How many times in the summer, when the heat comes, or in late autumn, when the apartment is uncomfortable without heating, do we all remember that we were going to install an air conditioner, but our hands never got around? Agree, summer will come after spring anyway, and if the issue is not resolved, then again we will languish from the heat. No ventilation or fans, and in winter heaters won't save us.
We must nevertheless decide and tackle the issue of choosing an air conditioner with a whole list of convenient functions that will make our life more comfortable. We will help you navigate the sea of various climatic equipment, show you where you can put the air conditioner, and how to decide on the optimal place for installation.
The content of the article:
- Optimal air exchange in the apartment
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General information about air conditioners
- Standard equipment classification
- Guidelines for choosing a climate unit
- Split system functions
- Wall mounted air conditioner parameters
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Traditional block placement
- Location of the outside of the system
- The optimal place for the internal component
- Air conditioning options in a private house
- Conclusions and useful video on the topic
Optimal air exchange in the apartment
According to statistics, a person spends in enclosed spaces at work or at home from 16 hours a day, so the issue of ventilation and air renewal is so important.
In order for a healthy and comfortable microclimate to reign in the house, several steps should be followed:
- check the operation of the exhaust system
- use supply air devices if necessary
- install air conditioner
The correct functioning of the exhaust ducts can be checked in an elementary way using a strip of paper, when during normal operation, the air flow draws it to the ventilation grill. reverse thrust.
The experiment with a sheet of paper should be done twice: with an open and a closed window. In such a simple way, you can find out the cause of poor draft, weak air flow into the room or problems with the ventilation duct.
To eliminate the problem, it is advisable to insert a fan with a non-return valve. The next step will be the installation of supply valves in the plastic windows. In the case of old-style wooden frames, the issue of air flow is resolved spontaneously, without valves.
And finally, the final step. For complete comfort, i.e. getting cool in heat and warm in frost, climatic equipment is installed (having previously decided the issue of choosing the model and location of the air conditioner, since it depends on the correct placement efficiency).
General information about air conditioners
To maintain the optimal comfortable temperature in the house (usually from 18 degrees to 25 degrees), it is necessary that both climate and ventilation systems work harmoniously and complement each other. To correctly assess the needs of the premises and make a rational choice, understanding the mechanism of action and the characteristics of climatic equipment will help.
Standard equipment classification
By design, air conditioners are divided into two classes:
- monoblock (represent a system, all components of which are immersed in a common housing);
- split systems (include two interacting blocks: external and internal).
The first class includes floor-standing mobile models and window air conditioners. They are distinguished by their simplified design, extremely simple installation and low price. Compact window units are not very popular with us due to noisy work and inconvenient installation, they darken the room and spoil the view of the window.
Mobile air conditioners, small but heavy (up to 50 kg unit with a hose), due to their mobility is in demand among summer residents, however, the disadvantages are the small cooling area and high noise level.
Among the various floor-standing mobile air conditioners, there are models without a corrugated hose; they are much quieter, more mobile and safer (the hose, heating up to 60 degrees, can burn).
In contrast to the above-mentioned options, split systems are characterized by small dimensions and low noise level.
Duct and cassette air conditioners mounted in space behind false ceilings and false walls. Column and precision require floor mounting, these types of air conditioners are semi-industrial systems and are used for installation in technological rooms, museums and shops, restaurants and hotels.
Wall split systems are designed for rooms from 15 to 90 sq. meters, they are considered the best air conditioners for furnishing an apartment.
Guidelines for choosing a climate unit
In order for the air conditioner to function for a long time and properly with maximum efficiency, the necessary conditions must be met:
- choose a model that is suitable for the parameters of this room;
- professionally install the device;
- use the unit in accordance with the rules of operation, carry out regular service.
During air conditioner selection it is necessary to take into account such characteristics as the total area of the premises and the number of people in it. It is necessary to take into account the orientation to the cardinal points and the presence of windows with shutters, as well as the power of the heat-generating equipment.
For cooling 10 sq. meters on average, 1 kW is required, therefore, when calculating the required refrigerating capacity, you need to divide the area of the room by 10; in addition to this main parameter, the rest of the dimensions also affect the value.
To find out which air conditioner is better to choose, you need to consider the main factors of choice: type of construction (split system or monoblock), use (semi-industrial or domestic) and unit class (budget, medium or elite)
For a room located on the south side, with panoramic glazing and a lot of equipment (computer, refrigerator, TV, etc.), the calculated value of optimal cooling is supposed to increase by 20%. An air conditioner of insufficient power, even with correct operation, will not cope with its functions.
Split system functions
The most necessary and demanded functions of a split system, for which the buyer installs climatic equipment, are heating, cooling and ventilation, dehumidification and air purification.
