The difference between an inverter air conditioner and an ordinary one: their advantages and disadvantages + which one is better to choose

Advantages of inverter air conditioners

Of course, the most important advantage of the inverter split system is its ease of use.In fact, the air conditioner can be turned on once and enjoy comfortable temperature conditions. Such devices operate almost silently, unlike standard models, the operation of which resembles the sound of an old refrigerator. In addition, the principle of operation of inverter air conditioners is based on economical energy consumption, that is, having reached a predetermined temperature regime, the device switches to another mode of operation: it maintains the specified temperature, but spending much less electricity.

In addition to all of the above, it is worth noting another feature of such models designed for air conditioning. Working in silent mode, they are an excellent option for bedrooms and children's rooms, as well as other rooms in which excessive noise is unacceptable. Besides, wall split system inverter type can be installed in kindergartens, hospitals and other institutions of this type. Everyone knows that standard air conditioning systems often provoke a draft, which entails the corresponding consequences.

The temperature range of inverter air conditioners differs by 2-3 degrees from the similar one, only in conventional devices. And this means that it is impossible to catch a cold in such rooms.

The best manufacturers of inverter air conditioners

The most popular are the products of the following manufacturers:

• Daikin operate using safe freon and function even in winter. There are two lines of models FTX and FTXN. Both are valued for efficiency, ergonomics, impressive service life. There are units for floor and wall mounting.The noise level of the device at maximum performance does not exceed 19 dB.
• Models of the Lg brand work with a minimum load on the power grid. They are very durable and can run at low speeds. However, this technique is sensitive to power surges. The disadvantage is the high cost of equipment and components.
• Affordable and high-quality Panasonic air conditioners, which are equipped with a pulse-type unit, therefore easily tolerate voltage surges. Models work on cooling and heating.
• BEKO products are valued for their simple operation and high power. The units have a built-in air mass ionizer, as well as a dehumidifier.
• Versatile and high-quality Electrolux equipment is suitable for domestic and office use. The device is easy to manage. It also has anti-icing protection in the cold season.
• Toshiba inverter air conditioners are designed to cool rooms with a minimum area of ​​30 m². To protect against voltage surges, a pulse block is installed in the device. Energy efficiency is 80%.

No less popular are the products of the COOPER&HUNTER brand. This climatic equipment is equipped with a power converter. Its advantage is the ease of adjusting the speed of work.

The principle of operation of inverter air conditioners

In general, the principle of operation of inverter air conditioners is no different from conventional ones. The difference lies in the way the compressor power is controlled. If for a conventional air conditioner it is either turned on to full or completely turned off, then in inverter models, the electronic circuit installed in the outdoor unit smoothly regulates the intensity of its operation.

Interesting! The prefix to the name "inverter" appeared due to the fact that a special electronic compressor motor control unit is used - an inverter. An inverter is an electronic converter or power source for any device. So this term is used in any kind of technology. However, it has taken root most in the cases of inverter refrigerators and inverter air conditioners, because in them the main working body is an electric motor that is controlled by it.
The difference between the operation of conventional and inventory air conditioners

When you start the air conditioner, its compressor smoothly reaches the desired power. When the temperature set by the user is reached, the compressor does not stop, its control system reduces power.

Therefore, during the operation of inverter air conditioners, regular starting currents do not occur, the load on the network decreases, the compressor service life increases, and electricity is saved.

A distinctive feature is that the temperature is maintained more accurately, its deviations are within 0.5 degrees. The airflow is uniform in temperature, unlike a conventional air conditioner that blows icy air while the compressor is running. Hence the lower risk of catching a cold.

Advantages and disadvantages

Let's summarize the above and list the main advantages and disadvantages of inverter air conditioners.

Advantages:

1. Quieter running;
2. Saves up to 30% of electricity;
3. The air flow is uniform in temperature;
4. Does not load the wiring with direct inrush currents.

Flaws:

1. High price. 30 to 100% more expensive than a conventional air conditioner with similar features and power;
2. The inverter fails before the compressor.Its repair is difficult, there may simply not be a master in a small town. This is an even greater cost for transporting the device to the master for an already expensive repair;
3. Often manufacturers make repairs impossible due to the use of rare items, buying a new inverter board can be comparable to the price of a new non-inverter air conditioner.

