Pros and cons of installing air conditioner in winter

Air conditioning system

Living in a house with an air conditioning system can be truly comfortable, even during the hottest weather. That’s why an increasing number of individuals are considering purchasing one in advance. However, due to the complexity of the installation process and its dependency on weather conditions, many individuals wonder if it is possible to install an air conditioner during the winter season. Typically, people tend to have it installed when the weather is warm. This is more convenient for the installer, as the apartment does not cool down, allowing for immediate system testing. However, there are several reasons to consider installing an air conditioning system during the winter period.

When it is better to install conditioner

Summertime is typically when the sales of such equipment are at their peak. The demand increases, resulting in stores raising their prices. However, air conditioners are still sold quickly during the warm season, and it can often be difficult to find the specific model one is looking for due to limited options. Additionally, the prices for popular models can be inflated, sometimes up to 50%.

For this reason, many people prefer to install their air conditioners during the winter months. As the temperature drops, sales decrease, prompting stores to offer promotions and significant discounts. The winter season also provides a wider selection of models, allowing customers to find a suitable option in terms of cost and functionality.

Assistance is needed! Each year, manufacturers of home appliances release updated models and new products. These releases typically occur in February-March, making it the optimal time to purchase a modern split system.

Those who are wondering when to install an air conditioner may take into consideration additional benefits of winter installation:

• During this time, technicians are less busy and can accommodate the client’s schedule, coming at any convenient time, without the need to wait for weeks for their availability;
• The installation of the system will be done with higher quality;
• The cost of the technician’s services will be lower;
• It will be easier to find a free day for installation;
• Modern split systems have the capability to provide heating during winter, which is very convenient in cold weather or when the regular heating is turned off.

The need for installing such a system in winter may arise during major repairs in the house or when a person moves into a new apartment. It is also commonly done in new buildings.

Disadvantages of winter installation

Installing an air conditioner for the winter can be both profitable and convenient, as well as time-efficient. However, there are certain considerations to keep in mind to ensure a successful installation. Therefore, it is recommended to thoroughly evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of winter air conditioner installation.

One major drawback is the inability to properly set up and test the system. Cooling functionality can only be checked when the temperature outside is above +20˚C. If the temperature drops below +15˚C, the compressor may malfunction.

It is important to note that another disadvantage is the increased rigidity and brittleness of wires in freezing temperatures.

When winter comes and you need to install an air conditioner, it is advisable to make sure that both the external and internal units are properly installed. The connecting pipes should also be pulled through. Additionally, it is important to schedule the system’s check, adjustment, and start-up for the warmer season.

Nuances of installation

There are numerous intricacies involved in this type of work. In scenarios of low temperatures, the potential for Freon leakage increases and microcracks may develop in the refrigeration circuit pipes. These issues can lead to the rapid malfunctioning of the device.



It is crucial to have professionals handle the installation of the air conditioner in sub-zero temperatures. They will consider all the nuances and conduct a thorough inspection of the system’s tightness. While most models can endure temperatures as low as minus 5˚, it is advisable to carry out all the necessary tasks when the frost levels are not below 1-2˚, and for test runs, the temperature should exceed plus 1˚.

Issues may occur if the distance between the internal and external units, also known as the route, exceeds 15 meters. Should this happen, it will be necessary to perform soldering, which is subject to temperature limitations.

Checking the tightness of the system

After the installation of the air conditioner on both the exterior and interior of the house is completed, it is crucial to prepare the system for activation. The initial step is to assess the integrity of the circuit. Any leaks must be avoided at all costs, as they can cause the air conditioner to malfunction quickly. Conducting a pressure test is imperative in order to ensure the pipes are properly connected, soldered, and the valves are tightly sealed.

This comprehensive examination is performed using liquid nitrogen. It is vital that the temperature of the nitrogen in the container matches the outdoor temperature. If warm gas is allowed to flow through the pipes, it will rapidly cool once outside. This sudden temperature drop might appear as a leak due to the subsequent pressure decrease.

Experts utilize specialized equipment and employ heating techniques to conduct a comprehensive inspection, as cold temperatures frequently lead to the formation of microcracks. In the event of a Freon leak, the equipment will inevitably malfunction.

Vacuuming

Vacuuming is an essential part of system installation and testing. It involves using a specialized pump to remove air from the refrigeration circuit. This process not only eliminates any air but also gets rid of moisture and acids. Vacuuming is a necessary step before conducting a test run because it ensures that the refrigerant will flow smoothly through the pipes.

