What is a channel split system: varieties and device options

Design

The device can be in the form of a monoblock or have a two-module design. The device is a closed system through which the refrigerant moves - most often freon R-22, R-410.

What does it consist of air conditioner:

• Compressor - designed to compress freon and ensure its movement to the heat exchanger;
• Condenser - located in the remote unit, falling on the cooled surface of the heat exchanger, the refrigerant passes into a liquid state;
• Evaporator - located in the inner case, absorbs heat, facilitating entry into the room, turns the refrigerant into a gas;
• The pressure regulator (capillary tube, throttle) performs the functions of a sharp decrease in p and t freon;
• Fan - generates an air jet directed to the heat exchangers.

Classical, his work is shown in the figure.

The cooling diagram clearly shows how the refrigerant absorbs heat during evaporation, and gives off heat during condensation. The principle of operation of the air conditioner - the intake of thermal energy on one heat exchanger and return on the other is called the vapor-compression refrigeration cycle.

How does an air conditioner work?

Freon enters the compressor in the form of gas at a slight p 3-5 atm and t + 10-20˚С. In the unit, the gaseous substance reaches a pressure of 15-25 atm with a simultaneous increase in t to + 70-90˚С.

The refrigerant moves under pressure to the condenser, where it is blown by the fan and cools down and turns into a liquid, while releasing thermal energy. The air leaving the condenser is heated. The coolant leaves the heat exchanger at a temperature 10-20˚ higher than the surrounding air.

In the throttle, which is a thin tube made of copper in the form of a spiral, the temperature and pressure of freon, according to the laws of physics, decreases, partially evaporating. After the pressure regulator, the mixture of vapor and liquid fractions of the refrigerant enters the evaporator.

The evaporator converts freon into a gaseous form with heat absorption. The air driven by the fan through the evaporator cools down and is supplied to the room.The gas with low temperature and pressure is sucked in again by the compressor. The process is repeated.

What are split systems

The most important division of systems is the indoor unit, the outdoor unit is always the same. What are split systems? The simplest are: wall-mounted, multi, inverter.

The wall-mounted version is the most standard when used in everyday life. It hangs on the wall, cools both small and large rooms, they are installed in houses, offices.

Multi consists of several units inside, connected by a single unit inside, this installation helps to cool many areas of a small area.

The inverter changes the activity of the system, the compressor rotates at a different frequency, the standard air conditioner can turn on and off on its own when a certain temperature is reached. The inverter version works constantly, works stably, without overspeeding.

Varieties of split systems

This type of system can be of different modifications, we will consider the one that is used in everyday life. These include windowed, mobile versions, they have a single block. It is customary to distinguish several options for these systems:

• Household RATS (Room Air Conditions);
• Semi-industrial PAC (Packages Air Conditions),
• Industrial (Unitary).

Household appliances were identified as systems whose power is above 5 kilowatts. They included all cassette, column, floor-ceiling, wall versions.

Split systems were defined as semi-industrial, the power of which is more than 5 kilowatts. These included cassette, column, floor-ceiling, wall versions. They are connected by electrical connection methods. Determined by their strength from 2.5 to 30 kilowatts.

The industrial ones included channel split systems, the power of which is more powerful than 30 kilowatts, cabinet monoblocks.

There are certain types of split systems, which are divided into:

1. window
2. ducted
3. Multisplit
4. VRF
5. Mobile

Window is a good split system, with good assembly. It is inserted into the window, or into a thin gap in the wall. Any person can insert, does not require anything special and can be done with an ordinary tool. The system is designed with easy maintenance and durability.

Channel - this type is very unique. The system is located under the ceiling, which is hung, there is an exchange of air throughout the entire system network. If the power cools down and the fan works well, the system can wrap around a large office. It needs to be carefully cleaned, the territory will be cooled qualitatively.

The multi-split outdoor unit performs better than the indoor unit. Its power works on one indoor unit. Its price is much lower.

VRF is most often installed in elite premises and cottages. Components of indoor and outdoor units, its ability belongs to central air conditioning. They can cool a large number of rooms at once from 100 to 1000 square meters. meters.

What is the outdoor unit?

