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Which air conditioner to choose: comparison of different types of systems

Publication table of contents:
Which air conditioner to choose: types of units
Window air conditioner and its capabilities
Floor air conditioner: mobility above all
Wall-mounted split system: wide range of equipment
Multi-split system: one block and coolness throughout the apartment
Duct air conditioner: two in one, ventilation and air conditioning
Air conditioner manufacturers: which one to prefer

Despite the fact that man is a warm-blooded animal, the heat and the scorching summer sun “soften” him and make him absolutely unsuitable for any vigorous activity. Abundantly expiring sweat and absorbing an incredible amount of life-giving moisture, you involuntarily think about purchasing an air conditioner. And the first question that comes to mind is which air conditioner to choose? And, it’s true, after all, quite a lot of companies produce this technique, and making the wrong choice is tantamount to wasting money. It is this question that we will deal with in this article, in which, together with the stroisovety.org website, we will deal with the varieties of modern air conditioners, their capabilities and manufacturers.

How to choose an air conditioner for your home

Which air conditioner to choose: types of units

To begin with, let’s determine that all refrigeration units can be divided into three main types: domestic, semi-industrial and industrial. You yourself understand that the last two types of these devices are practically not suitable for home and apartment, so let’s turn our conversation towards household air conditioners, which are marked with three unsightly Latin letters (RAC – Room Air Conditions).

And the first thing you need to deal with, approaching the question of how to choose an air conditioner for your home, is with the types of domestic air conditioners. And there are only four of them.

Window air conditioner and its possibilities

Once upon a time it was the most demanded type of air conditioners – a monoblock design was quite easy and simple to install in the window of wooden windows. But times have passed, windows of this design have become practically unclaimed, and along with them, the need for window air conditioners has also decreased.

Such units have one significant drawback – they are very noisy. This is due to the way they are installed – the fact is that the window frame, together with the glass, is a resonator that amplifies the sounds accompanied by the operation of the moving parts of the air conditioner. In addition, the installation of such an air conditioner is associated with a violation of the tightness of windows, which is not very good for the microclimate in the room in winter. The advantages of window air conditioners include their cost (it is relatively small) and simple installation (almost anyone with skillful hands will master this work on their own).

Which air conditioner to choose: window type

Floor air conditioner: mobility is above all

Mobile or, as they are also called, floor air conditioners. This name does not quite correctly reflect the essence of things, since mobile means independent, which this type of air conditioner is completely deprived of. When approaching the question of which air conditioner is best for an apartment, one must take into account the fact that these devices are still tied to the installation site: firstly, hot air is thrown out through a special hose (you will have to install it either in the window or drill it in hole in the wall) and, secondly, mobile air conditioners with a capacity of more than 3kW are equipped with a small outdoor unit, which further limits this unit in its ability to move.

Also, as disadvantages of mobile air conditioners, one can note their high cost and low power, which does not exceed 4 kW. The advantages of such air conditioners include a very simple installation – this is the only type of such devices that does not require the participation of a qualified craftsman for installation.

How to choose the right air conditioner: floor-standing unit

Wall-mounted split system: wide range of equipment

Wall-mounted split system. This is the most common type of air conditioner, consisting of two separate units connected to each other by a system of pipelines and cables. This separation allows you to install an air conditioner almost anywhere in a house or apartment, without much cluttering it up – the main equipment is taken out into the street, and a small control unit and cooled air supply is installed in the living room.

These units are quite powerful – with an energy consumption that can reach from 2 to 7 kW, they are able to cool a room ranging from 15 to 70 sq.m. The split system has few drawbacks – they are silent due to the external placement of the working unit and do not violate the tightness of the apartment. The only thing that can be indicated as negative factors is the impossibility of self-installation and the relatively high cost of these units.

Which air conditioner is best for an apartment: split system photo

Multi-split system: one unit and coolness throughout the apartment

Multi-split system. In fact, this is a variation of the split system described above, and differs from it in that not one, but several indoor units of different capacities (up to 5 pieces) can be connected to the outdoor unit of the air conditioner. As you understand, this makes it possible to provide cooling for all rooms of the apartment from one single outdoor unit.

A significant disadvantage of multi-split air conditioners is the failure of all indoor units when the outdoor unit breaks down – in one fell swoop you lose coolness in the whole apartment at once. It is for this reason that they resort to installing such an air conditioning system only when it is impossible to install several outdoor units. As for the popular belief that such a system is cheaper than several free-standing air conditioners, this is a misconception. Firstly, the price of equipment will be about the same and, secondly, complex installation increases the cost of installation several times. In fact, such a system will cost 20% more. So the best air conditioner for an apartment is a conventional split system.