How compresses work in an inverter air conditioner

Let's start with the fact that the principle of air conditioning in inverter air conditioners is exactly the same as in conventional ones. Therefore, there is no point in arguing here. The two units differ in the principle of operation of the compressor. Therefore, the first question that needs to be answered is what is an inverter in an air conditioner. Because this device is not in conventional split systems. The name comes from it.

Inverter in outdoor unit

On our website you can find contacts of construction companies that specialize in the design and installation of ventilation and air conditioning systems. You can directly communicate with representatives by visiting the exhibition of houses "Low-Rise Country".

So, what functions does the inverter perform in split systems? He has one task - to change the voltage supplied to the compressor. What happens in this case with the latter:

• as soon as the temperature sensor has transmitted a signal that the temperature in the room has reached the set value, the inverter starts to lower the voltage;
• at the same time, the compressor does not stop working, but the speed of the electric motor decreases, respectively, the speed of the compressor decreases, it starts to work more slowly, which leads to a drop in the pressure of the refrigerant inside the system;
• a decrease in freon pressure leads to a decrease in the speed of its movement, and this entails a decrease in the processes of heat transfer in the condenser and cold in the evaporator, that is, the air conditioning process fades;
• as soon as the room temperature begins to rise and passes the set value, the temperature sensor sends a signal to the inverter, which raises the voltage for the compressor motor;
• the latter begins to gain momentum, bringing them to the required ones, at which the air conditioner starts to operate normally.

Inverter air conditioner runs smoothly

That is, we get the following that the compressor does not stop its operation, which means that its parts are always in oil, extending its service life. This is the first. Secondly, there are no power surges at the starting torque, which increase the value of the consumed voltage. And this in some situations is a serious savings in electric current consumption, which can reach up to 30%. This is why inverter air conditioners are considered to be in the category of economical household appliances.

The advantages include low noise values, and the absence of loads on the electrical networks in houses, and more accurate temperature control up to 1 °. Experts also note that inverter split systems cool rooms faster, they have almost twice the service life of conventional units, and they can operate at -25C outside. Usually devices operate at -10C, not lower.

Benefits of an inverter air conditioner

And a few words about the disadvantages of inverter air conditioners:

• they cost 40% more than conventional counterparts;
• more complex electronics system;
• react worse to power surges, although today many manufacturers have solved this problem with the help of a power surge protection unit;
• difficult to repair, spare parts are expensive.

Pay attention to the first item in the list of disadvantages. It is the price that does not allow manufacturers to completely switch to the production of inverter air conditioners.

Therefore, when inverter and conventional split systems are compared - which is better, not all of their preferences are given to the first. Especially consumers in the southern regions, where the compressor is rarely turned off and on due to the difficulty of achieving the required indoor temperature. This is again due to the high air temperature in summer.

That is, it turns out that everything depends on money. If finances allow, then the best option is an inverter air conditioner. If there are problems with money, then the usual one will do. After all, the main task in the summer is to cool the premises and create comfortable living or working conditions. Both options will serve faithfully for many years. The main thing is to ensure a competent installation.

Video description

The video talks about how an inverter air conditioner differs from a conventional one:

Briefly about the main

So, we figured out the question of what an inverter air conditioner is, and how it differs from a conventional one. Many believe that the inverter version is a new generation device. And they are mistaken in this, because the very principle of conditioning is not changed here. The issue of increasing the operational resource of both the unit itself and the supply network of electricity has simply been resolved. Other than that, it's the same conditioner.

Tips for buying any of these devices

To choose the right split system with inverter control, you need to listen to the following recommendations.

1. If the budget is limited, it is better not to buy the cheapest inverter model available. Let it be a regular split, but from a well-known manufacturer and having a good reputation.
2. It is better to choose a model with more power capabilities, especially if you plan to install it in the bedroom or children's room. Such a device will work without noise and draft.
3. Installation of the system should be entrusted only to professionals. According to service centers, 80% of all breakdowns are caused by illiterate installation.
4. It is best to install in the spring, and not in the "hot season", when there are a lot of offers from incompetent specialists.

