How to choose a cutting system for an apartment

With the onset of summer and hot days, many of us are thinking about purchasing and installing an air conditioner.
If you are part of this majority, then consider that you have already made a major mistake. It is best to choose and buy air conditioners in the fall or winter, when there is no such demand for them, and prices are much lower.

However, how can you navigate and not make a mistake with your choice among such a variety that is replete with online and regular stores? In the pictures, all split systems look almost the same, but prices can differ significantly - from 10,000 rubles to several thousand dollars.

However, this does not mean that if you buy an inexpensive option, it will break during the first season. The difference in price category and quality do not always go hand in hand.

Of course, you can listen to a sales consultant who has memorized a standard manual, and in the end you will buy exactly what you need to sell to the store. But it’s better to choose your own, paying attention to five main parameters.

What is a split system in air conditioners: features

The split system is a design of two blocks: one is placed outdoors, the second is located in the room. Due to the complex device, the process of cooling the room occurs somewhat differently, but ultimately this gives advantages compared to a standard air conditioner.

Principle of operation

The two blocks interact with each other. The outdoor one creates condensation using a built-in compressor, and the indoor one creates the effect of evaporation. During operation of both units, refrigerant circulates. It passes through copper tubes, moving from liquid to vapor and back. The work is carried out through the following components:

compressor;
copper conductors;
capacitor;
evaporator;
ventilation structure.

A split system does not cool the air as quickly as an air conditioner, but with constant operation it reduces energy consumption and increases the longevity of the drive.

Features of inverter models

The difference between inverter split systems and standard ones is the automatic temperature control function. Once you have set the appropriate room temperature, the compressor will start and increase the temperature. As soon as it is reached, the device will not turn off, but will operate at lower speeds, thereby preventing the temperature from changing quickly. When moving away from the set position, the fans will work faster. Due to this, split systems with inverter cooling last longer, since the compressor motor does not create sudden jerks.

What is better: a split system or an air conditioner for an apartment?

If you compare a split system with a standard air conditioner, the cost of the former will be approximately 25–50% more expensive. In essence, both units operate similarly, however, the inverter air conditioner will take a little longer to reach the set temperature, but then will constantly maintain it due to low fan speeds. This allows you to save on electricity.

The choice of device will depend on your preferences. If you are away every day and only run the air conditioner for a few hours, then it would be appropriate to install a standard all-in-one unit, since it quickly cools the air. The split system is designed to operate for a long time, so it lowers the temperature more slowly.

Summary

When purchasing an air conditioner for a simple room without strong sunlight, you can calculate the power of the equipment based on the area of the room. The resulting indicator will be quite sufficient so that the air temperature can be adjusted with the required accuracy, high speed and low energy consumption.

In cases where the object has a large ceiling height, a lot of equipment or people, it is worth using an extended formula that takes into account all heat inflows. This ensures that the purchased “split” can cope well with the cooling task and will not fail due to wear and tear.

Based on the calculated performance, it is very easy to select the desired air conditioner model, since the manufacturers of this equipment indicate this parameter directly in the equipment labeling. When choosing a unit, you should make sure that its power fully satisfies the needs of the facility.

Kinds

There are many types of split systems, which differ in power, location of operation and shape.

Wall-mounted

It is called household or domestic, since it is more often installed in residential premises. The advantage of this type is its low cost, since it can be purchased for 12,000 rubles. As a standard, the outdoor unit is installed under the window, and the indoor unit is mounted under the ceiling for a larger airflow radius.

Ceiling and floor-ceiling

This type of split system is less common, but convenient. The indoor unit can be installed at the bottom of the wall or on the ceiling, but only if you do not have a suspended ceiling. If the device is installed in the lower part of the room, then the air flow will be directed upward, and the ceiling air conditioner will blow horizontally. This will save you from direct hits, and the room will cool evenly.

There are improved designs that can simultaneously capture four directions, and using the control panel you can change the power of each of them.

Channel

The device is more often used in offices and shops, since its average power is 10–23 kW. A special feature of such split systems is the ability to cool several rooms at once. By default, the jet flow is supplied equally to all branches, so if you want to supply a separate temperature for each room, you will have to install additional electric drives and thermostats in each room.

Multi split systems

The device consists of one outdoor unit and several indoor ones. It allows you to cool up to 5 rooms at the same time, and the temperature of each unit can be changed using a remote control.