Multi-split system photo

Duct air conditioner: two in one, ventilation and air conditioning

Approaching the question of how to choose the right air conditioner, one should not lose sight of the semi-industrial group of this equipment. The fact is that they are quite often used in extensive air conditioning systems that are equipped with large private houses and cottages. Sometimes it is cheaper to install and operate one air conditioner that cools the whole house. Such units are called channel units, and their power can reach 25 kW. In addition, they are quite capable of providing the building with fresh air in the required volume – as you understand, by purchasing a duct air conditioner and installing an extensive system for supplying cooled air, you simultaneously create a supply ventilation system in the house.

Duct air conditioner photo

Manufacturers of air conditioners: which one to prefer

When answering the question of which air conditioner is better to choose, it is difficult to ignore such an important point as the manufacturers of these devices. The great demand for cooling systems, especially in the southern regions, has generated a lot of offers from all kinds of companies that are by no means distinguished by quality. The main indicator by which you can distinguish a bad air conditioner from a good one is its price – do not think that equipment of such complexity can be cheap. As they say, we are not rich enough to throw money away by purchasing low-quality products.

But back to our air conditioner manufacturers. There is an unofficial classification of products that divides air conditioners, as, in principle, almost all goods produced in the modern world, into three groups: premium class, which is designed for elite buyers, the middle group (a buyer with an average income level) and economy class. If we divide all manufacturers of air conditioners on this basis, then we can make some rating.

1. Air conditioner manufacturers of the elite class include Daikin, Mitsubishi Electric, General and General Fujitsu. The cost of their products can range from $800 to $1200 for a 2kW split system.
2. Mid-range air conditioner manufacturers include Panasonic, McQuay, Hitachi, Sanyo, Sharp and Toshiba – their cost can range from $600 to $900 for the same 2kW split system.
3. And the manufacturers of economy-class air conditioners include such enterprises as Ballu, Gree, Haier, Kentatsu, LG, Midea, Samsung – they can be purchased at prices ranging from $250 to $540 for the same 2kW split system.

Which company to choose air conditioner

As you can see, the question of which company to choose an air conditioner fully depends on your capabilities. In all other respects, they differ from each other only in quality and, as a result, durability. For example, economy class air conditioners are very dependent on operating modes – if you follow them, then they will be able to serve you faithfully for quite a long time.

At the end of the topic, which air conditioner to choose, I want to note the fact that in many respects the duration of operation of this unit depends on the company that installed it and the regular maintenance that manufacturers recommend doing annually.

Author of the article Alexander Kulikov

How to choose an air conditioner for your home: we help you decide on the criteria

Last summer, we considered the issue of choosing a home fan – a relatively simple household appliance that can significantly increase comfort when staying indoors in the summer.

Now it’s time to deal with air conditioners – much more expensive and complex (both technically and in installation) devices that allow you to fine-tune the temperature in the room.

Recall that most air conditioners do not provide fresh air (oxygen), but only ensure that the room maintains a constant temperature. The pros and cons of such devices are obvious: on the one hand, the user can be sure that the room will have exactly the temperature that he set on the air conditioner. On the other hand, the risk of being in a stuffy (albeit comfortable in temperature) room increases. After all, the air conditioner can fully work only when the windows are closed.

Let’s take a look at what air conditioners are and how they differ.

Types of air conditioners

Home air conditioners can be roughly divided into several of the most common types, differing in installation method and, of course, in size. The main difference is whether our air conditioner has an outdoor unit or not.

Air conditioners without an outdoor unit include monoblocks (permanently installed in a suitable place, such as a window opening or a niche in a wall) and mobile air conditioners that can be moved if necessary.

Mobile air conditioners have a special pipe for the removal of warm air, which must be mounted in such a way that the air is discharged outside the window (a mounting adapter can often be found with such devices). As for the condensate, in most cases it evaporates naturally, but in some cases it may be necessary to remove it manually (draining the contents of the container).

Monoblocks and mobile air conditioners are usually used where it is not possible or inappropriate to install a stationary air conditioner – in a country house, in a rented apartment, etc.