Inverter operation characteristic

Features of operation allow you to understand how a conventional air conditioner differs from an inverter one. The performance characteristics of the latter favorably distinguish the equipment from the classic version.

Inverter technology can operate 24 hours a day. At the same time, energy consumption, according to the comments of the manufacturers, will be less than that of a conventional air conditioner. The noise level is kept to a minimum. There are no drafts. Therefore, this type of device is more comfortable to use. There is also no significant load on the power grid.

But inverter air coolers also have several disadvantages. Their cost is much higher than that of conventional air conditioners (by 30-40%). Also, such a system is more susceptible to the negative effects of voltage drops. Therefore, when purchasing an inverter, you should immediately buy a stabilizer.

Disadvantages of inverter air conditioning installation

Another fact that distinguishes an inverter air conditioner from a classic one is the cost. The latest installations are much more expensive than standard ones for a number of reasons described above. The payback of this type of air conditioner takes a longer amount of time, but due to better wear resistance, it turns out to be more profitable.

In addition, this type of temperature control system weighs more than its predecessor due to the large volume of the radiator element.

Summing up and comparing all the minuses and pluses, under the current constantly changing weather conditions, it should be noted the rationality of choosing inverter air conditioners.

Types of household air conditioners

There are three segments of this type of technology. These include household, semi-industrial and industrial systems, but it makes sense to consider only the first of them. Three types of units can be used for cooling or heating in an apartment or house:

• window;
• floor (mobile);
• wall split systems.

Before proceeding to compare competitors, it is necessary to say a “few words” about all models.

Window devices

The first, monoblocks, are not so readily used in residential premises. The reasons are strong noise, a significant reduction in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe window. Another disadvantage of the window design is the penetration of cold air into the room in winter.

Mobile devices

Floor devices - mobile air conditioners. They do not require special installation, connection of two parts of the system with a trunk. They simply don't exist. Both compact units are located in one housing, and a flexible hose is designed to remove hot air, which is taken out into the street.

Wall split systems

These models - split systems (from the English "separate") - consist of 2 blocks (or more).An external module is always present in one instance. It is mounted on the outer walls of buildings. Due to the fact that it is in it that the main “troublemaker” (noisy compressor) is located, the internal part is distinguished by almost inaudible operation, small, compact dimensions.

A typical wall-mounted air conditioner has only two units: 1 outdoor and 1 indoor. An exception is the multi-split system. In such models of indoor units there can be from 2 to 16 (!) Pieces. All elements (or part) may differ in the type of construction, so they can be installed anywhere: on the wall, in the ventilation system, under the ceiling or in a suspended structure.

Which air conditioner is better: floor or wall? It is clear that inconvenient window monoblocks do not make sense to consider as a contender for the title of the optimal device. This is obviously a losing option in most cases. Therefore, only two participants remained in the competition - floor and wall appliances. To answer the question in detail, you need to get acquainted with all the characteristics, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of both candidates.

Principle of operation

The basis of any air conditioner is the compressor, since it has to be responsible for moving the refrigerant through the main pipes and appliances. To understand what has changed with the advent of inverter air conditioners, you need to compare the principle of operation of the compressor of each of these systems.

Operation of a standard split system

When the air conditioner is on without an inverter, the indoor module sensor monitors the temperature in the room. As soon as it reaches the parameters you set, the relay is activated and gives the command to turn on the compressor.

The installation, in turn, begins to work at full capacity, quickly bringing coolness. When certain indicators on the thermometer are reached, it turns off.

When the temperature rises to the desired mark on the thermometer, the sensor is triggered again, gives a command to the relay, which turns on the compressor motor and the cycle repeats again.

inverter air conditioner

Operation of the inverter air conditioner

How does an inverter air conditioner work? When the split system is turned on, the sensor of the indoor unit also monitors the temperature in the room and “compares” it with the set values. When the set temperature is reached, the temperature sensor is triggered, transmits a command to the relay and to the compressor motor.

