What is better to choose an air conditioner – split-system or monoblock

To stay comfortable during the sweltering summer months, it’s imperative that your home has the correct air conditioning system. With so many options on the market, split-systems and monoblocks are frequently the deciding factors. You can choose wisely if you are aware of the differences between each type and its benefits and drawbacks.

An outdoor unit that houses the compressor and condenser and an indoor unit that distributes cool air throughout the house make up a split-system air conditioner. Because the loud parts of this arrangement are outside, it is possible to operate more quietly indoors. Split systems are a popular option for many homeowners due to their reputation for energy efficiency and capacity to cool larger areas.

Conversely, monoblock air conditioners are standalone devices that house every part in a single housing. Since there is no requirement for intricate ductwork or multiple units, they are simpler to install. Monoblocks are generally more compact, making them ideal for apartments or smaller spaces with restricted area. However, because of their integrated design, they may be louder and less energy-efficient than split systems.

A split system or a monoblock should be chosen based on your needs, your budget, and the size of the area you wish to cool. Consider things like installation requirements, noise level, and energy efficiency when choosing the option that best fits your lifestyle and house. Making the appropriate decision will allow you to live in a cool, cozy space all summer long.

Aspect	Split-system
Installation	Requires professional installation, split into indoor and outdoor units.
Flexibility	Allows cooling multiple rooms with multiple indoor units connected to one outdoor unit.
Noise	Typically quieter as the noisy compressor is located outdoors.
Aesthetics	Sleeker indoor design with less visible components.
Efficiency	Generally more energy-efficient for larger spaces or multiple rooms.

Selection algorithm

It is preferable to select room air conditioning/heating installation in this order:

1. Determine one or more rooms where it is planned to reduce the temperature in summer – bedroom, living room, children"s room.
2. Find out the exact dimensions of the room and calculate the required capacity of the unit for cold. We finally decide where to install the unit.
3. We go to the online store, study the equipment of our power segment, choose the type of air conditioner that will fit perfectly into the interior.
4. Match the functions of the model we like with our needs. For example, for a bedroom or a child"s room you need a low-noise technique.
5. Calculate the budget of the event according to the formula total cost = price of the household appliance + additional materials + installation. If the figure exceeds the planned costs, reduce the functions, choose a different type of unit or look for a cheaper option.

Note: Depending on the cooler type, installation costs will vary. For instance, in order to install and connect the split-system units, you will need electrical cable, copper pipes that have been insulated, and a skilled worker who is willing to charge for their services. You can start the mobile unit on your own.

Let’s calculate the air conditioner’s cooling and heating capacity, review the models in brief, and then display the manufacturers’ ratings.

Accurate calculation of capacity

In order to determine the unit’s necessary cooling capacity, respond to the following inquiries to obtain raw data for the calculations:

1. On which side of the building is the cooled room – sunny, shaded?
2. What is the room area and ceiling height?
3. How many occupants are constantly in the room (more than 2 hours during the day)?
4. Number of TVs, computers, power consumption of the refrigerator, if it falls within the zone of operation of the climate unit.
5. Air exchange rate for natural ventilation.

Justification. The aforementioned factors impact the level of air heating. Heat-producing devices and people emit too much heat, while ventilation brings hot air from the street.

For the purpose of calculating power on the area of the room while accounting for all variables, we provide an online calculator:

Important nuance. The kitchen is frequently not divided by a door leaf from the hallway and other rooms in apartments and rural cottages. In these situations, the kitchen’s measurements are also considered.

Please take note that the online calculator displays the results of the calculation in both kilowatts and thousands of BTUs for convenience. Choose the unit with the necessary specifications from the standard range of capacities in accordance with the table (the result is rounded upwards) based on the computed cooling capacity:

Types of residential air conditioners

Every cooling unit operates on the same principle as a refrigerating machine: Freon transfers heat energy from one medium to another by evaporating and condensing twice in two heat exchangers. Because of this, air conditioners are categorized into different types based on additional features like installation technique, design, and mode of operation.

The two types of domestic air conditioning systems (ACS) are determined by the operating algorithm:

1. Conventional chillers operating in "on/off" mode (start/stop). When the room temperature reaches the level set by the user, the compressor of the unit stops, the freon movement stops. Then the room warms up by 2-3 degrees, the compressor starts again.
2. In inverter models, the compressor functions continuously. Receiving the signals from the temperature sensors, the controller gives commands to the electronic board of the inverter – the motor control unit. The latter changes the current frequency, the number of rotor revolutions, respectively, the compressor capacity.

The advantages and disadvantages of each mode are listed below, followed by advice on how to choose the best air conditioner for your home based on particular operating circumstances.

Three different kinds of residential SCVs are identified based on how they are installed and executed:

• split-system with two separate units – indoor and outdoor;
• monobloc window unit;
• mobile air conditioner, also a monoblock.