The external unit of the split system is not audible due to outdoor installation, and this is the main advantage of this equipment. On specially made brackets, it can be installed in almost any place suitable for this. The outdoor unit consists of a compressor, a condenser, a receiver, a drier filter, a four-way valve, a fan, if it is an inverter, then finally an inverter board.These are the most important elements of the system, of course there are many other things, for example, a heat exchanger, various relays, and so on, each of these elements creates an interdependent cycle of the system.

Heat pump air conditioner

If the split system is equipped with a heat pump, in winter it can be safely used to heat the room. Some buyers mistakenly believe that for this the indoor unit of the air conditioner is equipped with heating elements, which is completely untrue.

In fact, such an air conditioner has a four-way valve and a control system that, as it were, reverses the cooling process.

The device no longer cools the room, but the street, i.e. works as an air-to-air heat pump. To understand how you can heat a room with cold outside air, you need to study the functioning of a heat pump.

The operation of this unit also uses the ability of the refrigerant (all the same freon) to heat up at low temperatures.

Although the air outside remains cold, it contains some heat energy at a low potential. The refrigerant absorbs these tiny bits of energy, concentrates them, passes through a pressurizing compressor and releases them to the indoor air. Air currents heat up and spread around the room.

As a result, heating is carried out at very low energy costs. This option is considered a profitable and safe way of housing. It is worth noting that the principles of operation of a split system and a heat pump are very similar. However, it is not necessary to consider a heat pump built into a split system as the main way to heat a room, it is rather an auxiliary option.

When purchasing a device, you should carefully study the operating conditions and technical characteristics of the device. The heat pump is effective in the southern latitudes during a warm winter at temperatures of +5 ... -15 degrees. At -20 heating is almost impossible.

How to navigate the labeling of air conditioners

We are not now interested in the meaning of each letter in the model name. We want to teach you how to select the device of the required power using the simplest method. The fact is that manufacturers have already made a calculation based on average power data for the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room. These data are located in the labeling of products.

Deciphering the labeling of climate equipment

When you come to the store, you will hear from consultants something like this - you will have enough for such a room and five, or - no, seven will not be enough for you. What do these numbers mean? This is the very notorious power noted in the marking. The figures are comparable with the following areas of the premises:

• 7 - taken into rooms from 18 to 20 squares;
• 9 - rooms up to 26 squares;
• 12 - 35 square meters.

Split systems specification

Split systems or multi-systems are not a specific model, but a whole class of air conditioning equipment, indoor modules can be of any type.

All types of split systems due to their low cost and simple installation and operation are widely used among the population and businesses. They are used at home, installed in administrative or semi-industrial premises of different sizes.The advantage of a two-unit design is ease of operation, aesthetic appearance of indoor units, as well as comfort, because they are almost silent.

• standard;
• inverter;
• multi systems.

Standard systems are a simple two-piece design. Each pair of modules is connected to each other by a freon line of two to three tubes. The systems are easy to use, maintain a constant temperature by switching on and off alternately.

Inverter models differ in the principle of operation - this technique maintains the temperature set by the user by changing the frequency of the compressor. Simply put, the system allows you to smoothly adjust the intensity of the air supply, when a given degree is reached, the air flow rate decreases. The technical feature of the inverter air conditioner does not require regular on / off, which makes it more economical than the classic version by 30 - 35%.

Multi-systems are more difficult to install than others and require special attention when designing. Unlike the classic air conditioning system, here the external module acts as a pair to 2 - 5 internal ones, maintaining the set temperature in several rooms at the same time.

The disadvantage of multi-systems is the absolute dependence of all indoor modules on one outdoor module, where the main and only compressor is installed. If it fails, all rooms will be deprived of cooled air. The second difficulty is the laying of separate highways to each indoor module.

The main differences between a split system and a conventional air conditioner

Deciding to buy a split system or air conditioner, you should find out their main differences.They are both types of air conditioners. Their main differences include:

• Design. Manufacturers offer a fairly large range of systems. You can always choose a model that can harmoniously fit into the interior. Air conditioners are most often a monotonous white block;
• High technology. Modern models have wide functionality, including the possibility of remote control;
• Noise. Despite the large range of conventional air conditioners, it is quite difficult to choose a model that creates a minimum of noise during operation. Split systems, due to their design features, create a minimum of noise during operation.

