Split system air conditioners are a type of configuration of portable air conditioners. This type of air conditioner is designed to be movable and can be positioned in order to cool a specific part of a house. Another feature of this kind of air conditioner is that it does not require any type or form of permanent installation. The details below include the characteristics of this model that you should check out in case you intend to get one for your home.
Characteristics of Split System Air Conditioners
Though it is categorized as a portable air conditioner, split configuration ACs will almost always require a hose to be used as exhaust to vent out the excess hot air. The name of this model basically describes the fact that the evaporator and the compressor are on two separate units.
Both the air conditioner’s compressor and its matching evaporator are designed to be contained in two separate packages. These two units are connected using a pair of refrigerant pipes. The said pipes are detachable and are most likely easy to plug back on.
Pros and Cons
Of course, there are both advantages and disadvantages to split system air conditioners. Split configuration units are characteristically more superior to mono portable units. It doesn’t really matter whether you have a dual hosed or singe hosed model. Another advantage is that the space this model of AC occupies inside the home is greatly reduced. This is due to the fact that the compressor is usually placed outside of the home or building. Since the evaporator is also located outside, you also won’t need to bother with draining any water.
The drawback of this model of portable Air Conditioners is that you have to find a place for your external unit. Some folks prefer using balconies as a location to place the external parts of a split system air conditioner. If you do not have space that is readily available, this will basically mean that you will have to make that space first before you can install this type of AC. Another drawback is that you don’t have the option to exchange outdoor with indoor air.
Check the Energy Rating
With the current environmental problems the world is having, you certainly don’t want to be one of those who add to the energy crisis. You should compare the energy ratings of all ACs that fit your requirements and fall under your budget, and get the one that is most efficient. This also translates to quieter performance from your unit.
Output Capacity
An important consideration you should also make when choosing a split system air conditioner is the output capacity. This capacity basically refers to how much heat your air conditioning unit can take away and cool. This capacity is affected by several constraints. Some of the factors and constraints that affect an air conditioning unit’s capacity include your house’s design and the climate of the area you live in.
The insulation levels and orientation of your home have an effect on the overall capacity and performance of your split type air conditioning unit. In order to get an accurate assessment, you should get a professional to make an estimate of the total cooling and heating load for your home before you actually buy one.
An Informed Choice
These are the important things you should consider before you buy a split system air conditioner. Not only should you pay attention to the capacity of a unit, but, you should also check the available space you have at home and the unit’s energy rating among other factors.