The unit also starts to work with 100% load, quickly cools the air in the room, but then completely does not turn off. A climate device with an inverter does not need to re-cool the entire volume of air in the room each time, it only blows out a certain amount to create the desired temperature.

Of course, this ability of the climate device is an advantage, since the cost of electricity is reduced, drafts disappear, and the noise level is reduced by a multiple. The undoubted advantage of inverter air conditioners is that the compressor continues to work constantly in a given temperature range at 10–95% of its performance.

The principles of operation of the inverter air conditioner

The principle of operation of the inverter air conditioner is its constant, round-the-clock operation at low speeds.As soon as the room temperature gets lower or higher than that set by the user, it automatically increases the power. It switches to low speed only when the temperature in the room has reached a certain value.

The air conditioner takes air from the room where the control panel is located, drives it through the refrigerant grate, ionizes it, cleans it of dust and small particles and sends it back to the room. Rapid cooling is achieved by the compressor, which is a powerful pump.

Rules for choosing and buying an air conditioner

When choosing a suitable inverter type air conditioner, the following points are taken into account:

1. You should not save and buy the cheapest model of the unit with an inverter. It is better to buy an ordinary split system from a reliable manufacturer for the same money.
2. Choose the power of climate equipment depending on the volume of the room. Then it will not work in vain or consume a lot of electricity.
3. It is useful to take a small margin of air conditioner power. This is especially true of the southern hot regions of our country.
4. Installation should only be carried out by qualified personnel. Otherwise, all manufacturer's warranties will be void.
5. If you plan to use it for space heating during the cold season, consider the operating temperature range. Some models are able to work for heating only if it is not colder than -15 ° C outside.

The principle of operation of air conditioners of various types

Often, any difference between an inverter air conditioner and a non-inverter air conditioner depends on the principles by which the installation adjusts the air temperature.

The operation of the inverter is to reach the set temperature limit by running the compressor at full power and then lowering the fan speed to the minimum allowable. The system monitors temperature changes and instantly reacts to this by speeding up the compressor. With such a scheme, power surges do not occur, and temperature conditions do not change dramatically, which, by the way, allows people in the room to avoid catching a cold against this background.

A simple air conditioner, as mentioned above, works with all its might, and after reaching the appropriate thermometer value, it turns off. The cyclical process of adjusting the temperature of a simple air conditioner has its own characteristics. First of all, finding the temperature at the desired level is extremely inconsistent. Due to the termination of the split, the indicators begin to change, and the newly turned on system is forced to catch up with them again and again. Secondly, during the operation of the air conditioner, power surges occur, which adversely affects both the operation of the unit itself and the operation of the entire power supply system.

It is worth noting that the inverter installation converts temperature conditions from the very start, while a conventional split system takes time to bring and pump 50% of the air.

A little about the principles of conditioning

A refrigerant circulates inside a hermetically sealed circuit (freon is a substance with a very low boiling point). The function of any air conditioner is to exchange heat between the room and the street.

The sequence of freon movement through the main nodes in the cooling mode:

1. Compressor - designed to increase freon pressure and pump through the system;
2. The condenser (radiator of the outdoor unit) is located outdoors and serves to release heat;
3. The evaporator (radiator of the indoor unit) is located in the room and serves to release cold.

In a closed air conditioning system, this cycle is repeated continuously. When the air conditioner is operating “for heating”, the cycle occurs in the reverse order (Compressor - Radiator of the indoor unit - Radiator of the outdoor unit).

Advantages and disadvantages

Inverter air conditioners do not have restrictions in operation, unlike traditional ones, which should work no more than 8 hours a day. They save electricity by 30%, since they work uninterruptedly. As you know, most of the energy is spent at start-up, and since the inverter system does not need to start several times a day, this is due to the savings. Other benefits worth noting include:

• comfort: the desired temperature is quickly reached and precisely maintained;
• reliability: devices rarely fail, have a long service life;
• reduced noise level;
• work at low temperatures (up to -15˚С);
• self-diagnosis function;
• automatic restart.