Split systems have wide functionality

Maximum operating temperature

The basis for the long-term operation of a split system is compliance with rules for its use

An important place here is given to the observance of the temperature at which the split system operates. Such restrictions exist for cooling and heating in different periods of the year.

Each model has its own limitations, which are prescribed in the instructions and indicated in the passport.

The average value is in the range of 20–27 degrees Celsius. Under such conditions, the air conditioner does not experience increased loads, and the compressor does not wear out faster than expected. Valid values ​​may vary widely. This is due to the difference in the number of control sensors that are located in the indoor unit. In models with a large number of sensors, the lower limit may be at a different level.

Most of the split systems are characterized by standard temperature limits.For operation in cooling mode, the permissible temperature range is from +18 to + 45 degrees. For the heating mode, other limits are set: from -5 to +18.

There are exceptions in the HVAC market. It can only be very expensive models. Similar systems are found in the model lines of Mitsubishi and Daikin. Such equipment can be used almost all year round, because the range of permissible temperatures is from -25 to +55 degrees.

Need for maintenance

Any equipment needs periodic maintenance. If this condition is observed, the life of the equipment is increased, its functionality is restored and the likelihood of developing a fungus is reduced. The essence of TO is the following points.

Inspection of the device consists in studying the outdoor unit and its fixtures, the condition of the line insulation and assessing the level of contamination. The noise emitted by the split system is also being studied. By uncharacteristic sounds, you can establish a possible breakdown and violations, which in the future will lead to the failure of the entire system.
Cleaning both units with a high pressure washer may be required more frequently if the system is in heavy use or if the plants are actively flowering. Mechanical cleaning in this case cannot give a qualitative result.
The internal pressure is checked using a manometer, which is connected to the service valve (outdoor unit). Such a device is called air conditioning manometry. It allows not only to check the pressure, but also to bring it to a normal level due to refueling.

Adding freon is a responsible job that requires caution.The reason lies in the high sensitivity of freon to ambient temperature.
Cleaning the filters of the indoor unit is a mandatory step that should never be ignored

By putting off filter cleaning, you are putting your health at serious risk. Over time, dust and harmful microorganisms accumulate in the filters, which actively multiply and enter the air. You can wash the filters yourself. To do this, you will need to remove the decorative cover, remove the filter element, rinse it under water, dry it and install it in place.
Purge of the drain pipe is necessary due to blockages, which makes it difficult for condensate to exit the system. Cleaning the tube requires the separation of the hose and tube, which is then cleaned with compressed air. You can also use thin fiberglass. But metal devices in the form of a tube, cable or wire cannot be used, since the tube can be easily damaged.

How to choose a split system, see the following video.

Variety of air conditioning systems

Varieties of air conditioners contain many types and subspecies, which often leads to confusion. It is optimal to systematize all this diversity by types of installation, consider options for designing air conditioning systems.

It is important to understand the principle of operation and the purpose of various modifications. The recommendations of experts are based on the rational use of air conditioning systems, which increases their resource and guarantees the expected result.

Structurally, the devices are divided into two main

• single-block (monoblock);
• split systems.

Single-block air conditioners are a single unit that transfers air from the room to the street. In some cases, a flexible air outlet hose is connected to the device. These are noisy units of large sizes, depending on the modification, they are installed in a window opening or used for production areas.

A split system is a pair of indoor and outdoor modules. Inside the outdoor unit are the main sources of background noise - the fan and the compressor. It is mounted outside, most often on the facade of the building. The inner part of the system is connected to the outer one by several pipes, there are filters in its case, and, depending on the modification, control buttons and temperature sensors can also be located here.

The main elements of a split system

The design of the split system assumes the presence of two blocks: external and internal, interconnected by means of a freon and drainage line. A power supply is also provided. Each block has its own purpose and features.

The outdoor unit is connected to the indoor

Outdoor unit

The outdoor unit is located outside the room. It is mounted on the facade or roof of the building, taken out to the balcony or loggia. In some cases, accommodation in the lobby or corridor of a public building is possible.

