How the air conditioner or split – system is organized

A cooling device

A cooling device is an electronic appliance designed to regulate the temperature within a room. In order to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of the device, it is crucial to have a basic understanding of its operational principles.

Construction

The air conditioning device can have two possible designs: it can either be in the form of a monoblock or it can have a two-module design. The device operates as a closed system which allows the movement of refrigerant, with the most commonly used refrigerants being freon R-22 and R-410.

Here is a breakdown of the components that make up an air conditioner:

• The compressor is responsible for compressing the refrigerant (Freon) and ensuring its movement to the heat exchanger.
• The condenser, located in the remote unit, cools down the refrigerant by exposing it to a cooled surface in the heat exchanger, causing it to turn into a liquid state.
• The evaporator, located inside the casing, absorbs heat and facilitates the entry of cold air into the room. It also turns the refrigerant into a gas state.
• The pressure regulator, which can be in the form of a capillary tube or a throttle, functions as a way to sharply decrease the pressure and temperature of the Freon.
• The fan generates an air jet that is directed towards the heat exchangers.

Please note that all models of air conditioners share the same fundamental components.

The diagram illustrates the basic operational process of a typical air conditioner.

The diagram illustrates the functioning of an air conditioner when it is operating in cooling mode. It visually demonstrates how heat is absorbed by the refrigerant during evaporation and then released during condensation. This process, known as the vapor-compression refrigeration cycle, involves the absorption of heat energy at one heat exchanger and its release at another.

Freon is introduced into the compressor in the form of a gas, with a negligible pressure of 3-5 atm and a temperature of +10-20˚C. Inside the unit, the gas substance is pressurized to a range of 15-25 atm, while simultaneously increasing the temperature to +70-90˚C.

The compressed refrigerant then moves to the condenser, where it is cooled down and transformed into a liquid by being blown by a fan, releasing heat energy in the process. The air that exits the condenser becomes heated. The coolant leaves the heat exchanger with a temperature 10-20˚ higher than the surrounding air.

In the throttle, which is a spiral-shaped thin copper tube, the temperature and pressure of the Freon decrease according to the principles of physics, causing partial vaporization. After passing through the pressure regulator, a mixture of vapor and liquid fractions of the refrigerant enters the evaporator.

The evaporator converts Freon into a gaseous state by absorbing heat, while the fan pushes air through the evaporator to cool it down, before drawing it into the room. The compressor then re-sucks the gas, which has low temperature and pressure. This process is repeated continuously.

Note! The functionality of an air conditioner relies on the refrigerant’s capacity to absorb and release heat energy as it transitions between the gaseous and liquid states.

Outdoor unit

The outdoor unit features a filter located within its outer casing that houses the construction components. It comes equipped with a protective cover that shields the terminals of the electrical cable connector, and in some units, the connection fittings as well.

At the core of the unit lies the compressor, which serves as the device’s "heart." Air conditioners utilize either piston-type compressors, which are less expensive yet less reliable, or scroll units. These compressors compress the refrigerant and guide its movement along a closed circuit.

The fan is responsible for providing airflow to cool the condenser. Lower-cost models typically use single-speed fans, whereas pricier options offer 2-3 fixed speeds or smooth adjustment capabilities.

A four-way valve is installed in systems that have the capability of both cooling and heating. By switching the valve, the functions of the heat exchanger and condenser are reversed, and the direction of freon flow is changed.

The condenser is a radiator made up of copper tubes with aluminum baffles. It cools and condenses the freon, while simultaneously heating the air.

The control board is only present in inverter devices, cassette units, and duct type units. In most models, the electronics are located in the evaporator housing.

The filter is positioned on the suction side of the compressor. Its purpose is to protect against small particles that may enter the closed system during installation.

Connectors serve as the connection points for the various units.

Evaporator housing

The device operates according to a specific scheme, which includes the presence of an internal unit located inside the building and responsible for maintaining the desired air parameters.

The key components of this design are:

• A front panel designed as a plastic grille. It can be easily removed for maintenance purposes and provides access to the air.
• An evaporator, which serves as a heat exchanger. With the help of a fan, Freon is heated and the air is cooled.
• A coarse filter, in the form of an electrostatic mesh, is responsible for collecting fine debris, animal hair, and large dust particles.
• There are also fine filters, such as catalytic, bactericidal, plasma, and others. These filters are designed to purify the air from pathogenic microorganisms, dust, plant pollen, smoke, and unpleasant odors. Some air conditioner models feature two or more filters.
• The device is equipped with an indicator panel that uses light diodes to display its operating mode and indicate possible malfunctions.
• The evaporator is blown by a fan, which has multiple operating speeds.
• The control board, containing the central microprocessor, is located on the right side of the case.
• The air flow can be directed according to the user’s preference through vertical and horizontal louvers.
• A drip tray is positioned beneath the evaporator to collect condensate, which can be drained using a drain hose.

Please note that regular cleaning and filter replacement, as well as annual maintenance, are necessary for the system to function properly.

A common misconception among consumers is that an air conditioner is solely used for cooling the air during hot weather. However, understanding how an air conditioner works opens up a world of possibilities and a multitude of functions that this device can offer.

Main modes

The cooling function of the unit will activate once the temperature exceeds the predetermined parameters. It has a temperature range of +1-30˚C with a high level of accuracy, down to 1˚C for regular units and 0.5˚C for inverter units.

For heating, two-circuit split-systems with the declared function can be used. In this mode, the air temperature is raised to the desired level, ensuring even distribution throughout the room. This feature is particularly useful during the off-season when central heating is unavailable or in humid summer weather.

