Specifications and types of window air conditioners

Modern office space can not be imagined without air conditioning - it is he who in many ways contributes to improving the efficiency of staff. Yes, and in private homes window is a real salvation from the summer heat. If there is no dispute over the significance of these devices, then the choice of the optimal model is ambiguous. Many experts believe that window air conditioners are a relic of the past.

Window varieties of air conditioners are among the very first representatives of climatic equipment. They appeared on the market back in the 30s of the last century and for several decades they have been consistently held in the lead positions in their segment.

And the fact that the air conditioner stays true to its usual location (in the window) only adds to its uniqueness, and to persuade is convenient and familiar. After all, we are waiting for the saving coolness in the summer from open windows, only if there is an air conditioner built into them, then you will not even need to open the frame.

Window models are characterized by exceptionally high performance parameters:

• They differ in price availability - air conditioners are much cheaper than split systems, so even a buyer with a limited budget can afford them.
• Simplicity of installation is an important plus. Installation of window air conditioners is simple and straightforward. Any home craftsman without experience of similar work using the most common tools can make it.

• Air conditioners are easy to maintain, they do not require special conditions of use, they can be easily and quickly fixed.However, the need for any type of repair, as a rule, arises only a few years after the installation is in operation.
• The design does not contain freon or its amount is minimal, so the product is highly environmentally friendly and safe for human life and health.
• Any air conditioner has a remote control, it allows you to operate the device with the greatest comfort, moreover, many modern models have automatic temperature control systems.
• Another undoubted advantage is the ability to select the desired fan speed. As a rule, the most technologically advanced versions of them three - high, medium and low.
• Window air conditioners are equipped with a timer that allows you to plan work in a certain mode, for example, increasing air circulation in a certain time period or lowering the temperature by the designated hour, etc.

Among the drawbacks of window systems are the following:

• High noise level - in fairness, we note that in most cases this applies to air conditioners of the old generation, and the way to deal with unpleasant sounds is quite simple - you should install the device on the lining of rubber material.
• Air conditioners are large and occupy a considerable part of the window. This leads to a general decrease in the degree of insolation and the level of natural illumination, while the features of the model are such that the choice of mounting location is not possible.
• The air conditioner fixed in the window in the frosty winter period allows cold air to pass through, and to prevent this from happening, it is necessary to remove the device every fall, equip it with a place for safe storage, and mount it in the spring again.

To date, the shops offer a wide selection of different options for climate technology, while the price of window air conditioners is several times lower than the wall options. This often surprises buyers who cannot choose the model that suits them best.

In fact, window air conditioners can have a wide variety of performance characteristics, therefore the choice should be made on the basis of the following parameters:

• power - it should be sufficient for the available area of ​​the cooled room;
• compliance with dimensions devices for the size of the window and the aperture in particular, otherwise the installation of the structure is impossible;

• sound effect levels during operation - this parameter varies significantly in different models and it is necessary to check this feature even in the store, since then this claim will not be accepted, since it is not a malfunction;
• number optiond - for example, the ability not only to cool the room in summer, but also to heat, some models of the new generation are equipped with a timer, etc .;
• design and aesthetic appearance.

Let us dwell on the options for the use of various models of windows.

The main factor that influences the decision to purchase a particular air conditioner model is its cold performance. For household models, this figure varies from 1.5 to 8.5 kW, approximately the required power can be calculated on the basis of the standard: 1 kW kW 1 m2. (with a ceiling height of 3 m). Moreover, if there is a large amount of glazing in the room or windows face the south side, then you should take the device with a power reserve of 10-20%.

Models with a piston compressor emit the most noise, while the rotary compressor is much quieter. The level of adverse sound effects is perceptibly reduced if the compressor is mounted on vibration supports — in this case, the noise is not transmitted to the window frame housing.

Another source of constant noise is the fan.therefore, preference should be given to models in which this element is made of plastic and equipped with low-noise electromotors.

For a comfortable air distribution around the room are responsible automatic blinds. Traditionally, they distribute air flow in a horizontal direction, but there are options with multilateral deviation of the jet, as well as devices in which both horizontal and vertical blinds operate.

Depending on the control, electronic and electromechanical models are distinguished. In the first case, buttons are used to set the temperature, in the second - a thermostat. At their core, these systems are practically the same if the air conditioner is low from the floor.But if he is on top, then it is worth buying a model with electronic control and amplify it with a special remote control.

The presence, or, conversely, the absence of the above, has a significant impact on the cost of the product: models are simpler to have a lower price, and those whose performance characteristics are higher, respectively, are more expensive.

It's obvious that more expensive installations differ as much as possible complete set and readiness for use. After purchasing such equipment, the only thing that is required is to mount it to the window and enjoy the cool air. In addition, branded models can not only cool the room, but also provide fresh air from the street.

Expensive equipment can be operated in an intensive mode, which can not be said about cheaper versions. They are suitable for use in moderate mode, and the set of additional functions they have is extremely scarce.

