Is it possible to use an air conditioner in an apartment in winter is a question that interests many who have purchased an air conditioner or are planning to purchase it.
Most of the existing air conditioners work both for cooling and for heating the premises (this should be specified when purchasing). The permissible operating temperatures differ in different modes.
Why you can't turn on the air conditioner in winter:
- at work "For cooling" the outdoor unit gives off heat. Condensation (water) forms in the indoor unit and is discharged outside through the drain.
- at work "Warm" the external block gives off cold. Condensation (water) is formed in it, which flows from the pallet of its body.
For work at high negative temperatures "for cooling" - you can put the so-called "winter kit". Its task is to warm up the drainage and the crankcase; regulate the condensing temperature. Some (more expensive) air conditioners already have all the options for working at low temperatures. This is important for rooms in which there is a constant, year-round heat release (server rooms, stations, etc.)
Based on the foregoing, the split-system can be turned on "for heat" above 0 degrees Celsius(unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer or optional kit installed). This limitation is provided to prevent icing of the fan and condenser of the outdoor unit. In addition, with a further decrease in temperature, the efficiency of the air conditioner (efficiency) is significantly reduced.
At what sub-zero temperature can the air conditioner be turned on for cooling
"For cooling" it is allowed to use a split system down to low temperatures (-3 - -5˚С)(to be specified in the operating instructions). This limitation is due to the fact that
- the compressor oil is thick and turning on the air conditioner may damage it.
- the water at the drain outlet may freeze, causing the indoor unit to “ooze”.
The "heating" mode at a positive temperature is very effective in the autumn-spring period (when the main heating was not turned on). The operation of the air conditioner "for warmth" is unacceptable at temperatures below zero. For these purposes, it is necessary to use already other devices. For example, heat pumps, convectors, heaters, etc.
Good to know: A breakdown of the air conditioner due to non-compliance with temperature parameters is not covered by the warranty. V winter period it is better to disconnect the air conditioner from the "network". And if there is a likelihood of icicles hitting the external block (or a large amount of snow coming off), it is imperative to protect the air conditioner with a visor or at least cover it with something.
Many are worried about the question at what temperatures can the split system be turned on in winter? For example, in Krasnodar in winter, frosts can reach -30 degrees Celsius and below. Although not for long.
Almost all manufacturers are insured and write in the operating instructions for standard on | off split - systems that the split system cannot be turned on when the outdoor air temperature is below 0 or -5 degrees. In fact, most likely split-the system will turn on even at -10 and will work in heating mode more or less normally. But still, there are certain limitations and ways to avoid unnecessary breakdowns in such cases.
Warning: you need to understand that using a split system under conditions that do not correspond to the normal operating conditions specified in the instructions - operating instructions developed by the manufacturer, you assume all risks associated with a possible breakdown of the air conditioner. If, suddenly, the split system breaks down at the same time, the breakdown may be recognized as not covered by the warranty and repairs may be paid at your expense, despite the expired warranty period.
The main reasons for the failure or reduction in the resource of split systems at low temperatures are the thickening of oil in the compressor, the likelihood of ice freezing inside the heat exchanger of the outdoor unit. The thickened oil during frequent cold starts can reduce the compressor life, causing increased wear and tear or even jam the compressor, as a result of which it can, in principle, burn out altogether. Although the latter option is extremely rare. If ice builds up in the outdoor unit, the heat exchanger may be damaged or the fan may be damaged when the blades beat on the ice.
Secondly, it should be understood that the lower the frost, that is, the greater the "minus" - the lower the heating efficiency of the split system. With a decrease in the subzero temperature, the heating efficiency decreases all the time. The split-system will more and more often need to switch to the defrost (thaw) mode so that the outdoor unit does not freeze. Therefore, despite the fact that a conventional split, in principle, can heat even at an air temperature of -25 degrees, it will do it quite weakly. With such a minus, it is more profitable and faster to heat the room with an electric tenovy heater, for example.