Inverter-type air conditioners are produced not only by Toshiba, but also by Mitsubishi, Daikin, Panasonic, etc. You can see more information about manufacturers, as well as prices for inverter air conditioners

Inverter systems also have their drawbacks. Firstly, such air conditioners are more expensive than conventional ones. Secondly, the electronics unit built into the device is sensitive to sudden voltage drops. Also worth noting is the heavy weight of the outdoor unit. For economic reasons, it is not profitable to use it in the country, where the owners do not visit often.Such a system is also not recommended for installation in the kitchen, since its operation will be disturbed by the heat emanating from the stove or steam from the kettle.

Power and space

To determine the performance of an air conditioner, you can use complex formulas that take into account the number of windows, the number of people in the room, the sunny or shady side of the room.

But it is much easier to navigate by the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room.

All household air conditioners by power can be divided into 4 types:

low-power up to 2.5 kW

average power up to 3.5 kW

high power up to 4.5kw

maximum power over 4.5 kW

There is no point in overpaying for the device to work at half strength. In small rooms - nurseries, bedrooms, kitchens up to 20m2, low-power models up to 2.5 kW are suitable.

Here the calculation is very simple. For every 10 m2 with a ceiling height of up to 3 meters, at least 1 kW of cooling capacity is required. If you have a sunny side, then 1.5 kW.
Start from these data, substituting your quadrature.

Most often, when mentioning performance, sellers simply say 7-ka, 9-ka, 12-shka. What does it mean?

This refers to British thermal units BTU. For them, the formula 1BTU \u003d 0.3W applies.

The design and principle of operation of the air conditioner

Inverter air conditioners consist of an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The first one contains: a fan, an evaporator, a filter with a tray in which condensate accumulates, as well as details of the blinds. It is installed indoors. In the outdoor unit, which is mounted on the street, there are: a compressor, a freon filter, a fan and a condenser.

The principle of operation is the circulation of freon from the evaporator to the condenser and vice versa.The system takes a large amount of heat energy from the room, which is necessary to convert freon into steam. This process takes place in the indoor unit. Further, with the help of a compressor, gaseous freon is pumped into the external unit, where it acquires its original form.

The name “inverter” air conditioner was given because of the inverter power supply circuit of the compressor: alternating current is converted to direct current, then direct current is reduced to the required voltage and current parameters, after which it is again converted to alternating current. Thus, the compressor works continuously, while modulating its power. Conventional air conditioners cool the room to the desired temperature and turn off. If after 15-20 minutes the temperature in the room rises by a couple of degrees, they turn on again. Such jumps have a negative effect on the compressor. In inverter systems, the heater does not turn off and works non-stop. When the room temperature reaches a predetermined level, the compressor reduces the capacity, and as the temperature rises, it increases. Thus, these devices can work at temperature fluctuations of 1-1.5˚С, while the usual ones are about 5˚С.

Differences between inverter air conditioners and standard models

Conventional air conditioning units cool the air temperature in the room until it reaches the set parameters. Then they spontaneously turn off and, after a few minutes, start working again. Thus, their work is based on the cyclical nature of repetitive on and off processes.

Split system inverter type works a little differently.The device operates in a dynamic mode until the set temperature is set in the room, after which the air conditioner switches to a lower power mode. That is: the device continues to work, but with a minimum amount of energy consumed.

Moreover, in some models, such a system allows you to program the device for a specific turn-on time, allowing you to create a comfortable temperature by the required moment.

Which air conditioner to choose inverter or conventional

Having figured out what an inverter air conditioner means, having considered its principle of operation and finding out what manufacturers advertise in modern devices and what is true, we summarize all of the above and decide when it is appropriate to install new products.