Due to the large number of hoses, compressors, conductors and fans, installing a multi-system is difficult and time-consuming. The design is most often used in complex business centers and industrial premises, which is why it is called industrial.

There are two types of multi split systems:

Fixed. Provided as a ready-made kit. You can independently select the required number of indoor units. In the future, you will not be able to add or remove blocks yourself.
Typeset. This option is distinguished by the ability to simultaneously connect a different number of blocks.

The universal device makes it possible to connect any type and type of unit.

Inverter

The inverter type of device is equipped with an electric drive that can automatically regulate fan speed. If you set the appropriate temperature, it will maintain it not by constantly starting the electric drive when the indicators change, but by constantly changing the speed. That is, the engine will run constantly, gradually changing speed. Such an electric drive is relevant in places where people are constantly present. These include offices, shops, conference rooms and other public places.

The inverter air conditioner differs from the standard one in lower energy consumption and greater engine wear resistance.

Split systems for allergy sufferers

For allergy sufferers, there are floor and wall air conditioners. A wall-mounted type of device will be more effective at purifying the air, since due to its complex design, improved filtration will occur. Externally, the split system for allergy sufferers is no different from the standard one, but it has a compartment for a filter. Budget models have limitations on the type of filters, since a complex filtration procedure will require a powerful compressor. Expensive split systems are equipped with several thresholds, creating stepwise filtration.

Designer models

The process of processing, cooling or heating air in designer split systems occurs in the same way as standard ones. The whole difference lies in appearance. Such split systems are usually distinguished by unique shapes and colors so that they can best match the interior.

Disguised air conditioners that represent paintings or some unique material are gaining popularity on the market. Moreover, the shape of the split system is no longer standard, but square, rectangular or rounded. As a rule, such devices are considered the most expensive.

Block sizes and build quality

A good air conditioner cannot be small, it must be moderately large.

For example, an indoor unit for 9000BTU models, designed for 25m2, must be at least 790-800mm in length and 270mm in width. Otherwise, it will not work normally and provide the coolness required for such an area.

This is what two air conditioners of equal power look like. Which one do you think will be more efficient and quieter?

The same applies to outdoor units. Different housing sizes mean different heat exchanger sizes.

An important factor when choosing is the quality of plastic and assembly. Here you cannot do without direct contact with the air conditioner itself. If you are viewing them in an online store, you will have to turn to customer reviews.

In most cases, comments are written precisely when something is not liked. If everything suits you, then no one will write anything.

When you choose an air conditioner in a real store, ask the seller to open the cover of the indoor unit. It should not be flimsy and thin.

The color of the plastic should be bright white, almost blinding, without any shades of yellow. First-class plastic never turns yellow.

Under the lid you will see a mesh filter. Have the manager remove it to get to the heat exchanger.

The petals of a good heat exchanger should be as intact as possible, without severe jams.

In low-quality models, these petals are so thin that they become deformed even at the slightest touch.

What room characteristics should you pay attention to?

Before purchasing a split system, we recommend that you study the area of the room and take into account all the nuances. What exactly you need to pay attention to:

Square. This characteristic is the most significant, since the capacity of the split system depends on it. According to the rule, 1 kW of electric drive power covers 10 square meters. meters of area. If the characteristics lag too far behind the area of the room, then the volume of the cooled zone will be smaller.
Vertical dimensions. If you have high ceilings, then buy an air conditioner with a power reserve of 10–15%.
Window. It is impossible to calculate this parameter to an exact match, since everything will depend on the time the sun's rays stay in the room. Also affects the temperature of the floor. As a rule, the highest floors warm up much faster than others, so it is recommended to install models with high power in such rooms.
Stay of people. One person generates 100 W of heat in a calm state and 200 W in an active state. We add the number of people regularly in the room and find out the approximate power of the split system for effective use. For a home, this parameter is not so important, since the number of people may vary. But in offices or gyms, it is necessary to take into account the characteristics of the room and device.

If you decide to purchase a split system for an ordinary room or apartment, then the standard power and configuration will be sufficient.

Power (cooling capacity)

Usually the power is indicated in the passport. This parameter indicates the amount of warm air blown outside. Accordingly, the more powerful the cooling capacity, the faster the room is cooled.

Electric drive power

A powerful electric drive blows cold air further, so this criterion is also important when subtracting area. Staged filtration can impede air flow, so in special split systems the electric drive power is usually high.

Standard formulas for calculating suitable power (depending on area)

Calculation of the compliance of the area and power of the air conditioner is carried out in the following way: the exact area of the room is measured and, with a coefficient of 1 kW per 10 sq. m, the required power of the split system is measured. For example, if your room size is 13 square meters. m, then the power of the device should not be lower than 1.3 kW. Always take into account such nuances as the height of the ceiling, the regular presence of people in the room, the number of windows and the sunny side. Add another 10-15% power to each criterion.

What happens if you choose the wrong power?

If you incorrectly calculate the power of the split system, then the room will not be fully cooled. Moreover, the electric drive of the air conditioner will constantly operate at high speeds in order to reach the set temperature. This factor will significantly affect the service life.

If the power significantly exceeds the required ratio, then the drive will shut down frequently. In such a situation, the compressor of a standard air conditioner will quickly become unusable. However, for a split system, excess power is not so dangerous, since the electric drive will operate at lower speeds and turn off less often.

Heating function

The principle of operation for heating occurs in a similar way as for cooling, but only in reverse. The compressor of the outdoor unit creates compression of the freon, thereby heating it. Then the heated freon is transferred through tubes to the indoor unit and blown into the room.

If you compare a split system and any heating device, then when using the first, electricity will be consumed almost three times less. The reason for this is the difference in heat conversion. The split system uses electricity only to compress freon, which, after entering the indoor unit, will return back to be compressed again, and a conventional heater will convert heat directly from electricity.

Noise level

This parameter is no less important than power, since a high noise level during operation will cause you discomfort. The noise indicators of the device are indicated in its passport, but they are inaccurate. The manufacturer indicates the noise level at minimum speed of the electric drive, so we can safely add 20–30 dB to these indicators.

A conventional air conditioner runs at full speed to reach the set temperature. The split system gains momentum gradually and is correspondingly quieter. The required noise threshold depends on the room. In order not to experience discomfort in the bedroom, the operation of the split system should not exceed 30 dB, in the kitchen or in other rooms - 50 dB.

Air filtration and treatment

Air filtration is beneficial not only to humans, but also to the system itself. The external unit sucks in air from the street, where there may be poplar fluff, tree leaves and other debris that, if it enters the system, can disrupt its operation. The filter-capable device has a special compartment where the filter is located. Depending on the cost, there may be several levels of filtration and air treatment. Such models are intended mainly for allergy sufferers, as they block the entry of dirt, dust and other impurities into the room.

Housing material

The housing of the external unit is often made of metal. Cheap models use a regular iron body, which can be subject to rust. Expensive models are made of stainless steel. The housing of the indoor unit is made mainly of plastic.

Ionizer

With the help of an ionizer built into the split system, the air supplied to the room undergoes complex cleaning using ionized radiation. This has a positive effect on a person’s well-being, giving him energy and strength.

Smart sensors

Luxury split systems are equipped with a large number of sensors that increase comfort and reduce energy consumption. The motion sensor reacts to the presence of a person in the room. Many people mistakenly think that if the person in the room is inactive, the air conditioner will turn off, but this is not the case. The sensor is capable of responding not only to movements, but also to heat emitted by a person.

In addition to the standard temperature sensor, there are also air pollution and smoke sensors. The availability of additional features will depend on the cost of the split system.

Superfilters

Brands such as Toshiba have unique zeolite filters that are distinguished by their high level of purification and durability. The deodorizing function eliminates bacteria and other harmful substances from the room. Also, the advantages of a zeolite filter include the ability to clean it and use it endlessly, saving on disposable options.

Weight

The weight of the device depends on the material of the components and additional features. The external unit weighs between 15–20 kg, the internal unit – 4–8 kg. If the case material is not made of plastic, then the indicator may vary.

Compressor

Most often, rotary and piston compressors are installed in a split system. The best one is the rotary one as it is efficient and long lasting. The piston type is considered outdated because it can only be seen on older air conditioners. During the compression process of freon, friction occurs, and accordingly, the wear of parts accelerates. In this regard, previously the manufacturer’s warranty did not exceed 1 year.

How to choose an air conditioner - basic criteria

The selection criteria are few. And at the first stage, you can limit yourself to three: reliability, performance and type (or placement method).

Reliability. This is a complex characteristic that depends on the quality of components and factory assembly culture, correct installation and the availability of service support. The durability and performance of the device itself can be determined by the reputation of the brand. There are ratings from independent agencies that operate on statistical data, and the positions of manufacturers in these lists approximately coincide. But no matter how reliable the air conditioner is, it must be installed and maintained by certified performers.
Performance. Most modern apartment air conditioners have two functions. The main one is air cooling. Additional - heating as an air-to-air heat pump. When choosing by power, first of all, the capabilities for the main purpose are calculated. And the calculation of “cold productivity” is more complicated than that of heating devices “heat productivity”. Here, in addition to the volume of the room, additional parameters must be taken into account - the number of residents, which side of the world the facade faces, the thermal power generated by working household appliances.
Accommodation. The most popular are split and multi-split systems. To “locally” cool a small room, window or mobile air conditioners, which are classified as monoblock devices, are sometimes used.

Markings from manufacturers

When purchasing a split system, you can immediately find out about its main parameters without taking out your passport. Basically, the brand markings are the same, but Chinese manufacturers may change it.

The box or block depicts a special code of letters and numbers, each of them indicates a specific characteristic, namely:

refrigerant type;
electric drive power;
the lineup;
type of power supply.

As a standard, the first letters indicate the brand name and block type.

Refrigerant

R22 – has a number of advantages (low price, homogeneous composition, low operating pressure), but harms the planet’s ozone layer. In EU countries this refrigerant has long been banned, but in the CIS it is still used in cheap air conditioners.

R407C – safe for the ozone layer. Disadvantages: high price, higher operating pressure, non-uniform composition (if there is a small leak, the refrigerant must be completely changed).

R410A - characterized by all the pros and cons of the previous version, but is distinguished by its homogeneous composition. It differs favorably from R407C by the possibility of refueling (with small leaks).

R32 – combines high performance and environmental friendliness. The downside is the high price.

Installation location

Before purchasing a device, you need to take care of its future location. This factor influences both comfort and optimal performance. During installation, it is recommended to comply with the following requirements:

install so that the air flow does not enter the permanent residence of a person in the room;
do not install the split system next to the bed, as the noise of the electric drive will cause discomfort;
install only one air conditioner per room;
observe the recommended values between the external and internal units.

The box with the device contains instructions with operating requirements, which are recommended to be studied.

Filters

Deodorizing filter – allows you to absorb cigarette smoke, food and animal odors.

Plasma filter is a high voltage filter that destroys all bacteria and living organisms that enter the cleaning system.

Catechin filter – destroys bacteria and viruses (catechin is a disinfectant of natural origin).

Antibacterial filter – removes some bacteria from the air.

Anti-fungal filter – cleans the air of mold.

Filter with vitamin C – enriches the air with vitamin C, which has a positive effect on the skin and immunity, and also helps relieve stress.

Fine air filter – retains small particles (up to 0.01 microns), microorganisms, pollen.

Which split system company should you choose so as not to overpay for the brand?

On the market you can see a large number of split systems from various brands, which differ in cost, build quality and versatility. Not everyone can afford a luxury device with all the modern capabilities, so there are lesser-known companies that produce mid-range or budget split systems, but they are distinguished by high quality parts and durability.

The Green company is not the most popular, but it stands out for its robust body and a large number of functions, since even in economy class models you can see a built-in cleaning filter and several condensate drains.

Toshiba is a popular brand, but it has several middle-class models costing up to 22,000 rubles. This company has been on the market for many years, but the quality is still at a high level. The device has a built-in powerful but quiet electric drive, a cleaning filter, an ionization function and several operating modes.

The publisher named Roda is in great demand among the population, since the budget models produced are not much different from the luxury class. In addition to high-quality assembly, you can set your own settings in the split system and save them for future use. The air conditioners also feature multi-level filtration of air purification and automatic adjustment of electric drive power, with the help of which the device operates for a long time without disturbances.

If you compare a split system with an air conditioner, the first one wins in almost all respects. The only note is the gradual increase in temperature. Air conditioning costs less and is more efficient, but frequent shutdowns wear out the drive unit. For a small apartment with infrequent occupancy, an air conditioner would be the best option, but for larger areas, such as offices and boutiques, it is better to buy a split system, since it is less affected by the environment, and the process of cooling or heating the air is smoother.

Cooling capacity

Cooling capacity - shows the efficiency of air cooling and is most often measured in BTU/h. Naturally, the higher this indicator, the better the air conditioner works, but at the same time the power consumption is higher. The optimal option is 7000 BTU/h.

An air conditioner with a parameter of 9000 BTU/h is called a “nine”, 7000 BTU/h is called a “seven”, 5000 BTU/h is called a “five”, etc.

