How to choose an air conditioner

Many people love summer for the opportunity to have a great vacation on the beach, in nature, but there are certain drawbacks of this time of the year - the scorching sun that wears out any person. The situation is especially difficult for people living in cities and megalopolises, but the air conditioner helps to solve the problem of heat. There are several types of such climatic equipment, which differ significantly from each other in functionality and design. This article discusses in detail all the parameters that determine how to choose an air conditioner for a house, apartment and other places.

The principle of operation and the device of the air conditioner

Air conditioners are called climatic technology, which includes a complex electromechanical design. After installation work, the device can cool the air inside any room. The work is based on the laws of physics about the absorption of heat by liquids.

Classic designs include 2 main blocks:

• The evaporator - always comes out into the room and helps to remove heat from the air.
• A condenser is an outdoor element that removes heat from the room to the outside.

The evaporator is always housed in a beautiful box, which houses a movable panel that helps to cover the main parts of the apparatus. Among the elements for normal operation are:

• Evaporator.
• Filters that help keep dust out and block the spread of odors.
• Fans inside to supply cold air inside the room.
• The board, which acts as the basis of the device and is responsible for the operation of the device.
• Temperature regulator.
• Control unit, which may not be available based on the model.
• Condensate collector with liquid drainage pipe.

All component parts are closed by blinds, which have a movable base, and with their help you can set the direction of cold air in the room.

In the middle of the capacitor are the other important components:

• Compressor for transporting refrigerant through the system. Such an element is responsible for the compression of freon.
• A radiator through which the cooled refrigerant flows.
• A fan that provides the required heat dissipation.
• Cooling system filter.

The movement of freon begins in the external unit, and with the help of the built-in compressor, it is possible to transport the liquid to the evaporator heat exchanger, which is located in the room, where the refrigerant starts heating and converting it into gas. This process is complemented by a decrease in the temperature in the pipeline, and the cooled air passes into the room.Thus, freon passes in a closed circle, moving to the outer part, after which the compresses again compresses it and converts it into a liquid form. The carrier heats up to a temperature of 70-90 degrees, with the help of a fan the heat is released outside.

Additional features of air conditioners

When deciding how to choose an air conditioner for a home, it should be understood that its main task is to cool the air in a room, which can be residential and non-residential. In addition, modern devices have enhanced functionality, so the user can get a number of possibilities. Among them should be highlighted:

• Heating the area.
• Air dehumidification or humidification.
• Ventilation.

Many modern devices can heat the area, but it is not recommended to consider them as the main source of heating. Experts do not recommend turning on the device to heat the room in frosts. This is due to several factors. The device will still not be able to warm up the required area to the specified temperature, and at low temperatures outside, the oil in the compressor begins to thicken, its main qualities disappear. In this case, turning on in frost causes rapid wear of the main components.

Often, heating can and is recommended for use between seasons, when the heating has already been turned off or not yet and the house is cold. The device can be started at a temperature outside of -5 or +5 degrees.

In addition, there is a dehumidification function, which will be useful for residents in places with high humidity. This mode is not available in all models, but it makes it easier to endure the heat. Although even without using such an option, the devices will dry the air in the room during operation, which is important to consider when choosing.

People who install a climate device in dry climates will need to use air humidification. This can be beneficial for people with lung problems, as dry air is harmful to the respiratory system, but you should consult a doctor before purchasing.

In ventilation mode, the air will not be heated or cooled, it will simply be able to circulate around the room in one temperature mode.

Inverter or conventional air conditioner

It should be noted that air conditioners are not just of several types, they are classified according to the principle of the operation of an electrical control system. Therefore, all air conditioning units are inverter or conventional (linear).

In conventional models, the compressor works at full capacity, using all its power. In this version, the room temperature is controlled by turning the device on and off. For example, when the desired indicator is reached, the equipment will be turned off, and after reheating the air, it will be connected again. The action is carried out using a special sensor that records the room temperature. This option can cause some discomfort for users, since linear models are characterized by a zigzag temperature.

Inverter devices work differently. All adjustments are carried out smoothly, without interruption, by changing the speed of the compressor motor. Such adjustments in a wide range can be carried out due to alternating current in the inverter, which is transformed into direct current, and then again into alternating current, but different, which needs a certain frequency. At the same time, the performance of the apparatus and the current consumption for the operation of the air conditioner change without interruption.

