Air conditioner and split system: what is the difference, features

It is difficult to imagine life in the summer period without effective cooling of the air inside the room. To survive this time with comfort is called for climatic technique. The question about what is better to choose - a usual conditioner or a split-system - concerns every buyer of such equipment. In order to avoid mistakes at purchase, it is worth to understand the peculiarities of these devices and to learn about the differences between them.

Monoblock conditioner and split-system are the most popular varieties of equipment for maintenance of optimal microclimate in the room. They differ from each other by internal device, technical characteristics, as well as functional capabilities.

Differences between split-system and air conditioner

Split-system, in fact, is a kind of air conditioner. A monoblock construction is usually called an air conditioner. A split-system is a device consisting of two or more units (external and one or more internal).

The main difference between a split-system and an air conditioner is the possibility to take the most noisy elements outside the room. In mobile or window air conditioners the compressor is located inside one case with other parts of the device. It will be almost impossible to provide silence in the room where such a device will be installed.

A split-system has an external remote unit and one or more additional units that are installed inside the rooms. The noisy compressor is located outside. It does not create discomfort for residents or workers.

Types of air conditioners and split systems

Air conditioners or monoblocks are divided into mobile-type devices, installed floor-mounted and window units, mounted in the opening. In an air conditioner, all internal units are placed inside a single housing. Split-systems by type of internal unit are selected based on the wishes of the buyer and are classified into the following types:

• Duct and wall split-systems are most often installed in apartments, private houses, small offices to provide air conditioning of living and working spaces.
• Cassette, column and floor-ceiling split-systems are able to supply air in several directions at once. It is also possible to fix the unit under the ceiling in a horizontal plane or vertically on the wall. They are popular among trade and catering organizations.

There is a common misconception that the external block of split-system takes air from the street. In fact, the air masses intake is carried out by the internal unit of the split-system. The external module is used only to remove an unnecessary source of noise from the room. Monoblock air conditioners work on a similar principle. There are advanced models capable of taking air from outside, cooling it and returning it to the room, but they are much more expensive than ordinary household splits and mobile air conditioners.

Advantages and disadvantages of air conditioners and split systems

In order not to make a mistake with the type of climatic device, it is worth paying attention to the advantages and disadvantages of each type of technology.

Advantages of air conditioners:

• Affordable price.
• Ease of installation.
• Stationary or mobile placement.

Disadvantages of air conditioners:

• Low power.
• High noise level.

Advantages of split-systems:

• Minimum noise during operation.
• Ergonomic design.
• Possibility of cooling and heating.

Disadvantages of split-systems:

• Higher cost (compared to air conditioners).
• Expensive installation.

Split-systems are more often chosen for installation in apartments or cottages. Monoblocks are more suitable for office, trade and warehouse premises. They are more powerful and occupy more space.