Devices known as monoblocks have all of their components housed inside a single housing; they don’t have any external freon lines. There are two varieties of monoblocks as well: "inverters" and "start/stop." Let’s examine each option in isolation, outlining benefits and drawbacks.

We recommend that you visit the Crimean online climate equipment store "Klondike" to become acquainted with the current varieties of air conditioners. You can also get the real prices there and pick up the required model right away, ranging from cheap split systems to coolers from well-known brands like Mitsubishi, Gree, and others.

Pros and cons of split-systems

"Splits" differ significantly from other chillers in that the ACS is divided into two units:

1. The external module houses bulky and noisy equipment – compressor, axial fan, external heat exchanger-condenser, refrigerant dryer tank.
2. The internal unit includes a radiator-evaporator, control board, fan motor with a low-noise impeller, filters, louvers.
3. The units are connected by two freon tubes of different diameters and an electrical cable. The maximum length of communications is 7 meters.

Note: The functional components of split-systems are not all listed here. Click on the highlighted link to learn more about the gadget and how this common household appliance works.

The only real drawback to "splits" is the independent equipment layout, which makes installing the air conditioner more difficult. Hanging the units is not a problem; the key is to hermetically connect the lines after pumping out the air. Read about how to install a split system correctly in a different publication.

With confidence, separate SCV hold 90% of the market because of these benefits:

• the small indoor unit does not take up any space in the apartment;
• noisy equipment is moved outside together with a bulky external module;
• extended range of capacities (2…8.2 kW) compared to monoblocs;
• possibility to choose among several configurations of indoor modules.

The final point needs to be made clear. The internal portion of the "split" in the standard version is fastened to the wall in the room’s upper section, perhaps above the bed. Apart from wall-mounted units, there exist alternative designs of units as well:

• Ceiling-mounted models are suspended from the ceiling;
• Floor-ceiling units can be mounted to the wall near the floor or to the ceilings;
• ductless air conditioners are hidden inside the air ducts;
• cassette modules are attached to the ceiling in the center of the room, they are used together with suspended or stretch ceilings;
• column units are placed on the floor in a convenient location.

To be clear. As long as the capacity is adequate, these kinds of indoor units function in tandem with a typical outdoor unit. Column blocks and cassettes are higher capacity semi-industrial units that are utilized in reasonably sized rooms.

With one outdoor module that has multiple connection ports, compressors, and heat exchangers, two or three indoor modules can operate together. The term "multi-split-system" refers to this type of ACS, and its outdoor unit is notably larger and more costly than the typical one.

Mobility of mobile models is a myth

One thing to be grateful for is that installing a monoblock air cooler is considerably simpler than installing a split system. The installation process involves the hermetic discharge of a 100 mm pipe through a wall or window to the exterior, where the air conditioner releases heated air.

Now let’s discuss the drawbacks:

• a bulky "box" takes up useful space;
• the best unit of any manufacturer will be noisy, since the compressor plus both fans stand inside the monoblock;
• There is no natural drainage of condensate to the street, while using the conditioner it is necessary to empty a special container;
• the cooling capacity of the machine is limited by the size of the heat exchangers.

These apartment air conditioners are referred to as mobile because the housing has wheels and a handle. The device is movable, allowing you to cool any room of your choosing without the need to purchase multiple "splits," according to the manufacturer.

A poetic statement. The term "autonomous" is sometimes used to describe mobile coolers, but it already seems so false. Without an outlet connection, there is no way to function.

In actuality, the air conditioner’s travel is constrained by the distance of the air duct that is attached to the wall or window aperture. In the event that moving the unit to a different room becomes necessary, a connection to a different window or another hole in the wall must be made. See if you have to carry the cooler and the window insert around all the rooms after watching this video on creating a plastic window insert:

Certain companies sell easily movable "ductless monoblocs" that can be placed anywhere in the apartment. Without getting into specifics, we can say that these are humidifiers that dishonest vendors are trying to pass off as air conditioners.

Advantages and disadvantages of window coolers

When placed inside a window opening, a stationary compact monoblock can have the following benefits:

• such conditioners are inexpensive in comparison with split-systems;
• Because the back of the case protrudes outward, the unit is quieter than the mobile version of the monoblock;
• condensate flows safely outside, there is no need to empty the container;
• the unit does not take away the useful volume of the room;
• the cooler is capable of pumping purified street air into the room and exhausting internal air (supply and exhaust ventilation).

Installing windows can be difficult, particularly when they are made of metal and plastic. Ideally, the air conditioner’s aperture needs to be ordered while it’s still in the factory. Remodeling a wooden structure is simpler and more doable on your own.

Window units have the drawback of partially blocking the light aperture. The second issue is the room’s middle zone’s inconvenient cold air distribution system and power restriction.