Inverter-type devices include many positive characteristics that conventional models lack:

• The ability to quickly build up the desired temperature and more accurate maintenance of the set parameters.
• Excellent energy efficiency, as there will be no frequent compressor starts during operation.This factor helps to reduce light bills by about 60% for cooling and up to 45% for space heating.
• Quite quiet operation of the device.

Of course, the cost of inverter devices is much higher, repair work will be similarly expensive if the control board fails, but it is better to choose just such units.

Air conditioner operation in different modes

Having studied the possible modes of operation of climatic technology, one should understand the main purpose of the programs and the principle of operation of each option.

Cooling mode (Cool)

If you turn on the climatic device to cool the room, then freon begins to come from the evaporator to the compressor, which is in a gaseous form. In the compressor itself, the substance is compressed, the pressure increases significantly, and strong heating begins. After that, it is transported through the circuit piping system directly to the condenser, where the fans work hard and the freon is cooled by half.

During cooling, the substance condenses, the pressure and temperature decrease slightly. When it re-enters the evaporator, liquid freon again becomes in the form of a gas, and the whole process helps to actively take heat from the room. Thus, the air entering the equipment and passing through the evaporator begins to cool.

You can see that air conditioners by the method of their work do not differ much from classic refrigerators. The main difference is that the refrigerator only freezes the chamber, and removes the rest of the heat into the room, and the climatic equipment removes heat from the room, cooling it down.

Heating mode (Heat)

Not all air conditioners can heat the room, in order to use a similar function, manufacturers install a special four-way valve that can change the direction of the freon supply. In this mode, the principle of operation will be similar to cooling. The main difference is going through all the stages in reverse order. In this case, both blocks (external and internal) are functionally changed.

In this case, the condenser installed outdoors is cooled, and with the help of the evaporator, heating is carried out inside the room, which provides the necessary heat for the air and it is removed by the fan.

Fan mode (Fan)

During the operation of the climatic technology when ventilation is used, the compressor of the device starts to turn off. In this case, the movement of freon in the system completely stops, only the fan of the unit in the room will function, which helps to mix the air, providing the necessary circulation.

Dry mode

When using indoor dehumidification, moisture in the room will condense on the cooled surface of the evaporator. The liquid itself accumulates in a separate container and after a while begins to be discharged using a tube directly to the street or into the sewer, based on the air conditioning system.

Theoretically, when using this mode, the room temperature should be reduced, which is not always relevant. To exclude a decrease in the temperature regime, you should simply reduce the fan speed. In this case, moisture will be removed, and the temperature will hardly change.

Types of air conditioners

Structurally, all types of air conditioners can be divided into monoblock or two-unit (split system). Based on the installation method, they may differ, and before choosing an air conditioner for an apartment, it is necessary to determine all the features of the species, their pros and cons in order to choose the best option.

Split systems

Such models are considered the most complex, but modern options. The design features are such that several internal, often wall-mounted devices are immediately connected to the outdoor unit, which can be located in different (adjacent) rooms. The installation method of the evaporators themselves can be anything.

Pros:

• Excellent power ratings.
• Multifunctionality of the device.
• You can cool several rooms at once in a house or apartment.
• Each evaporator is individually adjustable.

Minuses:

• The high cost of the product.
• A complex method of installing and summing up the commutations of all blocks.

Duct

Such models are mounted in ventilation ducts, after which they are almost invisible to a person, but due to their location, their installation and further maintenance is significantly complicated. This technique is characterized by a separate evaporator, condenser, and the indoor unit is placed in the ventilation duct.

Pros:

• Once installed, the system is invisible indoors.
• Quiet operation.
• It turns out to save space.
• Excellent performance.

Minuses:

• Complex installation and maintenance.
• High pricing policy, the cheapest options will be 30,000 rubles, and expensive systems reach 900 thousand rubles, but they are used for large objects.
• Cannot be used at home.

Cassette

The option is considered the middle between wall and duct models for 2 blocks. The main difference is the ceiling mounted evaporator, which is often suspended and visually similar to conventional ventilation.

Pros:

• Excellent power of the device.
• Quiet operation.
• Invisible to humans.
• The space is not cluttered with an external unit.

Minuses:

• In areas with high ceilings, the cold air cannot reach the floor.
• Complex installation process.
• The cost is in the range of 20-200 thousand rubles, and if you use options with an additional blowing function, then the price increases by 2 or more times.