Comparison table for the main parameters

inverter	Normal (linear)
Principle of operation
Works all the time, does not turn off, but reduces power	Works cyclically. Turns off when the desired temperature is reached and turns on when it rises by 3 degrees
Reliability
Microcircuits are sensitive to voltage drops, but this is not especially true for large cities, and you can always install a stabilizer.	There are no complex, highly sensitive circuits that burn out easily from power surges.
maintainability
Complex microcircuits, which most often fail, are quite difficult to find in workshops and their cost is significant.	A simple scheme, repairs can be made even by a refrigerator master.
Economy
There are indeed savings, but for the Russian region it is doubtful. When carrying out simple calculations, it can be seen that the device may pay off in 10 years.	Consumes up to 30% more electricity.
Noise level
The noise level is reduced, but it should be borne in mind that the device works constantly, without shutdown phases.	The device makes more noise, but in split systems this does not really matter. the noisiest unit is placed outside.

It makes sense to buy inverter split systems if you are not going to change housing in the near future - you plan to use it for a long time. Models are also suitable for users who plan to actively use the heating mode. novelties in this respect favorably differ from the usual ones.

If you do not have special requirements for heating and smooth operation, take a closer look at conventional split systems - by paying less you will not feel the difference and possibly save yourself from unnecessary expenses for repairs.

Table of recommendations for the placement of types of air conditioners depending on the purpose of the premises:

Recommended Type	Explanations
Children's
inverter	Smooth temperatures, less risk of catching a cold, quieter operation
Bedroom
inverter	Quieter operation, smoother temperatures
Kitchen
Ordinary	The described advantages of inverter models come to naught due to ambient noise from other appliances and heating.
Living room
Ordinary	The noise of the TV or conversations will block the sounds of any air conditioner, and due to regular walking to other rooms, the smoothness of the temperature regime is imperceptible
Office
Ordinary	Noise in the hum of the office is inaudible, and besides, the device will not have time to pay off. few organizations sit in one place for 10-15 years
Supermarket
Ordinary	Noise and smooth operation are not important, the main thing is performance and maintainability
Server
Ordinary	In the event of a failure, linear devices are much easier and faster to repair, which is the main thing in the operation of server

The table shows that the advantages of inverters come to naught in places with a constantly changing number of people or with uneven appearance of heat sources (gas stove, household appliances, etc.).

Inverter models are more sophisticated and technologically advanced devices that can create comfortable operating conditions, but when the budget is limited, linear models will be an acceptable substitute.

Choosing an inverter air conditioner

Although inverter models of air conditioners are significantly more expensive, as we have already seen, they have many advantages over conventional air conditioners. In what cases is an inverter air conditioner preferable? Of course, they should be chosen when the most stringent requirements are imposed on climate equipment in terms of comfort and noise level. Only an inverter air conditioner operating in constant mode is able to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. Such an air conditioner is best installed in a bedroom, children's room or in any other room where comfort and uniform distribution of cooled air throughout the room are of paramount importance. An additional argument in favor of the inverter air conditioner is its low noise, it will not interfere with sleep with its annoying buzzing.

It is advantageous to install an air conditioner with an inverter when you plan to live indoors for a long time. Since, even for the initial investment, such an air conditioner looks like the most expensive one, but thanks to its long service life and low power consumption, its purchase will pay off with interest. An inverter air conditioner is also preferable if you are going to use it to heat the room in the winter.The air conditioner without inverter turns off intermittently, so there is a risk of freezing of the fan of the outdoor unit.

For office, utility or industrial premises where there are no such increased requirements for comfort, it is quite possible to choose a cheaper air conditioner without an inverter. In addition, it is better not to buy an inverter air conditioner if the voltage stability in the electrical networks of your home leaves much to be desired.

Which cooler is better to choose

Regarding the choice of a split system, we will give a few recommendations:

1. The inverter is appropriate in living rooms where no more than three people stay at the same time - a nursery, a bedroom, a living room.
2. For a kitchen, large hall or office, it is better to take a traditional air conditioner.
3. If the budget is limited, it is worth buying a classic model from a reliable manufacturer. A cheap inverter from the Middle Kingdom will cause a lot of problems, ranging from noise to repairs.
4. Do not hope that the inverter version of the "split" will replace the full-fledged heating of the room in winter.

When choosing an air conditioner, remember a simple rule: the higher the cost of the product, the more expensive its repair and spare parts. Instead of a conclusion, we suggest watching a thematic video: