How and which one is better to choose an air conditioner for a house and apartment, rating of models

How to choose the right air conditioners for an apartment from the many assortments of product varieties will help you find out a list of basic requirements. The equipment helps to create comfortable conditions for all family members on hot summer days. Each type of air conditioner differs in the method of attachment, size, structure and additional functions. You should choose equipment from a well-known brand and a trusted manufacturer. The quality is evidenced by the presence of a certificate.

Types of home air conditioners

Experts divide a wide variety of air conditioners into two large groups. There are single-unit devices (monoblock) and those consisting of several working units (split systems).

Packaged room units include window and mobile versions of air conditioners. There is a much wider choice among split systems. The main difference between each type is the peculiarity of the installation work.

The benefits of multiblock devices include the following features:

• sufficient power;
• low background noise;
• there are many options for placing the indoor unit in the room;
• a wide range of design ideas.

Disadvantages include:

• the complexity of the installation process;
• the air conditioner is fixed in one place, so there is no way to transport it to a new place;
• the outdoor unit, which is located on the street, is not protected from hooligans.

Considering the existing advantages and disadvantages, it will be possible to decide which air conditioners are suitable for a particular room. It is better to opt for split systems.

Window

Window air conditioners are currently losing their popularity due to the presence of a long list of disadvantages. The advantages of this type of device include a low price.

Installing a technique is not easy. It is necessary to violate the integrity of the window in order to make the necessary opening or order a new double-glazed window of special dimensions.

After installation of an air conditioner in the window opening will have to spend money and time to fill in the gaps. The space between the appliance body and the window must be sealed.

Another unpleasant drawback is that air conditioners of this type are quite noisy.

Mobile

Mobile air conditioners are also characterized by more disadvantages than advantages. The device can be easily and quickly moved to another convenient location. But no further than the duct installed for hot air to the street.

The disadvantages of this type of equipment include the following points:

• The device is relatively large and heavy; a corrugated pipe comes out of it. Plenty of space is prepared for equipment.
• Since the compressor is located in the room, noise will be emitted during operation.
• It is important to monitor the accumulation of evaporated water in a special container so that it does not overflow.

A portable type air conditioner is easy to take with you on a long stay outside the city, but for installation in a city apartment it is not the best option.

Split systems

Split systems consist of two units, but there are equipment models with additional integrated units:

• The first block, installed outside the house, contains the entire cooling system and compressor.
• An indoor unit remains in the house, which is necessary to receive and distribute the cooled air.This unit has an integrated monitoring and control system.
• The blocks are interconnected by pipes.

wall

In a domestic apartment, in most cases, wall-mounted models are installed in a horizontal position. The shape of the case is rectangular, any color can be selected to fit the interior of the room.

Channel type

It makes no sense to install a channel air conditioner in residential apartments with a small area. These types of equipment are suitable for large rooms (well suited for a private house). The indoor unit is hidden. Air ducts are laid from the block to different parts of the house.

Duct-type equipment is characterized by high power and consumes a lot of energy. It will take a lot of time and effort to install an air conditioner. This work should be done by professionals.

Cassette Type

Cassette equipment with an indoor unit is suitable for those who have stretch ceilings in the apartment. It becomes a great addition to any interior, because after installation only the lattice-like decorative outer panel is visible. Drafts spread to every corner of the apartment.

Floor-ceiling type

Floor-to-ceiling air conditioners can be installed at any suitable place on the ceiling, on the wall closest to the ceiling or the floor.

Column division systems

It makes no sense to install a column-type system in a residential apartment. The device is more suitable for spacious rooms. The cooled air is evenly distributed over long distances. Systems split into columns have ultra-high power, which will not justify the cost of electricity.

Multi-split system

For apartments with high ceilings and a large area, a multi-split system is suitable.In an outer block, there are a few built-in blocks that have separate parameters.

The air conditioner is easy to operate, convenient, but the cost is much higher than other types. Installation of the system takes a lot of time and effort, requires communications throughout the room.

