How to choose a split system for an apartment and a house by square footage and power

Hot weather is good on the beach near a cool river, on the seashore, lake or near another body of water. But what to do when the heat catches up at home or in the office, and the thermometer rises to 28 degrees and above?

In such a situation, a split system is useful, which brings the temperature to the required level and maintains it throughout the entire time.

What is a split system, where is it used and what does it consist of?

The device is especially relevant in homes where central air conditioning is not provided.

The outdoor part is equipped with a condenser, compressor and fan. The unit is installed on the outside of the structure (on the roof, on the wall or on the balcony). The noise level of this unit is about 50-60 dB.

The second part (indoor unit) contains a fan and an evaporator and is installed inside the refrigerated room. Here the noise level is lower – 25-30 dB.

Thanks to this feature, the sound from the air conditioner was reduced by almost a thousand times. So it is not surprising that such systems have become widespread in all residential premises – in apartments, houses, offices and other structures.

Types of split systems

What determines their choice, the pros and cons, which of them are the most common and popular. As noted above, the device consists of two separate blocks – indoor and outdoor.

Both elements are connected to each other using copper pipes and electrical cables. The main differences relate to the device mounted indoors.

Here are the following options:

1. Wall mounted.
2. The floor.
3. Ceiling.
4. Channel.
5. Cassette.
6. Floor and ceiling.

As for other types of products, they are classified as commercial.

Despite their high efficiency, it makes no sense to install commercial air conditioners in ordinary apartments with a small area.

This is due to the fact that it will not be possible to fully use the capabilities of such models, but you will have to overpay for using a split system.

Some experts do not agree with this opinion. They assure that channel and cassette air conditioners, as well as floor and ceiling split systems, can be used in a private house.

They do an excellent job of conditioning rooms with high ceilings or unusual geometric shapes.

In addition, complex systems are more economical than classical devices.

Duct air conditioners

Some experts claim that the best solution is ducted air conditioners.

• Compactness. Such devices occupy a minimum of space, can be installed in the corridor or utility room;
• You can do without installing an indoor unit. Instead, special gratings are attached to the room, which are easily selected for any interior;
• With the help of one unit, you can cool and ventilate several rooms at once;
• Provides uniform distribution of air in a room that has any shape, including irregular.

It is worth highlighting another significant disadvantage. The ducted air conditioner ensures that the average temperature is reached for all rooms, and individual control becomes unavailable.

In addition, due to the presence of channels, odors can be transferred between rooms.

Cassette air conditioner

If the room has a high ceiling, the best solution is a cassette air conditioner.

This is due to the fact that air and freon pipelines are behind a beautiful finish.

In the event of a system failure due to plant savings, more costly and time-consuming repair and refurbishment work may be required. When choosing, it is important to take into account not only the type, but also the power of the split system, its performance.

That is why for help in choosing and installing it is worth contacting professionals in their field. A good option is split systems with an air ionizer. Their peculiarity lies in the additional purification of the air, as well as its saturation with ions, which have a positive effect on well-being.

Such devices are often mounted in children’s rooms of private houses or apartments. An interesting option is air conditioners manufactured using Mega Ion + Patrol Sensor technology. This is a Japanese development, the essence of which is the generation of negative ions with the OH group.

The latter removes harmful bacteria from the air and deactivates existing viruses. In addition, the overall efficiency of such split systems is 40-50 percent higher.

Design

Each component of the split system has individual structural elements.

