Climate technology continues to gain popularity among apartment owners and cottages. There was a choice between devices installed inside the premises and mechanisms partially placed outside of them.
A bright representative for indoor installation - mobile floor air conditioning, creating comfort and a healthy microclimate. Find out what to look for when choosing a model.
The content of the article:
- What is good floor air conditioners?
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Basics of choosing a model without duct
- What criteria to pay attention to?
- Features of installation indoors
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All about air conditioners with air duct
- Analysis of technical characteristics
- Features of device connection
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Rating of popular floor models
- 1st place - Ballu
- 2 place - Electrolux
- 3rd place - MDV
- 4th place - Timberk
- 5th place - Bork
- Conclusions and useful video on the topic
What is good floor air conditioners?
Depending on the layout, the size of the apartment, the required power of the device, you are given the opportunity to choose between fixed and mobile devices.
We are interested in the second group, namely, portable floor air conditioners, the installation and connection of which are usually carried out independently.
They belong to the evaporative type devices and consist of the following elements:
- the electric motor working from a network of 220 V;
- fan, the frequency of rotation of the blades of which depends on the amount of air supplied;
- pump, saturating the filters, with drain valves and water supply;
- polymer and cellulose evaporative filters resembling honeycombs and enclosed in plastic frames;
- water tray.
All parts are packaged in a plastic or metal case, a durable material that transfers temperature and humidity drops, does not deform when moving from one place to another.
The conditioner is controlled by selecting the mode / temperature / additional function on the panel located in the upper part of the body. Many models are equipped with remote control for
If you regularly change the filters, the devices qualitatively purify the air in the room, remove dust, contribute to the creation of a healthy microclimate without excessive moisture.
Sometimes a similar unit - salvation for a person suffering from allergies or asthma.
The lack of installation procedures is a big plus, since there is no need to pay professional workers, without whose help you can’t install split-system outdoor units
However, cons also need to be remembered. Among them - a fairly high level of noise, free space for installation and the presence of drafts, which are inevitable with the wrong choice of model.
There are two categories of floor-mounted air conditioners: with air duct and without additional elements. The first should be installed near the window (access is required outside), the second - in any convenient place.
Consider both options to find out their fundamental differences.
Basics of choosing a model without duct
Stylish, comfortable to use, mobile, modern design air-conditioner without duct looks more attractive than a model with a thick hose, and even more so - “industrially” decorated suspended ceiling devices.
For this reason, it is mainly chosen by women. However, quite noticeable underwater pebbles are often hidden behind a beautiful body. We will understand the strengths and weaknesses of the device.
What criteria to pay attention to?
To begin, find out how the mobile floor air conditioner, which is not equipped with a duct, works. It is also called an evaporative type device: warm air passes through a filter system (one of which - a sponge soaked in water) and, interacting with a moist environment, it is cooled to the necessary temperature
Diagram showing the operation of the air conditioner. An important detail of the floor model is a sponge filter that absorbs moisture from the bottom of the tank. The action of the evaporator is more noticeable when the temperature in the room rises to + 25ºС and higher
If you want the air to be cool and fresh, a little air conditioning work is not enough. It is necessary to ensure sufficient air flow, in fact - to equip supply and exhaust ventilation. Then you will forget forever what is stuffiness, stale air, the smell of dust or mold.
If you decide to choose the mobile model, pay attention to the following characteristics:
- power and performance;
- additional functions (heating, drying, multi-level filtration);
- body dimensions;
- control method;
- energy efficiency class.
Power consumption in different modes (cooling and heating) may vary, but it rarely goes beyond 1-2 watts. This means that for a room with an area of 20–25 m, a device with a power of 1–1.5 W is sufficient.
We recommend reading our other article, where we described in detail how to calculate the power of the air conditioner. Read more - go to reference.
The dimensions of mobile devices are about the same - up to 85 cm in height, about 45 cm x 30 cm around the perimeter. Accuracy is necessary when the equipment is designed to be installed in a limited-area room. If there is very little space, it is better to purchase a split system instead of a floor model.
