What is a split system: the device and principle of operation of typical air conditioning systems

Varieties of split systems

Wall units

Indoor units have a different configuration, which greatly facilitates the process of their selection for a specific interior design of the room where the indoor fixture will be installed.

Depending on where the indoor unit is fixed, the following types of split systems are distinguished: wall, ceiling, channel, cassette and column.

Wall-mounted, as you may have guessed, are fixed on the outside of the wall, and this is very convenient, because it is in the external unit that all the important processes of the device take place.To date, wall-mounted split systems hold the lead among the most purchased devices that provide air conditioning in apartments and private houses. Excellent build quality, pressure locking mechanism, compressor acting according to the principle of heating drainage, an electronic brake, an intelligent program that sets the most comfortable temperature conditions, will appeal to even the most sophisticated buyer.

Ceiling and duct

Floor-to-ceiling split systems are installed in rooms that boast a large elongated area. A powerful flow is directed along the wall structure or ceiling surface, this principle of operation allows you to evenly distribute air flows around the entire perimeter.

The installation of duct installations occurs due to the fixation of the indoor unit behind the suspended ceiling (it will be necessary to allocate from 30 to 40 cm of the inter-ceiling section), the air is taken from the room and comes back, passing through specially equipped air ducts that are supplied to almost anywhere. A quarter of the air entering inside is a fresh stream enriched with oxygen.

Split systems for spacious rooms

Split-cassette type system mounted exclusively in large rooms, where there are also suspended ceilings. To install a full-fledged air conditioning line, you need 25 cm of inter-ceiling space. The internal fixture is located behind the false ceiling, only the decorative grille remains in sight. The air enters through the central grille of the product, where it is carefully processed and, after passing through the controlled blinds, is placed in four directions.

If there are no false ceilings in the room, a split column system is suitable. Such units provide a strong air stream, which is supplied to the ceiling, and then moves over the entire area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room.

Multi split system

If the device provides for the presence of several indoor units at once, this is a unique multi-split system. It is most often mounted in order to maintain the desired air microclimate in several office premises, large stores, living space of impressive size, for example, if the house is designed for 3-4 floors or more.

At the same time, the external component is not violated at all - one external block on the facade of the building looks modest and does not attract too much attention. Of course, such a technical modification is estimated at a much higher cost compared to analogues.

Features of installing a cassette air conditioner

If we consider the external module of the cassette split system, there are no features that distinguish the installation from the classic standard.

A completely different matter is the internal cassette module. In this case, the features associated with the installation are due to the design of the block.

The main features of mounting the cassette module:

• the surface for installing the cassette is strictly horizontal;
• the gap between the explicit and false ceiling is at least 350 mm;
• the ceiling structure must support 4 times the weight of the cassette;
• the mounting position corresponds to the required clearances from obstacles.

When installing the system, the location of doorways, heating elements, and various heat sources should be taken into account.

Also, the installation position should be coordinated according to the power supply points, according to the possibilities for supplying loop pipelines and the condensate drain channel.

The layout of the cassette on the ceiling, which should be followed when installing the cassette air conditioner. Departure from the set parameters threatens to significantly reduce the quality of the device.

The cassette must be mounted in such a way as to exclude the presence of objects that prevent an even distribution of air.

As a general rule, install the cassette as close to the center point of the room as possible. Installation is carried out with the distribution panel and other components included in the panel assembly removed.

The cassette module is installed by hanging. Therefore, suspended metal rods have to be mounted on the main ceiling.

Holes for four anchor rods are drilled on the surface of the main ceiling. The size (standard) is pre-marked between the rods in width and length.

Cassette suspension scheme: 1 - internal air conditioner module; 2 - false ceiling level; 3 - metal support rods with anchors for fastening in a concrete ceiling; 4 - concrete ceiling

The cassette module is suspended on the installed rods, leveled horizontally and fixed. Accordingly, it is required to divert the drainage line according to all the rules - at a slope, without sharp bends. And also bring the pipes of the refrigeration circuit.