A separate type of monoblock is a window air conditioner installed directly in a window or in a special opening in the wall. It was these air conditioners that were most popular in the past, we can say that the “boom of home air conditioners” began with this design (mainly in the USA). However, today they have significantly lost their positions.

You can even install a window air conditioner yourself (if the window and/or the room in principle allows the installation of such devices). However, here lies the main catch: with the advent of double-glazed windows, the installation of such air conditioners must be calculated at the stage of taking measurements.

Well, given that window air conditioners predictably lead to heat loss in winter due to low thermal insulation between the “inner” and “outer” halves of the device, it is obvious that such devices are rarely found where double-glazed windows are installed, and much more more often – where wooden frames are still used.

Window air conditioners are compact in size, easy to install (and dismantle), and low price.

The next type is stationary air conditioners (or split systems). They consist of two blocks, one of which is located inside the apartment, and the other – outside. Such an air conditioner is often equipped with an air purification system, can work for heating and has a set of automatic modes. Both external and internal blocks of such air conditioners are well known to everyone without exception.

There are several options for split systems that differ in their functionality and installation method. So, multi-split systems consist of one external unit and several internal ones, which allows you to independently control the temperature level in each of the rooms in which the indoor unit is installed (however, they all must work in the same mode – either for heating or for cooling ).

Channel split system – designed specifically for hidden installation and involves the creation of an extensive ventilation system (as a rule, it is placed above the false ceiling). Thanks to this, the installation of one indoor unit can provide air regulation in several rooms at once (however, the same temperature will be maintained in all). Such air conditioners often have the ability to add fresh air.

Finally, let’s mention cassette air conditioners. To install such a system, as well as for a ducted air conditioner, a false ceiling is required. However, unlike ducted split systems, cassette type air conditioners distribute cooled air through the bottom of the unit. The lower part of the cassette split system has the size of a standard ceiling tile – 600 × 600 mm, and with high power twice as much – 1200 × 600 mm, and is closed with a decorative grille with distribution blinds. Due to the distribution of air flows in four directions, this type of split system quickly and evenly cools or heats the air in a fairly large room (as a rule, such air conditioners are used in rooms of 50 square meters and more).

Inverter and conventional models

The inverter air conditioner is equipped with a compressor with smooth capacity adjustment, which is provided by a frequency converter – inverter. Currently, inverter air conditioners are in the product line of every well-known manufacturer of climate technology.

Inverter air conditioners compare favorably with smooth adjustment, low noise level, energy efficiency, and the ability to work for heating. At the same time, inverter-type air conditioners are often more difficult to install and repair and are more expensive than conventional ones, so their choice should be treated more carefully.

Power and size of the room

To find the right air conditioner, before you go to the store, you need to determine the size of the room and find out its characteristics (rooms located on the sunny side of the house will require a stronger cooling system). Depending on this, the power of the air conditioner is also selected.

There is an informal rule that there should be 100 watts of air conditioning power per square meter of room space (in this case we are talking about “cooling power” and not electrical power consumption). So, let’s say, an air conditioner with a cooling capacity of 2-2.5 kW will cope with maintaining a comfortable temperature in a room of up to 20 square meters (of course, provided that there are no additional heat sources).

The instructions for each air conditioner indicate what area it is designed for, but often the manufacturer overestimates this parameter, so in fact you have to buy an air conditioner “with a margin” in terms of power, or study the reviews of users who have already tried the model you are interested in in practice.

It should also be taken into account that in fact the air conditioner does not cool the area, but the volume, so if your ceilings are significantly higher than 2.5-3 meters, the formula should be corrected.

Noise level

Air conditioner noise level is a rather important parameter. Especially if it is planned to install an air conditioner in a living room or in a bedroom. A monoblock or mobile air conditioner will make more noise than a split system, since in this case the compressor is inside the room, while in a split system it is placed in the outdoor unit. In addition, additional noise in this case is created by the air conditioning blower system.

The maximum noise level of the air conditioner, as well as the power, is indicated in the instructions. However, additional noise can be generated due to unwanted vibrations and, in particular, transmitted along the floor (especially if installed incorrectly). In general, in this case, it will not be superfluous to read user reviews: a large number of complaints about the noise of some models makes you think about the advisability of purchasing them.

Control

The easiest way to control the air conditioner is a mechanical panel that allows you to turn on one of the modes. For example, “fan+cold strong/fan+cold weak/fan strong/fan weak”. It is clear that with the help of such a control panel it will not be too easy to set the most comfortable temperature in the room. And therefore – you should seriously think before buying an air conditioner with such a primitive control.