• A compressor is a device that compresses freon and keeps it moving through the refrigeration circuit. It happens spiral or piston. Spiral products are more reliable, but they are more expensive than their piston “brothers”.
• 4 way valve. This part is mounted in reversible type air conditioners. The task of the device is to change the direction of freon movement through the system, which leads to a change in the function of the blocks. The outdoor unit is for heating, while the indoor unit is for cooling.
• The control board is an element characteristic of converter-type split systems. In other types of devices, the electronics are placed on the indoor unit due to the risk of damage due to high humidity and temperature.
• A condenser is a unit in which freon is cooled and condensed. The air that passes through the air conditioner is warmed up.
• A fan is a device that provides air flow. In cheaper models, only one speed is provided, which is why the air conditioner can operate in a small temperature range. In more expensive devices, the fans have 2-3 speeds, which greatly expands the functionality of the split system.
• Freon unit filter – a device that is placed in front of the compressor inlet and protects it from foreign elements. If the installation was carried out in violation of the rules, no filter will help out.
• The quick-release cover is designed to close the terminal block and fitting connections.

• The front panel consists of a plastic grill through which air enters the unit. The panel can be dismantled if it is necessary to maintain the split system (for example, to clean the filters).
• Evaporator – a radiator designed to heat freon and evaporate it. Thanks to this device, the temperature of the passing air is reduced.
• The coarse filter is a plastic mesh that filters out coarse dust and animal hair. For full operation of the system, cleaning should be done every 14 days.
• Indicator panel – a section of the indoor unit where a group of LEDs is mounted, reflecting the operating mode of the split system and signaling the presence of breakdowns.
• Horizontal louvers are an element that adjusts the direction of the air flow. The peculiarity of the devices is the presence of an electric drive, as well as the possibility of regulation from the remote control.
• Fine filter. The purpose of this node is to remove fine dust and odors from the air entering the room. The device can be of various types – coal (eliminates unpleasant odors), electrostatic (retains dust) and others. Even in the absence of such a filter, the air conditioner will work normally.
• The fan is a device for supplying air into the room, it has 3-4 speeds.
• The condensate tray is located above the evaporator and is required to collect water that has formed on the outside of the evaporator. Further, the accumulated water is discharged through the drainage tube.
• Blinds of vertical type are necessary for regulation of a direction of a stream of air across. In conventional air conditioners, only manual adjustment is provided, while in more expensive devices, control is provided using a remote control.
• The control board is usually located on the right side of the indoor unit. An electronic unit with a central microprocessor is also located here.
• Fittings are special connections that are located at the back, at the bottom of the block. Tubes are connected to them, connecting the blocks from the outside and from the inside of the room.

READ ON TOPIC: How to do preventive maintenance of split system air conditioner.

Principle of operation

The principle of operation of a split system is easiest to imagine by explaining the processes occurring in the device:

1. Freon is supplied to the compressor from the evaporator under a pressure of 3-5 atmospheres, having a temperature of 10-20 degrees Celsius.
2. Further, the device compresses the gas to 15-20 atmospheres, due to which the freon is heated up to 80-90 degrees and then fed into the condenser. Further, the condenser is blown by an air stream, the temperature of which is less than the temperature of the freon.
3. As a result, the gas passes into a liquid form, and additional heat is released. Liquid is already coming out of the condenser, and the freon temperature is 15-20 degrees higher than the air temperature. Warm freon is supplied to a thermostatic valve made in the form of a capillary (a copper tube of small cross section, having a spiral shape).

As a result, the gas passes into a gaseous state, takes away heat and cools the air in this way. After that, freon is sent to the compressor inlet, and the cycle repeats again.

The considered principle of operation is typical for any air conditioner, regardless of its type and manufacturer. The main problem in the operation of the air conditioner is the inability of freon to pass into a gaseous state in a timely manner.

How installation is carried out, expert opinion

To ensure the correct operation of the split system, it is important to correctly approach the installation of both units – external and internal. The performance of the device, its service life and the efficiency of cooling (heating) depend on this.

In addition, the condensate from the split system air conditioner must not drip onto the balconies from below, and the device itself must be securely fixed to prevent it from falling.

Firstly, it is easier to get a discount, and secondly, it is easier to find the culprit in case of low-quality installation. Installation and connection of a split system should be entrusted to professionals. This is important, because the work involves securing a serious load at high altitude.

It is important that the outdoor unit is mounted strictly horizontally and connected to minimize the risk of leakage. It is important that builders be able to provide references as well as official letters from the companies they have provided services to.

