How to choose an air conditioner for an apartment: a detailed debriefing
The air conditioner is no longer an item of security and luxury. Manufacturers produce models adapted to different consumers. The process of acquiring it should be approached as prepared as possible. How to choose an air conditioner for an apartment with the required parameters without overpaying? More details in our today's material.
Stylish design
The content of the article
- 1 How an air conditioner works in an apartment - the basics of functioning
- 2 Types of air conditioners for an apartment and their classification
- 3 How to choose an air conditioner for an apartment - basic rules
- 4 Which air conditioner is better to choose for an apartment - TOP manufacturers and models of 2017-2018
- 5 We carry out the installation of an air conditioner in an apartment with our own hands - a step-by-step process
- 6 Common air conditioner problems
- 6.1 Malfunction # 1. Why does the air conditioner in the apartment blow warm air?
- 6.2 Malfunction # 2. What to do if the air conditioner in the apartment is leaking
- 6.3 Malfunction # 3. We clean the air conditioner ourselves
- 6.4 Malfunction # 4.Refrigerant leak and how much does it cost to refuel an air conditioner in an apartment
- 6.5 Malfunction # 5. Eliminating the smell from the air conditioner in the apartment
- 7 How to cool an apartment in the heat without air conditioning - people's advice
- 8 Conclusion
How an air conditioner works in an apartment - the basics of functioning
The multifunctionality of air conditioners makes them indispensable helpers both at home and at work. Modern models work not only for cooling, but also for heating.
It is not difficult to understand the basics of how an air conditioner works in an apartment. The closed loop operation is based on two options of operation:
- changing the gaseous state of the refrigerant into a liquid at increased pressure with a reverse change process;
- heat release during condensation and simultaneous cooling during evaporation of freon.
In other words, when it evaporates, the heat is absorbed by the refrigerant. During condensation, that is, during the transition from a gaseous state to a liquid, it is released. Depending on the selected mode, the state of aggregation of the cooling hydrocarbon (freon) changes.
In order to understand where the air conditioner in the apartment comes from, you need to consider the arrangement of the main units and blocks. A modern product also consists of an electronic unit, with the help of which the selected operating modes are controlled. All data is displayed on the console, with which you can remotely control the processes. All units are located in the indoor and outdoor units.
Work cycle
Outdoor unit composition
- a fan to create an air flow, which is necessary to blow off the radiator;
- a condenser in which the cooling processes of freon take place with its subsequent transition to a liquid state;
- the processes of compression of the refrigerant and its circulation along the refrigeration circuit occur with the help of a compressor;
- capillary tubes, control board, connectors, contamination filter and cover.
Indoor unit composition
- a front grill made of plastic, the main purpose of which is to let the air flow into the body. It can be easily dismantled for technical cleaning of the unit assemblies;
- primary filtration made of plastic mesh. With its help, large dust particles, lint, fluff are retained. The mesh should be cleaned 2 times a month;
- a set of filter elements for deep purification;
- ventilation system for circulating purified and cooled or heated air masses in the room;
- heat exchange unit or evaporator, in which the direct process of evaporation of freon occurs. Thanks to this process, the temperature of the passing air flow from the room decreases;
- horizontal and vertical guides in the form of louvers that regulate the air flow in the vertical and horizontal direction. They are controlled by a remote control;
- a panel on which all information about the operating modes of the air conditioner, possible malfunctions is displayed;
- connecting elements, electronic board.
Air conditioner device
In modern apartments, the natural ventilation system is not efficient enough. There is practically no fresh air, which reduces the oxygen content in the room. This affects human health, reduces mental and physical activity. The problem is solved by using an air conditioner with supply ventilation for the apartment, with which you can renew up to 40% of the indoor air.
Air conditioner in the interior
Positive qualities and negative aspects of using the air conditioner
Installation of an air conditioner will solve all the problems of maintaining a comfortable temperature in the premises. Modern products not only cool the temperature on hot days, but also warm it up in the autumn-winter period, ventilate and ionize air flows. Many people think about purchasing an air conditioner for the summer period.
In order to understand whether an air conditioner is needed in an apartment and to make the right choice, you need to know the features of the device, the positive and negative aspects. The price factor plays a significant, but not the main role in choosing it.
