External air conditioner unit: size, installation, care. Features of internal units of split systems, their sizes and fastenings Air conditioner size

The power consumption of split systems is determined by two factors: cooling/heating time and compressor speed. In the case of an inverter, the compressor operates at one speed, the speed of the compressor remains unchanged throughout the entire operation until the device is turned off. Power consumption is determined by the operating time of the device in hours, multiplied by its power.

The power consumption of inverter split systems can be monitored in real time by matching the temperature of the thermostat and the reduction in compressor speed, thereby reducing energy consumption immediately.

Residential air conditioners are equipped with an EER rating. EER stands for Energy Efficiency RATIO. EER is the ratio of cooling capacity to power consumption. So a 24,000 BTU split with EER 10 consumes 2,400 watts (24,000/2,400). Air conditioners with EER 10 and higher are very common on the market, so Kuban Comfort does not recommend purchasing units with EER less than 10.

Due to the exceptionally high power consumption of air conditioners, they tend to be made with an EER rating above 11. Such models are easy to find.

Impact of block size on consumption. Air conditioning and power.

In some cases, very large blocks have a slightly lower EER (meaning they use more energy) than other blocks on average. However, smaller air conditioners may end up costing you more in the long run. Small split systems or air conditioners for cooling a room work longer, and sometimes without stopping. In order to avoid permanent job small units, people often buy larger units (9000 BTU for 20 square meters rooms, for example). It is worth considering the shady and sunny sides of the building if the room is on sunny side, then it’s worth taking a more powerful split, a shady one - the appropriate one will do (7000 BTU for a 20 square meter room, for example).

Air conditioner power consumption and unit size (ERR calculated relative to BTU, not kW).

Split systems and air conditioners 5000 BTU (5)

5000 BTU (Five) air conditioners are not the smallest on the market, but they are rare and Kuban Comfort does not recommend them. 5000 BTU air conditioners or splits are recommended for rooms less than 20 square meters (ideally less than 15 square meters). Most often, “fives” do not have a heating function, but only cooling, keep this in mind.
For a room up to 24 square meters, a 7000-8000 BTU split (Seven, Eight) is suitable.
The power consumption of a 5000 BTU air conditioner is on average from 446 to 580 W (statistics are higher for windows, since splits of such power are rare).

Split systems and air conditioners 7000 BTU (7)

7000 BTU split systems (Seven), the most popular in Russia, are most often designed for rooms of 20-25 square meters, if taken over a larger area, more is expected high consumption electricity and approximately 15-25% reduced service life (for example, for 25-35 square meters).
The power consumption of 7000 BTU air conditioners (splits) ranges from 600-800 watts. Also read below about the difference between a cheap and more expensive air conditioner.

Split systems and air conditioners 9000 BTU (9)

The power consumption of 9000 BTU air conditioners ranges from 800-900 watts (if a 9000 BTU unit draws more than 900 watts, it is inefficient and you are better off finding another model). Nine splits are recommended for rooms with an area of ​​26-35 square meters (this average value also applies to the window and split system).
If you are interested in purchasing a 9000 BTU unit for 35-40 square feet, you may want to look at 12000 BTU splits as they will cool your room faster and better. They will use less energy than smaller units because they will not run constantly than smaller ones (in in this case, Kuban Comfort means inverter).
You can find the highest EER air conditioner, call us and we will tell you which is the most efficient.

Split systems and air conditioners 12000 BTU (12)

12,000 BTU split systems consume between 1061 (EER: 11.3) and 1333 watts (EER: 9, which is a bit low by today's standards). EER 11.3 is average for modern 12,000 BTU splits, translating to a wattage of 1,061 watts. Don't buy anything less than 11.3 (in other words, don't buy anything over 1061 watts). Splits with EER 11.3 are so frequent that you won't have any problems finding them. Your wallet will thank you later.
12,000 BTU is recommended for rooms ranging from 35 to 50 square meters.