The external unit includes a compressor, a condenser, a capillary tube, a 4-way valve, a filter-drier or receiver, and a fan. Individual models can be equipped with other related elements: an inverter control board, a compressor power switching relay, an “oxygen shower” filter.

Non-inverter split systems are made without electronic components. The connection of the electric motor, fan and valve to the electronics of the indoor unit is carried out through the power cable.

The outdoor unit is mounted outside the building

indoor unit

The internal block is mounted directly in the room. Depending on the selected model, the installation location can be a ceiling, floor or wall. Manufacturers offer models that can be built into a false ceiling.

Depending on the design, modern models may have different functionality. Possible presence:

• remote control;
• Filters providing various degrees of air purification;
• timer;
• Indoor temperature control.

The remote control included in the system allows you to set the necessary parameters of the microclimate, which are controlled by the electronics of the indoor unit.

Design and dimensions of the indoor unit may differ significantly

How often should the device be cleaned?

Many air purification filters require regular maintenance. Therefore, it is best to make sure in advance that the design of the air conditioner provides easy and convenient access to all these elements of the filtration system.

Do not forget about the convenient location of the outdoor and indoor units of the air conditioner in the house. The indoor unit, for example, should not be covered by furniture or other objects, and the outdoor unit should not be placed in the sun. The outdoor unit may also need a system to drain the condensate that forms during the hot season.

In some models, there is also a self-cleaning evaporator function (located in the indoor unit).

Modifications

To reduce the difficulty in choosing, check out the additional versions of equipment in this category. Some of them have improved consumer characteristics. Others are better suited for specific tasks.

What are inverter split systems

In standard equipment, the compressor switches on and off to maintain the set temperature. Inverter technology involves the sequential conversion of the mains current into direct current, then into high-frequency oscillations. This allows you to smoothly adjust the speed of the drive.

This diagram demonstrates the benefits of fine adjustment.

You can buy an inverter-type split system for a quick decrease / increase in temperature. Equipment under the control of automation operates at maximum performance until the desired performance is obtained. After that, it switches to economy mode. In addition to reducing energy costs, voltage surges in the general network are prevented. This reduces the load on the connected equipment, prevents accidents, and extends the life of individual components.

Some models of outdoor units use DC motors.

The price of inverter split systems of this type is higher, but additional advantages of this choice must be taken into account:

• There is no link for converting to alternating current with a changed frequency, so losses are reduced.
• To create a field, powerful magnets made of rare earth metals are used, which reduces energy costs.
• Contactor brushes are removed from the motor design. The electronic circuit does not need a phase current control unit. Simplification increases the overall level of reliability of the external unit of the split system.

What are refrigeration split systems

This equipment is equipped with special cameras in stores

Good thermal insulation is installed in the premises, insulated doors with seals. With the help of technology, a constantly low (about +4 ° C) or negative temperature is maintained for long-term storage of food.

Is it possible to heat rooms with split systems?

Two modes of operation of multifunctional equipment

With the reverse direction of movement of the coolant, an efficiently operating circuit is obtained. According to the manufacturers, in some modes it consumes less energy compared to oil and other typical heaters. Separate split systems are capable of comparative savings of 2-3 times or even more.

Do not rush to throw "obsolete" heating batteries into the landfill. Upon closer examination, it can be found that the best performance of universal equipment is able to provide in a narrow range of outdoor air temperatures (approximately from 0°C to +6°C). Accordingly, the time of their application is limited by the transitional periods of the off-season. They come in handy in the summer when the weather is too cold.

However, many models are designed for a minimum value of -10°C. Some outdoor units are able to perform the corresponding functions in frost down to -25°C

In advertisements, sellers focus on the best parameters, but modestly forget about the following disadvantages:

• In winter, the efficiency decreases significantly, approaching the parameters of traditional heating equipment.
• Lubricants thicken, so compressor wear increases.
• There is an increased risk of freezing of the condensate drain pipe.This node has to be heated by a special device with an additional power consumption of 20-30 watts.

What does split system mean?

