted split systems have a complex structure and operating principle:

1. Outdoor unit, which always contacts fresh air. On the outdoor unit, air enters the circulation system, which supplies fresh air into the room through an air valve with an electric drive.
2. Next, a split-system filter, filters fresh air that comes from outside. The heater heats the air, if necessary. It can be water or electric.
3. Through a ducted fan with a sound attenuator, the air flow enters the intake duct of the intake system.
4. Then the air enters the air conditioner unit, where it is adjusted to the set temperature.
5. Through the air duct with grate, air is given into the room. Lattices are made of tin, and can be both wall and ceiling.

One of the main advantages of channel split systems is the conditioning of the room, divided into different rooms. If the wall split system is installed in one room, the channel split systems, air supply to different rooms. The disadvantages of such split-systems is a complex installation and the inability to separately adjust the temperature in different rooms. Also for their installation, a suspended ceiling or a ceiling space is required.

Floor split systems

A multifunctional air conditioner is sufficient, which does not require permanent installation. Usually it is bought for rented apartments, when there is a need to move, and the owners do not want to give an expensive gift. The operation process is reduced to fixing the condensation tube in the window and turning on the button of the remote control.

From the advantages it is customary to allocate:

1. Mobility - with frequent relocations it is easy to take with you, since this type of air conditioner does not require a long installation.
2. Function for cooling and heating air.
3. Presence of a timer.
4. Remote control.
5. Function of ionization and air purification.

With a number of advantages, such conditioners also have drawbacks:

1. The short length of the hose, which does not allow to install it far from the window.
2. Limited power.
3. Increased noise level.
4. In comparison with wall split systems, outdoor air conditioners are more expensive.
5. The filter must be cleaned frequently.

Overview of companies producing climate technology

Conditionally, the manufacturers of climate technology should be divided into 3 classes:

1. Class A air conditioners are:

• Daikin,
• Mitsubishi Electric
• Hitachi.

2. Split systems of the middle class B:

• Toshiba,
• Gree,
• Fujitsu,
• Electrolux,
• Zanussi,
• Carrier.

3. Split systems of class C:

• LG,
• Samsung,
• General,
• Dantex. General Climate,
• Panasonic.

Review of the most popular brands of air conditioners:

1. Air conditioners Daikin( Japan) - this company occupies a leading position in the market for the production of air conditioners. Their air conditioners are of good quality and high reliability. Daikin scientists constantly develop new functions for more convenient and comfortable use of the split-system. For a residential building, for industrial purposes, there is a huge selection of models. The Intelligent Eye function allows you to monitor the indoor climate. Also these conditioners are environmentally friendly. In modern models, manufacturers refused to use Freon R22.Prices for wall conditioners of this company range from $ 600 to $ 4,000.
2. Mitsubishi Electric( Japan, United Kingdom, Thailand) - one of the popular firms for the production of split systems and air conditioning systems. Climatic equipment of this brand is characterized by high energy efficiency, low noise level up to 19 Dts and many additional features that provide maximum comfort. The prices of this manufacturer range from 1000 to 7000 $.
3. Air conditioners Hitachi( Malaysia) - a combination of low price and high-quality cooling. Suitable for office premises, as well as for residential apartments or houses. The price is 700-3000 $.
4. Toshiba. The air conditioners of this company are compact, efficient and reliable. Prices are at the level of 600 to 2000 $.
5. Panasonic( Malaysia) - a popular brand of household appliances. Split Panasonic systems are equipped with high-performance air purifiers and reliable filters. Convenient management and flexibility of the installation make the climate technology of this brand in demand in the market of air conditioners. The price is from 500 to 1500 $.
6. Korean split LG systems are bribed with a variety of design solutions that allow you to choose a split system suitable for any interior. A good air purification system and high power are the main advantages. The price is from 300 to 900 $.

Review of not popular, but high-quality brands:

• Kaiser,
• Nexon,
• Samsung,
• Saturt,
• Haier.

If you make an approximate price grid, then:

• buy a split system of the usual type will cost $ 400,
• mobile air conditioner - $ 600,
• inverter split system - 600-800 $,
• multi split system 800-1000 $,
• channelThe split-system starts from $ 2200.

Tips for choosing a quality air conditioner

• First of all, choose the type of split system. This allows you to significantly narrow the search.
• The second, and perhaps the most important, criterion is the price. The functional of the air conditioner must meet its cost, there is no sense to overpay for the brand.
• Working area. It is determined by the square of the room. If you plan to install a multi-split system, the working area will consist of the sum of the areas of individual rooms.
• Nominal and maximum power of the air conditioner. Nominal is the power specified by the manufacturer. Under the influence of atmospheric conditions, mechanical factors affecting the operation of the split system, the rated power falls. Accordingly, it is recommended to specify the actual or maximum capacity of the air conditioner.
• Ionization filters. This is a useful gadget, as it counteracts the appearance of bacteria in the air conditioner and cleans the air supplied from viruses and allergens. The only drawback is that it needs regular replacement. From the point of view of physics silver ions decay in maximum a month.

• No noise. This parameter is indicated in the technical specifications of the air conditioner. Make sure that it does not exceed 19 dts.
• Smart Sensors. Additional functions that only overload the operation of the air conditioner, and increase the power consumption of electricity.
• It is better to choose inverter split systems. It will help to save electricity and will constantly maintain the set temperature.
• Note the weight of the split system. A quality air conditioner will always weigh more, since the basic elements of the structure must be made of metal, and not of plastic.
• It is advisable to select the outer unit as a metal one, since the plastic unit is deformed under the influence of the temperature drop.
• Installation is best entrusted to professionals, because they give a guarantee and are responsible for the quality of work.
• The remote control should be simple, convenient and understandable.
• Buy and install a split system better in autumn or spring. After all at the height of the season, prices for them increase.
• If the installation is made in a multi-storey building, it is better to install an outdoor unit where, if necessary, it will not be difficult to carry out the servicing.
• If you make repairs, it is advisable to purchase an air conditioner, before its completion. Then the installation will cost less, and all the wires will hide in the walls.

The choice of split systems is very wide, and therefore, based on the features of the room and the necessary functions, you need to choose the device that suits you.