Only after these works are completed, the surrounding part of the false ceiling is assembled and the parts of the distribution panel of the split system cassette are installed.

Installation steps

Installation of this type of air conditioner is considered difficult due to the presence of two blocks.If there is no knowledge regarding the installation of air conditioning devices, it is better to entrust the work to professionals.

The whole process is divided into stages that are performed in this sequence.

1. The equipment is unpacked, the equipment is inspected. Read the instructions that came with the air conditioner. In the installation paragraphs, the manufacturer indicates important points and features of fastening some elements.

2. In the room, a wall is determined, on which it is planned to fix the outdoor unit from the side of the street. The type of materials from which the building was erected is investigated.

3. In the intended place of the wall, holes are made for communications.

4. From the side of the facade, special brackets are first attached, after which the outdoor unit is installed on them.

5. The fixation of the indoor unit is carried out indoors at a distance from the external device not exceeding 10 m (the limit indicator is indicated in the instructions).

6. Two blocks are connected by a freon line with a hermetic docking with the entrances to the housings.

7. Connecting electrical wiring.

8. Test run of the air conditioner and checking the functions declared by the manufacturer.

The guarantor of quality work is the place of purchase of equipment and the reputation of the manufacturer.

Evaporator body

The operation scheme of the device provides for the presence of an indoor unit located inside the building, where it is necessary to maintain the desired air parameters.

Main structural elements:

• Front panel in the form of a plastic grill providing air access. Easily dismantled for maintenance.
• The evaporator is a heat exchanger, where, under the catalytic effect of the fan, the freon is heated and the air is cooled.
• Coarse filter - in the form of a grid with electrostatic properties. Picks up fine debris, animal hair, large dust particles.
• Fine filters - catalytic, bactericidal, plasma, etc. Their purpose is to purify the air from pathogenic microorganisms, dust, pollen, trap smoke and unpleasant odors. Some models of air conditioners contain two or more filters.
• Indicator panel - it contains light diodes that display the operating mode of the device, indicating possible malfunctions.
• The fan performs the function of blowing the evaporator, has several speeds.
• The control board is located on the right side of the case. It houses the central microprocessor.
• Vertical and horizontal louvers carry out the direction of the air flow, depending on the desire of the user.
• Tray - located under the evaporator. Its purpose is to collect condensate that forms on the evaporator, drain it using a drain hose.

Functional nuances

When heated, liquid substances evaporate, actively absorbing heat from the surface on which they are located, and when condensation occurs, the reverse process occurs - this is the basis of the principle of operation of any air conditioning system. These products cannot produce cold, but only transfer heat from the cooled object to the street or vice versa, which happens when the heating mode is turned on. Heat is energy, and it cannot disappear without a trace or appear from nowhere; its main carrier in air conditioners is the refrigerant.

During cooling, freon evaporates, its condensation occurs in the remote unit, after the refrigerant compressed to a certain consistency leaves the compressor. If the operation of the air conditioner or split system is set to heat the room, then everything happens the other way around.

The technical characteristics of domestic air conditioners are the sum of the nominal power of the product, which is spent on cooling or heating the interior. Products of this design are used in the off-season, but only at temperatures above zero - they cannot be turned on in frost. Moreover, the heating takes place according to a special scheme: the floor is heated, creating a comfortable atmosphere for the feet.

Further, there is power consumption, air consumption, the level of noise produced, which is allowed in residential premises no more than 34 dB. It is necessary to take into account the noise at the minimum and maximum power of the product.

The main characteristics of air conditioners also take into account the refrigerant used in the product - all devices use different types of freon from R-12 to R-410A, which consists of equal shares (50 to 50) of R32 and R125.

Advanced Features

What about advanced features? First, additional filters. Remember that the main task of the filter in the air conditioner is to protect the fan and heat exchanger from dirt and dust.