Split systems and air conditioners 18000 BTU (18)

Split systems and air conditioners 24000 BTU (24)

24,000 BTU splits are slightly less efficient than their smaller counterparts, with an EER range of 8.5 to 9.6 for modern units. They typically consume between 2500 and 2823 watts. Despite their comparatively low efficiency, these units are among the most widely used because they cool rooms very quickly. For this reason, they are still a good option.

In Russia, the power consumption of a 24,000 BTU residential air conditioner averages 228 kWh per month, and these units are recommended for rooms ranging from 72 to 120 square meters, but this is not a requirement. These devices can be used in small spaces.

Reduction of electricity during air conditioning. Use, cooling on a budget.

After viewing the power consumption data above, you may be concerned about the high energy use of air conditioners, but don't worry, Kuban Comfort will tell you how to save.

Service

Air conditioners must move air through many tiny honeycombs in order to operate efficiently. Make sure the filters are clean, as are the condenser and evaporator honeycombs. If any of the listed attributes are dirty, the cooling will be poor.

A clogged condenser with insufficient airflow can cause overheating, reducing its ability to dissipate heat to the outside (lower efficiency) and also damage the compressor. A dirty evaporator can freeze, significantly reducing efficiency and rendering. The same applies to filters. It hasn't been cleaned for a long time, call a professional to clean it.

Use white curtains

White curtains can reflect a significant amount of hot sunlight back out. sunlight turns into heat after he enters your room.

The difference between cheap and more expensive split systems

What is the difference and is it worth paying extra? Cheap splits are cheaper due to the use of more thin metal in pipes and radiators, due to cheaper electronics, plastic and due to a cheaper compressor. Now, in order: the electronics in this case have the smallest discrepancy with expensive models and amount to approximately 2-3 years of difference in the operation of this unit; for expensive splits, the electronics work longer. Next we have a compressor, today even cheap compressors are made with high quality and the difference in terms is the same as with electronics. Cheap plastic turns yellow, expensive plastic does not. But using thin metal will lead to more frequent leaks and require more frequent maintenance. Kuban Comfort recommends buying more expensive and well-known brands that you will enjoy.

Updated 09/23/2017

Typically, the width of the indoor unit of an air conditioner is more than one meter. This is the standard. However, if the block is less than a meter wide, about 70 centimeters, then it can already be called small. There are also models with a width of about 50 centimeters, but they are completely unpopular, so we cannot say whether they are good or not. We have compiled a rating of the best and smallest air conditioners, which customers respond positively to.

The smallest split systems

1st place – Ballu BSWI-09HN1 ($396)

However, what is primarily worthy of attention is its dimensions – 70×28.5×18.8 cm. Therefore, it will fit perfectly into small room. As for the functionality, everything is in order here: there is an anion generator, an anti-ice system, an inverter! Definitely one of the best compact split systems.

2nd place – Ballu BSWI-12HN1 ($440)

For approximately $440 you can buy a Ballu BSWI-12HN1 air conditioner – wall split system with an inverter compressor. The productivity of the device is 7.5 m3/min, the cooling power is 3.3 kW and the energy consumption is 1 kW. This is a more powerful system compared to the previous model, which is also reliable and of high quality.

Despite the higher performance, the dimensions remain the same - 70x28.5x18.8 cm. With a width of only 70 cm, this model logically fits into our rating. And it takes second place partly due to the fact that buyers speak of it as an effective and reliable air conditioner. Of course, the device is worthy of attention.

3rd place – SUPRA US410-07HA ($267)

Excellent quality split system. The performance of this air conditioner is 6.33 m3/min with an energy consumption of 850 W.

Indoor unit has the following dimensions: 68x25x18 cm, and its width is 2 cm less than the width of the previous air conditioners in the rating. At the same time, there are many positive reviews about it, in which many buyers primarily note its compactness. The model also copes well with its intended purpose – air cooling – so we can recommend it.

4th place – Pioneer KFR20IW ($250)

For just $250 you can buy a compact and very good air conditioner from the manufacturer Pioneer. The model’s productivity is 8 m3/min, while the energy consumption is 685 W.