What to look for when choosing air conditioners

To choose the right model of equipment for the home, you should consider the following points:

• first of all, they are determined with the type of construction;
• Power;
• decide if additional heating or air filtration is needed;
• it is better to find a model that consumes a little energy.

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It is also important to consider what place the selected model occupies in the rating of manufacturers.

Power calculation

When choosing a device, power should be taken into account. This should be enough to cool the air in the room. The calculation is made according to the following formula: Qv + Qm + Qt = Qр.

• Qv is the power required to cool the air in a room of a given volume. To obtain the desired number, the volume (V) of the room must be multiplied by the coefficient (q) of sunshine (the amount of daylight entering the room). The number q in the formula changes. It all depends on the degree of illumination. If the sun's rays rarely penetrate the room, then the coefficient will be equal to 32 W / m³. The southern part of the room receives a lot of light, so the coefficient will be 42 W/m³.
• Qm is the thermal power generated by a person, which is taken into account in compensation for the heat generated by the device. A person at rest will allocate 105 watts, with active movements - from 135 to 155 watts. The value is multiplied by the number of people living in the apartment.
• Qt is the heat given off by household appliances in operation, which compensates for the heat generated by the equipment. For example, a television puts out 200 watts. The values ​​obtained are added together.

After making the right calculations, it will be possible to choose the most suitable model.

How to choose by area and volume (table)

When choosing an air conditioner, the power of the device is correlated with the height of the ceilings, the total area of ​​​​the room, the number of people living, as well as the size and number of windows.

The table contains indicators that will help you quickly decide on the right choice of product.

For ease of calculation, take 1 kW of power, which is spent on cooling the air, for every 10 m². Mr. Required area of ​​​​the room divided by 10. As a result, you get an approximate number that is suitable for choosing the power of the air conditioner.

How to take into account the characteristics of a part, part

When choosing an air conditioner, it is important to take into account the characteristics of the room in which you plan to install the device. The difference will be in installation and functionality.

For apartment

To choose a good air conditioner for an apartment, it is important to consider the following parameters:

• living area and ceiling height;
• the number of people living in the apartment;
• the number of household appliances generating heat;
• size and position of window openings;
• stage.

It is worth choosing models that do not require complex installation. The device should be characterized by its energy efficiency, silence and compactness.

For the House

For private houses, any type of air conditioner is suitable.A simple and practical option is to choose a split system. A ducted air conditioner is also considered practical.

When choosing a cooling device for your home, you should pay attention to the following features of the device:

• sufficient power;
• energetic efficiency;
• the best solution is to choose an air conditioner with an Inverter compressor;
• if the house is built in a green area, choose a model not with a filter, but with the function of air intake from the outside.

The best option is to plan and install the air conditioning system at the initial stage of building a house.

Determining the Installation Location

Manufacturers produce various models of cooling equipment that can be installed on a wall, window, ceiling, floor. The location should be selected based on the amount of free space in the room and the requirements of the device.

Rules for determining the installation location of the air conditioner:

• the airflow should not be directed towards where a person often stands;
• the device should not be hung in the corners of the apartment, there should be no obstacles in the way of the air flow;
• do not install the device too close to the wall;
• do not hang the device above sockets and electrical appliances.

The correct location of the air conditioner will not cause problems during operation.

Maximum communication length

When placing devices with a split system, it is desirable that the communication distance between the working blocks does not exceed three meters. If the distance is greater, the installation cost increases and the power of the device decreases.

The choice of communication duration depends on the choice of the installation site and the type of equipment model.The maximum allowed values ​​are digits up to 18 meters. But in the conditions of an apartment it is inconvenient to go such a long way.

In addition, communication that is too short can lead to problems. The freon pipes that connect the blocks are considered important parts of the refrigeration system. An incomplete cold path will lead to breakdowns and a decrease in the power of the device.

