Split system: what is it, how to choose, what varieties are found

What is a split system in an apartment

The split system is slightly different from the standard air conditioning unit. The word "split" itself means separation. That is, the functional of the air conditioner is divided into two different units, which are interconnected. One of them is an external unit, which is located outdoors and serves to cool the gas, and an internal unit, from which air of a comfortable temperature is already directly escaping.

Inverter split system: what is it

The operation of inverter split systems is based on converting alternating current into direct current, and then back to alternating current, but already of the desired frequency. This approach makes it possible to regulate the speed of rotation of the engine, which, in turn, allows more precise control of the device as a whole. Inverter technology has reduced energy costs and allowed air conditioners to operate in a much wider range of ambient temperatures.

Inverter systems have their own advantages and disadvantages. Let's go through the pluses first:

• significant reduction in component wear;
• fast transition to the required temperature;
• lower noise level;
• long service life.

Well, and the cons:

• higher price compared to classic systems;
• exactingness to the absence of power surges;
• difficulty in finding similar spare parts during repair.

Multi-split system: what is it

The multi-split system is, in fact, a more advanced and convenient version of the conventional system. The prefix "multi" here means that there are several indoor units. This is important for creating a comfortable temperature in several rooms at once or office premises. Thus, one external block, as it were, works for several internal ones. You can buy a multi-split air conditioner for about 30,000-40,000 rubles.

What is the Difference Between Air Conditioning and Split System

The main difference between a split system and an air conditioner is that the first is a derivative of an air conditioner. That is, an extended version of it. The fact that the cooling process itself is technologically divided into two devices, this allows you to place the indoor unit in any convenient place. And this, in turn, opens up a lot of scope for development companies in terms of design and structural features of air conditioners.

Split system air conditioner device

As mentioned earlier, the split system is divided into two blocks: internal and external. Let's take a closer look at what is in each, and what responsibilities they perform.

Outdoor unit

Usually it is located on the outside of the room: right on the facade, roof or balcony. It is connected to the indoor unit by a freon line and an electrical connection. The outdoor unit contains a compressor, condenser, piping, receiver, various relays and boards. A fan is also located here, which, being on the outside of the building, is practically inaudible in the room.

Indoor unit

The types of indoor units can be different, both structurally and design. Therefore, they can be placed on ceilings, walls or floors. Depending on the "sophistication" of the system, the remote control mechanism may be located in the unit. controls, air filters, timers and other electronics that make it more convenient to use device.

The principle of operation of the split system

The principle of operation of the split system air conditioner is very simple. The external unit contains a compressor, inside of which there is a cooling gas - freon. It moves through the piping system to the indoor unit, cooling them down. Accordingly, the air taken by the indoor unit also goes through the cooling stage, moving through the system of radiators connected to the pipes. There are systems that can not only cool, but also heat the air. True, this is possible only when the outside temperature is above zero.

The main types of split systems

According to the scope of use, all split systems can be divided into three large types:

• household. They are mainly used in apartments, houses, small offices. Low power. The emphasis in such devices is mainly made on appearance, design that would make it easy to integrate the air conditioner into the existing interior;
• commercial. You can install this type and at home, but they are more often found in large offices and houses with a large area;
• industrial. They have great power, capable of creating a comfortable temperature in large rooms, salesrooms, production halls, etc. The design of such devices is usually quite simple. More attention is paid to power and functionality.

Split systems are structurally divided into five categories. They differ in performance, capabilities and their pros and cons.

Wall

The most accessible and popular type. It can be installed in almost any room with an area of ​​up to 70-80 m². This type of device has a wide range of options, both color and design, which allows it to be implemented in almost any interior. The simplicity and speed of installation, as well as low cost, positively influenced the popularity of this type. A couple of minor drawbacks can be noted: restrictions on power and installation location.

Duct

The optimal solution for cooling several rooms at once with one air conditioner. The air is distributed by special air ducts placed under suspended types of ceilings. They have increased power, sufficient for medium-sized areas. Among the shortcomings, one can single out the impossibility of setting separate temperature values ​​for each room. This will require the installation of special additional devices and thermostats.

Cassette

The indoor unit of this type of split system is a kind of cassette that can be conveniently built into the suspended ceiling. Even its dimensions correspond to the standard dimensions of the Armstrong type ceiling - 60 × 60 cm. On the lower part of the cassette there is a grill and air ducts on four sides, which allow evenly distributing air flows throughout the room. They try to place such models in the center of the room for more rational cooling. Of the minuses, the requirement for a suspended ceiling can be noted.

Floor-ceiling

As the name suggests, this type of split system can be placed both on the ceiling and on the floor. For this, it usually has small dimensions in height. Installation can be done in such a way that the air flow is not directed towards people, but at the same time fulfills its intended purpose. An obvious plus of this type is freedom in choosing a location. The downside is that there is nothing to hide his presence in the room.

