Inverter air conditioners: features and differences from conventional ones
Inverter air conditioners are no longer a novelty. However, many buyers still do not fully understand whether they are really better than standard split systems? Or is it just another marketing ploy that doesn’t hide any innovation? Sensei experts will clarify and answer the main questions: what are inverter air conditioners, their advantages, working principle and scope of application.
How it works
Externally, the inverter models are similar to standard split systems. They also consist of outdoor and indoor units. The main components are identical: the compressor, electronic Board, etc. are located in the housing located outside. the Unit in the room contains the cooling air evaporator, fan, fine and coarse filters, blinds, etc.
The main difference is in the principle of action. Japanese engineers, who own the idea of know-how, have moved away from the traditional scheme of electrical supply of devices. The new power supply chain looks like this: alternating current from the household electrical network is converted first to direct current, and then back to alternating current (but with optimal frequency indicators). For the task of controlling and changing current parameters, the design is supplemented with an advanced control Board.
Structural and functional differences.
How does a conventional split system maintain a user-defined room temperature? It uses sensors to track current indicators. If the deviation from the prescribed norm exceeds a few degrees (usually from 4o C), the compressor and fan are switched on. The system works like the lazy crew of a leaky Dinghy floating on the sea: the sailors wait until the water level in a boat slowly floating due to the weight reaches a threatening level, and only then, exhausted, they quickly begin to bail it out.
That doesn’t sound very effective, does it? Inverter air conditioners function differently.
Advantages of inverter air conditioners
1. After the required temperature is set, the installation will immediately turn on full power (this is possible thanks to the motor speed controller).
2. For a minimum period of time in the room will be established comfortable living conditions.
3. Then the compressor will switch to constant economy mode, which does not allow the temperature to deviate by more than 1 degree.
An additional advantage of this algorithm is that the installation is not overloaded, which means that it does not make interfering sounds. The maximum noise level is no more than 26 decibels. Therefore, inverter split systems are suitable for installation in children’s and sleeping rooms, offices, office spaces.
In addition to the obvious convenience of maintaining a stable, pleasant temperature without fluctuations, inverter air conditioners have the following strong advantages:
1. Eco-friendliness. The inverter-type devices use a refrigerant that does not destroy the ozone layer (R410A and R32).
2. Sparing operating conditions. This is due to the fact that the air conditioner, quickly reaching the set temperature, goes into a gentle operating mode. The original set temperature is maintained throughout the day.
3. Efficient heating at temperatures below 0°C. Climate technology keeps the room warm at temperatures outside the window of up to -30°C.
4. “Floating” range of output power. Air conditioners operating in On/Off mode cannot adjust the output power parameters. What’s wrong with that? If the installation is provided with a power of 4 kW, then its cooling capabilities are limited to these kilowatts.
Inverter installations with a rated power, for example, 2 kW, can vary the parameter in the range of 0.5-3 kW (depending on the load on the compressor). That is, as much power is required, so much is issued. Much of this implies the following feature.
5. Energy efficiency. Sensei experts are confident that inverter-type devices can be 30-40% more energy efficient than standard models. The economic benefits are quite obvious, especially in the case of suitable operating conditions.
The most profitable options, where the difference in the amount of bills received from utilities is very noticeable — this is the operation of a split system around the clock for private users (suitable for areas with a long hot season).
Sensei experts also advise managers and owners of commercial facilities to take a closer look at inverter air conditioners: production workshops, shopping complexes, business centers, etc.
If you have to pay for electricity at high rates, energy-efficient climate systems will be a real salvation for the company’s budget.
Are there any drawbacks?
The cost can be considered a relative minus. A conventional air conditioner of comparable power will cost 25-30% less when purchased. However, due to the low level of energy consumption with long-term use, the investment will pay off and begin to bring profit!
The service life of modern air conditioning systems is 9-15 years. So is it worth it now, with constantly rising electricity prices, to chase cheapness? Perhaps, with the high quality of Sensei’s service and the availability of components for repairs, it just doesn’t make sense.