The vast majority of models allow more precise settings, including precise temperature setting, a timer, several power modes, etc. Almost all “serious” models are equipped with a remote control. In our opinion, in this case, it is not worth saving: it is better to purchase a device that allows you to fine-tune the desired mode as accurately as possible than to experiment with air conditioners that can operate in only a few modes that may not be suitable for the climatic conditions of the room.

A typical air conditioner remote control

The presence of a display on the indoor unit of the air conditioner allows you to find out the current information about temperature, humidity, the selected mode, etc. It is not uncommon for a display to be on the remote control – and this is undoubtedly very convenient.

Energy consumption level

Like many other household appliances, air conditioners have energy efficiency ratings. In the 2010s, according to the new EEC Directive, the highest class A was divided into several subclasses: A +, A ++ and A +++, allowing the most accurate comparison of the energy consumption of various devices. The calculation of these energy consumption classes is carried out by comparing a certain standard energy consumption with the actual one, which makes it possible to fairly accurately attribute the device to one class or another and, thereby, clearly show the buyer which device will save on electricity, and which one will be more energy-intensive.

Since air conditioners can be very powerful, don’t take the energy efficiency class lightly: if used regularly over several years, a more efficient appliance can save a lot of money (which of course depends on the electricity tariff in your area). The most energy efficient class today is the A +++ class, which, however, is not very common, and the devices themselves with this energy efficiency class will cost significantly more than their less economical counterparts.

Also note that monoblocks and mobile air conditioners will almost always be less efficient than split systems.

Additional features

A domestic air conditioner may have many additional features and capabilities that make it easier to operate the unit or increase user comfort. Let’s list some of them.

• Automatic temperature maintenance. An air conditioner with this function can automatically maintain the set temperature, switching if necessary from one mode to another (cooling, heating, ventilation) or changing the fan speed and airflow direction.
• Auto restart. The automatic restart function will allow the instrument to automatically return to its previous mode of operation after a power failure or the end of a cycle.
• Motion sensor. The motion sensor allows you to automatically switch the device to energy-saving mode when there is no movement in the room – for example, if there is no one at home or at night when everyone is sleeping. This feature will help you avoid hypothermia or overheating, as well as save on bills.
• Air purification. In a standard air conditioner, you can find anti-dust and photocatalytic air filters. In addition to them, some models are equipped with additional filters designed to destroy bacteria and allergenic pollen. In household series, four filters (two dust and two photocatalytic) are often presented, which together act very effectively on all known sources of pollution. Well, the presence of a special deodorizing filter will rid the indoor air of unpleasant odors (for example, pets or food) and tobacco smoke.
• Night mode. After turning on this mode, the air conditioner sets the minimum fan speed (to reduce noise) and gradually lowers (when working for cooling) or raises (when working for heating) the temperature by 2-3 degrees for several hours.
• Airflow direction adjustment. Models with this feature are equipped with special guides that turn left-right and / or up-down, thereby allowing you to direct the air flow in the right direction. Such a function, for example, will not let you catch a cold if the workplace or bed is located directly under the air conditioner.
• Dehumidification mode. This is an additional mode of operation in which excess moisture is removed from the air. It can be useful in high humidity (for example, in rainy weather).
• Fresh air supply and air humidification. In air conditioners with this functionality, the external unit of the device takes air from the street, purifies it and accumulates moisture, after which it supplies fresh air to the house in the required volume. In addition, the air is humidified to the most comfortable humidity level of 40%-60%.
• Turbo. 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.
• Wi-Fi support. Allows you to remotely control the air conditioner from your smartphone.

Conclusions

So, let’s repeat the basic rules for choosing an air conditioner for your home.

The first thing to decide is the type of air conditioner: whether it will be a monoblock, mobile air conditioner or split system. For an apartment, it makes sense to pay attention to wall-mounted split systems. Such devices are excellent for various climatic conditions and temperature extremes. But it makes sense to buy mobile household air conditioners for a summer cottage or for installation 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. They do not apply in small rooms.

The second step is to check whether the model you have chosen is suitable for your space. That is, make sure that the power of the air conditioner is enough with a margin to maintain the desired temperature in a room of a certain area (for this, it will not be superfluous to check the instructions for the device).

Thirdly, you need to make sure that the control system of the device satisfies your needs and allows you to set the required mode of operation.