The dimensions of the indoor unit are as follows: 68×26.5×19 cm. Also noteworthy is the presence of a deodorizing filter and an anion generator. Of course, this is not the main criterion, but a very solid advantage.

Overall, this is a great budget air conditioner: it's quiet, has good performance, filters, and is small in size.

5th place – Zanussi ZACS-07 HPR ($292)

Wall-mounted split system, designed for use in a room of 20 square meters. Its productivity is 7 m3/min, cooling power is 2100 W, energy consumption is 650 W.

There is a fine filter, a deodorizing filter, as well as an anion generator, which makes the model good decision for allergy sufferers. Its dimensions allowed it to be included in the rating of compact air conditioners - 70x28.5x18.8 cm.

The air conditioner is modern and beautiful appearance, works very quietly and does not interfere with sleep at night. It is also reliable, which is confirmed by the 3-year warranty from the manufacturer.

Small mobile air conditioners

Usually mobile air conditioners are small a priori. However, there is also quite large models with a width of more than 60 cm. We have selected the best compact mobile air conditioners with a width of up to 50 cm. Only those models that have positive reviews from customers were included in the rating.

1st place – Electrolux EACM-10DR/N3 ($412)

Great mobile air conditioner, which will cost the buyer $412. This is a very productive mobile unit, designed for use in a room with an area of ​​24 square meters.

Its dimensions are as follows: 45×74.7×38.7 cm, and one of its main advantages is its small dimensions. It is worth noting that this is a rather serious model. There are two separate air circuits, thanks to which the cold performance is greatly increased. There are positive reviews about the model, so we put it in first place.

2nd place – Electrolux EACM-12EZ/N3 ($447)

Mobile unit with a capacity of 8.167 m3/min and a power of 3500 W in cooling mode. Compared to the previous model, this is a more compact air conditioner with dimensions of 43.6x74.5x39 cm.

This is a great model with good quality assembly, plastic and high performance. It is worth noting, however: some buyers complain about noise and the inability to regulate the air flow - these are its disadvantages. Perhaps the only ones.

3rd place – Electrolux EACM-12EW/TOP/N3_W ($342)

A mobile monoblock costs $342 and has the following dimensions: 43.6×79.7×39 cm. Its productivity is lower than the previous ones and is 4.83 m3/min. Perhaps that is why the cost of the model is lower. However, the air conditioner will provide a comfortable microclimate in a room up to 25 square meters.

High quality build and good materials, low noise during operation and complete equipment - these are its advantages. Perhaps this model cannot be called the most compact, but it still deserves attention as a small mobile air conditioner for the home.

4th place – Zanussi ZACM-09 MP/N1 ($370)

The manufacturer Zanussi is not lagging behind in terms of developing mobile air conditioners and offers us the Zanussi ZACM-09 MP/N1 model worth $370. The productivity of this model is small (5.4 m3/min), but it is quite enough to create coolness in a room of 25 square meters.

The dimensions are as follows: 35x70x32.8 cm. The air conditioner itself is receiving positive reviews, which is not surprising. This is a high-quality and reliable device from a Japanese manufacturer, which has proven itself well a long time ago.

5th place – Zanussi ZACM-07 MP/N1 ($335)

The only difference between this model and the previous one is performance. This mobile air conditioner produces an air flow of 4.9 m3/min and is intended for use in a room of 20 square meters. Otherwise, there are no differences. This is a compact and good mobile unit that will serve for many years.

The introduction of new technological solutions in household equipment often runs counter to practical expediency. The example of climate control technology is most illustrative in this sense. So, in Lately The market is actively filling up with devices intended for indoor use. The features of such systems include the complete elimination of dirty installation operations, which attracts a considerable audience of consumers. But despite all the ease of installation and further maintenance, such models are not able to approach the performance characteristics provided by the external air conditioner unit as part of a split system. Another thing is that owners of outdoor installations also have to deal with troublesome tasks, but of a different kind.

What is an external unit?

