Varieties of air conditioners

To create a comfortable working environment or maintain optimal temperature, various types of air conditioners are used. Today, the market for HVAC equipment is represented by leading global manufacturers who offer household, commercial and industrial devices.

How to choose an air conditioner

First of all, to choose air conditioners for an apartment, you should focus on the goals for which it is purchased. According to the method of operation, modern devices are divided into two types:

1. Invertor models. This type of technique uses the principle of inverting alternating current into direct current in order to create the optimal frequency, which also affects the engine speed (performance). Plus of such models - it is possible to carry out smooth adjustment.
2. Non-inverter equipment. Models of this type maintain optimal room temperature by turning the device on and off alternately. Such an air conditioner is not easy to configure, and it spends a large amount of electricity. The only significant plus is the low price.

Commercial air conditioners are used in shopping pavilions, cafes, and other facilities where hundreds of people go daily. Four types of equipment are distinguished here:

1. Ceiling air conditioner. Perfect for rooms with a high ceiling. In more expensive models, there is a function of forced ventilation. The main advantage of such models is the horizontal distribution of the flow of chilled air without negative impact on people.
2. Columned air conditioning. In such a device, a high-power fan is located, capable of creating a stream of chilled air up to 12 meters long, so that cooling is more even.
3. Channel air conditioning. The device is "hidden" behind a suspended ceiling. A stream of chilled air evenly flows into several rooms through the duct. Of the pluses is the ability to serve several rooms at the same time and an inconspicuous location.
4. Cassette air conditioning. Distribution of chilled air occurs through the lower unit, and the upper one is masked by the ceiling. Plus of such models - they organically fit into any design.

Household air conditioners should be selected for the office, residential cottage or apartment. Here you can also distinguish three types of equipment:

1. Split and multi-split systems. Compact air conditioning with wall mount. It is a system of blocks interconnected. The noisiest processes take place in an external unit that goes out into the street. It is possible to connect several indoor units to one outdoor and create good temperature conditions in each room.
2. Floor air conditioner. A convenient model on wheels, which is easy to turn on and independently. However, such a model is not cheap, and the noise level in the work is quite high. If you are looking for an option for a summer residence, then this one is just right.
3. Window monoblock conditioners. They are easily installed in the window aperture so that the internal control panel remains indoors and the outdoor unit faces the street. If earlier such models were distinguished by high noise during operation, today this problem has been solved. This type refers to budget models.

Industrial air conditioners belong to the category of large-sized equipment, in which the main function is to maintain the required temperature in the production room. Here, not so much attention is paid to design, as functionality, the ability to quickly adjust and power the model. There are also two types:

1. Systems based on fan coils are actively used in medical centers, large offices and industrial buildings. There is the possibility of partial cooling of individual rooms or their heating. Also, such a system is classified as energy-saving.
2. The multizone system creates the required microclimate in a separate room. Able to adjust temperature accuracy to 0.5 ° C. Such equipment has a wide scope - from the confectionery shop to an elite residential complex.

There are also special combined models that combine the capabilities and functionality of several types of air conditioners.

Noise level during the work

To choose the right air conditioner in an apartment with a minimum noise level, today you do not need to look for a long time. The noise level of equipment is measured in decibels (dB). For comparison: the level of loud conversation or street noise is 50-75 dB, and the operating parameters of the household model of the air conditioner are 50 dB (outdoor unit), 35dB (indoor unit). Such equipment can be safely placed in the bedroom, and it will not bring discomfort.

As a rule, the manufacturer indicates the exact noise level on the package, but in reality there may be significant differences. The fact is that the air conditioner has several modes of operation, each of which has its own noise threshold. In any case, modern air conditioners work quite quietly, and the monotonous sound does not cause irritation.

Calculation of the power of the device

The calculation of the capacity of HVAC equipment is based on several points:

1. Ceiling height.
2. By the area of ​​the room where the installation of the air conditioner is planned.
3. The average number of people who can be simultaneously indoors in one day (for outlets - the average number of daily customers).
4. The presence in the ventilated room of equipment that produces heat (computers, household appliances).
5. Features of the arrangement of windows, doors, niches, the presence of additional rooms and other details.

When calculating the power of the equipment, the first thing to do is figure out the amount of heat produced by other equipment. This is necessary, since secondary heat is an “obstacle” for the air conditioner, which means that its power must be higher. Next, you can use the online calculator or a special table to calculate the optimal power of the air conditioner. However, it is better to turn to specialists, since errors in the calculations can lead not only to an uncomfortable climate in the room, but also to failure of expensive equipment.

Functionality

The presence of additional functions significantly affects the cost of the air conditioner. If you plan to purchase equipment for one room, you can do with a model with a minimum set of modes. However, split systems of the middle and elite class have features that are worth paying attention to.

The latest split-systems heat the room in winter and cool it in the summer, due to which the optimum room temperature is kept. That is why it is better to buy a split system so that it is more comfortable to live in the house.

If you decide to buy an air conditioner, then this is an excellent solution also because the latest models have additional functions. As a vivid example, we can note the possibility of air ionization, which destroys harmful bacteria, and also prevents the penetration of unpleasant odors from the street, which is especially important for a house located next to a large transport highway or construction site. Other advantages of such systems include:

• plasma dust collector;
• work in automatic mode to maintain the desired temperature;
• night mode;
• special replaceable filters to ensure maximum air purity;
• powerful and durable compressor;
• Health function
• nice design of the indoor unit.

As for climate systems for organizations, VRF systems have gained an advantage here, since they provide optimal air conditioning for especially large rooms and save refrigerant. The range of equipment includes channel, cassette, floor, wall and other indoor units. The system is universal and runs under a single software.

Considering the features of the room when choosing an air conditioner

The correct selection of cooling equipment will not only provide good temperature conditions, but also help to save a lot of money on buying an air conditioner. When choosing, it is worth focusing on three factors that affect the operation of the air conditioner:

• additional heat supply (from devices);
• air exchange;
• possible heat loss.

These and other features of the room (the presence of windows, their orientation, the number of rooms, the area of ​​each room) directly affect the efficiency of the equipment. Based on the parameters of the room, the specialist chooses the power of the air conditioner and its type.

Manufacturer's choice: which company is the best air conditioner

When choosing an air conditioner, you should pay attention to the reputation of the manufacturer. But for world-famous brands that have been producing climate technology for several years, the cost will be quite high. Therefore, it is better to pay attention to the useful characteristics of the model, as well as focus on user reviews about which air conditioning company is better to purchase. What should I look for if the air conditioner is purchased for the first time?

The energy efficiency of this equipment is determined by the COP / SCOP and EER / SEER coefficients. The higher they are, the more efficient the device and the more heat it emits per unit of electricity, for example, one kilowatt. In the case of cooling, more heat is consumed per unit of energy consumed.

Here you will find detailed instructions on how to read the air conditioner's instructions and understand what each symbol means. The European Union has introduced minimum requirements for energy-consuming devices since 2013. Such a measure was taken to preserve the environmental situation. Now in the technical passport of the equipment you can find new elements:

• noise level of indoor and outdoor units;
• annual electricity consumption in heating and cooling mode;
• energy efficiency level.

It is worth noting that in 2012 the maximum level was marked by class A, and now the classification of A +, A ++ and A +++ is relevant. The best option would be to use the A ++ and A +++ models.

Rules for operating the air conditioner

Here we’ll look at a few simple recommendations that will help extend the life of your air conditioner:

1. There should be free space in front of the air conditioner so as not to interfere with the air being distributed quickly in the room.
2. It is worth ensuring that windows and doors are closed. Streams of warm air from the street lead to increased energy consumption and rapid wear.
3. The temperature in the street where the main unit is located is important. To operate the air conditioner during extreme heating is in the mode specified in the manual.
4. Twice a year, the air conditioner needs to be cleaned and replaced.
5. Regular cleaning of the filters is also important. It is easy to do it yourself. Accumulated dust not only leads to poor performance, but can also contribute to equipment failure.
6. The external unit should be fenced with a grill or at least use a visor.
7. If you do not use the air conditioner in the winter, it must be mothballed according to the rules, otherwise failure is inevitable under the influence of temperatures. Be sure to de-energize the device, clean the filters, dry the unit in the ventilation mode for 30-40 minutes, gently clean all the blocks from dust. If you neglect the drying, mold will start inside the air conditioner, and important components will fail.
8. You should not use the air conditioner intensively in winter in heating mode. If the outside temperature is less than -20 ° C, its productivity decreases three times, and energy consumption increases many times. This mode is best used in the offseason.

For timely diagnostics and preparation of equipment for winter shutdown, it is better to contact a specialist, he can also get advice on which brand is best to choose equipment.

Rating of the best models

The best in the field of HVAC equipment are the Japanese brands Fujitsu General, Daikin, Toshiba, Panasonic and Mitsubishi Electric. Their products belong to the upper class, but they are not cheap.

Such brands as Hitachi, Electrolux, Gree and LG, which are ready to offer decent quality with a set of additional functions at an average cost, are slightly inferior in the ranking.

The following manufacturers Pioneer, Airwell, Shivaki, Hyundai, Royal Clima and Aeronik are famous for inexpensive, but good air conditioners. Also, Chinese manufacturers successfully lead the market for HVAC equipment in 2019. Here we look at which models of air conditioners represent the leading brands in the world.

Mitsubishi Electric MSZ-SF25VE / MUZ-SF25VE

Deservedly, according to reviews, it is considered the quietest air conditioning in the world. The “I feel” system has a case made of durable high-quality plastic with a neutral design. There is a control panel, several modes of operation. It is also worth noting a record low power consumption - 2 times less than that of an electric kettle. The disadvantages include the lack of WI-FI control.

Hisense AS-09UR4SYDDB1G

It is worth noting the functions of the air conditioner: heating, control panel, energy management. There is a timer and self-diagnosis, as well as a self-cleaning system. A silver-plated ion filter cleans, disinfects and deodorizes the passing air.

Daikin FTXK25A / RXK25A

A multitasking device with convenient settings. Easy to configure both the cooling system and heating mode. It is also equipped with a set of filters that make the air safe for health. Noise during operation is not heard even at night, the device does not require a lot of electricity, therefore it is included in the energy-saving class.

General Climate GC / GU-EAF09HRN1

A great option for those who care about their health. A powerful plasma filter reliably eliminates fungal spores, harmful microorganisms. There is also a photocatalytic filter that cleans the air of harmful chemicals and promotes its deodorization. The shutdown occurs automatically, after reaching the set temperature.

Panasonic CS-UE7RKD / CU-UE7RKD

The owners of this model note silent operation, compact dimensions and the presence of a timer. There is a self-diagnosis, which will help to notice malfunctions in time and eliminate them. Now you can not worry about the formation of ice in the winter: the device is equipped with a protective system.

Pioneer KFR20BW / KOR20BW

A great combination of modern filters, low noise effect and stylish design. The body plastic is easy to clean, does not scratch and does not crack during operation. The ionizer blocks the spread of infection, dust and harmful substances, so this model is ideal for those who care about family health.

Toshiba RAS-10EKV-EE / RAS-10EAV-EE

The possibility of quick installation will undoubtedly be appreciated by lovers of quality equipment at an inexpensive price. Both units operate with minimal noise, the set temperature is stably maintained both during cooling and during heating. You can easily clean the filters yourself. This model is suitable for those who are looking for guaranteed quality at an affordable cost, without unnecessary functions.

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Title	Mitsubishi Electric MSZ-SF25VE / MUZ-SF25VE	Hisense AS-09UR4SYDDB1G	Daikin FTXK25A / RXK25A	General Climate GC / GU-EAF09HRN1	Panasonic CS-UE7RKD / CU-UE7RKD	Pioneer KFR20BW / KOR20BW	Toshiba RAS-10EKV-EE / RAS-10EAV-EE
Serviced Area	20 sq. m	30 sq. m	25 sq. m	22 sq. m	20 sq. m	20 sq. m	25 sq. m
Power in cooling mode	2500 watts	2600 W	2560 W	2600 W	2050 W	2100 watts	2500 watts
Power in heating mode	3200 watts	2650 W	2840 W	3,500 watts	2800 watts	2150 watts	3200 watts
Other functions and features	ventilation mode (without cooling and heating), automatic temperature maintenance, self-diagnosis of malfunctions, the ability to adjust the air flow direction, anti-ice system, memory settings	ventilation mode (without cooling and heating), automatic temperature maintenance, self-diagnosis of malfunctions, deodorizing filter, anion generator, the ability to adjust the air flow direction, anti-ice system, memory settings	ventilation mode (without cooling and heating), automatic temperature maintenance, self-diagnosis of malfunctions, the ability to adjust the air flow direction, anti-ice system, memory settings	ventilation mode (without cooling and heating), automatic temperature maintenance, self-diagnosis of malfunctions, deodorizing filter, anion generator, the ability to adjust the air flow direction, anti-ice system, memory settings	ventilation mode (without cooling and heating), automatic temperature maintenance, self-diagnosis of malfunctions, deodorizing filter, the ability to adjust the air flow direction, anti-ice system, memory settings, warm start	ventilation mode (without cooling and heating), automatic temperature maintenance, self-diagnosis of malfunctions, anion generator, the ability to adjust the air flow direction, anti-ice system, memory settings	ventilation mode (without cooling and heating), automatic temperature maintenance, self-diagnosis of malfunctions, the ability to adjust the air flow direction, anti-ice system, memory settings
Price	from 60,000 rub.	from 17800 rub.	from 52000 rub.	from 18000 rub.	from 31000 rub.	from 14000 rub.	from 25500 rub.