It is worth taking into account the height difference, which should be in the range of 5-15 meters. This recommendation is relevant for those cases when the unit is installed at different levels.

The indoor unit must be mounted in such a way that cold air does not come into contact with a person. That is why it is worth deciding in advance on the optimal placement of the unit – above the bed or workplace.

But not everything is so critical here, because in modern split systems for an apartment and a house, control is carried out using the remote control. But in cheaper models, manual adjustment is provided, which is less convenient.

How to choose a split system?

It’s no secret that the air conditioner is selected in the apartment and house according to the square and power. This is where the knowledge of most users is limited. It’s not always clear what you need to focus on first in order to achieve maximum efficiency and at the same time save money.

Below we consider the main aspects that you should pay attention to in the selection process.

The main parameters

1. area and height of the room.
2. The level of solar activity in the room.
3. The number of people living.
4. Heat sources (working equipment).
5. Other factors.

What is an inverter system and what are its features?

In the coming years, an increase in demand for inverter split systems, which are more economical, is predicted. On average, the use of inverter technology can reduce energy costs by 40-50%.

• Less noise.
• Quickly reach the required temperature.
• Increased resource.
• The ability to smoothly change the temperature mode.

The downside is that inverter split systems cannot be turned on when they leave the allowable temperature range. So, if a regular model starts up easily at -6 degrees Celsius, there are problems with the inverter device.

But this feature is an additional protection against improper operation.

Power

Special attention must be paid to the power of the device. Here, many people have a dilemma, how to achieve the required temperature in a large area, but at the same time do not spend money on expensive air conditioning.

Such options must be discarded immediately. To cool a large area of ​​​​an apartment or house, you need to buy a split system of the appropriate power.

• Room area;
• ceiling height;
• The presence of heating devices (especially important when installing in the kitchen);
• The maximum number of people living;
• The number and size of windows, as well as their orientation in relation to the sun;
• Floors. The higher the floor, the warmer it is inside the room.

To correctly select a model by area, you need to know the performance (indicated in the abbreviation for the device) multiplied by three. As a result, you get the area of ​​​​an apartment or house that a split system can cool. For example, the designation with the number “12” indicates that the air conditioner is suitable for cooling 36 square meters.

The given type of calculation is suitable for a standard apartment and reflects only an approximate parameter. To get a more accurate indicator, you should contact professionals.

Appearance

An important criterion that should be paid attention to is the external design of the split system. Most of the indoor units have a classic look, which is unlikely to appeal to connoisseurs of original interiors.

At the same time, few manufacturers pay special attention to this aspect. Of the most interesting developments, it is worth highlighting Artcool from LG.

For example, the main feature of the Artcool Slim devices is an elegant body with a thickness of only 17,7 cm, a durable black glass finish, as well as LED backlighting.

Another option is Artcool “Gallery”. Unlike other devices, it has a square shape, and the wall length is 12,9 cm. If desired, you can insert a picture or photograph into the facade frame.

The original design is another representative of this line – “Stilist”. This split system has a milky white body with an inscribed circle and decorated with dynamic lighting.

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Thanks to the LEDs, it is possible to simulate a sunset and other scenarios.

The more expensive the better?

There is a stereotype that the quality of the product directly depends on the cost of the product. This is an erroneous opinion. So, if we consider split systems for home or office, belonging to the middle category and premium class, the differences will be insignificant, and the difference in price is very impressive.

Many manufacturers increase the cost of the device due to noise reduction, but in practice it is almost impossible to catch the difference.

The price of an air conditioner also depends on the installation of additional devices, including motion and activity sensors that save energy.

But what’s the point of overpaying 10 thousand rubles, if during the year you can save only 500-800 rubles on electricity. Also, when choosing, you should not focus on the country of origin. Products from China have long been not inferior in quality to goods from other countries.

As a result, the performance of the device suffers. More efficient filters may be installed in expensive models, but their effectiveness in protecting against viruses and bacteria is controversial and impossible to prove.