Wall mounted

This type of air conditioner is the most popular for private housing, in addition, the equipment is very functional and easy to use. Such devices include separate outdoor and indoor units. Installation is relatively simple; a condensate drain tube is led from the room to the street.

Pros:

• A high degree of functionality, as well as the presence of several modes of operation at once.
• Saving space in the room.
• Fast cooling of the space with the right choice of power.
• Quiet operation as the outdoor unit with compressors and fan is outside the room.
• Convenient operation.
• Large assortment of products.

Minuses:

• The cost may seem high to some people in private use. Average prices only for air cooling are 8,000-30,000 rubles, and if there is heating and additional features, the price will be 15-200 thousand rubles.
• They require professional installation and a call of a master to complete the work.

Floor

Such models are stationary and portable, although their mass is large. Installation is carried out directly on the floor, the devices are mobile, made in a monoblock, and the main working parts are located inside the case. To remove warm air, a large-diameter flexible hose is used, which is inserted into a window or a hole in a wall or door. For this, there are special adapters, seals that are offered in the kit. Stationary options do not differ from wall-mounted 2-block models, but the mounting type will differ.

Pros:

• Household models have an affordable cost compared to wall-mounted types.
• Simple design features.
• Easy installation on your own, without calling the master.
• High level of mobility, allowing you to carry the air conditioner in the house.
• Optimal set of functionality.

Minuses:

• Large dimensions and weight.
• The cooled air strongly disperses along the floor and pulls along the legs.

Window

These devices appeared the very first, they are considered outdated, but they are very simple. They are made in a monoblock construction, fastening is carried out to the window frame. In this case, the condenser and the evaporator are located in the same housing, but one part enters the room, and the other goes outside. At the moment, the technique is used very rarely.

Pros:

• Affordable cost, which is in the range of 9-37 thousand rubles.
• Simple construction.
• Easy installation if the windows are provided for the installation of climatic equipment.
• Durability of technology.
• There is supply ventilation of the room.

Minuses:

• Loud work.
• Big sizes.
• It is necessary to carry out high-quality sealing so that heat does not escape in frosts.

The best air conditioner manufacturers

Depending on the company that manufactures air conditioners, the durability and usability of the equipment will be determined. Choosing the right brand - 50% success. The competition among manufacturers is fierce, so each company tries to make the devices as stable and convenient as possible.

When deciding which air conditioner company to choose, you should focus on the following:

• Daikin is a Japanese company that has been on the market for over 40 years and is characterized by high quality products. This is due to the great attention to each stage of production, applied technologies and services. This brand offers very expensive products that can be 4-5 times higher in value than their competitors.
• Mitsubishi is a Japanese company with excellent sales of domestic, but more often semi-industrial air conditioning units. The cost of goods is high, but there is a large assortment with affordable prices. Inverter options are the most popular, several modes are included for operation, air ionization is used.
• Haier is a great mid-priced option. The manufacturer itself is Chinese, but offers quality products. The assortment includes household and semi-industrial models. The standard equipment includes a remote control, it can be wireless control. Various types of filters are installed inside for cleaning the air, as well as powerful UV lamps.
• Toshiba is a well-known Japanese manufacturer that often offers industrial air conditioners. The brand's designers were the first to create a split system. The technique is characterized by a high degree of reliability, the presence of many additional functions, as well as a beautiful design, the prices are average.
• Fujitsu is a Japanese brand that can offer all models of household air conditioners as well as semi-industrial options. The firm is considered one of the leaders in the use of innovations. The products are expensive and include many sensors that help protect equipment from power surges, freezing and other problems.
• LG is a South Korean home appliance manufacturer with a long history. Among all manufacturers of air conditioners, this brand can be considered young, characterized by the average cost of products, beautiful appearance and an optimal balance between quality and cost. Engineers are constantly improving the system, which makes it possible to reduce operating noise, current consumption. There are many design options to choose from that will fit into an apartment, private house and other places.
• Samsung is a well-known manufacturer of household appliances and other equipment, among which there are various options for air conditioners. They are characterized by medium cost and great functionality. An excellent choice for the office or home.
• Panasonic - the manufacturer offers climatic devices for household and industrial use. Technique indicators are constantly improving, the level of reliability and functions is increasing. The pricing policy is presented in 3 groups.
• Hitachi is a Japanese brand that can be called one of the best in terms of value for money. The goods are at an average and high price, often the equipment can be seen in private homes, offices, warehouses and shops. The technique is characterized by simple maintenance, quiet operation and low energy consumption.