A split system is an air conditioner that includes an indoor and outdoor unit. Thanks to the division into a noisy and quiet part, you can significantly save space. The principle of operation of a split system involves drawing in, cooling and exhausting air. The main advantages of this technique include:

• minimum noise;
• high power, which helps to cool large rooms;
• sufficient level of cooling;
• compact dimensions;
• energy saving;
• remote control;
• a large number of functions.

Continuing to find out what a split system is, it is necessary to pay attention to the existing disadvantages

• lack of fresh air ventilation;
• high price of some models;
• cannot be transported when moving.

How to choose a split system?

There are a number of important factors to consider when choosing the right model. First you need to decide on the type of indoor unit, depending on the stylistic design of the room and free space. Be sure to take into account the square footage of the room.

A split air conditioning system for an apartment should, on average, have a power that is an order of magnitude less than its area. If the windows of the room face the sunny side, the resulting value must be multiplied by 1.1-1.3. If the air conditioning equipment consists of several indoor units, you should make sure that the outdoor module will be able to support it.

The manufacturer deserves special attention. Preference should be given to a proven trademark, under which high quality products are traditionally manufactured.

It is worth checking the maximum and minimum noise levels declared by the manufacturers, created by the system during operation, as well as the temperature range at which the equipment will function properly.

If the cost of a split system is of fundamental importance, then you can reduce costs by choosing a device with an optimal set of functions. The less additional functionality, the cheaper the climate technology will cost.

Other selection criteria

A good air conditioning system for a home is selected according to various parameters. First of all, power is taken into account, it is also necessary to calculate the cold performance. Other important criteria include:

• the presence of a heating mode - it will come in handy in the off-season, when the heating system is not yet functioning;
• noise isolation - if the air conditioner is too noisy, it will interfere at night, the optimal level is up to 30 dB;
• air cleaning - filtration is necessary not only for those suffering from allergies, but also for children, the elderly and everyone who cares about their health;
• the functions of ionization and humidification provide a favorable microclimate in the room.

How to choose a split system, see the following video.

Cassette type air conditioners

Cassette air conditioners are the optimal solution for both small and spacious rooms with suspended ceilings. The cassette-type air conditioner consists of two blocks that are connected to each other by a communication system laid in the interceiling space.At the same time, the dimensions of the front panel of the indoor unit, directed into the room, coincide with the dimensions of the suspended ceiling cell.

Cassette-type air conditioners are most often installed in large rooms, offices, restaurants, gyms, cinemas and other premises that require uniform distribution and circulation of air masses. They can be either a stand-alone device or part of a multi-split system that combines several indoor units installed in different parts of a room or in several rooms, and has a single outdoor unit.

A cassette air conditioner, like any other built-in air conditioner in the ceiling, requires a sufficiently deep interceiling space - from 24 to 40 cm. Installation of such a device does not imply significant costs, since all related communications are hidden from prying eyes by a suspended structure. Nevertheless, it is recommended to entrust the installation of such systems to specialists.

Criterias of choice

An idea of ​​​​how the device is arranged and its capabilities allows you to choose the most suitable climate unit. Which is better: air conditioning or split system?

Monoblock advantages:

• Easy installation;
• Unpretentiousness in use;
• Mobility;
• lower price.

Cons of operation:

• Low power - up to 4 kW;
• Bulky, unpresentable appearance;
• Less work efficiency;
• Noise during operation up to 50 dB;
• Condensation accumulates in the pan, it must be periodically removed.
• When the natural illumination of the room is reduced.

Such devices are ideal when you need to create comfortable conditions for two or three hot months in rooms with a small cubic capacity: in small apartments, in the country.The devices are easy to transport. To connect the device does not require special skills and time.

How the split system works (advantages):

• Moderately quiet operation (up to 30 dB);
• Power 7 kW and above;
• Energy efficiency, high efficiency;
• The presence of night mode, adjustment of the set temperature and humidity, remote control using the remote control;
• The ability to direct the air stream in the right direction;
• A wide range of two-module devices allows you to choose the right model.

The indoor unit looks aesthetically pleasing, fits well into any interior. The device can operate in various modes: cooling, heating, drying, enhanced cleaning, ionization.