For the proper use of the space heating function, the “all-season unit” add-on should be used, which is responsible for warming up the crankcase and reducing the risk of compressor wear.
In ventilation mode, it is convenient to have several speeds. Then, without changes in temperature, it is desirable to adjust the force of circulation of stagnant air masses. When the humidity level rises, the dehumidification mode will help out, which allows you to stabilize the indicator and prevent its negative impact.
Also useful are additional options such as a timer, air flow direction control and night mode, the use of which will add comfort to the operation of the air conditioner.
The main task of the coarse filter is to prevent contamination of the air conditioner, the higher its quality, the longer the system's life. In many models, sensors, indicators and forced shutdown of equipment have been introduced to control clogging.
However, one of the most important and necessary functions is to clean the air before it is supplied to the room. This happens during the filtration process using a standard coarse filter (plastic mesh that needs regular inspection), which retains dirt, large dust particles and animal hair.
They also use fine filters that retain particles of a few microns. Some models are complemented by coal, which removes unpleasant odors, and electrostatic, which eliminate various allergens, fine dust and pollen.
Wall mounted air conditioner parameters
Filters, 3- or 4-speed fan, horizontal louvers and condensate pan are required to complete all of the above functions, are components of the indoor unit of a wall-type split system (or simply "household air conditioner ”).
Wall type of air conditioner is considered the most common and deservedly popular for a private house and apartment, with a capacity of 2 - 7 kW it cools small rooms from 15 to 75 sq. m.
For comfort when using the air conditioner, accessories are produced: wired and wireless remote controls, drainage pumps for collecting condensate and deflectors (protective screens). Screens dissipate cold air flow, they are made of transparent plastic for ceiling, wall models and ventilation grilles.
Small dimensions (height from 20 to 30 cm, depth from 16 to 20 cm and width within 0.7-1.6 m) complete with simple installation and easy operation have become the main advantages of this model. The advantage is the low noise level achieved by installing the compressor from the street side.
When working for space heating, the external unit acts as an evaporator, and the internal unit acts as a condenser. In the case of cooling mode, each block performs the opposite function.
Traditional block placement
The outdoor and indoor units of the wall-mounted air conditioner communicate with each other using a freon line. These are copper tubes with circulating freon (R22, R410a or R32). The control and power cables are also being laid, as well as a plastic tube for condensate discharge to the street.
The optimal length of the line between the blocks should be no more than 5 m (more than others this applies to inverter air conditioners), in cases of a larger value, refueling with freon will be required. This limitation affects the choice of the location of the climate system, where to correctly install the outdoor and indoor units of the air conditioner in the house.
The simplest “standard” installation implies placing both units in the available places with a length of communications no more than five meters (PVC, flex and pipe), and a drainage tube - three meters. The thickness of the brick wall between the blocks should not exceed 0.8 m, and the walls of concrete 0.6 m.
The most convenient way to locate a wall-mounted air conditioner is considered to be a "sandwich", when both blocks are separated only by the thickness of the wall, however, the length of the route is less than 3 meters is strongly discouraged. In this case, without any shortening, the excess line must be wrapped in a ring behind the outdoor unit.
The inner part of the system is reinforced in the upper part of the wall near the window, the outer part with the compressor is under the window, the distance between them is directly proportional to the decrease in the unit's capacity.
Based on this, the smaller this gap, the more efficiently the air conditioner functions. Therefore, it is advisable to place the indoor unit on the same wall as the outside one. However, each manufacturer calculates a personal maximum between blocks.
Location of the outside of the system
The external block of a wall-mounted air conditioner is one of the most important parts of a split system. It includes the following components: compressor, fan and condenser, control board and four-way valve. In order for all these devices to interact efficiently and perform their functions as efficiently as possible, it is necessary to take the issue of unit placement seriously.
After selection and purchase, each consumer is faced with the task of how and where it is possible to hang or put outdoor unit of air conditioneras the location and conditions are very important.
In the selection process, the following parameters must be taken into account:
- device weight (usually in the range of 20-70 kg);
- wall material and the possibility of air blowing;
- unimpeded access for maintenance;
- protection from environmental factors.
Installation of the outdoor unit is most often carried out on the outside of the building, while it is necessary to check the strength of the wall section (fastening to a dilapidated surface is prohibited). The quality of fastening is also strictly controlled in the presence of a layer of insulating materials (anchors and brackets are used with a large margin of safety).
When installing the outdoor unit, close attention should be paid to the level of fixation, compliance with the accuracy of horizontal and vertical lines, as a prerequisite for the correct operation of the compressor.