In order for the purchase of climate control equipment for a home to be a profitable investment, you need to pay attention to all the parameters, the brand itself and the warranty period. The durability of the system and other characteristics also depend on the installation work.Before purchasing, it is recommended to study in detail all the features, as well as study the recommendations of specialists.

Air conditioner selection parameters

An air conditioner is an expensive piece of equipment that is bought and installed for several years. To understand how to choose the right equipment, it is necessary to study a number of parameters for the units. This helps to exclude possible mistakes in the future, so we choose the air conditioner correctly, taking into account all the nuances.

Power

To figure out which inverter air conditioner to choose, you should initially decide on the power of the equipment. It is not recommended to make a purchase on the "more is better" principle. Of course, when using powerful technology, it will be easier to make settings for personal needs, which is almost unrealistic with low-power equipment, but buying climate control equipment with a large margin is expensive. In this case, the device will not fully work out the invested funds.

When choosing a power, several important parameters should be used in the calculation:

• Room area. Recommended for classic ceiling heights up to 2.7 meters for every 10 sq. m. to use 1 kW of power.
• Cardinal points. This orientation will be no less important, since a room on the east or south side must be equipped not only with the required power indicator, but also with a 20% margin.
• The number of people in the room. If the norm is exceeded, then an additional 100 watts are allocated for each person.

Cooling capacity is a very important indicator that must be considered by any person. You can find the data in the equipment labeling if you know the necessary numbers. They are often measured in British thermal units, where 1 BTU / hr equals 0.293 W. If you need to use the device for a house or apartment with a small area, then the calculation can be done using a simple scheme that requires comparing the power with the area.

To make a more detailed calculation, especially for a large area, it is necessary to take into account a number of the following characteristics, including:

• Number of storeys.
• The location of the room.
• Ceiling height.
• The number of glasses in the room.
• Average number of people who will be constantly inside the room.
• The number of heat sources, including household and lighting devices that can generate heat, for example, refrigerators, computers, etc.

There are quite a few such parameters, so it is recommended to entrust the calculations to the masters who can quickly determine the required air conditioner for a specific area.

"Five", "seven", "nine"

This terminology is often heard from air conditioner installers and sellers. In fact, using such measurements, the power of the device is determined, calculated for a certain area. Similar terms came from states where the first industrial air conditioners began to be used many years ago with the English form of calculation, which is inches, feet and other indicators (BTU).

In order not to complicate buyers with a variety of options, a separate line of air conditioners was created, where the capacity is indicated using multiple values ​​from 5000 BTU to 24000 and more. A similar division was adopted by many craftsmen, and is also used at the moment in many models. For example, an air conditioner from the manufacturer TOSHIBA RAS-M07N3KV2-E, where there is help to determine the power - 07. The operating power of such a unit is 7000 WTU. This indicator is called the "seven". If we talk about the seven, then the air conditioner will be 2.051 watts.

Effect of air inflow on power

When calculating the power, it is also necessary to take into account the air flow outside the room. This parameter should be taken into account when the windows are open. If it is necessary to ventilate the room, which is often necessary in practice, then a certain amount of heat will flow from the street with the flow of air, especially in the summer period.Despite this, ventilation is mandatory, but it must be performed so that a draft does not appear in the house. It will be enough to open the sash to the upper position and close the doors.

Any climatic equipment is designed to operate with closed windows. If the room is ventilated by circulating outside air, this is also important to take into account when calculating, since the equipment will work with increased load.

Often when choosing a power with airing rooms for 1 hour, it is recommended to add about 20% to the value. If the air exchange increases, then the coefficient changes. Many manufacturers indicate in the instructions that their devices cannot function with open windows.

Place of installation

Knowing how to choose an air conditioner by area, you should also decide on the installation site. There are no strict advice on this value, since the choice of the type of air conditioner is often determined by the layout, as well as the possibilities of the location of this or that type of device.