If the heat exchanger becomes clogged, heat removal will deteriorate and the compressor will burn out. All other benefits are naked advertising. Therefore, do not get fooled by all sorts of catechin, apple and vitamin C filters.

The same applies to the ionization function. The ionization block they have is of such size that you will never feel the real effect from it. Unless you tell yourself otherwise.

All these additional features are an elementary marketing ploy in order to sell the air conditioner at a higher price and stand out from the competition.

Well, in the end, we give a rating of the most popular models of split systems according to the site version, indicating their characteristics, main advantages and disadvantages. For information, click on the tab with the name.

Devices with and without air duct

There are two types of mobile air conditioners by the presence of an air duct:

• With duct system. Such an air conditioner is similar in principle to a standard split system: heat is removed from the room using a flexible pipe-air duct. It must be placed outdoors, leading out of a window, window, balcony, vent or door. But at the same time there is a gap through which warm air enters the room. To get out of the "vicious circle" and use the purchase for its intended purpose, it is worth buying a plug for slots.
• Without air duct. This system runs on water. Air is forced through a water-soaked filter. When water evaporates, it takes heat from the air.

Water must be added often enough, as it evaporates. Such a system only humidifies the air, and in order for the air to cool at least a little, it is recommended to keep the water for the device in the refrigerator. In fact, this is a “cold” type humidifier. If the humidity in the room is above the norm, this type of device is completely contraindicated.

Overview of the main models and manufacturers of split systems

When choosing climate equipment, special attention is paid to the manufacturer. Having decided to buy an inverter-type split system, you should definitely compare the characteristics of products manufactured under various trademarks

We offer you to get acquainted with the products of well-known manufacturers and their distinctive features.

Split systems Ballu

Climate equipment related to the budget class. It has a relatively short service life (average 7 years). The optimal ratio of cost and functionality makes the purchase profitable. For an apartment, you can purchase a Ballu BSW-07HN1/OL/15Y split system.

Ballu - an affordable solution, ample opportunities

Split systems Electrolux

Equipment related to the budget class. A family with any income level can purchase an Electrolux split system with suitable functionality. During operation, such equipment may create a little more noise than more expensive counterparts. Due to the relatively simple design, it is easy to figure out how to control the Electrolux split system.

Electrolux is a budget solution suitable for every family

Split systems Daikin

A company offering premium technology. All models are of high build quality and reliability. You can choose climatic equipment for installation in a residential building and industrial premises. Using the Intelligent Eye function, it is easy to create a microclimate inside the building.

Daikin split systems are presented in a large assortment. They are distinguished by ease of installation, subsequent maintenance and environmental friendliness. In modern models, a different refrigerant is used instead of freon.

Daikin - quality products from a Japanese manufacturer

Split systems Panasonic

A popular trademark under which reliable household appliances are produced in Malaysia. Reliable filters and highly efficient air purifiers are used to complete the offered climatic equipment. Due to the ease of management and ease of installation, Panasonic split systems are in steady consumer demand.

Panasonic - reliable equipment

Split systems Mitsubishi Electric

A popular manufacturer offering modern climate control equipment. The innovative approach allows us to guarantee the high energy efficiency of the products offered, the low level of generated noise and wide functionality, thanks to which it will be much easier to create comfortable conditions inside any room. Differ in an optimum ratio the price/quality.

Mitsubishi Electric - business class equipment

2 Operating tips

The compressor in an air conditioner can fail because the evaporative element cannot handle the coolant. If you follow some rules of operation, you can avoid breakdowns:

• do not turn on the device in severe frost;
• the appliance is designed so that it can operate above only the manufacturer's lower limits;
• the purpose of the device is to cool the temperature, but between seasons it can be used to heat rooms;
• the load is reduced when windows and doors are closed;
• if it is necessary to ventilate the room, then the air conditioner is turned off;
• periodically clean the boilers, filtration systems, replace damaged parts;
• for air conditioning, in principle, the minimum temperature is not set, as this overloads the compressor;
• do not use the equipment at home in very hot weather;
• for a faster decrease in temperature, increase the number of fan revolutions.