The service life of the air conditioner, as a rule, depends on the main parameter – the quality of installation. So do not buy an expensive model with free installation – you should not save on installation.

Types of compressors, and which is better

The resource of the climatic device depends on the quality of the compressor. If suddenly a part fails, its replacement can cost half the price of a split system. That is why it is important to approach this nuance with special attention.

In modern models, the compressors are hermetic, so they cannot be repaired – the part is installed in the complex.

There are several types of compressors:

• Rotary – devices with a rotating rotor. Their advantages are structural simplicity, uniformity of operation, low noise and compactness. In addition, such products are characterized by a lower price and increased reliability. The only drawback is that during their operation there are large friction losses. As a result, their use is possible only in low-power air conditioners. Although, for an apartment or house, such devices are also suitable.
• Scroll – compressors that have a more complex design and are characterized by a high price. Their advantages are a uniform and small load on the electric motor. This type of compressor has low noise, long service life, lightness and compactness.
• Piston – outdated types of compressors, which are gradually becoming obsolete. Their difference lies in the constructive simplicity and low cost. But the disadvantages are more serious – high noise, large vibrations and low reliability.

In view of the foregoing, we can conclude that modern split systems for a house or apartment should be equipped with a scroll or rotary compressor.

What does the market offer?

Today, the consumer has many interesting models of split systems for houses, offices and apartments. Below we present the most interesting models.

Toshiba

Toshiba has pleased customers with many new products, including.

Toshiba type RAS-07S3KHS-EE / RAS-07S3AHS-EE

Wall mounted split system suitable for home, apartment or office. The cooling area is 20 square meters. meters, and the maximum length of communications is 10 m.

Maximum power consumption (for heating) – 1,94 kW. Manufacturer – Thailand.

Toshiba, Model RAS-22N3KVR-E / RAS-22N3AV-E

One of the interesting novelties of the manufacturer. This is an inverter device for an apartment and a house, designed for an area of ​​​​60 “square”. The power consumption for heating and cooling is up to 7,5 and 2,65 kW, respectively.

Additional functionality – the presence of a ventilation mode, the detection of breakdowns, maintaining the temperature in automatic mode. The noise level is in the range of 35-47 dB.

LG

No less interesting is the products of LG:

LG A09AW1

Split system with inverter control type, made in Korea. The area of ​​the refrigerated room is 22-27 square meters. meters. This is a wall-mounted air conditioner with a heating and cooling capacity of 3,5 and 2,7 kW, respectively.

Additional modes include self-diagnosis of breakdowns, automatic mode, the presence of additional filters (deodorizing and flame), the possibility of regulation, a memory function, as well as a warm start.

LG G07HHT

Split system, with basic modes of heating and cooling. Power consumption in heating and cooling mode is 2,7 and 2,5 W.

This is a simple split system for a house or apartment, which is distinguished by its simplicity of design and reliability.

Midea

The Chinese manufacturer Midea also offers many options. Below we consider two interesting models:

MSMA1A-07HRN1/MOAB02-07HN1

Wall-mounted air conditioner that fits perfectly into the interior of a house, apartment or cottage. The peculiarity of the device lies in the wide functionality, relatively low price, as well as modern appearance.

It provides options such as accelerated cooling, work on a temperature sensor, remembering settings and others.

When the owners are away for a long time, the unit can maintain the temperature for a long time, heating the room.

The device is designed for an area of ​​up to 21 square meters, operates in cooling or heating mode. Power consumption from 2,1 to 7,0 kW.

Model MSMBB-12HRN1(W) / MOBA02-12HN1

High-quality split system, designed for an area of ​​​​28-36 square meters. meters. The product is made in a new design, has a comfortable sleep mode, a self-diagnosis function and an economic mode.

Mitsubishi Electric

Today, Mitsubishi Electric products are manufactured in Thailand. Let’s take a look at a few models below:

MSZ-DM25VA / MUZ-DM25VA

Inverter split system, designed for an area of ​​​​22 to 27 square meters. meters. The power in cooling and heating mode is 2,5 and 3,15 kW, respectively.