Duct models can be immediately excluded for domestic needs, since they are intended for large retail chains with a well-thought-out ventilation system. In this case, you need to focus on household appliances:

• If you plan to order new windows, and there is also a need to save on climate technology, then you should focus on window models. They are inexpensive, durable and easy to use. To do this, you need to immediately tell the measurers to make the frame taking into account the installation of the air conditioner.
• If you need to move to objects from time to time, then it is better to choose floor types. They are convenient, mobile, and cheaper than wall-mounted devices. Their dimensions allow you to install the device in a car for transportation. This option will be suitable for home and summer cottage, it can be moved to different rooms.
• When it is planned to carry out repairs in the house, then immediately you need to think about the availability of climatic technology. In this case, a wall-mounted model for 2 blocks will be preferable, but you can choose floor-standing stationary devices.
• With suspended ceilings, you can install a cassette air conditioner that will not be visible to the eye.
• In a country house or a large apartment, it is recommended to install a split system that will help to separate several indoor units from one outdoor unit into different rooms.

Energy efficiency of the air conditioner

If you quickly look at the power of the device, the indicators for cooling, heating the room, and other characteristics, you get big numbers. It is recommended to buy climatic equipment with the highest efficiency class. This is because the power that the equipment uses differs depending on the operational capabilities.

To simplify selection and analysis of effectiveness, 2 main values ​​are used:

• EER (Energy EfficiencyRatio) - energy efficiency ratio used for the cooling capacity of the unit
• COP (CoefficientofPerformance) - coefficient of thermal conversion, used for heating functions.

EER is an international value that is responsible for the cooling capacity of the device to the cost of electricity. It is this parameter that is considered the main one for air conditioners and determines the degree of energy efficiency.

COP - often a similar value is always slightly higher than the first, since in order to generate heat, it is necessary to additionally heat the compressor.

The higher both indicators are, the more efficient the work of all climatic equipment. This means that the air conditioner will be very economical during operation. In order not to get confused in numerical measurements, the classification is carried out using letters from A to G. The highest class is A. For example, split systems are currently presented with this class, and many are even more economical with the designation A ++ or A ++ +.

His talk about the coefficient of efficiency itself, then good can be considered from 3 or more. In this case, with a device power of 3 kW, the current consumption will be only 1 kW. The higher the indicator, the less you have to pay for cooling or heating with an air conditioner.

It should also be noted that the EER and COP values ​​are used for normal conditions of use, therefore they can be changed during operation and the influence of temperature, as well as other factors. For the client, such changes will not be very important and tangible, the masters approach the issue much more seriously. For experts, there is an additional category of coefficients related to correction factors: SEER and SCOP.

Noise performance

While the air conditioner is in operation, everyone wants to experience not only the enjoyment of the optimal temperature, but also the silence in the house or office. To do this, it is important to pay attention to the volume under load, especially if the device will be installed in bedrooms.

Quite often, noise depends on the power, as well as design features. For example, monoblocks are louder than 2-block devices. Unfortunately, at the moment there are no absolutely silent units of the two-block type, but they can be with maximum isolation from noise.

On average, the volume of air conditioning equipment for home use depends on the model, in the range of 24-35 dB. In addition, the user can activate the night mode, which makes it possible to reduce the noise level by up to 17 dB.

Air filtration and purification system

In many air conditioners, manufacturers have started to implement the “self-service” option. This function is very convenient, it helps to dry the inside of the unit, removing dampness, condensation, and also provides a powerful antibacterial treatment using ozone.

To maintain normal indoor air, it is important not only to clean the interior, but also to use high-quality filters in the system. Often, any conditioner includes an element for rough cleaning, but when choosing, there may be additional options:

• Special plasma or biological filters that provide the climatic unit with increased cleaning efficiency.
• Ionizer and oxygen generator - these elements help to make healthy microflora in the house.
• Dehumidifiers and humidifiers are excellent choices for maintaining the correct moisture balance.
• Air deodorization technology that helps bring pleasant, healthy aromas into the room.

The most advanced air conditioners include a multiprocessor "climate control" capability. In this case, the functioning will be intelligent, a full analysis of temperature indicators, humidity inside and outside is carried out, and after that the device changes modes and programs to provide comfortable conditions.

Air heating option

A lot of modern air conditioners can function not only for cooling, but also for heating a room. Technology cannot fully replace heating devices, but it can maintain a comfortable microclimate and be used as auxiliary equipment. In this case, reverse work begins, according to the type of heat pump.

This addition forces manufacturers to increase the cost of their products as design features become more complex. However, every year, models that work exclusively for cooling are gradually disappearing from the market; they are completely replaced by technology that can cool and heat.