Columnar

Usually it is a massive cabinet that looks like a refrigerator. It does not have an elegant design and is used for cooling large areas. Accordingly, it is equipped with a high-performance air conditioning system. Of the minuses, it is worth noting the poor compatibility with the interior and the large size.

The advantages and disadvantages of split systems

Let's try to analyze all the information about split systems and find out what pros and cons they can have. The whole process of installing split system air conditioners can be considered an undoubted plus. To place the outdoor unit does not require a lot of space, and there is no need to seriously change the appearance of the facade. The indoor unit can be placed anywhere. Everything here depends on the available budget and imagination. At the same time, different types can be built in different rooms and premises, for example, a wall-mounted one can be installed in the kitchen, and a duct one in the bedroom.

Separating the noisiest block and taking it outside is a wise move. This reduces the overall noise from the air conditioner in the room. Meanwhile, the indoor unit can be "stuffed" with a variety of electronics and various control systems. and filtering, which the developers use, making their devices more and more convenient and functional.

Some of the advantages described can lead to disadvantages. For example, division into blocks will be very frustrating if the external part fails. After all, if several rooms were cooled at once, then all of them would be without fresh air. The same applies to the impossibility of setting certain temperatures in different rooms. If you cool the air in one, then it will not work to heat it in the other. The above plus in the form of ease of installation can suddenly become a rather expensive minus if you have to place blocks at a great distance from each other.

How to choose a split system - editorial advice

Probably, the choice of a split system should start with the question: is it really needed? Maybe it will be easier to use a cheaper and simpler candy bar?

In general, it is worth paying attention to a split system if:

• want a quiet air conditioner;
• you need to organically fit into the existing interior design;
• you need to cool or heat several rooms at the same time;
• I just want a split system.

If the choice is obvious, then now it remains to determine which split system to buy. It's worth starting with power. In this case, it can be retrained into a serviced area, so it will be easier to navigate. In addition, almost all manufacturers indicate this value in the specifications of their devices.

ATTENTION!

When choosing a split system, be sure to pay attention to the maximum communication length of the device. It must exceed the projected distance of one block from another.

The indoor unit also makes a little noise. If this is relevant, then you should pay attention to the models with the lowest dB value. The design of the split system is selected individually, depending on preferences and interior design. All other parameters, such as the presence of the ventilation function, dehumidification, timers, filters, and other additional features are limited only by the budget.

Review of several interesting models

There are a lot of split-system manufacturers. Among them are famous brands and small companies. Let's look at a couple of models for orientation.

Hisense AS-10HR4SYDTG

Inexpensive wall split system. Able to work on an area of ​​30 m². It can both cool and heat the room. Additionally, it can simply ventilate the room without changing the temperature. For convenience, there is a remote control and a timer. The maximum declared noise level is 40 dB. The price of a split system is on average about 17,800 rubles.

GREEN GRI / GRO-09HH1

You can buy this split system air conditioner for about 13,000 rubles. It is a wall-mounted type of placement. Capable of cooling or heating a 25 m² room. There is a ventilation mode, remote control, timer.

Panasonic CS-E9RKDW

Despite the rather high price of this split-air conditioning system at 38,000 rubles, its service area is only 15 square meters. The fan speed can be set to one of three modes. There are fine air filters, deodorizing filters, warm start and motion sensor. Judging by the reviews about the split system, this option is perfect for both home and office.

How to buy a split system profitably: an overview of prices

System	Characteristics	Peculiarities	price, rub.
	Type: wall-mounted. Serviced area: 30 m². Ventilation mode: yes. Noise level: 40 dB.	Fine filter, deodorizing filter, dehumidification mode, self-diagnosis, remote control.	From 17 800
	Type: wall-mounted. Serviced area: 25 m². Ventilation mode: yes.	Fine filter, deodorizing filter, dehumidification mode, remote control.	From 13 000
	Type: wall-mounted. Serviced area: 15 m². Ventilation mode: yes. Noise level: 39 dB.	Fine filter, deodorizing filter, dehumidification mode, self-diagnosis, remote control.	From 38 000
	Type: floor and ceiling. Serviced area: 20 m². Ventilation mode: yes. Noise level: 40 dB.	Fine filter, deodorizing filter, anion generator, remote control.	From 13 700
	Type: cassette. Ventilation mode: yes. Noise level: 42 dB.	Deodorizing filter, dehumidification mode, self-diagnosis, remote control, 3 speeds, supply ventilation mode.	From 56 800

ATTENTION!

The prices in the table are averaged, as different retailers can set their own margins.

If you have already encountered the installation and operation of split systems, then share your experience in the comments.