Noise level

A good air conditioner should not make annoying noise during operation. Sound level is expressed in decibels. The permissible threshold established by SanPiN is 35 decibels.

Multi-unit air conditioners have even lower noise levels, less than 30 decibels. Operation of the device is virtually silent.

Energy efficiency class

All cooling technologies have a certain energy efficiency, the values ​​of which are divided into classes. The highest rating is denoted by the letter A and the lowest rating is denoted by the letter G.

For example, class A air conditioners are characterized by low energy consumption (EER greater than 3.2). Class G is the least efficient (EER greater than 2.2).

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Energy efficiency ratio

The power of the air conditioner and the amount of energy consumed are not two interdependent criteria. The ratio of these two parameters indicates a useful or inefficient conversion of electrical energy into heat.

To assess the efficiency of the device, two values ​​are used:

• EER - this value is equal to the ratio of the cooling power of the device to the electricity consumed (for household appliances, the optimal values ​​​​are the limits from 2.4 to 3.6);
• COP is a number equal to the ratio of heat generated to electricity consumed (values ​​range from 2.6 to 4.1).

The more such indicators, the more efficiently and economically the air conditioner works.

Compressor or inverter

In air conditioners with a conventional compressor, the air is cooled to the set level, after which the device is turned off. As soon as the air temperature rises, the sensors emit a signal and the device switches on.

In inverter-type air conditioners, the power is automatically reduced at certain times. The device works continuously, but it consumes less energy. In addition, the absence of sharp start jumps will not spoil the mechanism of the device.

Basic Modes

Each modern air conditioner is equipped with a whole range of necessary useful functions. They provide comfort and convenience in using the device.

Heating

Most modern air conditioners are designed to cool and heat air. The device will perfectly help to survive the off-season coolness in the house, but it will not be able to completely warm the air. If the air temperature outside the window is below -15 degrees, switching the device to heating mode can lead to its failure.

Dehumidification

The dehumidification function helps to maintain an optimal humidity level in the room. This function is suitable for those who have high humidity in the apartment.

Ventilation

The fan is provided in all models of air conditioners. It helps distribute drafts throughout the room. In ventilation mode, the device operates without cooling or heating the air. It simply stimulates the movement of air currents. The feature is useful when you need to disperse stagnant air without changing the temperature.

Air purification

Almost all devices have a filter that can trap dust and dirt particles. Some models come with fine filters that can trap pollen, cigarette smoke, viruses, and bacteria. The filters are changed every 4 months.

Selection by additional features and functions

It is convenient and simple to operate air conditioners with additional functions and modes. Some models have too many programs. Therefore, in order to choose the right product, you need to think about the need for each of them.

UD

The remote control is used to control all functions and modes of the air conditioner. There is an infrared or wired remote control. With it, you can remotely set the operating mode of the device, for example, program the desired air temperature or set a timer for a week.

Ionization

Thanks to the ionization function, beneficial particles enter the air, which has a beneficial effect on human health. The feeling of being in a forest or near a body of water is created.

The ionizer is located inside the indoor unit. The anions distributed in the air are obtained as a result of the decomposition of water vapor into negative and positive ions.

Anions are able to destroy the membrane of bacteria and viruses, eliminate unpleasant odors, including tobacco smoke, and remove dangerous chemical compounds from the air.

oxygen saturation

Oxygen saturation of air occurs in different patterns in different ways. Some devices increase the oxygen content by removing a certain amount of nitrogen from the air. Others separate nitrogen and oxygen during operation.

The separation of the air into its constituent particles occurs thanks to the filter grid installed in the external unit, through which the air passes.Oxygen penetrates well through the barrier, much less nitrogen penetrates. Oxygenated air enters the host unit and is distributed throughout the room.

Automatic Modes

This mode allows the device itself to determine when it is best to start or finish work. The air conditioner independently analyzes the temperature regime in the room, then starts the heating or cooling program.