Not all models have additional options. Simple air conditioners are easy to recognize at low cost, the dependency is simple: the more options, the higher the price.
Not all models have a heating mode and a drying mode. Drying is necessary when air humidity is above the norm - this applies to coastal regions. In the middle lane and in the north of Russia, the air is rather dry. But heating is a useful feature, which is usually used in the off-season.
Modern devices have a convenient control panel at the top of the case, many are equipped with a remote control. Using the remote control or buttons, you can adjust the fan speed, select a special mode, set the desired temperature. Many models are equipped with a timer with which you can program the delayed on / off.
Energy efficiency class is an indicator that excites almost everyone. If you want to save money, choose a class A model (the maximum possible - A +++).
In more detail about the choice of floor conditioners without air duct read Further.
Features of installation indoors
At first glance, there should be no special requirements for mounting a compact device. In fact, even a mini air conditioner on wheels, which can be moved from room to room, requires certain conditions.
One of the requirements is a sufficient area of the room, which should correspond to the power of the device: for every 10 m² about 1 watt.
It is necessary to adjust the operation of the exhaust ventilation, otherwise the air conditioner will drive the same stale air - even if partially purified from microorganisms, but not clean or fresh.
The mobile unit requires constant care, which consists in filling a special tank with water. Low water level is usually indicated by an indicator. If the air conditioner is constantly running at maximum speed, water must be added frequently.
However, if you compare a portable model with similar devices equipped with a duct, installing it is much easier. In fact, it is enough to unpack the device and install it on a horizontal surface, in any corner of the room.
Connection and configuration are performed according to the instructions, but take a minimum of time and effort. Suppose for the installation of split systems will require several hours and the help of specialists.
All about air conditioners with air duct
The only external difference of devices with air ducts is the presence of a corrugated pipe of a large diameter, along which warm air is led out of the window. However, the difference concerns not only the design.
Analysis of technical characteristics
From the point of view of production capacity, floor models with air ducts are not much different from more simple analogs: they are also designed for cooling (or heating) rooms with an area of 20-25 m², less often - 30 m². This limitation is due to the size, noise from the compressor and the load on the grid.
Comparative table of cooling capacity and sizes of various types of air conditioners. When choosing an air conditioner, you must also take into account the volume of the room and the average temperature in the room (in a hot period)
The built-in compressor creates noise, the level of which can reduce a comfortable stay in the room. When choosing, you should be guided by the indicator 45 dB, but the values of most modern models, unfortunately, are 50-60 dB.
Dimensions are selected depending on the installation options. For large rooms it is better to take a device with a large case. As a rule, they are multifunctional and have increased productivity.
If you plan to move the device frequently, a compact mini model on wheels will do. Do not forget that each installation location requires a separate duct opening.
Functions for models with a hose are the same as for alternative variants without air ducts - additional humidification, dehumidification, heating, ventilation, more thorough air filtration, etc.
We turn to the point that distinguishes air conditioners with ductwork - to their installation.
Features of device connection
The main guide that should be read before installation is the manufacturer's manual. It lists the requirements for the room and the procedure for installation, as well as diagrams and drawings. And we will examine the question of where and how to connect the duct.
The air duct is a plastic corrugated pipe of a large diameter, one end of which is fixed on the body of the device, the other is displayed on the street
There are three ways to pull the pipe out:
- in the window (window or a specially made hole);
- in the hole in the wall;
- into the ventilation shaft.
Installation in ventilation duct sometimes associated with structural difficulties. The standard length of the duct is no more than 2 m, whereas the distance to the entrance to the mine is usually longer. It is strictly forbidden to make large holes in the walls of high-rise buildings; one solution remains - a window.
When building a private house, you can consider all three options. For a city apartment, the only option that is most acceptable is entering a pipe through the window.
Why is it not enough just to put the hose on the bottom window vent? Hot air from the room will go out the window, mix with the fresh stream and partially return.