The advantages of inverter-type climate control units look especially clear:

• Work without shutdown, there are no temperature drops;
• The power level is automatically adjusted;
• A small amount of starting currents ensures a long service life of the device, the ability to install in buildings with poor wiring.
• Saving energy consumption is 20-25%;
• Quiet operation allows you to install inverters in bedrooms, children's rooms.

Disadvantages of split systems:

• Installation of equipment should be carried out by a specialist, the cost of work can reach a third of the price of the unit;
• Require regular maintenance, sensitive to power surges;
• The cost is much higher.

Climatic units with two blocks are purchased for round-the-clock operation in the summer and during the off-season. Two-module systems are bought in apartments where allergy sufferers, often sick children, live.

The principle of operation of a split-system air conditioner allows you to set comfortable climatic conditions for living at any time of the year.The variety of functions satisfies any user requests.

general information

The classification of air conditioners begins with the purpose or place of use of the device. Initially, all modifications are divided into:

• household;
• semi-industrial;
• industrial (production).

The class of household appliances (RAC) includes all split and multi-split systems, the power of which does not exceed 5 kW - these are the air conditioners recommended for use in an office or a small apartment. The advantages of such systems are not only in an acceptable cost: their external design does not harm the interior, and operation does not cause difficulties.

The semi-industrial category (PAC) includes split systems of all types, with a capacity of at least 5 kW. This class also includes air conditioning systems, when several internal modules of any model, including channel ones, are connected to one external unit.

The average power of the external module will allow you to cope with the maintenance of several rooms, offices or large areas without loss of efficiency. The outdoor unit is mounted on the facade, or installed on the roof of the building, if it is technically possible.

The production or industrial group contains all versions of duct systems with a power greater than 30 kW, as well as cabinet units of various power. Equipment with such characteristics is intended for large areas - warehouses, workshops, exhibition halls, where an important role is played not by the external design of the system, but by its performance.

What is the feature of multi-split systems?

Speaking about air conditioners in a general sense, it is necessary to mention multi-split systems, which are also used to equip multi-room apartments, private houses, office and industrial buildings.

They differ from ordinary ones in that they have only one remote block, while there can be several internal ones. The minimum number is two modules, the maximum is limited to four. If you use more indoor units, the system will lose its performance and will not work at full capacity.

The number of pipelines increases, respectively, the cost of equipment increases and the installation of some parts of the structure becomes more complicated.

It is important to create conditions for laying all connecting elements (+). A multi-split system is not always used, but only in some cases when the installation of a large number of outdoor units is not possible for a number of reasons:

A multi-split system is not always used, but only in some cases when the installation of a large number of outdoor units is not possible for a number of reasons:

• the building is a historical or architectural monument;
• there is a ban on the installation of remote units on the facade;
• for hanging equipment, the architecture of the building provides for certain places limited in area.

Sometimes, mounting a large number of remote modules is abandoned for aesthetic reasons: the beautiful facade of the building, hung with bulky cases, looks unpresentable.

Amendments are periodically made to the rules for the improvement of large cities, prohibiting the placement of air conditioners on facades overlooking the central streets. Exit - installation of the block on the courtyard wall of the building

The advantage of a multi-system is the installation of one remote module, the disadvantages are complex work on the installation of pipelines, a decrease in productivity and reliability. In addition, all indoor modules must operate in identical modes: either heating or cooling.

Split system device

The structure of the multi-block design includes at least two modules. The internal equipment is located directly in the room, the outdoor unit is usually installed on the facade of the building. To connect the two modules, special tubes are used. Cooling gas flows through them - freon or freon.

The main element is the outer block. It contains the following elements:

• device for condensation of air masses;
• compressor;
• ventilation system;
• throttle.

The compressor compresses the refrigerant gas and moves it. A condensing device is used to convert a gaseous substance into a liquid. With the help of a throttle design, the pressure of the working medium is reduced before it enters the indoor module. The indoor unit includes a ventilation device and an evaporator. A fan is used for forced air circulation. With the help of an evaporator, the liquid is converted into a gaseous state.

Split systems can be used to cool air masses in a room with several rooms. This design includes an external module and the required number of indoor units.