As the summer heat approaches, our dependence on air conditioners to provide us with a comfortable indoor environment becomes inevitable. Among the various types of AC systems available in the market, split system air conditioners have become increasingly popular due to their efficiency, ease of installation, and quiet operation.
What is a Split System Air Conditioner?
A split system air conditioner, commonly referred to as a “split AC” or “ductless AC,” is a type of air conditioning system that consists of two main components: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit.
The indoor unit, also known as the air handler, contains the evaporator coil and the fan, while the outdoor unit, referred to as the condenser, houses the compressor and the condenser coil. These two units are connected by a set of electrical wires and refrigerant lines, which allow the refrigerant to circulate between them, transferring heat from inside your home to the outdoors.
How Do Split System Air Conditioners Work?
The working principle of a split system air conditioner is based on the refrigeration cycle, which involves the continuous circulation of refrigerant between the indoor and outdoor units. Let’s break down this process into four main steps:
- Cooling: The cooling process starts with the indoor unit’s evaporator coil absorbing heat from the indoor air as the fan blows it over the coil. As the refrigerant inside the coil absorbs heat, it changes from a low-pressure liquid to a low-pressure gas.
- Compression: The low-pressure gas is then sent to the outdoor unit, where the compressor pressurizes it and converts it into a high-pressure, high-temperature gas.
- Heat Dissipation: The high-pressure gas flows through the condenser coil, where it releases the absorbed heat to the outdoor air. As the refrigerant loses heat, it changes back into a high-pressure liquid.
- Expansion: The refrigerant then passes through an expansion valve, which reduces its pressure and temperature, turning it back into a low-pressure liquid. This cold liquid refrigerant then returns to the indoor unit’s evaporator coil, and the cycle repeats.
This continuous process effectively removes heat from your home, resulting in a cooler and more comfortable indoor environment.
Difference Between a Split System and Packaged AC Unit
While both split systems and packaged air conditioners are designed to cool your home, there are some key differences between the two systems in terms of their components, installation, and application.
- Components: As mentioned earlier, a split system consists of two separate units—an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. In contrast, a packaged AC unit combines all the components, including the compressor, condenser, evaporator, and air handler, into a single cabinet that is usually installed outdoors or on the rooftop.
- Installation: Split systems are generally easier to install, as they only require a small hole in the wall for the refrigerant lines and electrical connections. This also makes them suitable for buildings where space is limited or where the installation of ductwork is not feasible. On the other hand, packaged units require more extensive installation, including ductwork and roof or ground space for the unit.
- Application: Split system air conditioners are ideal for cooling individual rooms or small to medium-sized spaces, making them a popular choice for residential and small commercial applications. Packaged units, with their higher cooling capacities, are more suitable for larger commercial spaces or buildings with multiple rooms that require simultaneous cooling.
The Bottom Line
While packaged units may be more suitable for certain applications, such as larger commercial spaces or buildings with limited installation options, split systems have become the go-to choice for many homeowners and businesses alike.
Understanding the key differences between these two types of air conditioning systems can help you make an informed decision and ensure that you choose the right cooling solution for your specific needs.
If you’re interested in installing a mini split AC system in your home or business in the Bronx, it’s important to work with a licensed and experienced HVAC professional. Always On Green Home provides expert HVAC services and installations in various locations, including the Bronx. Contact us for more information!