For free air circulation and inadmissibility of overheating, the unit is placed at a distance of at least 15 cm from the wall and 20-30 cm to the nearest obstacle, preferably on the shady side. Installation under a window with an opening sash is made for ease of maintenance.
In rare cases, when installing on upper floors, the outdoor unit is placed on the roof or on an un-glazed balcony (provided there is sufficient airflow).
The optimal place for the internal component
The place of installation of the indoor unit should be determined taking into account the rules for placing the air conditioner in the house (room) and the features of the functioning of the equipment.
Therefore, when choosing the optimal placement of the unit, it is necessary to ensure compliance with the requirements:
- distances to outdoor unit, ceiling, walls, etc. obstacles;
- the presence of space to heat sources;
- free circulation of the air flow of the system;
- the probability of the constant presence of a person in the risk zone.
Air intake from the room occurs through the upper part of the device, in this regard, there should be a space to the ceiling and side surfaces of at least 10-15 cm. Installation over horizontal surfaces (shelf, chest of drawers or wardrobe) is not recommended if the distance is less than 0.7 - 1.0 meters.
Due to the fact that the temperature sensors of the unit react to nearby air flows, it is impossible to mount the air conditioner next to radiators, boiler, gas stove and other heat resources, as this will cause the air conditioner to work continuously for cooling and will lead to rapid wear and tear.
And the main problem in finding the location of climate technology is the least likelihood of a negative impact on human health. Each room of the apartment has individual requirements, however, the basic must be fulfilled everywhere. condition - the cold stream should not fall on places where they are located for a long time household.
The highest concentration of cooled air is observed at a distance of 2-3 meters from the device, then the cold dissipates.
In the bedroom, the air directed from the air conditioner should not hit the heads or backs of the guests. If there is not enough space, for the possibility of adjustment, you should choose a model with multidirectional air flows.
Based on this, in the bedroom, the air conditioner is installed on the wall at the head of the bed, to the side of the bed. In the living room, the optimal place will not allow the sofa and the dining table to get into the three-meter risk zone. In the children's room, it is recommended to turn on the air conditioner during the absence of the child.
In the kitchen, with an abundance of equipment (radiator, refrigerator, stove), window air conditioners and corner compact models of the device are often chosen. However, due to unstable humidity with temperature, the placement of climatic equipment that is not adapted to such conditions is prohibited by manufacturers. The problem is usually solved by installing a fan in the hood.
Air conditioning options in a private house
When planning and calculating the air conditioning system in a private house, they are usually guided by the same rules as in other rooms - the size of the area, sources of excessive heat, the number of residents people, etc.
But when building a new house, there is a chance to thoroughly think over the location of both furniture and system devices. ventilation and air conditioning so that the monitoring sensors are correctly placed and do not misinform climate system.
When choosing a model of equipment for a private house, much more options are considered (many types of air conditioners are difficult to install in ordinary apartment buildings).
Therefore, in addition to standard split systems, channel and cassette air conditionersusing the loft or attic. They use universal ceiling - floor or multi systems (for country houses from 150 sq. m.VRF and VRV multi-zone systems).
Installation of an outdoor unit in a country house is often carried out on a blind area, on a veranda or on a flat roof, in this case it is better to choose inverter air conditioners with a low noise level.
And finally, several proven decoration methods will help you choose where to install the air conditioner correctly so that it looks harmonious in the apartment:
- decoration of the air conditioner;
- disguise behind a decorative screen;
- placement in a niche or on an open shelf.
If there is no niche in the wall, if there is no screen or shelf in the right tone, simple alternative design options are possible.
The decorative painting method helps to achieve a harmonious combination of the air conditioner and the interior. The drawing is varnished, does not fade, and retains its original appearance for a long time.
Photographic printing is the pasting of the facade of the air conditioner with individual stickers to match the surrounding environment. The master paints the body of the air conditioner with acrylic paints or a special spray gun. In any case, the air conditioner will be in harmony with the design of the room.
The principle of installing an air conditioner is generally simple, but the details and little things are important, they will help the equipment to work more efficiently, and we feel more comfortable.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
Tips for buying an air conditioner, how to buy a quality unit and not overpay for it?
Device, pros and cons of a mobile floor-standing air conditioner:
Detailed instructions for switching the air conditioner to heat:
We all want our home to breathe freshly and easily, which means that we need to try to choose a climate technology that will fit into the home ventilation system and work with it in tandem. And the main thing will be not only the model of the equipment, but also where this air conditioner is installed.
Everyone will install an air conditioner in the house, based on their own tastes, design and room capabilities, but a few of the most necessary strict rules will have to be adhered to.
If the information in the article was useful to you or gave you an interesting idea, share your ideas in the comments.