Advantages of purchasing an air conditioner
- the ability to set a controlled comfortable temperature. The air conditioner in the apartment is able to maintain the required microclimate throughout the year;
- the ability to control the state of humidity in air currents. With an increase in performance, air conditioners can reduce humidity without cooling mode;
- silent work modern units;
- deep filtration qualitatively cleans the air masses from harmful particles, bacteria, ticks, pet hair and other harmful particles;
- energy savings. You can calculate how much energy an air conditioner consumes for an apartment and compare the results with the operation of a conventional heater or fan. The savings will be around 70-80%;
- stylish body products will fit into any room design. A variety of models and sizes of air conditioners for an apartment allow you to place the structure quite inconspicuously;
- Cool, chilled air normalizes sleep... The conditioner is recommended for people with diseases of the cardiovascular system, allergic manifestations, asthma.
Design decoration
Negative moments of using the air conditioner
Despite all the advantages, the consumer should know why the air conditioner in the apartment is harmful:
- an incorrectly selected temperature regime during a hot period can cause colds;
- any unit needs preventive cleaning of units and filters at least once every three months. This is accepted by international standards. If you neglect these recommendations, you may encounter problems associated with diseases of the respiratory system and the nervous system;
- if the air conditioner is not equipped with an additional humidification system, air humidity when the product is running, it is reduced to 20%. This can cause a surge in colds, dryness of mucous membranes and skin, problems with the respiratory system;
- the high price of the product, especially for well-known brands with increased warranty obligations and maximum configuration.
Maintenance
Types of air conditioners for an apartment and their classification
Manufacturers are constantly modernizing air conditioners, improving components and technical characteristics, supplementing them with new functions and reducing the negative impact on humans. They also invest heavily in research activities in search of new solutions. Thanks to this, the consumer has a large selection of the ideal model for him. It is necessary to choose the type of air conditioner for an apartment taking into account the area and configuration of the room.
Consider what air conditioners can be for an apartment, and their brief characteristics:
- inverter - the cooling capacity of the unit depends on the compressor speed;
- non-inverter - the compressor is periodically turned off, this increases the power consumption, but at a cost such a product is much cheaper than an inverter one;
- household products for installation on vertical surfaces - split systems (the structure includes one internal and one external unit) and multi split systems (several internal ones are output to one external unit). All noise generating units are located in the outer case. Installation of one outdoor unit does not spoil the architectural appearance of the building;
- monoblock air conditioners for window installation. These are quite old products. Their installation is carried out in the window opening, part of the body is in the room, the rest of the body with the compressor goes outside. These are the cheapest and easiest to install products. The disadvantage is the high noise level;
- monoblock floor products - simple installation is carried out independently without the involvement of professional craftsmen. And the second advantage is that mobile air conditioners can be moved to any room. The disadvantages of such models include a fairly high noise and high price.
Modern design
Pros and cons of floor air conditioners for an apartment without an air duct
Floor standing air conditioners are quite popular in the consumer market. They have their own advantages and disadvantages. Purchasing a product without a duct device is a fairly convenient option.
The market is filled with a large assortment of floor standing air conditioners for apartments. The types and prices of such units are sometimes striking in variety. In addition to the price, it is important to analyze all the technical characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of the offered products.
In fact, mobile air conditioners without duct are conventional humidifiers with a rather low efficiency. However, many manufacturers have launched the production of modern floor-standing air conditioners for an apartment without an air duct. Their price will be slightly higher, but the air will be clean and slightly humidified.
In fact, this is an ordinary air wash
Related article:
Floor air conditioner without duct. No installation costs, plus no need to break the walls. You can put it anywhere in the apartment. All about the advantages and disadvantages, the choice of model and installation rules - in this material.
Split air conditioning for an apartment is the best choice
One of the best options for creating a cozy atmosphere at any time is a mono- or multi-unit wall split system. It consists of one or more indoor units connected to an outer casing.
The housings are connected by two copper pipes through which freon circulates in a liquid or gaseous state. In addition, a condensate drain pipe is led out of the housing.
Before choosing a split-system for an apartment, you need to familiarize yourself with the operational characteristics of the air conditioner:
- split models maintain a comfortable temperature regime in the room;
- contains carbon filters and UV lamps for maximum air purification;
- manufacturers have provided for a night operation mode in the systems;
- cooled or heated air masses are evenly distributed over the entire area of the room.