The ventilation mode allows the compressor and fan of the remote unit to be turned off. This mode ensures that the air is evenly distributed, preventing heat from accumulating at the ceiling during the winter months.

Dehumidification mode is used to prevent the growth of mold and eliminate musty air in buildings with high humidity, without affecting the temperature.

Filtration involves the use of two types of filters. Coarse filters capture visible particles and should be cleaned every two weeks using a vacuum cleaner. Fine filters, on the other hand, remove smoke, dust, viruses, and bacteria from the air. These filters cannot be cleaned and must be replaced every two to three months.

Additional functions

Humidification is the process of reducing the humidity level below 50%, which can have a negative impact on the condition of the skin, causing dry eyes and throat discomfort. The productivity of these devices is around 400-600 ml/hour.

The achievement of the desired humidity levels can be done through various methods:

• Installing a steam generator;
• Using ultrasonic humidification, where the water supply is replenished by condensate flowing into a drainage system;
• Utilizing a humidifying element built into the outdoor unit, such as the usolite cassette which collects condensate.

Fun fact! The Japanese company Daikin was the pioneer in installing humidifiers in climate control systems.

In addition, split-systems have one or more filters that can capture particles smaller than 2 microns, providing additional cleaning.

• Photocatalytic – comprises an ultraviolet lamp and a titanium oxide-coated base with catalyst properties, which splits organic substances into carbon oxides and water.
• Plasma ionizer, generating a voltage of 4800 V, decomposes odors, microorganisms, and small particles deposited on the filter surface.
• Antibacterial – incorporates natural substances such as cachetins and vassabas.
• Enzyme – contains bio-active substances that eliminate pathogens.
• Silver ion filter – breaks down bacterial shells, annihilating them; the nanosilver element releases ions.
• Electrostatic – creates an electromagnetic field that causes charged particles to settle on the filter’s surface.

By the way, it was Panasonic and Samsung manufacturers who took the lead in mass-producing split-systems with multistage cleaning.

When it comes to air induction, window and duct air conditioners operate with a partial air exchange. Some split-systems come with a flexible duct that allows fresh air to flow into the room, reducing the level of carbon dioxide.

The main principle behind the operation of air conditioners is the use of inverters. Instead of shutting off once the desired parameters are reached, inverters smoothly switch to a lower power mode. This helps prevent sudden temperature changes and reduces power consumption.

When it comes to low temperature operation, winter version models (equipped with heating for drainage and remote units) can heat at temperatures as low as -20 to -25˚C. However, their performance is lower compared to normal operation.

Negative air ionization is crucial for maintaining good health. The absence of these negatively charged particles can lead to a decline in productivity, sluggishness, and fatigue. It is highly advantageous to have an ionizer integrated into the climate control system unit.

Assistance is needed! Ionizers can frequently be found in the product offerings of well-known brands like Panasonic and Mitsubishi.

What is the difference between air conditioner and split-system operation

The Two-module system is a type of air conditioning unit that operates on the same principle as a monoblock, but with some differences in its design.

In a monoblock air conditioner, all the components are housed in a single unit, such as a window or mobile unit. Mobile units are equipped with wheels, allowing for easy movement to different locations. However, one drawback is that the heat dissipation hoses can be quite long when vented outdoors. The most powerful monoblock units are capable of cooling an area of up to 35 square meters.

There are various types of internal blocks:

• Ceiling-mounted units – such as cassette and ducted systems;
• Wall-ceiling units – specifically designed for small rooms with low ceilings;
• Floor-ceiling units – installation of these units helps to avoid direct air flows on individuals.

For apartments, wall-mounted and ducted designs are more suitable, while for public buildings, cassette, duct, and floor-to-ceiling units are preferred

Selection criteria

When considering the arrangement and capabilities of the device, it becomes possible to select the most suitable climatic unit. The question arises: which is better – an air conditioner or a split-system?

• The installation process is easy;
• The device doesn’t require much maintenance;
• Mobility is a key feature;
• The price is more affordable.
• It has a lower power capacity – up to 4 kW;
• The device has a bulky and unattractive appearance;
• It operates less efficiently;
• Noise can reach up to 50 dB during operation;
• It accumulates condensate in the tray, which requires periodic removal;
• Installing window air conditioners reduces natural illumination in the room.

These devices are perfect for creating a comfortable environment during the hot summer months in small spaces such as small apartments or cottages. They are also very easy to transport and require no special skills or time to connect.

Advantages of a split-system:

• Operates with moderate noise levels (up to 30 dB)
• Powerful with a minimum of 7 kW
• Energy efficient with high efficiency
• Features include night mode, temperature and humidity control, and remote control
• Can direct the airflow in the desired direction
• Wide range of dual-module units available to choose from

The indoor unit has an attractive appearance and seamlessly blends into any interior. It offers multiple operational modes, including cooling, heating, drying, enhanced cleaning, and ionization.

The advantages of inverter type climate units are particularly noticeable:

• They operate continuously without shutting down, resulting in consistent temperature levels;
• Power levels are automatically regulated;
• There are minimal inrush currents, leading to a longer lifespan and the ability to be installed in buildings with weak wiring;
• They save 20-25% in energy consumption;
• They operate silently, making them suitable for installation in bedrooms and children’s rooms.
• It is recommended to have a specialist install the equipment, as the cost of the installation can amount to a third of the unit’s price;
• The price is much higher.

Climate systems with two units are purchased for 24-hour operation in summer and during the off-season. Two-module systems are bought in apartments where there are allergic people or frequently ill children.

The operation principle of a split-system air conditioner allows you to create comfortable living conditions at any time of the year. The wide range of functions satisfies all users’ needs.