The outer segment, which is part of the split system complex, includes a condenser, valve decoupling, pipes, filter driers and a fan. Depending on the modification and design, the internal “filling” may change, but a traditional air conditioner kit with a remote unit has exactly this set of elements. By the way, the most noticeable differences are observed in the so-called winter systems, which provide for the presence of special controllers for controlling the fan. Modern air conditioners also use multifunctional power switching relays. Such devices are designed for non-standard operation of the compressor under conditions of elevated or low temperatures. Unlike the internal segment, the outdoor unit does not have electronic modules - its operation is completely subordinated to the mechanical function.

Block Dimensions

The outdoor unit is available in the market in different configurations and shapes. And although manufacturers strive to unify model lines in order to simplify segmentation, the choice of standard sizes is still quite wide. If we talk about average parameters, it is 770 mm wide, 450 mm high and 245 mm thick. In this case, the radius of the fan varies on average from 200 to 250 mm. Of course, there are also units whose dimensions deviate from these indicators. Thus, the Mitsubishi line includes an external air conditioner unit of almost square shape, which is 880 mm wide and 840 mm high. As for the parameters of the internal segment, they are not so impressive. Usually these are long narrow modules of medium size - 700 x 200 x 200 mm.

Selecting a location for installing the unit

Usually, when choosing the optimal point for installing air conditioners outside, users are faced with the problem of combining ease of use and protection of the module. For example, the location of the block at height is the best option from the point of view of its safety, but in this case, access to the air conditioner for maintenance purposes becomes more difficult. A good solution would be to place the module on the wall near a window opening or loggia. In this case, other nuances must be taken into account, including the absence of direct rays of the sun and permission for installation from neighbors, since a noisy unit can cause inconvenience to people living on the same level of the building.

In addition, it produces condensation, which will flow down in drops. Accordingly, you will have to negotiate with neighbors on the lower floors. If the installation location of the unit is successfully agreed upon with other residents, you can begin direct installation operations. By the way, another condition for installing an outdoor unit is the possibility of laying communications in the wall.

Installation of the external air conditioner unit

When installing air conditioners, special installation kits are used, which include pipes with flex, brackets with sets of fixing hardware, drainage communications, etc. The physical installation of the segment is carried out using load-bearing components, which are embedded in the walls using anchor elements. At the same stage, brackets are used, the power potential of which is oriented towards the mass of a particular module. Also, the installation of an external air conditioner unit provides for its communication connection with the internal segment. To do this, a hole is made in the wall required diameter, which will allow you to organize, in addition to the main wiring, also the installation of a vacuum pump and a pressure manifold. At the final stage, communications are directly connected between the two blocks.

Features of installing the indoor unit

When installing the evaporative unit, that is, the internal module of the air conditioning system, it is especially important to maintain the correct position of the unit. Typically this block is mounted directly under the ceiling surface with a slight indentation. Mechanical fixation is also carried out using suitable brackets. True, in this case the mass of the equipment is not so great, which simplifies the work process. After marking, the master installs anchor elements and, if necessary, attaches supporting profiles. Next, the indoor unit of the air conditioner is installed with strict adherence to the horizontal position. Also, according to the instructions, some models of such segments should have a slight slope towards the passage of drainage.

Maintenance and care

In standard operating mode, every six months the air conditioner should be subjected to service. Most of the work is done with the external unit, which is most susceptible to contamination. Specialists usually check the condition of filters, refrigerant levels, operating pressure module routes, etc. The most difficult operation is replacing the working fluid. The refrigerant is a chemically unsafe substance, so it is better to trust its refilling experienced craftsmen. But caring for the remaining components is quite accessible to ordinary users. For example, the answer to the question of how to clean the external unit of an air conditioner is quite simple. First of all, it should be disassembled, and then, using a rag or vacuum cleaner, rid the internal surfaces of the module of dust and dirt deposits. In the process of such maintenance, external filters and heat exchange radiators are cleaned, which extends the service life of the air conditioner.

External unit in multi-systems

The concept of the technical implementation of a split system provides for the possibility of using several indoor modules in one complex, which are serviced by one outdoor unit. Unlike standard configurations, the external module of such a system has engineering differences. For integration into a multi-system, it is equipped with an additional thermostat, which allows you to more effectively control the fan and compressor settings. In turn, the indoor unit of the air conditioner acts as a source information signals, defining the control of the outdoor module. That is, the user using remote control refers to the panel of the indoor unit, which, in turn, regulates the bypass communications system on the freon line via a digital channel.

Question of price

In modern modifications, split-system type air conditioners are not cheap, which is largely due to the complexity of the design. Even in the entry-level segment, the cost of an air conditioner with a remote unit is rarely less than 20 thousand rubles. Of course, you can also find options for 15 thousand rubles. from little-known brands, but their quality raises doubts both among specialists and among users themselves, who often complain about problems.

Decent quality models are offered by Fujitsu, Daikin, Mitsubishi, etc. The average cost of an air conditioner from the range of these companies varies in the range of 30-40 thousand rubles. At the same time, the most technologically advanced and productive kits can be valued at 70-80 thousand rubles.

Conclusion

The use of air conditioners with a design that requires the installation of a remote unit causes many problems during installation and further maintenance. And this does not take into account the difficulties in transporting equipment. These factors allow us to speak of such units as obsolete. Especially against the backdrop of the proliferation of mobile devices of modest size. However, the external air conditioner unit remains relevant in the market. This is explained by its high performance, functionality and safety during operation, since the main operating units are located outside the living space. And if for household use you can find a low-power replacement for a split system in the form of a monoblock, then in the context of maintenance office premises, public buildings and institutions, multifunctional complexes still have no equal.

During operation of a household split system, you may feel bad smell rotted along with air flows from the device. It indicates the need for preventative cleaning of the unit. In addition to the repulsive odor, clogged nodes can cause rapid wear of the power unit, increased energy consumption and allergic reactions in humans.

You can entrust this procedure to an employee service center. But if you have been using a split system for quite some time, you can handle the work yourself, saving money. You just need to familiarize yourself with the disassembly procedure and preventive cleaning.

Indoor unit dimensions

Before installing the indoor unit of the air conditioner, you should inquire about its dimensions. This is especially important during repairs, because modern technologies quite often involve the installation of suspended ceiling systems, which can affect the height of the ceiling, as well as the parameters of the device being described.

On sale you can find non-standard models that have unique sizes. The block length usually varies from 700 to 800 mm. Products up to 900 mm are somewhat less common. Experts recommend taking into account an average length of 770 mm.

As for the height, it is usually 250-290 mm. The average value is 270 mm. The depth is not of much interest to consumers, but it reaches 240 mm. The minimum value is equivalent to 170 mm. From this we can conclude that the average dimensions of the indoor air conditioner unit are 770 x 270 mm.

Knowing these parameters allows you to determine at what distance from the ceiling and walls to hang equipment. There are a lot of contradictions on this issue. In some instructions minimum distance is 50 mm, while in others it reaches 300 mm. The optimal value is between 60 and 150 mm.

Experts usually install an air conditioner at a distance of 100 mm. Before installing the indoor air conditioner unit, it is important to consider whether there will be curtains in the room. The step between them and the split system is usually 150 mm. This value can be increased to 250 mm. The average distance from the block to the wall is 400 mm.

Classification of indoor units

In order to disassemble, it is necessary to determine the type of indoor unit of the air conditioner, which can be represented by:

• wall split system;
• duct air conditioner;
• cassette device.

The most common are wall-mounted models, which are more affordable and are sometimes also called household models. Their installation can be carried out in a room for any purpose, and the power within 7 kW allows cooling up to 70 m 2 of area. Such blocks are usually installed at the top of the wall, near the window, since the design provides for the presence of an outdoor unit, and the nodes must be interconnected.

Wall-mounted air conditioners are not capable of supplying fresh air to the premises, since this requires a separate ventilation system. If you are wondering how to disassemble the indoor unit of an air conditioner, you can find this information below. It is for such a device that recommendations are given in the article.

Besides household air conditioners, some manufacturers supply the market with semi-industrial devices whose power reaches 10 kW. Outwardly, they resemble traditional split systems, but in terms of parameters they are semi-industrial equipment.

Duct air conditioners are installed with suspended ceilings that hide them completely. Distribution of cooled air is ensured using thermally insulated air ducts, which are located in the inter-ceiling space. Such structures can cool several rooms at once. The power of the equipment reaches 25 kW, which makes it possible to provide cooling for a cottage or several rooms in an apartment. As the main feature channel systems is the possibility of filing fresh air to the extent guaranteed by the functioning of full ventilation.

Cassette air conditioners require a suspended ceiling during installation. When compared with duct designs, cassette designs distribute cooled air through bottom part block. It's closing decorative grille and usually has the following dimensions: 600 x 600 and 1200 x 600 mm.

Disassembling and cleaning the air conditioner

To clean the indoor unit of the air conditioner, it is necessary to disassemble it. For this purpose, screwdrivers of different configurations and sizes are prepared. Make sure you have a box for collecting fasteners. You will need an electrical and functional diagram of the device. In some models they are applied to inner side top cover.

To clean the internal elements you will need:

• clean rags;
• detergent;
• vacuum cleaner.

The first step is to turn off the power to the air conditioner. This complies with electrical safety regulations. The plug must be removed from the socket. The top cover of the unit is removed. The bolts are unscrewed, of which there may be two or three. They are usually closed with decorative plugs. The top cover of the indoor unit is removed. If it is covered with a layer of mold and dirt, it should be washed in the bathroom with detergents and brushes.

When disassembling the indoor unit of the air conditioner, you will need to remove the air filters. They are made of plastic and are designed for rough air purification. Sometimes they are fixed on the lid or inside the air conditioner. The filters are washed under an intense stream of water. A brush will help with this.

Guides air flow should also be removed. The blinds are removed from the grooves. To make the process easier, you need to bend them slightly. These elements direct the flow of cold air into the room and also require intensive washing.

Removing the bottom cover

The next step is to detach the bottom cover. You will need to remove the drain tube and power cord. During this process, you should release the three latches and disconnect the drain pan along with the outlet hose from the block.

Removing Terminal Blocks

The indoor unit of the air conditioner has terminal blocks. They are disconnected during disassembly, and then the electronic control unit and transformer are removed. In order to remove the first one, you need to press out the side fastenings, and then pull the device towards you. Before this, the grounding wires are unscrewed.

Removing the fan motor

Now you can remove the fan motor. To do this, the bolts that are secured to the chassis are unscrewed. The evaporator is lifted and the motor is removed out along with the rotary fan. The motor must be separated from the fan, but first you will have to warm up the bolt head with a soldering iron. This will unlock the thermal lock on the motor pulley. Once the fan blades can be removed, they need to be washed. Assembly is carried out in reverse order.

Cleaning the outdoor unit

External and internal air conditioner units require equal maintenance. The frequency for the first is twice a year, which is true even with intensive use. A vacuum cleaner must be used for this, but the device must be powerful enough to remove dust from external filters and heat exchange radiators.

On your own or with the help of specialists

If the unit is located at an impressive height, then you can unscrew the protective grille and vacuum it, as well as wipe the insides from dust. Otherwise, you can seek the help of professionals who will remove the air conditioner using climbing equipment or a tower. You can clean it yourself using compact senders, but the air conditioning system will have to be de-energized and turned on only 30 minutes after the end of the service.

Finally

During operation of the split system, dust settles on the fan impeller, where a “coat” of dirt forms. This prevents air from flowing through the evaporator. The latter freezes over, and the user does not receive normal cold and intense air flow.

Cleaning the fan of the indoor unit of the air conditioner is also required when you see black flakes flying out of the device. This indicates that the amount of dirt is so large that it is not retained on the internal components. As a preventive measure, from time to time you can dismantle the fan and wash it chemicals. But not all models allow you to easily remove this part of the system.