It is better to make a choice of a split system for an apartment in the middle price range of the required functionality. For example, the operation of the system can continue in the event of power outages or at freezing temperatures.
Split system in the interior
Related article:
This article explores in detail split system. What it is, will become clear with the information provided. They will be useful to you during purchase, during installation and during future operation.
Multi-block cooling system
Manufacturers have provided for the possibility of temperature regulation in several rooms at once. The increased power of the outer case allows you to save on purchasing multiple items. Simple calculations can be performed to determine the required system capacity. The approximate capacity of the air conditioner is equal to the area of the room, reduced by 10 times. But this is not the only parameter that should be considered when choosing. Important factors are which side the room windows face, the floor of the location, the state of the window blocks, the presence of drafts in the apartment, and many others. Below you will find a handy online calculator. taking into account all these parameters.
Installation of systems is carried out only by professional craftsmen. Durability and stability of functioning will depend on the quality of the work performed. These works must be confirmed by the warranty obligations of the installers.
Organization of a multi split system
Split system performance
It is a mistake to think that the product cools the outside air and supplies it inside the room. Split models reduce the temperature of the air that circulates inside the room. Only the very expensive and the best split systems can mix the external air flow.
You should know! When turning on the heating mode, do not use any other heating equipment. This will increase the load on the electrical network and may result in a fire in the wiring.
Split systems
The advantages of split models
- convenient selection and control temperature conditions. System control is displayed on the control panel. Upon reaching the desired value, the air conditioner switches to ventilation mode. The temperature can be selected within 30 ° C. Indicators are built into the panels of the indoor unit. More modern models are supplemented by switching the mode from the remote control;
- split models can control and, if necessary, lower the humidity level in the room;
- filtration of air streams. Filters are built into the housing for high-quality air treatment. First, the streams are pre-cleaned from large particles, the ingress of which can cause damage to the units. The second stage is cleansing from small particles, including odors. Filters should be cleaned and washed periodically, especially before seasonal daily use. It is better to contact the service organization for such work;
- depends on the fan speed speed of distributed chilled masses... The presence of several speed modes allows you to choose the comfortable operation of the product. You can set automatic control, in which the system itself will choose the required speed to achieve the specified parameters;
- timer function allows you to set the necessary parameters in a certain period of time. During the absence of people in the apartment, you can set the mode of maintaining the temperature parameter. And set the inclusion of the required comfortable temperature by the time you come home.
- horizontal blinds can be adjusted on the panel of the indoor unit. This is necessary to prevent cold streams from entering the person. Automatic mode rotates the blinds in different directions for even redistribution;
- night mode in the system, it reduces the fan speed to the minimum level. The temperature mark changes very slowly. This function is installed only in modern domestic air conditioners split systems for an apartment. The price for such products is slightly higher, however, a comfortable stay is much more expensive.
Additional filtration
Features of inverter systems
In order to determine which air conditioner to choose - inverter or conventional, it is necessary to compare the working processes of the units, their advantages and disadvantages.
Air masses in both inverter and conventional air conditioners pass through heat exchangers, the temperature of the incoming streams is measured by a sensor. A distinctive feature in an inverter duct air conditioner for an apartment is that when the set parameter is reached, the compressor does not stop, but the speed decreases. The cooling capacity is reduced accordingly. These processes are controlled by the sensor, while maintaining a given temperature regime.
All cooling work occurs smoothly, avoiding surges. The temperature regime is set once and is constantly maintained. The compressor may stop, but this is quite rare.
Inverter air conditioner
Inverter system advantages
- energy savings. Since there is no mode of starting and stopping the system, the processes of work after reaching the set temperature parameter occur in the supporting mode;
- set temperature parameters are achieved by the smooth operation of the compressor, without sudden jumps.This is an important indicator for people of age and young children, for whom harsh cold air can cause a surge in colds;
- upon reaching the set parameters noise performance goes down 2 times;
- thanks to the speed control function, the set parameters are reached rather quickly and then maintained in a comfortable mode;
- manufacturers guarantee a sufficiently long service life from 8 to 13 years.