A similar option is always indicated in the passport for the product, the power that the device can give. In addition to the impossibility of normal, full-fledged heating of the room, such a mode is considered quite expensive, and also causes accelerated wear of the device. The manufacturer on his devices, if there is a function, always indicates the temperature threshold when the device can be used for heating. Often the peak value will be as low as -15 degrees.In other situations, turning on the heating causes breakdowns and other troubles.

Additional functions

Based on the model of the air conditioner, as well as the manufacturer, the devices may have additional modes and functionality. You should also pay attention to them, especially if the convenience of using the device is highly valued. Some modern units are characterized by an excessive number of functions. Before buying such a device for your own home, you need to assess the importance and need for options, because you need to pay more for each function.

Among the useful and basic modes, functions, the following should be highlighted:

• Sleep - this mode helps to create an ideal microclimate, conditions in the room for sleep and relaxation. After activating the program, the performance of the device begins to decrease, the degree of rotation of the fan decreases, so the volume is reduced to the maximum. In addition, climatic equipment will maintain the optimum temperature at night, reducing it by 2 degrees. This helps to recreate the nighttime chill, which is as comfortable as possible. Closer in the morning, the temperature indicator will be restored, as for the usual daytime regime.
• 3D flow function - helps to adjust the direction of cold air not only along a standard path (up or down), but also to the sides. The most modern models make it possible to move the air flow using a remote control. Thus, through the sensors, the location of the remote control is determined, where it will lie, and the air conditioner is blowing there.
• The timer is a convenient and useful function that will help you turn on or off the device at a specified time. With a timer, a person can be sure that the house will be cool when returning from work, since you can set the timer 1 hour before arrival so that the air conditioner has time to cool the apartment or house.
• Turbo function - can be useful for people who need quick cooling or heating of their home. After starting such a function, the fastest and most powerful operation begins until the device reaches the desired temperature.
• Air purification - this system is present in all air conditioners, but the implementation may differ, based on the use of filters. Almost all modern split systems include only 1 filter, which helps to exclude dust from entering the human lungs and the equipment heat exchanger. In addition, many modern models, as standard, include an auxiliary filter for fine cleaning, which stops pollen, odors and other tiny elements. If the device does not immediately include such a filter, you can buy and install it yourself.
• Self-diagnosis is a convenient option that will help determine possible breakdowns in climate technology.
• Inversion - helps to reduce the volume of work, as well as the current consumption, by smoothly adjusting the compressor power. This addition affects the pricing of air conditioners, but helps to increase efficiency.
• The presence of defrosting of the outdoor unit and "hot start" are modes that will be useful to people who plan to use the air conditioner as an element for heating.
• Dehumidification of the air - makes it easier to transfer heat, and also eliminates the appearance of mold on the walls in the apartment. Many modern models include this feature as standard.
• Air ionization is a function that allows you to saturate the space with air ions. Such a regimen can increase a person's immune defenses, and can also improve well-being. Such air is often present in the mountains, near mountain rivers, oceans.
• Air supply from the street - classic split systems are not able to supply air from the street inside the room, they only allow it to circulate, heat up or cool down.Some manufacturers add an air exchanger that allows air to be supplied from the street to ventilate the space.
• Wind-Free technology - with the help of such a system, a comfortable degree of coolness will be maintained in the room without discomfort for a person, the feeling of a cold wind. With the function, the air conditioner will evenly distribute the air flow through 21,000 holes, so movement is not felt at all.
• Automatic cleaning is an excellent option, because during the operation of the climatic technology, dust and debris are collected in the air exchanger. Over time, such deposits emit an unpleasant odor that spreads throughout the room. Using automatic cleaning will clean and dry the inside of the product, which helps to eliminate dampness, mold and odors.
• Wi-Fi control - this functionality will help you control climate equipment directly from your mobile device. To work, you only need to install the application. With its help, it is easier to plan the operation of the air conditioner, monitor modes, current consumption.

The higher the cost of the equipment, the more functionality there will be. Intelligent control is often introduced to automatically or remotely regulate the indoor climate. For example, manufacturers have started to implement the 3D I-SEE program, in which the climate device includes many sensors. They help to react to movements, count the number of people in the room at a specific time interval, after which they automatically adjust performance, and can change the direction of cold air.

Installation characteristics will be no less important when choosing an air conditioner. In this case, we are talking about the size and weight of the blocks for the street and the room, as well as the possible distance between them, the requirements for on-site installation (the presence of space around the block, ease of connection of communications and other subtleties). The master can evaluate such data by studying the installation site.