It is crucial to note that at extremely low temperatures, it may not be feasible to completely eliminate moisture from the refrigeration circuit. This limitation can result in a faster breakdown of the split system.

If there is still air present in the circuit, the temperature and pressure will rise during operation, leading to overheating and reduced performance. Additionally, if there is moisture present, it can freeze and create ice crystals that will block the tubes and cause the valves to fail, resulting in overheating. Furthermore, when water mixes with the refrigerant, it forms acids that can corrode all parts of the system, potentially leading to a breakdown of the air conditioner in the future.

It is important to determine whether vacuumization is necessary during the winter months. In low temperatures, the process becomes more challenging and time-consuming. Powerful pumps need to be used, and the process should take at least 2 hours. One drawback of performing vacuumization in subzero temperatures is that the system needs to be heated in order for the liquid to boil, which may not be possible in cold conditions.

Refueling

The air conditioner should be filled with Freon prior to starting it up. It is capable of being used in temperatures as low as -5°C. However, the temperature of the cylinder must be above 0°C during refilling. It is therefore recommended to leave it on the windowsill inside the room. If the outdoor unit is far from the window, it will need to be heated.

Most split systems aren’t designed to work in cold temperatures. Lubricating oils are often added to the Freon, which can become thicker in freezing temperatures, leading to compressor wear. That’s why air conditioner refilling in winter is only done if it has the "winter-summer" function.

Note! When refilling in the winter, the air conditioner system will absorb more Freon than necessary.

Winter start-up of the air conditioner

Nowadays, there are split systems available for purchase that are designed to function properly in low external temperatures. These models are primarily manufactured in Japan with the harsh weather conditions of Norway and Canada in mind. These devices possess larger heat exchangers, heated outdoor units, and special compressor firmware.

The market offers such systems from renowned brands like Daikin, Toshiba, Mitsubishi, and others. These systems can both cool and heat a room even when the outside temperature drops to -25˚C. Some of them can even be used for hot water supply. However, it should be noted that the price for these systems is quite high.

However, it is also possible to adapt a regular air conditioner for this purpose by installing a winterizing device. Without such a device, the performance of the air conditioner will decrease by more than 50%, leading to compressor overheating.

One can buy such a kit for a price starting from 5 thousand rubles. It is compatible with almost all models and enables the air conditioner to function at temperatures as low as -10-15˚.

The winter start device consists of several essential components:

• A heating unit for the crankcase – the most crucial part for the proper functioning of the device in cold temperatures. When the air conditioner is turned off, the refrigerant accumulates in the coldest areas, namely in the outdoor unit. Upon the next activation, it starts to boil and may enter the compressor. This could result in a hydraulic shock and breakdown. Heating is also necessary to reduce the viscosity of the oil.
• It is crucial to heat the drain tube to prevent the fluid inside from freezing and obstructing the opening. When the air conditioner operates in any mode, condensation will naturally occur and needs to be drained out. In the event that the drain tube is obstructed, this liquid will overflow into the room.
• The condensing pressure regulating unit is essential to prevent pressure loss and decreased performance. This component helps prevent the outdoor unit from freezing and the system from experiencing rapid wear. It accomplishes this by reducing the airflow through the condenser. Such a regulator is installed on the outdoor unit.

Upon installation, it is important to perform a check on the system. The air conditioner should be turned on to cooling and heating modes for 3-4 minutes each. It should be blowing air that is approximately 10˚ higher or lower than the room temperature.

The most common use of this function is in urban environments. It is recommended to use such a device for room heating during the off-season, when the central heating is not yet switched on or has already been turned off and the weather is cold.

Many people often wonder whether it is necessary to cover the outdoor unit in winter. If a winter kit is installed, it will have a heating element with a ribbon cable. Without it, the unit cannot be started at low temperatures.

If ice accumulates on the unit, the fan blades can get caught in the ice and become jammed. It is important not to cover the unit while it is operating. If the air conditioner is not going to be used, there is no need to decide whether to use a protective device or insulate parts of the device.

Once one comprehends the idiosyncrasies of such systems, they will understand the feasibility of installing an air conditioner during winter months. Conducting installation during this season can be advantageous, yet it also presents drawbacks. However, by carefully considering all the nuances and adhering to the instructions, one can seamlessly carry out a winter installation.