Disadvantages of inverter equipment
- high price by equipping systems with electronic control;
- in the event of a breakdown of the electronic control, repair or replacement will be expensive. Therefore, it is important to choose a system from a trusted manufacturer;
- the need to select the type of air conditioner according to the area of the room. It is impractical to install an inverter product on small ones up to 20 sq.m. squares. All the advantages of the system, including the energy consumption, can be seen only in large rooms.
Inverter split system
Using a portable air conditioner in an apartment - when is it convenient?
There are times when it is impossible to install a stationary system. It is for such cases that manufacturers have released a portable or mobile air conditioner. It can be used to maintain the temperature in a rented apartment or when outdoor units cannot be installed on the facades of buildings for any reason.You need to understand that a portable product cannot completely replace a conventional air conditioner; it can only slightly improve the temperature of the room.
Mobile air conditioner
The main advantages of mobile units
- design. However, to install a mobile air conditioner in an apartment, a number of simple preparatory steps are required;
- easy installation will not disturb the repair of the room;
- no pipelines for freon circulation and drainage release;
- to install it no need to get permission, this is true for rented housing and houses of historical value.
There are also negative aspects of using a portable air conditioner in an apartment. Consumer reviews do not characterize the mobile product in the best way:
- all units of the air conditioner are located in the room. The compressor is noisy enough, which is not conducive to a comfortable rest;
- heat is generated during the working process. Two processes occur simultaneously: the release of warm air and its simultaneous cooling;
- due to lack of drainage condensate is discharged into the tankwhich should be emptied periodically;
- portable air conditioner is completed with an air duct, along which the removal of warm air masses to the street takes place. This additionally heats the room, forcing the air conditioner to cool the large air flows;
- napolite unit occupies part of the areawhich is important for small rooms.
All these qualities are characteristic of monoblock portable systems. Despite all the negative aspects, in some cases you should opt for a portable air conditioner in the apartment. Price can be a deciding factor in purchasing a product.
Floor standing mobile air conditioner
How to choose an air conditioner for an apartment - basic rules
A competent approach to choosing an air conditioner for an apartment will ensure a comfortable stay at any time of the year. In the event of a breakdown during the high season, repairs will be quite troublesome and costly. It is important not only to select a product by performing the preliminary required calculations, but also to entrust installation and maintenance only to experienced craftsmen.
Before choosing an air conditioner for an apartment, you should study the rating of manufacturers, the availability of certificates for products, clarify about warranty and post-warranty service, the availability of service centers in a convenient area for the buyer.
How to choose an air conditioner according to the area of the room
When buying a product, experts will help you calculate the power of the air conditioner by the area of the room, focusing on the purpose of the room and the needs of people. However, for a decent assessment of the quality of the services provided, it is necessary to independently understand some of the characteristics.
For an apartment, split systems of a mono- or multi-block type with a different design of the indoor unit are most often chosen. To select a product, one cannot focus only on the area of the room, it is necessary to take into account the entire volume of the room.
Table 1. Calculation of power by area
| Marking | kWh | Room area, sq.m. |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 2,1-2,30 | Before 18 |
| 9 | 2,6-2,9 | 18-26 |
| 12 | 3,5-3,8 | 35 |
| 14 | 4 | 40 |
| 18 | 5,0-5,60 | 50 |
| 24 | 6,30-7,30 | 70 |
| 28 | 8,0-9,0 | 70 |
| 30 | 8,20-9,40 | 80 |
| 36 | 10,5-11,5 | 90 |
| 41 | 12,0-13,5 | 100 |
| 48 | 14,0-15,2 | 120 |
| 60 | 16,0-17,0 | 150 |
How the supply air affects the power calculation
Secondary factors influence the choice of the model. It is imperative to consider the effect of the supply air when the windows are open. The ventilation mode is not taken into account in the basic formula for calculating the power. Manufacturers in the recommendations indicate the mode of operation only with closed window openings.
It is possible to arrange ventilation if necessary with the systems running, however, the doors must be kept closed so that there is no draft. This should be taken into account when calculating power indicators, increasing the power of the product by 20% in order to compensate for heat losses.
That is why, to save energy, manufacturers advise turning off the systems when ventilating. At high summer temperatures, the equipment may not cope with the specified cooling mode.
