Summer is right around the corner. And in Australia, that means temperatures that can really push the mercury in your old thermometer.
You’ve decided that this year – things are going to be different.
No more coming home to sweltering heat. No more sweaty, sleepless nights.
You’re getting an air conditioning system. But what kind?
WHAT IS A SPLIT SYSTEM AIR CONDITIONER?
As the name suggests, a split system air conditioner is comprised of two components. An indoor unit and an outdoor unit.
A split system air conditioner is perfect for homes or rooms that can’t easily accommodate window units. And because they don’t require bulky ductwork, they’re a convenient choice. Because no ductwork means no major installation projects.
They’re also much quieter than window units. And keep a lower profile.
HOW DOES A SPLIT SYSTEM AIR CONDITIONER WORK?
The indoor and outdoor components of a split system air conditioner are connected via series of high pressure gas pipes and electrical wires. Not an ducted system, like a centralised air conditioning setup uses.
That’s another benefit of the split system. Extensive ducting can result in small losses due to heat exchange within the system, particularly if the roof cavity isn’t insulated..
This means a split system air conditioner is not only efficient with its performance. But it also keeps your energy costs down because there’s less waste. Which is better for the environment, too.
A split system air conditioner works by first pumping a gas refrigerant through the unit’s cooling circuit.
The compressor pumps this refrigerant into the condenser unit. And as the gas moves through condenser, it cools down and vaporizes into a liquid.
The liquid refrigerant is then pushed at high pressure through one side of the evaporator; expanding and changing back from a liquid into a gas. As this gas rapidly expands, its temperature drops dramatically. This creates a significant temperature differential within the evaporator.
As this cooled gas refrigerant moves through the evaporator, it absorbs the heat inside your home and carries it outside and into the inlet port of your split system air conditioner’s compressor. And the cycle begins again.
This enables a split system air conditioner to distribute cooled air with precision. Another way they help to keep energy costs down.
HOW EASY IS IT TO INSTALL?
It’s worth noting, that a split system air conditioner will usually cost you more upfront than a window unit. But often less to operate over time.
And it will require professional installation. Nothing nearly as involved as a ducted system requires. Only a small hole in the wall for connecting the pipes and wiring. No need for costly ductwork means less in labour costs; quicker and more affordable installation.
The outdoor component of a split system is fitted on, or near, the wall of room or space that you’re keen to keep cool. This is where the compressor, condenser coil and control modules are housed..
The indoor unit, consisting of a evaporator coil, blower and air filter, and is then mounted to the wall in the room of your choosing.
Because the compressor and fan for the condenser are located remotely outside with a split system air conditioner, so are the primary sources of noise.
With window units, all that noise is front and centre.
THE EASE OF A SPLIT SYSTEM AIR CONDITIONER
Another perk of going the split system route is how easy the unit is to operate and keep maintained.
Most systems come with basic remote control that’s easy to use. They can also include, as an optional extra, a wall mounted thermostat which makes temperature control easy and convenient to manage.
The design of both the indoor and outdoor components also lend themselves to uncomplicated servicing.
The indoor unit typically has washable filters that only require periodic cleaning. Cleaning of the filter can be performed by you, the owner, however, more comprehensive servicing should be carried out by a licensed refrigeration technician.
Similarly, the outdoor units are designed for easy access. Which makes maintenance and repair a simple, and usually cheaper, process.
THE SPLIT SYSTEM’S ATTRACTIVE DESIGN
There’s no way around it. Window units can be a little unpleasing to the eye.
The sleek look of a split system wall mounted indoor unit allows it to blend in better with your room’s decor.
On top of that, it still affords you the enjoyment of having a window in the first place. You shouldn’t have to compromise on lovely summer views just to combat sizzling summer temperatures.
The outside condenser unit can also be dressed up or hidden, so long as there is still a steady supply of free-flowing air.
REVERSE CYCLE
If you live in an area that experiences both white hot summer heat and frigid winter conditions, a reverse cycle split system air conditioner might be the move to make.
Reverse cycle is a form of refrigerated air conditioning that provides both heating and cooling from the same unit.
A reverse cycle air conditioner makes use of a compressor that requires the refrigerant to travel through the system’s chambers before flowing to the condenser. Once the refrigerant is compressed, it begins to warm.
Once heated to the desired temperature, it will flow through and begin to warm the inside of your home; a solution that provides you with the best of both worlds.
OTHER ADVANTAGES
There are a number of other advantages in choosing to install a split system air conditioning system in your home.
Because split systems are powered by electricity, they can be subsidised by solar power. With the help of solar panels, you can save even more money on the operation of your system.
Some split system air conditioner models can also purify the air. These units that feature air purification help prevent dust and allergens from circulating throughout your home.
When it comes to the installation of an air conditioning system in your home, you have several options. But few are as efficient, cost effective, quiet and reliable as a split system air conditioner.
Easy to install, affordable to operate and rarely requiring maintenance, a quality split system air conditioner can provide you and your family with comfortable living conditions, year round, for years to come.