Standby

An air conditioner operating in a similar mode creates all the conditions for a quiet rest at night. The decibel level is reduced to 19 decibels by reducing the fan speed. The device gradually cools the air temperature by a few degrees, and in the morning it warms up again to the required level.

3D flow function

These air conditioners allow you to direct the air in different directions. In some models, the air can be controlled remotely using the remote control.

Timer

The timer can be used to easily set the on or off times of the provided functions. With this program, when you return from work, you can enjoy fresh air in the heat or, on the contrary, warm air in the cold.

turbo function

This program allows you to quickly heat up or cool down the air in the room. When the mode is activated, the air conditioner begins to operate at full capacity until the air warms or cools to the desired temperature.

Self-diagnosis

With this function, it is easy to determine the reason why the device does not work or a separate program does not turn on. All problem information is displayed on the remote control screen.

Automatic restart

In the event of a power failure, the air conditioner memorizes the previously set operating modes. After the restoration of voltage in the network, work resumes.

Design

The design of air conditioners is varied. Models differ in shape, panel colors and sizes. Most often, the device is installed in a room with an already selected and well-established design.

It is important to remember that the larger the size of the fan and heat exchanger, the more efficient the operation of the device. Therefore, it is better to refuse to choose air conditioners with a small indoor unit.

The classic color that suits any interior is white. The most common outfit is white. But there are also more elaborate solutions. In this case, the color of the panel will be black, gray or metallic. Such conditioners are very impressive.

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Which air conditioners are the best?

Having decided on the main necessary parameters and functions, they begin to select a model. It is better to buy household appliances from well-known brands and manufacturers that have proven themselves only from the positive side. The leaders among all companies are Daikin, Mitsubishi and General Fujitsu.

Ranking of the best air conditioners of 2019

The list of quality residential air conditioners includes the following models:

• Daikin FTXB20C will provide quiet operation, a lot of additional features that will create a comfortable stay in the room and convenient operation.
• The Toshiba RAS-07 device makes almost no noise during operation, quickly cools the air, and the build quality is excellent.
• The LG S09SWC inverter-type wall unit will delight you with its quiet operation, rapid air cooling, air purifying and ionizing filters.
• The air conditioner of the well-known brand Elecrtolux EACS-07HG / N3 is distinguished by a long service life, build quality and the presence of the necessary basic and additional functions.
• Panasonic CS-YW7MKD operates quietly, cleans the air of pathogens and dust, and also has many other programs to ensure comfort.
• Hisense AS-07 provides air supply from multiple directions, the device consumes little power, operates quietly, purifies the air.

This is not the whole list of best amenities that will make your stay in the bedroom look good.

Evaluation of window monoblocks

General climate GCW-05CM:

• perfectly cools the air;
• easy to assemble;
• affordable price;
• can be removed at any time if the device is not needed.

General climate GCW-09HRN1:

• modern look;
• ease of use;
• control of a large number of functions using the remote control.

Rating of popular window monoblocks include: Gree GJC09AA-E3MNC1A, LG W05LG, General Climate GCW-12HR.

The best portable air conditioners

Electrolux N3 compact floor-standing air conditioner:

• differs in the function of dehumidification and air ventilation;
• does not emit any sound during operation;
• energy efficiency belongs to class A;
• practical timer;
• switch to night mode;
• integrated self-diagnosis system.

Zanussi ZACM-12MS/N1:

• compact and elegant design;
• condensate filling indicator;
• automatic blinds;
• built-in timer.

Aeronik AP-09C:

• many functions are provided;
• ease of management;
• mobility;
• there is no condensation, so there is no need to control the process of moisture accumulation.

It is worth noting such models as: Zanussi ZACM-07 MP / N1, Ballu BPAC-09 CM, Royal Clima RM-R26CN-E, Hyundai H-AP2-07C-UI002.

TOP best multi-split systems

Aeronik ASO:

• built-in timer;
• switch to night mode;
• diagnostic system;
• air filtration;
• air heating and cooling are available.