In addition to the ventilation mode, it is necessary to take into account the number of storeys in the apartment. If located on the upper floors of a non-attic room in direct contact with the roof, heat from the heated surface is transferred to the rooms. In this case, the power indicators should be increased by 15%.
External factors
We count correctly - conversion of BTU to kW
In the passport for the product for the consumer, the unit of measurement of BTU power may turn out to be unusual and incomprehensible. It is a unit of measure for heat energy as specified in the UK Government Approved System.
It is not difficult to translate it into more understandable numbers:
- 1 kilowatt - 1000 watts;
- 1 kilowatt - 3412 BTU;
- In 1 BTU - 0.293 W.
For example, if you see 7000 BTU, you should calculate 7000/3412 = 2.051. Using the generally accepted rounding system, we get a power of 2.1 kW. These calculations are easy to do yourself. If necessary, you can refer to the development tables, which contain all the power characteristics of air conditioners.
Online calculator for calculating the power of the air conditioner
It is important to choose the right system so that it functions optimally. Considering all the operating conditions, try to perform an online calculation of the air conditioner power yourself in a calculator specially developed by our editors:
With the help of it, the calculation of the refrigerating capacity of the air conditioner is performed, in other words, the possibility of cooling a certain volume of air masses is determined.
Let's explain the meaning of each quantity involved in the calculation:
- Room illumination. The air conditioner must take into account the flow and intensity of natural light, which depends on the location of the windows in relation to the cardinal points;
- Each person produces natural heat energy. The more people are constantly in the room, the higher the power indicators should be;
- Constantly running machinery also adds some power to the overall calculation;
- The system must take into account the air supply. The minimum frequency of metabolic processes is up to two volumes per hour. In the case of an inflow of air masses, it is necessary to add up to 0.25 kW to the determined values. Manufacturers indicate the capacity without taking into account the supply flows;
- For a real assessment of cooling systems, one should take not the value indicated in the passport by the manufacturers, but carried out taking into account the performance characteristics. The high and low recommended Q range is typically -5 to + 15%.
Indicators for calculating power
Effect of noise on comfortable rest
When choosing a system, the noise characteristics of the system are an important indicator for long-term operation and room comfort. Silent operation does not happen, however, the noise level is different. This indicator depends on the mode of operation, power indicators from the technical data of the product.
It is important! The best performance is for inverter-type systems. The quietest mode is night mode.
The main noise comes from the air flow through the fan blades, louver system and radiator assembly. Manufacturers indicate these parameters in the characteristics.
In addition to the main noises, there are also additional ones:
- at the time of switching modes, clicks can be heard;
- when the temperature changes, the size of the plastic elements changes - you will hear a characteristic crackling;
- a hissing noise occurs when the operation stops.
These sounds are natural and not indicative of a system malfunction. During the day they are practically invisible. However, at night it can become a source of irritation. Manufacturers are constantly modernizing systems, giving them modern qualities. Noise indicators are decreasing every year, components and mechanisms are being improved.
Russian manufacturers offer models with a noise threshold of up to 21 decibels, air conditioners from Japan, this figure has been reduced to 19 decibels. This is accomplished by installing a muffler on internal assemblies. Models with a night level of up to 26 decibels are offered to the general consumer in an affordable price category, while during the day this figure does not exceed 30 decibels.
Based on consumer reviews and manufacturers' recommendations, how to choose the right air conditioner for an apartment, you can choose an inverter system in a higher price category. This is the most optimal product in terms of noise level.
Effect of noise
Room heating air conditioner
Modern models are functional. They can work not only for cooling in a hot season, but also maintain a comfortable microclimate in a cool season. Reverse processes are triggered here - thermal energy from the condenser is transferred to the room. Such universal models are somewhat more expensive, but buyers often have no choice. There are less and less single-function products on the market.
The air conditioner will maintain a comfortable temperature during the cool season. But you should not count on full heating of the room in winter. Firstly, it is very costly, and secondly, the operation of the product in this mode will not be long.
Manufacturers specify the minimum temperature threshold for operation of -15 ° C. It is impossible to operate the air conditioner for heating in winter at lower temperatures.
Heating by air conditioner
What is air conditioner energy efficiency
The main function of the air conditioner is to work in cooling mode. It is a mistake to assume that the calculation of the cooling capacity is equal to the power consumption. These are completely different units. The refrigerant takes heat from the air flow of the room, drives it through the heat exchanger to the street through the outdoor unit. The power ratio is the energy efficiency of the system. For household appliances, the ratio varies in the range from 2.5 to 4.