An important plus is the presence of the option of remembering settings, a system against the formation of ice, as well as changing the direction of air flow.

MSZ-FH25VE / MUZ-FH25VE

Split system of inverter type. The power of the device is 2,5 and 3,2 kW in cooling and heating mode. There is a ventilation mode and automatic diagnostics.

Electrolux

Electrolux branded equipment never ceases to amaze. Let’s highlight several models:

EACS/I-07HSL/N3

One of the highest quality and most reliable split systems for an apartment or house, designed for an area of ​​up to 21 sq. meters. This is a wall-mounted equipment with inverter control and low power consumption (2,1-2,6 kW).

Drying and ventilation modes are provided, there is a self-diagnosis of breakdowns and fan speed control.

Of the additional options – warm start, the option to remember the settings, the ability to control the air flow and others.

EACS — 07HPR/N3

Split system from the Prof Air series. The average area of ​​​​the room for which the device is designed is 20 square meters. meters. Power consumption is about 650 watts.

Hyundai

It is impossible not to highlight several models from the manufacturer Hyundai:

H-AC-07H1

Split system, designed to cool or heat an area up to 21 sq. meters. The power of the device is 2,2-2,3 kW, depending on the selected mode.

This is a reliable air conditioner that operates in several modes – heating, cooling, dehumidification and ventilation.

H-AR7-07H

Split system from the Prime series. The air conditioner is designed to work in a room with an area of ​​up to 22 square meters.

The power of the device is 2,2-2,3 kW, depending on the mode. There is a display and a control panel.

Neoclimate

Many experts recommend products from the growing popularity of the Neoclima brand. Let’s highlight several models:

NS-09AHQ / NU-09AHQ

Split system for 25 sq. meters, with a capacity of 2,64 and 2,78 kW for cold and heat, respectively. Management is carried out through the remote control.

Work on heating is carried out up to seven degrees of frost.

NS-18AHQ / NU-18AHQ

A powerful split system that is suitable for a large apartment or house. The maximum area that the air conditioner can cover is 50 square meters. meters.

Samsung

The popular Samsung brand deserves special attention, which also offers customers a wide selection of air conditioners. Let’s highlight some options:

AR09KQFHBWKNER

A model that copes with heating or cooling a room up to 27 sq. meters. The maximum length of the route during laying is 15 meters.

Turning on the device for heating is possible up to five degrees of frost.

AR12MSPXBWKNER

Air conditioner model, which will be an excellent option for home and apartment. The power of the device is enough to heat / cool a room up to 35 square meters. meters.

To purify the air, a special Virus Doctor filter is installed, which ensures the removal of harmful microbes.

The consumption of the device is about 1 kW, and starting for heating is possible even at 15 degrees below zero.

Daikin

Daikin offers several series of split systems to its customers. Let’s consider some of them:

ATXN-MB

A new series of air conditioners that can provide an optimal microclimate in the apartment and purify the air from impurities.

The devices of this series are distinguished by the presence of a powerful inverter, which ensures that the required temperature is quickly reached with a minimum noise level and low energy consumption.

FTXB-C

Advanced inverter type split system with low noise level and high-quality European assembly. The device is manufactured in the Czech Republic, which is a guarantee of a long product life.

In this case, the cooled air is evenly distributed throughout the room.

ATX

Split systems that do an excellent job of cooling, dehumidifying, warming up or ventilating the air. The air conditioner works thanks to a powerful compressor equipped with an inverter drive.

Thanks to the inverter, the desired temperature is reached in the room quickly and without jumps.

Installing a split system is a justified solution, because with its help you can ensure a comfortable temperature regime in any room, be it a house, apartment or office.

But in order to achieve the greatest efficiency, it is important to involve experienced installers, because improper installation can neutralize all the advantages of the air conditioner and reduce its service life.