What are column air conditioners, their advantages, disadvantages and device
Column air conditioners are a special type of climatic technology designed to provide comfortable conditions in large rooms. The type of installation of the split system is floor-standing, the equipment is easy to install, the indoor unit does not need to be fixed on the wall. Information about the air conditioner device, its pros and cons will help you make the right choice.
Column split systems have a floor type of installation
The climatic split system consists of two blocks: indoor and outdoor. The device and principle of operation of the air conditioner does not differ from household wall models. The outdoor unit includes:
a compressor that circulates the refrigerant;
a condenser that converts gas to liquid;
a fan cooling the elements of the device;
capillary tube.
The design of the indoor unit resembles a cabinet or a column. On the front of the unit there are movable blinds and a control display. Inside the case are located:
an evaporator, a device that converts a liquid refrigerant into a gaseous state;
a fan that lowers the temperature of the evaporator;
air filter;
protection block;
control board.
Modern models are equipped with an LCD display, a remote control, a self-diagnosis system, and a timer.
Advantages and disadvantages
Column-type air conditioning systems are commercial (semi-industrial) equipment. Generating power from 7 to 21 kW, they are able to cool the air in a room up to 140 square meters. m. The main advantages of technology:
It is possible to choose a column split system without disturbing the design of the room
Versatility. In addition to the main cooling function, it works for space heating, dehumidification, ventilation and air purification.
Optimal ratio of energy consumption and equipment power in cooling / heating mode.
A wide range of products. Allows you to select a model that fits into the interior of the room. Designers offer installations of various shapes and colors.
Low noise level. Air conditioners are equipped with several modes of operation.
Easy to install and maintain. Installation of the system does not require the use of walls and ceilings, does not violate the architectural features of historical buildings.
Wide range of applications - from large halls of residential premises to cinemas, airport halls, catering establishments.
disadvantages
large dimensions;
high price;
the danger of a cold when close to the flow of cold air.
Characteristics
Column-type climatic equipment is installed in rooms where, due to technical problems or planning, it is impossible to use ceiling or wall air conditioners. Its feature is the creation of a powerful upward air flow. Cold masses are distributed indoors by natural convention. A high-performance floor unit for a short period provides the room with the specified parameters of temperature, humidity and air purity. Automatic shutters distribute the conditioned air evenly throughout the room.
Installation of column-type equipment is recommended in commercial and public areas with high traffic:
cafes and restaurants;
hotels;
offices;
libraries;
museums and exhibition halls;
hospitals.
The column air conditioner creates a powerful flow of cold air. It is not recommended to install the equipment in residential premises with an area smaller than that specified in the documentation.
Installation of a column split system
The principle of operation of the split system
The indoor unit is installed indoors, the outdoor unit is mounted on the outer wall or roof of the building. Installation of the column air conditioner is carried out without rigid fastening. The selected model is installed on the floor in a convenient place. A line is laid between the two units for the circulation of refrigerant (freon). Communication copper pipes are hidden in the walls. Condensate drainage is provided by a drainage unit. The final stage of installation is connecting to the power grid and commissioning.
When choosing a place for a split system, two rules must be observed:
The indoor unit is placed on a flat and solid surface.
Free space is provided around the air conditioner for air circulation.
Column-type devices are easy to maintain, floor mounting facilitates access to all units of equipment. The equipment requires filter replacement after 300 hours of operation.
Tips for choosing climate technology
A competent choice of a column floor air conditioner will provide the required temperature and humidity conditions without overpaying for consumed energy. When searching for a model, the main parameters of the technique are taken into account:
Power. The manufacturer indicates two characteristic values - for cooling and heating. The performance of the equipment is selected depending on the area of the room and the presence of additional heat sources (the sunny side, working computers, athletes exercising on simulators).
The noise level affects the comfort of the people in the room. An acceptable value is 45-55 dB.
Power consumption is a parameter showing the power consumption. The purchase of a device with a low rate will save on operating costs.
Additional functions - automatic mode switching, delayed switching on, deodorizing filters, air dehumidification increase the comfort of use and the cost of the model.
The dimensions of the indoor unit are taken into account when choosing an installation location.
Column air conditioners cost
The cost of climatic equipment depends on its characteristics and the popularity of the manufacturer. Well-known brands are more expensive, but they work flawlessly. The power of the model directly affects the price. For small rooms, it makes no sense to purchase a unit with a cold capacity of more than 7-8 kW.
Leading manufacturers and prices of split systems:
Ballu - the company offers column-type air conditioning units at affordable prices: 51-125 thousand rubles. Serviced area - 70-140 sq. m.
Mitsubishi Heavy is an expensive Japanese-made product. Differs in inverter type of compressor, works for cooling and heating. There is a function of air purification, self-diagnosis, intelligent defrosting. The cost of models is from 110 to 370 thousand rubles.
Daikini - column split systems from the Czech Republic. Equipped with an inverter, they provide high cooling power with low energy consumption. The equipment is designed to service 70-135 sq. m, the price is 250-386 thousand rubles.
Gree is a Chinese brand that offers equipment with the function of retaining small dust particles in the filter, heating, intelligent defrosting of the outdoor unit. The price of models is 97-215 thousand rubles.
Climate technology has become an integral part of commercial premises. The column-type floor-standing split system has the necessary power reserve and a set of functions to create comfortable conditions.