By calculation, all indicators are summarized in the capacity table. Thanks to this data, you can select the optimal product for a specific purpose of the room. For example, for small areas it is rational to purchase mobile, window or wall equipment. In a room with a larger area, a large number of doors and windows, especially those facing the sunny side, it will be more profitable to install a more powerful air conditioner, for example, mono or multi split systems.
Energy efficiency
Additional functions and capabilities of modern models
- systems of modern type are equipped with the possibility of remote control. All the main parameters of regime control are displayed on the control panel. This simplifies the operation of the systems as much as possible;
- the presence of a timer with the ability to program modes by binding them to a specific time. For example, a smooth transition to sleep mode will lower the noise and lower the power of the instrument. Some products are supplemented with memory, which simplifies the choice of the consumer;
- manufacturers supplement the models with a self-service function that can drain the internal tanks from condensation, followed by antibacterial treatment with an ozone antiseptic;
- products are supplemented with special filtration systems for more efficient cleaning of air masses;
- ionize and generate oxygen, which improves the overall microclimate in the room;
- control indicators of air humidity;
- flavoring air currents;
- the possibility of supplementing the room with external air masses, or ventilation.
The latest innovations are supplemented by an automatic climate control system, with the help of which the external and internal temperatures are analyzed and the temperature mode of the model's functioning is independently selected.
All additional functions significantly increase the cost of the air conditioner. When choosing, it is necessary to assess the need and significance of new products. Perhaps some of them can be discarded by choosing a less equipped product, but from a more trusted manufacturer.
Night sleep mode
Which air conditioner is better to choose for an apartment - TOP manufacturers and models of 2017-2018
Before deciding which air conditioning company is better to choose for an apartment, you need to get acquainted with the main manufacturers of products. Companies that produce systems for different consumer classes can be divided into three categories:
- Japanese manufacturers have established the production of the best air conditioners for premium apartments in a fairly high price category, filled with all modern modes and functions to the maximum. it Daikin, Toshiba, Fujitsu, Mitsubishi and Carrier;
- products of the middle price range. Practical filling for economical consumers. This includes manufacturers from Korea and Europe: Electrolux, Gree, Zanussi, Aermec, Samsung, LG, Hyundai, Haier;
- the budget option is available to the broad consumer masses. Manufacturers guarantee the functioning of up to 8 years if used correctly. Their filling with additional functions is minimal, therefore the price is quite affordable. In this segment, manufacturers' models have shown themselves well Ballu, Dantex, General Climate, Midea, Jax, McQuay.
The analysis performed is rather arbitrary.Many budget companies equip their models with modern features, thereby catching up with the leaders. The most important thing is not to buy counterfeit equipment that is filling the consumer market.
You should make a purchase only at retail outlets upon presentation of all certificates and quality documents of both the manufacturer and the product. Specialists at points of sale will help you buy an air conditioner with an inexpensive installation according to the required technical parameters. Installation must be done only with the help of professional craftsmen, only in this case the manufacturer will undertake all warranty and post-warranty service.
Premium class
Review of the rating of air conditioners in the apartmentby reliability2017-2018: TOP 7 models
The review contains TOP air conditioners for apartments in 2017-2018. The analysis is indicative and based on consumer reviews in the largest forums. The rating data for air conditioners in an apartment in 2017 was collected to select the optimal, economical model while maintaining a comfortable home climate as much as possible, which will be relevant in 2018 as well.