Window-type climatic devices appeared almost a century ago, but their basic principle of operation has hardly changed since then. The case of a window air conditioner is a monoblock that is mounted in a window opening, or it happens very rarely in a specially prepared hole in the wall.

The first air conditioners removed condensate on the street., now such models are also used quite often, but the modern industry has launched the release of new, more technologically equipped devices that have a built-in capacity for collecting moisture. Rotating fan blades capture moisture from the air, and then dissipate through the body of the air conditioner, this contributes to the effective removal of heat into the external environment.

Depending on the capacity of the installation, different versions of air conditioners can cool the room from 10 to 60 m2, while the working temperature range can vary from 18 to 45 degrees Celsius.The design contributes to bringing the humidity to its standard value - 30-35%, this forms a favorable and healthy indoor climate.

The most modern models of window air conditioners can not only cool the air, but also heat itHowever, this option has significant limitations - the external air temperature should be at least -3 degrees, therefore, it cannot be used as a heater in winter.

The only exceptions are models equipped with electric heaters - they are suitable for intensive heating in conditions of low temperatures outside.

It’s a well-known fact that window air conditioners are much cheaper than high-tech split systems. However, the possibilities of saving are not limited to purchase - you can reduce costs again if you try to install a cooling device yourself. To begin with, you should carefully study the installation manual, it must be compiled in Russian. If not, this means that the equipment has not been certified in Russia.

Further, in the window (of course, if it is not a glass unit), you should equip the opening, which should be 5-10 mm wider than the dimensions of the air conditioner. At the same time, it is very important to choose the right place - it is optimal if it is a plot that does not get dirt and precipitation and which is located in the shadow zone.

The window can be hung higher, but not necessarily directly under the ceiling - there must be a gap of 1.5-2 cm between it and the top panel of the device, otherwise the probability of a reverse suction of cooled air is high, which can significantly reduce the work of the entire system. The closest obstacle to the air entering the air conditioner from the street (for example, the wall of a neighboring house) must be at least 50 cm away from the intake grille.

To install the air conditioner with your own hands you will need a frame with a slope of steel profile, it is mounted in the opening. We embed the device in it so that its inner edge is higher than the outer one. If necessary, a visor is mounted above the air conditioner, which will protect it from precipitation and direct sunlight.

Depending on the model, the air conditioners either have a power plug or are connected to the AC network through a special automatic device. It is better if all the main work on the connection will be performed by a qualified electrician.

According to consumer reviews, window conditioners of the following manufacturers differ in the highest quality, work efficiency and ergonomics.

• Fujitsu general (Japan) is a company that has been successfully producing air conditioners of all kinds for many years, it is known for its high-tech developments, which many other companies are introducing into production.
• Hitachi (Japan) - another Japanese company that has its manufacturing facilities in Japan, Malaysia, Taiwan, Brazil, Spain and China. It is famous not only for the production, but also for the creation of the newest and most advanced technological systems.

• Panasonic (Japan) - concern that does not need advertising. One of its name is already synonymous with quality and practicality. This is the absolute leader in the number of monoblocks produced - the total volume of production of products reaches 4 million per year.
• Sanyo (Japan) - the world's largest manufacturer, whose plants are located in 9 countries, is characterized by exceptionally high quality climate technology and has a wide product line, allowing you to select products within any budget.

• Toshiba (Japan) - successfully makes the most various modifications of monoblocks, based on its own technological innovations.
• Delonghi (Italy) - by Asian standards, this is a relatively small production, its annual volume does not exceed 400 thousand products,However, the products of this company are of great diversity, therefore, is the world leader in the production of individual versions of air conditioners.

• LG (South Korea) - this is one of the world's oldest manufacturers of air conditioners, this concern produces more than 6 million products a year, including monoblocks.
• Samsung (South Korea) - another name known in the market of climate technology, successfully produces air conditioners of all kinds, including window. However, this brand is most often used by unscrupulous manufacturers for the manufacture of fakes. So, for example, the African market is literally overflowing with counterfeit, impersonating this brand.

In order for window conditioners to serve faithfully for many years, it is necessary to adhere to certain rules for its operation:

• It is not allowed to shut off the device from the space of the room with thick curtains, since in this case the device will be limited to the space between the monoblock and the curtains.
• The air conditioner should not be placed near heat sources (batteries, heaters, or a fireplace), and it is not recommended to install it near sources of pollution and near workplaces.

• Extreme temperatures should not be set for operation, as the air conditioner doesn’t give any immediate effect - the mechanism of the device’s functioning is based on the gradual achievement of the desired temperature indices. The recommended difference between external and internal temperature should not exceed 7 degrees.
• Filters should be cleaned regularly and the housing cleaned.
• In case of any breakdowns in work, you should contact the professionals from a specialized service center. Diagnosis and repair should be carried out only by specialists.

In the next video you will find the installation of a window air conditioner with your own hands.