The choice between split-systems and monoblocks is frequently the most important when selecting an air conditioner for your house. Split systems, which provide better aesthetics and quieter operation, have two main units: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. Monoblocks, on the other hand, are standalone units that may be noisier but are simpler to install and maintain. Your decision should take your space’s dimensions, ease of installation, and financial constraints into account. Monoblocks are frequently a more straightforward and affordable option, even though split-systems offer a more integrated appearance and quieter operation. To make the best decision for effectively cooling your home, think about your priorities.

What is better – inverter or on/off?

Although inverter air conditioners cost 20–40% more than traditional models, they are more cost-effective and dependable when in use. European and Japanese manufacturers have started producing these models in large quantities for good reason. However, it’s not always possible to put inverters’ advantages into reality.

For instance. After work, you get home after 18:00, turn on the cooling system, and then turn it off before bed. The "split" or monobloc maintains the temperature after half of that time has passed. Both types of air conditioners use the same amount of energy when operating at maximum capacity; saving money only begins when the microclimate is kept comfortable.

When using the cooler’s inverter version is preferable:

• if the unit operates continuously for a long period of time;
• the air conditioner will be used to heat the room.

Less expensive devices that operate in "start/stop" mode are appropriate for brief periods of time.

General recommendations on selection

You have determined the future air conditioner’s capacity; the type of unit needs to be selected. Our recommendation is to select a split split system option right away. This is the ideal option for any type of housing, including private homes and apartments.

When monoblocks ought to be taken into consideration:

1. If you live in an apartment building located on one of the central avenues of the city. Local authorities probably forbid the facades of such buildings to be covered with air-conditioning units.
2. When moving frequently from one rented apartment to another. Dismantling/installation of the split in a new place will cost a lot of money.
3. When you want to save money and your desire coincides with the moment of ordering metal-plastic windows. The factory will make a beautiful opening for the chiller housing. Modernize the wooden frame yourself.
4. It is necessary to have an air conditioner for a dacha where the owners live in summer. The unit is taken away for the winter.
5. The budget does not allow you to buy 2-3 split-systems in a country house, but you are ready to make plastic inserts under the air duct for three windows. Then do not hesitate to take the mobile version.

Second piece of advice: don’t choose a "split" model until it costs less than $300 US. Items that fall below the designated cutoff point will still effectively cool the air, but they could also surprise you:

• increased consumption of electricity;
• discrepancy of real power to the declared parameters, in the heat the cooler can not cope;
• beautiful white plastic of the case quickly turns yellow;
• The outdoor unit rumbles a lot, annoying you and your neighbors;
• unexpected breakdowns after 3-5 years of operation, slow loss of Freon.

Choosing a split-system from a range of options will inform the master in the video:

Rating of manufacturers

A homeowner wants to know how much a good air conditioner costs as much as they want to purchase a high-quality household appliance. Every product is split into three price ranges: low, medium, and high. Purchasing one of the final two groups is what we advise since purchasing a cheap cooler is always a gamble.

The brands listed below are in the top category:

• Mitsubishi Electric;
• Mitsubishi Heavy Industries;
• York;
• Daikin;
• Fujitsu General.

You can be confident in the longevity, economy, and dependability of the air conditioner you bought after spending a significant amount of money on one from the listed companies. The capacity will be sufficient in any heat, the plastic case won’t turn yellow, and the compressor won’t roar in the middle of the night.

Middle-class producers are not significantly less skilled than "grands" in terms of quality; however, split-systems are significantly less expensive:

• Toshiba;
• Samsung;
• Midea;
• Haier;
• Electrolux;
• Ballu;
• General Climate;
• LG.

Take note that Chinese companies are included in this list alongside South Korean brands. In fact, companies like Haier and Midea have proven to be reliable and self-assured "middlemen."

Listing all of the businesses in the lower category is both absurd and unwise. There are factories in China that open "beyond the season" and crank out a ton of coolers made out of inexpensive, unbranded parts. Since the minimum price threshold for an air conditioner is $300, you shouldn’t save a lot of money on one.

Your unique needs and the design of your house will play a major role in your decision between a split-system and a monoblock air conditioner. Both systems have benefits and cons, so it’s important to weigh a number of considerations before choosing one.

An outdoor unit that contains the compressor and an indoor unit that distributes cool air throughout the space make up a split-system air conditioner. More flexibility in cooling multiple rooms and quieter operation are made possible by this configuration. But the installation might be more difficult and expensive, particularly if the required ductwork isn’t already installed in your house.

A monoblock air conditioner, on the other hand, is a single unit that is simple to install through a window or a tiny wall opening. It’s a simpler and more affordable solution for cooling a small space or one room. Nevertheless, compared to split systems, these units are typically noisier and less efficient.

In conclusion, despite the higher installation cost, a split-system air conditioner might be a better option if you want to cool multiple rooms and prioritize quiet operation. On the other hand, a monoblock air conditioner can be the best option if you’re looking for a quick and reasonably priced way to cool a single room. Make an educated choice that will keep you comfortable all year long by taking into account your needs for cooling, your budget, and the design of your house.

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