Table 2. Choosing the best air conditioner for an apartment - 2017-2018 rating in nominations
| Model | Main characteristics | Operational advantages |
|---|---|---|
 GENERAL- CLIMATE (GU) - EAF 09 HR | Inverter system, area: 25 sq.m. | Cooling / heating, automation; Low noise, ionizer. |
 TOSHIBA RAS-05BKV | Inverter system, area: 15 sq.m. | Inverter air conditioner, silent; Standard console or advanced; Cooling and heating; Super quiet operation, energy saving; High power mode; Self-cleaning system. |
 TOSHIBA RAS-10 N3 KVR - E | Inverter system, area: 25 sq.m. | Cooling and heating, self-cleaning, automatic mode change; Automatic start, filter status indicator and self-diagnostics; Dehumidification mode, air purification system. |
 ASTER MAS-09HRN 1 / MAC- 09 HN 1 | Without inverter, area: 25 sq.m. | Air conditioner with low noise level, A-class energy consumption; Night mode, timer on / off, dehumidification; Memory, self-diagnosis and self-cleaning, automatic restart; Freon leakage control, fire and frost protection. |
 MIDEA MSMBA 07 HRN 1 (W) / MOAB 01-07 HN 1 - Wi-Fi | Area: 20 sq.m. | Remote control, Wi-Fi set, cooling / heating; Energy saving; Auto restart; Self-diagnosis and refrigerant leak detection. |
 DAIKIN FT XB 20 C | Inverter system, area: 20 sq.m | Cooling and heating, automatic switching of cooling / heating modes, humidity reduction; Energy saving, night mode; Comfortable sleep mode; Timer, automatic restart, self-diagnosis. |
 HITACHI RAK-25 PEC / RAC-25 WEC Eco Comfort | Inverter system, area: 25 sq.m. | Inverter split system of premium class; Cooling / heating; Standby heating mode. |
Which air conditioner is better for home is up to the consumer. It is important to study the model range and manufacturers in this product segment in as much detail as possible.
Best design
Air conditioner price range
When choosing an air conditioner for your home, the price can vary significantly depending on the filling with additional functions. You can save a little and buy inexpensive air conditioner in the online store. The trade margin in such outlets is much lower, because they do not have to pay rent for retail space and maintain a large staff of employees. When buying, it is important to choose an original product with the appropriate quality documents.
How much does an air conditioner cost? Let's conduct a short rough price survey.Air conditioners of an affordable budget price category can be selected within the range of up to 25,000 rubles. The average price range with more functionality ranges up to 50,000 rubles. Premium products are offered on the market for up to 100,000 rubles.
Product in the middle price range
How much does it cost to install an air conditioner in an apartment
The quality and service life of the product depends on the correct installation of the air conditioner. The purchase of equipment is a long-term investment in a comfortable stay at home. In this case, savings can negatively affect the functioning process.
The cost of installing an air conditioner in an apartment can be specified at the time of purchase. Often the companies that sell air conditioners are engaged in installation and further warranty service. It is quite convenient - services are in one place.
You can also contact specialized companies that will help you install an air conditioner in your apartment. The price will depend on the complexity of the work.The estimated cost of installing an air conditioner is from 5,000 to 18,000 rubles. The cost of installing a split system is from 13,000 to 21,00 rubles.
Installation
We carry out the installation of an air conditioner in an apartment with our own hands - a step-by-step process
Installation of an air conditioning system is a work of increased complexity. This requires special skills and tools. The subsequent production process completely depends on the correctly performed work.
However, the simplest systems without wiring can be done independently. In the review, we will tell you step by step how to properly install an air conditioner in an apartment with photographs of the main points.
Table 3. Step-by-step instructions for installing the air conditioner
| Photo | Description of work |
|---|---|
 | The mounting of the inner case is carried out under the control of the horizontal level |
 | Recommended dowels for secure fixing |
 | The height to the nearest surface must be at least 7 cm |
 | Mark and cut out with a drill a hole to exit the channel to the outside |
 | Outdoor unit installation using brackets and bolts |
 | Bolts for secure connection with a length of at least 120 mm with a dowel for the 12th drill |
 | Safety precautions during outdoor work |
 | The outdoor unit is fastened using a nut and washer with bolts with a diameter of at least 8 mm |
 | Installation of the outdoor unit on the brackets. The length of the freon line is measured with a margin of at least 10 cm |
 | The pipe is cut, processed and rolled |
 | In the air conditioner, a plug is removed to connect the cable connecting the indoor and outdoor units |
 | Cable connection and assembly in reverse order |
 | Connection of a drain hose with a drainage pipe made of metal-plastic |
 | We connect the previously prepared tubes to the indoor unit of the air conditioner |
 | Preparing the indoor unit case for installation |
 | Vinyl channel insulation |
 | Installing the trunk before attaching the housing |
 | Leveling the indoor unit |
 | Attaching ducts to the outdoor unit |
 | Line vacuum with vacuum manifold and compressor |
 | Using a 6-sided key, the service taps are opened and the system is started |
If you have any questions, the video will guide you through the step-by-step installation of the simplest model.