The rating also includes the following top models: Royal Clima RC-P29HN, Mitsubishi SCM100ZM-S, Ballu BSW-07HN1.

Assessment of split systems for allergy sufferers

Hisense AS-10HR4SYDTG5:

• built-in air purifying filters;
• automatic blinds;
• many additional programs;
• self-diagnosis and self-cleaning system.

Toshiba RAS-10SKVP2-E:

• the integrated filter contains particles that destroy the envelope of allergens;
• ionization and air purification;
• ozone self-cleaning function;
• high quality assembly.

Mitsubishi Electric MSZ-FH25VE / MUZ-FH25VE:

• the filter cleans the air;
• profitability of use;
• low noise threshold emitted;
• air warming function;
• long life expectancy.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries SRK-25ZM-S:

• silence;
• quickly copes with the heat in the room;
• heats the air as needed;
• the timer is used to program functions for the whole week.

The best air conditioners for the bedroom

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries SRK20ZS-S:

• silence;
• the unit will provide fresh, clean air;
• profitability;
• timer that allows you to create a program for the week.

LG P07SP:

• quickly withstands hot air;
• automatic cleaning;
• self-diagnosis;
• quality assurance for many years.

Daikin FTXG20L:

• ultra-low noise threshold during operation;
• unusual design;
• the possibility of switching to night mode;
• air purification;
• comfortable air cooling.

Toshiba RAS-07EKV-EE:

• high power;
• working type inverter;
• energy efficiency is class A;
• high quality assembly.

The best universal split systems

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries SRK25ZMX-S:

• profitability;
• silent work;
• quickly cools the air;
• weekly timer;
• the presence of filters helps purify the air of dust.

Mitsubishi Electric MSZ-DM25VA:

• affordable price category;
• timer for turning on the device;
• power saving mode;
• air ionization;
• low noise.

Toshiba RAS-10EKV-EE:

• efficient energy consumption;
• high adjustable power;
• low background noise;
• air heating;
• self-cleaning system.

Hisense AS-10UW4SVETS:

• beautiful case design;
• low background noise;
• ionization and air purification;
• efficient energy consumption;
• heating;
• long life expectancy.

The best cheap split systems for the home

Budget options include models such as:

• Electrolux N3Midea;
• Aeronik 07HS1;
• Panasonic YW7;
• Hitachi 08AH1;
• Hisense AS-07HR;
• General climate

The quality of such devices is high, but there are no additional programs, and their service life is short.

Rating of VIP-class air conditioners

VIP class aircraft include models from well-known manufacturers. They are equipped with all the necessary functions. The price of such air conditioners is much higher than other models:

• Panasonic HE7QKD;
• Mitsubishi Heavy 20ZMX;
• Daikin FTXG20L;
• Toshiba;
• Fujitsu;
• Transporter.

Air conditioners by country of origin

The quality and popularity of refrigeration equipment depends on the country of origin.

Japan

Japanese models of air conditioners are distinguished by reliable quality and long service life: Panasonic, Daikin, Hitachi, Toshiba, Mitsubishi.

Korea

Good air conditioners are represented by Korean manufacturers: LG, Hyundai, Daewoo, Samsung.

American and European brands

Models from these countries have a high level of quality, unusual design and versatility: Argo, Airwell, DeLonghi, McQuay, Bosch, Supra, Ariston, Arte.

Chinese brands of air conditioners

A large number of air conditioners are produced in China every year.Brands such as Gree, Toyo, Haier, Lessar, ChunLan are considered reliable.

Russian OEM brands

In Russia, the devices are known under such brands as Aeronik, Evgo, Energiya, Pioneer, Polaris, Rolsen, MB. Russian manufacturers most often buy basic components from China.

International OEM brands

Models of the following brands are considered top sellers: Neoclima, Beko, Zanussi, Supra, Electrolux.

Overview of home air conditioners

For home, choose models from a well-known company: Mitsubishi, LG, Fujitsu, Daikin, Toshiba.