Functionality of air conditioners

Many consumers believe that the air conditioner device allows you to use the device only to cool the air during the heat. Knowing how the air conditioner works, you can use the many functions of the device.

Main Modes

Cooling - the device turns on when the temperature rises above the set parameters. Operates in the range +1-30˚С with an accuracy of 1˚. In inverter installations - up to 0.5˚.

Heating - in this mode, double-circuit split systems with the declared function work. The air temperature is heated to the set one, evenly distributing air throughout the entire volume of the room. The function is convenient during the off-season, when the central heating is turned off, in damp summer weather.

Ventilation - in this mode, the compressor and the fan of the remote unit are turned off. Evenly distributes air, does not allow heat to concentrate near the ceiling in winter.

Drying - operation mode without increasing or decreasing the temperature. Turns on in buildings with high humidity to avoid the appearance of mold, musty air.

Filtration - a coarse filter retains objects visible to the naked eye. It is cleaned every 14 days with a vacuum cleaner. Fine filters - clean the air from smoke, dust, viruses and bacteria. Such filters are not subject to cleaning, they should be replaced every 2-3 months.

Additional functions

Humidification - a decrease in the humidity level below 50% negatively affects the condition of the human skin, dry eyes and a sore throat occur. Productivity of devices — 400-600 ml/hour.

Achievement of the specified humidity parameters is achieved:

• Installation of a steam generator;
• Ultrasonic humidification, the water supply is replenished due to condensate flowing into the drainage system;
• A dampening element built into the outdoor unit collects condensate from the salt cassette.

Additional cleaning. In split systems, one or more fine filters are installed that trap particles smaller than 2 microns.

Filter types:

1. Carbon (coal) - made from coconut. Eliminates smoke, unpleasant odors, dust.
2. Photocatalytic - consists of an ultraviolet lamp and a base coated with titanium oxide with catalytic properties. Breaks down organic matter into carbon oxides and water.
3. Plasma - ionizer, creating a voltage of 4800 V. Decomposes odors, microorganisms, small particles deposited on the filter surface.
4. Antibacterial - contains substances of natural origin: kakhetin, wassabs.
5. Enzymatic - contains bio-active substances that destroy pathogens.
6. Silver ion filter - destroys the shells of bacteria, destroying them. The Nanosilver element generates ions.
7. Electrostatic - creates an electro-magnetic field that causes the charged particles to settle on the surface of the filter.

Air mixing - partial air replacement accompanies the work. A flexible duct, available in a number of split systems, provides an influx of fresh air, reducing the amount of carbon dioxide.

Inverters - the principle of operation of the air conditioner: do not turn off when the desired parameters are reached, smoothly switch to a lower power mode. This avoids temperature fluctuations and reduces power consumption.

Work at reduced t - models in the winter version (with heating of drainage and a remote unit) are able to heat in frost t -20-25˚С. Work productivity is low.

Air ionization. The lack of negatively charged air ions adversely affects health. There is a decrease in working capacity, lethargy, fatigue. It is very convenient when the device is built into the climate control unit.

Requirements for the installation of air conditioners (split system)

Most used air conditioners have a split system. This is the design of the air conditioner, consisting of two parts: external and internal. They are connected to each other by copper pipes and an electric cable.

The outer block consists of the following elements:

• fan base. It circulates the air passing through the air heat exchanger;
• capacitor. In it, freon condenses and cools;
• compressor. It compresses freon and pumps it into the refrigeration circuit;
• automation.

The indoor unit consists of:

• filter systems (coarse and fine cleaning);
• fan. It circulates cool air in the room;
• air heat exchanger cooling air;
• blinds. They control the direction of the airflow.