The effect will be minimal. In order for the waste air masses not to return through the opening, the window or window opening must be modified.
Usually, the free space is simply covered with a plastic partition, in the center of which a hole is cut out for the diameter of the hose. To protect the hose from friction with plastic, use a smooth short sleeve or silicone (rubber) cuff.
When the mobile device is moved to another room, the hole is covered with a plug. Companies that sell air conditioners usually offer all sorts of accessories - plugs, frames with doors, special panels.
The option of the duct in the window opening. Plastic blocks with a hole under the pipe are inserted into the gap between the window sash, raised up, and the window sill.
If the hole under the duct is in order, it remains to install and connect the air conditioner itself. To do this, completely unpack the case and all the components, then make the assembly strictly according to the instructions.
A 220V network is required for connection and a grounded outlet is desirable. Be sure to read the instructions to determine the condition of the refrigerant. It may be necessary to unscrew a couple of valves so that it spreads to all heat exchangers.
When equipping holes in the wall or in the pane should focus on its diameter. If the shape does not match, part of the exhaust air will return through the gaps, but when squeezed The problem of corrugations increases - it is possible to change the output of air volume, which affects the performance unit.
Rating of popular floor models
For comparison, we consider five models of the average price category, the quality of which is positively evaluated by users.
The ranking includes products of well-known brands MDV, BORK, Timberk, Ballu, Electrolux (from left to right), which can be purchased in specialized stores and large network centers
The advantage of the models is based on technical capabilities and customer reviews.
1st place - Ballu
Concern Ballu (Taiwan) produces various types of climate technology. As a sample, consider a floor model with air duct BPHS-09H. It belongs to the Platinum series, which is considered the most efficient and perfect in terms of operation.
The Ballu case is made in a universal modern design, which allows you to install air conditioning in any style room, from classic to techno
A distinctive feature of the model is a low noise level, which is relevant for all outdoor models - only 42 dB. This is actually not enough, since most of the similar units create a specific rumble in the air treatment process.
Devices from the Platinum series can be safely installed in the bedroom or nursery. In the night mode, the noise emitted by them resembles the rustling of leaves.
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On the back are easily removable panels masking the internal cooling / heating mechanism.
To reach the filter, just open the rear plastic cover with a slight movement.
The strainer requires constant care: it should be washed with clean water once a week.
Two pairs of almost imperceptible wheels provide easy movement on the floor.
Installation of the air duct is made to the rear panel, and not to the side, as in cheaper models.
The corrugation is equipped with a durable plastic tip, which is inserted into the grooves of the hole
Electronic display allows you to select a mode, include additional options, adjust the temperature
Remote control, which complement all modern floor models of air conditioners
Rear panel
Opening the lid
Strainer
Castors for moving
Duct installation
Corrugated pipe
Control block
Remote control
The air conditioner will delight anyone who appreciates increased functionality: it copes with cooling and heating modes, and the intensity can be adjusted. Sleep mode is also useful, as well as Super - if you need to sharply lower the temperature to +18 ° C. The cost of the model is 18 900 rubles.
2 place - Electrolux
The Electrolux EACM-10AG model differs in large dimensions and design.
Instead of the traditional moving louvers for air distribution - a cone-shaped grille, instead of the usual stationary display in the upper part - a removable unit
However, the remaining parts are mostly standard.
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Rear panel of the air conditioner: protective grille, filters, duct hole
The air distribution grille is in an unusual place - in the upper part of the body.
Remote d / u with electronic display that can be mounted on the body
If the remote control is installed in the intended for him place on the body, it turns into a standard control panel
Standard filter from a translucent mesh on the frame that cleans the air in the room
Additional filter Hi Airflow Filter for the prevention of diseases, which increases the degree of air purification
Beautiful color indication in the upper part of the case: blue means cooling
The bright green light of the display strip indicates that the device is operating in ventilation mode.
Back of the air conditioner
Air distribution grille
Remote control
Insert the remote in the case
Synthetic filter
Hi Airflow Filter
Blue color means cooling.