Video: how to install an air conditioner yourself in an apartment
Common air conditioner problems
As with any appliance, the air conditioner may not perform efficiently as a cooling or heating device. There can be many reasons for this.
If the selection of the product is made correctly, taking into account all the characteristics and the installation was carried out by professional craftsmen, some recommendations may be useful to eliminate the most common problems.
Malfunction # 1. Why does the air conditioner in the apartment blow warm air?
If during a hot period the necessary coolness is not felt and it seems that the operation of the air conditioner does not cool the air, there may be several reasons:
- the filters are clogged, and it's time to carry out maintenance;
- window openings are open;
- additional heating systems work;
- refrigerant leaks;
- defective compressor.
It happens that it is impossible to independently find the reason and understand why the air conditioner in the apartment does not cool well, then you need to contact the service center for warranty repairs.
Filter cleaning
Malfunction # 2. Hthen doif the air conditioner in the apartmentflows
An air conditioner leak appeared in the apartment. The cause may be a blockage in the drain line. This most often occurs when the product is used in cooling mode at a negative outside temperature.
The main reason why the air conditioner is dripping inside the apartment is freezing of condensate and the formation of an ice plug. This can be eliminated by heating the drainage channels to + 5 ° C. If the reason why water flows from the air conditioner into the apartment has not been eliminated, you should wait for the general warming of the outside air, and until that moment do not use the cooling mode.
Eliminate the leak
Malfunction # 3.We clean the air conditioner ourselves
If there is a feeling of ineffective airflow, you can clean the air conditioner in the apartment yourself. First of all, you need to vacuum clean the dust from the air filter. Then you can rinse it off with a soft sponge and warm water. With a large accumulation of dirt, the operation of the air conditioner is significantly reduced, and it is harmful to the respiratory system.
How to clean an air conditioner in an apartment yourself? The video instruction below will help solve this issue. Cleaning with stronger means is shown.
Malfunction # 4. Refrigerant leaks andhow much does it cost to refuel an air conditioner in an apartment
Poor air conditioner performance can be caused by a freon leak. With normalized losses of up to 6.8% of the total volume per year, you can refuel once every 2 years.If the leak is due to a poor-quality installation, you must contact a professional to eliminate the causes of poor-quality installation. The cost of the repair will also depend on the causes of the leak and the amount of work performed. But how much it costs to fill an air conditioner in an apartment depends on the power of the unit. For example, refueling equipment with a capacity of up to 4.5 kW will cost on average 2.5-2.7 thousand rubles, up to 7 kW - 3-3.2 thousand rubles, and over 7 - about 4 thousand rubles.
Filling with freon
Malfunction # 5.Eliminating the smell from the air conditioner in the apartment
Eliminating the unpleasant odor from the air conditioner in the apartment are brought together: it is necessary to thoroughly rinse the elements, then dry them well. To eliminate unpleasant moments, you can disinfect the air conditioner in the apartment. With its help, fungal bacteria will be completely destroyed.
Eliminate odors
How to cool an apartment in the heat without air conditioning - people's advice
There are some home tips on how to cool the air in an apartment without air conditioning:
- windows, especially on the sunny side, must be kept closed; you can additionally use a special film with a reflective effect;
- airing must be done in the early morning or late evening;
- you can turn off radiators in sanitary areas;
- an alternative to an air conditioner in an apartment can be a fan. At a distance of 30 centimeters from it, you can put a large container of water;
- a cold water bath in the morning and an open door will be an artificial air cooler for the apartment
Fan cooling
Conclusion
Times are changing, and purchasing an air conditioner for an apartment becomes not a luxury, but a desire to live in comfortable conditions. Manufacturers release more and more advanced models every year. It is not difficult to choose a temperature climate control system for a certain amount of money. If you adhere to the basic rules when choosing a product, when installing, contact professional specialists and perform periodic maintenance - you can enjoy home comfort for many years, regardless of the season and seasonal temperature shutdown.
If you have any questions or want to share your experience of buying or installing, then you are welcome to join the discussion in the comments.
Comfortable life
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