Numbers that appear in the labeling of air conditioners:

5 – 5000 BTU/h (1.6 kW);
7 – 7000 BTU/h (2 kW);
9 – 9000 BTU/h (2.6 kW);
12 – 12000 BTU/h (3.5 kW);
13 – 13000 BTU/h (3.7 kW);
14 – 14000 BTU/h (4 kW);
18 – 18000 BTU/h (5.2 kW);
24 – 24000 BTU/h (7 kW);
30 – 30000 BTU/h (8 kW).

LG PC09SQ

The model is an inverter with built-in control via a smartphone or via a remote control. Operates in room cooling and heating mode. There is also a ventilation function, and the set temperature will be maintained automatically.

Noise level

How many decibels does the device have?

It is important that the noise of the air conditioner does not reduce the level of comfort of the residents. If you plan to place it in the living room or kitchen, you can focus on other, more significant characteristics of the air conditioner. Plus or minus a few decibels won't make a difference.

It is better to choose quiet models for the bedroom. Many air conditioners have a “night mode” function, in which the “sound” becomes quieter than in normal mode. The noise level for a comfortable sleep should not exceed 22-24 dB.

Design

Manufacturers produce air conditioners of a wide variety of designs. Those for whom the appearance of the device is crucial can turn to specialists. They will tell you how to choose the right air conditioner for your apartment in accordance with the interior of its rooms.

Naturally, the article provides only the main selection criteria. But this is quite enough to buy a pretty decent household appliance, guided by personal preferences. After all, in any case, the owner must decide which air conditioner is best for the apartment, combining his desires and financial capabilities as much as possible.

Expensive or cheap, energy consumption

Recognized brands have the following advantages:

declared and actual characteristics always match;
the design and installation details are thought out to the smallest detail;
in a high-quality quiet split, the noise level of the room part does not exceed 20–25 dB, which is comparable to the quiet rustling of leaves outside the window. For inexpensive products, the indoor unit emits 28 dB, and the outdoor unit produces 40–50 dB. More powerful high-quality systems - 25s, 35s (25,000, 32,000 BTU) - have the same 28 and 40 dB, but for them this figure is normal due to high performance, but the noise of cheap devices in this power segment is accordingly, higher;
high energy efficiency: A+++, A++, A+.

If you determine which split system from which company is better, the choice can be made in the low-price niche - there are quite decent products there, but the risk of getting defective is higher.

Market conditions make it possible to reduce the cost of production without reducing the quality of technology. Both little-known brands and popular brands use components from the same manufacturer in many models. A cheap air conditioner may work normally and rarely break down, but operating comfort, etc. will be less. The low price range is suitable if the user is not demanding on noise, but with advanced options if the yellowed plastic does not interfere and suits high power consumption.

Features of pricing policy

Cheap devices can do their job well, but buying products costs up to 15 thousand rubles. risky: this price is achieved by the lack of rejection and quality control. Reliable split systems should be chosen starting from the average price range of 20 thousand rubles.

One of the marketing ploys is the presence of copper tubes in the kit, but often the manufacturer is silent that their wall thickness is 0.6 mm, and for acceptable quality 0.8 mm is required. It is better to choose a good kit without these parts and buy them separately.

Top 4. Electrolux EACM-16HP/N3

Rating (2021): 4.35

Powerful mobile air conditioner for a spacious room of 44 m² with the easiest installation. It is on wheels, so it is easy to transport around the apartment. True, the location of the device is limited by a 1.5-meter corrugation for removing warm air through the window - it cannot be expanded. The air conditioner has cooling, drying and ventilation modes. There is a night mode. However, in reality it changes the temperature by 2 degrees, but, according to some buyers, it does not become quieter. But the declared noise level is 53 dB, and it cannot be recommended for a bedroom. Rather, it is a device for cooling a living room, studio room or floor of a house. It is often purchased for rented offices.

Characteristics:

45190 rub. / China / Cooling power: 4690 W

Additional functions

These include, firstly, ionization. Many probably remember the famous Chizhevsky chandelier. The principle of operation is the same. A special device saturates the air in the room with free ions. Experts say it is very good for health. Required function. If there is an opportunity, you should not refuse.

In addition, some air conditioners have the ability to saturate the air with oxygen. True, the manufacturers are being a little disingenuous here. Conditioning simply reduces the amount of nitrogen. But in essence, everything is correct, the percentage of oxygen really increases. This function is available only on expensive models.