Green color - ventilation mode
Noise level - 49 dB, cooling power - 2930 W, energy efficiency - class A. The cost is 19900 rubles.
3rd place - MDV
The manufacturer is known for models from the Tango series, we consider the MPGi-09ERN1 conditioner.
MPGi-09ERN1 is a multifunctional device with a set of modes. In addition to cooling, drainage, heating and ventilation are available. Pleasant bonus - auto tuning
The design of the case is somewhat different from the traditional rectangular models.
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The rear panel is divided into two compartments with removable covers and has a hole under the duct
In addition to the air duct, the housing is equipped with a tube for draining condensate, there is no internal tank
The filter is not removed separately, but with a protective plastic panel.
The filter has a traditional design: synthetic mesh on a rectangular plastic frame
The black touchpad is large in size and has a beautiful glossy surface.
Using the remote control, it is easy to select the desired mode and program the timer
The shape of the remote allows you to conveniently place it in the palm of your hand and effortlessly press the buttons.
On the bottom panel four secure rollers are fixed to move the air conditioner around the apartment.
Rear panel
Condensate drain pipe
Filter with panel
Filter design
Touch control panel
Remote control
Convenient console configuration
Movies for movement
The power in the heating mode is 2600 W, in the cooling mode it is 1000 W, the noise level is 54 dB, the airflow volume is 6.3 m³ / min. The cost is 23,500 rubles.
4th place - Timberk
The most compact version of the whole five - model Timberk AC TIM 09H P4.
Mobile compact air conditioner has a simple design: white color, a rectangular body, the upper part in the form of a shelf with a mechanical regulator
To install the device requires a small penny near the window.
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When changing modes "cooling / heating" hose must be moved to the other side
Two identical holes for connecting the duct are on both sides
For fastening the rear protective panels used traditional plastic fasteners, caps
To remove the filter, you need to pull it over the edge of the frame from the case
Plastic frame with fine mesh - easy to clean filter for air cleaning
Replacement of the touch screen - electronic-mechanical regulator in the form of a round plastic handle
Instead of four wheels in the corners - two wheels and two supporting elements.
The air conditioner is completed with a set of fittings for installing a corrugated hose in a window.
Corrugated Duct
Holes on opposite sides
Mounts for the back cover
How to get a filter
Plastic frame filter
Electronic mechanical regulator
One pair of wheels
Assembly fittings set
Power cooling / heating - 2600 W, noise level - 21 dB, energy efficiency class - B. The cost is 21,500 rubles.
5th place - Bork
A model that has a high price - Bork Y502.
The rounded corners and silver color of the case emphasize the stylish design, but the filling of the air conditioner is no different from filling similar devices of other brands.
The advantage of a fairly powerful unit - small size.
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To get the filter out of the case, you need to pull the handle, which is equipped with a frame
Standard filter design is a synthetic fiber mesh in a flexible plastic frame.
For movement of the unit on the house 4 castors disguised under the case are provided
To get the filter from the body, you need to remove the decorative ribbed panel
The touch linear adjustment panel is located at the very top of the case.
The actual room mode or the desired temperature settings are configured with a touch of a hand
The console of the usual elongated shape has a panel with buttons and an electronic display
The direction of the air flow can be adjusted using a special device - built-in louvers
Filter in the housing
Appearance of the filter
Location of the rollers
Masking decorative panel
Touch linear panel
Mode setting
Remote control
Integrated blinds
Cooling power - 2600 W, noise level - 50 dB, energy efficiency class - A. Cost - 33600 rubles.
We present videos with useful information to deepen knowledge of mobile floor air conditioners.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
How to make a hole for the duct in the glass:
Review of the TM Carrier model:
As you can see, the range of climatic equipment floor type is large enough. To choose the air conditioner for your conditions, be sure to study the technical characteristics and additional functions, as well as read the installation rules.
You can not make a choice floor air conditioner? Or did you manage to get a new model of air conditioning? Tell us what device you purchased, are you satisfied with its work? Please leave comments in the box below.