In order for the installed air conditioner to justify the hopes placed, to serve for a long time and not cause questions from the relevant authorities and neighbors, you need to adhere to three main points:

1. Choose a quality air conditioner model. It should be powerful for the room, as quiet and compact as possible.
2. Correctly install the air conditioner, choose the ideal place and check the quality of the fastening.
3. Operate the structure in full compliance with the rules, regularly perform preventive measures and monitor it.

Basic requirements for installing an air conditioner with a split system:

• installation of the outdoor unit is carried out on a solid basis;
• fastening of brackets to the wall is carried out by reliable mechanisms;
• maintain a distance of at least 10 cm from the heat exchanger of the outdoor unit to the wall;
• distance not less than 10 cm from the right modular block;
• distance not less than 40 cm from the left modular block;
• there must be no obstacles within 70 cm in front of the block;
• free access to service ports is provided;
• interior items should not interfere with the free exit of air;
• the unit inside is installed further from sources of moisture and heat;
• the indoor unit is not installed in front of the front door or okra, which is always open;
• direct air flows should not be directed at people or at a place where they are often;
• it is required to ensure high-quality removal of moisture through a drainage hose;
• the distance between the unit and the ceiling is 15 cm minimum;
• the mounting plate is fixed to the wall perfectly in level with screws.

Let us consider in more detail the rules for installing an air conditioner, delving into the features of a split system.

Split system device

In order for the process of functioning of such an air conditioner to be carried out efficiently, a number of elements are used. The outdoor unit usually includes:

• fan;
• compressor;
• capacitor;
• freon filter;
• control board;
• protective cover;
• fittings for copper pipes, etc.

The fan provides constant air circulation around the unit to ensure fast and stable cooling of the freon. This process takes place in a condenser.With the help of a compressor, freon is compressed, which ensures its transition to a gas state and circulation through the refrigeration circuit.

The outdoor unit of the split system is installed on special brackets. During installation, care must be taken to properly drain the accumulated condensate

The filter cleans freon from contaminants that have entered the system, which can occur during installation. In addition to the mentioned elements, a four-way valve can also be installed in the outdoor unit, which is necessary if the model provides not only cooling, but also room heating in winter.

Outdoor unit device: 1 - fan; 2 - heat exchanger; 3 - compressor; 4 - control board; 5 - protective device; 6 - body

In inverter models, the control unit is located almost entirely in the outer part of the device. But if there is no inverter, the electronics are usually placed in the indoor unit. This part usually consists of:

• protective grid;
• filter systems;
• fan
• evaporator;
• blinds;
• indicator panel;
• control unit;
• fittings, connectors, etc.

The protective grill is usually located on the front panel. It is easy to remove or open to gain access for maintenance of the internal elements of the air conditioner. Through the holes of this grille, air enters the device for further cooling. The coarse filter is just a plastic mesh that traps large debris so that it does not enter the unit body.

The indoor unit of the split system is a compact device that will decorate any interior. It is placed against the outer wall to shorten the distance to the outdoor unit

Fine filters are a slightly more complex system for retaining small fractions of contaminants: dust particles, unwanted odors, dangerous bacteria, etc. Typically, the device is equipped with a carbon and electrostatic filter, but can be equipped with an antibacterial cartridge or other useful filters.

The device of the indoor unit: 1 - protective grille; 2,3 - filters; 4 - fan; 5 - evaporator; 6.8 - blinds, 7 - control panel

The fan, as mentioned earlier, forces cooled air through the evaporator. The movable shutters are equipped with an electric drive to control the direction of the cooled air flows. The panel with indicators displays the status of the device, for example, the set air temperature, operating mode, etc.

This is a general description of the split system device. The design of such air conditioners may vary depending on additional functions: the presence of an inverter, heating, etc. For a room or apartment, an ordinary air conditioner is enough. The device is selected depending on the power, which should correspond to the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room.