Which air conditioner to choose for an apartment and a house

Experts recommend operating with several basic parameters when choosing an air conditioner for various premises. Among the main expert advice are:

• For buyers looking for inexpensive models of air conditioners, and also do not want to pay big money for installation, it is recommended to use window or floor views. It should be remembered that such devices are not considered the best in terms of functionality, power, therefore, equipment should be selected for small areas where they do not plan to sleep.
• For everyone who does not want to hear extraneous sounds from the operation of the equipment, you should give preference to wall-mounted options or a split system, which has the option of night operation or inversion. Such devices will be an excellent choice for a private house, a cottage or a large apartment.
• Summer residents who visit the house only in the summer are recommended to use floor models with wheels for easy movement. The noise level should be medium, it is recommended to use the options with the I Feel and "turbo" option. With the help of such modes, you can quickly cool the room and cool down after the heat.
• To hide the equipment as much as possible and preserve the design of the room, you should stop at cassette devices. Duct types in this case will be useful for production, large stores where there are ventilation ducts. It is recommended to use cassette machines that incorporate the latest developments and functions.

Expert advice

Finally, we can highlight the main advice of experts on the selection and purchase of air conditioners for domestic use:

• Devices that can heat the room must be switched on in spring or autumn, this helps to save up to 65% of electricity
• Equipment based on ozone-safe refrigerant will be about 15% more expensive than analogs with R-22 freon.In addition, the cost of installation work increases by about 20%. With all the features, such systems and the type of refrigerant do not affect consumer qualities.
• The most convenient and economical at the moment are inverter devices. They consume less current, maintain the desired temperature perfectly, and make less noise. However, their design features are complex, so the masters do not recommend buying such air conditioners from unknown manufacturers. In this case, for a similar amount, you should choose the usual 1 or 2 group model, which will be much more reliable.
• The task of the air conditioner and the main functions are almost identical for all models. When choosing, you should focus on functions, but not pay special attention to them, it is much more important to choose a reliable device, which will have different levels of protection from external factors, misuse, and more.
• Household appliances currently on offer are very quiet. If the air conditioner is to be installed in the bedroom and you need the quietest operation, then opt for Daikin, Mitsubishi Electric, Toshiba brands. These manufacturers offer devices with minimal noise for two units.
• When choosing budget models, there will be certain restrictions on the temperature outside, in everyday life such a parameter is not particularly important, since the cooling of the interior space starts from 20-30 degrees. If the device is planned to be switched on in a wide range, then you need to select equipment with adaptation for winter conditions.
• It is recommended that when planning the installation of air conditioning units, try to minimize the length of communications. Often, the outer part is mounted under the window, and the inner one is near it, which gives the route up to 5 meters. With an increase in the length of communications to 7 meters or more, you should abandon budget air conditioners.

Air conditioners cost

At the moment, the HVAC equipment market includes hundreds of different types of goods, many manufacturers, but the more choice, the harder the purchase for an ordinary person. Pricing policy directly depends on the manufacturer and the capabilities of the air conditioner. On average, for domestic use, it is recommended to give preference to the following options:

• The best brands for the production of HVAC equipment are the Japanese companies Daikin, Mitsubishi, Toshiba, Fujitsu. The products of the described brands are characterized by a high level of efficiency; high-quality, environmentally friendly materials are used during production. The equipment is reliable, durable, with a large supply of functions. The average cost for advanced devices ranges from 25,000 rubles.
• The middle price segment with good quality can be called goods from the brands Hyundai, LG, Samsung, Panasonic and Hitachi. The average price of the devices will be from 20,000 rubles.
• Among the budget, but good options, there are several Chinese companies Gree, Haier, Midea, Dantex. The cost of goods from these manufacturers is from 15,000 rubles for a high-quality air conditioner that will last effectively for a long time.

The main mistake many people make is the choice based on cost, not basic parameters. Some buyers choose products from unverified companies to save money. In this case, the climatic equipment is most likely of poor quality (frank China).

It is also worth remembering that purchasing an air conditioner is not the last expense, if we are not talking about mobile devices. Among the additional costs, you need to take into account the costs of the services of installers. It is best to buy and order the installation between seasons, not in summer. This will help you save around 15-20%.

The choice can be considered ideal if the equipment will include the optimal ratio of cost, reliability, and comfort from operation.