You should know that in winter in frost it is better and more efficient to work for heating a split system of an inverter type. The fact is that a winter kit is already preinstalled in them. The compressor crankcase of the outdoor unit contains electric heater, the outdoor fan is continuously adjustable. This makes it possible to almost never freeze the outdoor unit and it is easy to start the compressor even in severe frost. At the same time, the inverter heats up much better and more efficiently, wears out less and works quieter, it can start even if the voltage in the network is below normal, when everyone turns on the electric heaters and the voltage sags.
Inverter split systems are usually recommended by manufacturers to use up to -10 or -15 degrees. In fact, paying attention to our warning above, the inverter can be used down to -30 degrees sometimes -40 degrees. The main thing is to observe the following useful tips and recommendations.
When the temperature outside is below -8 degrees Celsius, try to turn off and on the split system as seldom as possible. The more often you do this, the more the resource of your split-system decreases. As discussed below, cold starts in the cold are not very helpful. Better to let the split work longer without shutting down. In this case, the compressor will be constantly warm, the oil in it will not thicken, the resource of the air conditioner will not decrease.
Also pay attention to the outdoor unit - if it is suddenly covered with ice - you should turn off the air conditioner in order to avoid damage to it and do not turn it on until defrosting. Listen for the sounds that the outdoor unit makes during operation. If suddenly from the street you heard an unnaturally loud rumble, a roar (possibly from the beating of a fan impeller on the ice) - immediately turn off the air conditioner.
The split system, in principle, is not intended to be used as the only and main source of space heating in winter. However, if you do not have other economically viable options, especially in our warm southern latitudes - in Krasnodar and Krasnodar Territory, you can use the split system as the main heating system.
When choosing an air conditioner for such a purpose, it is better to turn to professionals for qualified help in correct selection models. It is better to take a split system with a large power reserve, since the heating efficiency drops in cold weather. It is quite correct in such cases to buy an inverter split system.
As for the use of a split system in cooling mode in winter - for example, for cooling server rooms, it is better to use a special winter kit installed separately inside the air conditioner. It allows you to heat the drain, the crankcase and smoothly adjust the speed of the outdoor fan.
Material taken from the site SplitMart.ru
Split systems of various modifications have become indispensable helpers to create a comfortable atmosphere in the house. Technique cools and heats the air, but not everyone knows at what temperature outside the air conditioner can be turned on. In order for the device to work flawlessly, this issue should be understood more thoroughly.
The instruction attached to the climatic equipment sets the working temperature bar in the range from -5 to +20 degrees (the manufacturer will definitely mention in the documentation how many degrees should be "overboard" at the moment of switching on). But is it worth using an air conditioner in winter as a heater at temperatures below those stated?
To answer this question, it is worth remembering the features of the device. At high subzero temperatures, the device will simply begin to lose the declared heat output. Air conditioner operation in winter can have the following consequences:
- thickened oil in the refrigerant;
- dry friction of parts;
- worn out compressor;
- failure of equipment.
Important information about temperature limits
There are important restrictions for the cold season. Heating cannot be turned on when outside temperature below 0 С°, otherwise the following problems will start:
- condensate begins to freeze on the external heat exchanger, so the outdoor unit starts to ice;
- as a result, heat transfer worsens;
- heating performance drops.
At what exact temperature can the air conditioner be turned on for cooling? It is important to make sure that it does not go down. below +5 C°. If you break it, the following can happen:
- the performance of climatic equipment will decrease;
- freezing will occur in the structure of the street block and the drainage pipe;
- the compressor may break down already at start-up.
Air conditioner operation diagram
What is a low temperature kit for?
Some manufacturers recommend purchasing an additional “ winter kit»For your device. The essence of this know-how lies in the purchase of a special set that allows the split to work in winter and not lose heat output even with serious "disadvantages".
In reality, such a kit includes three devices that perform the following functions:
- crankcase heating to prevent oil thickening;
- drainage heating (prevents the block from freezing outside);
- speed retarder for outdoor fan.
However, the main purpose of such a set is to expand the operating temperature range for cooling, and not for using equipment for heating. That is, if you have a "winter kit" you can turn on the air conditioner in winter, but only to refresh the room, and not constantly be heated with it.
What models can work for heating
However, technological progress does not stand still, and some of the split systems can still be used to heat rooms even at temperatures of -25 degrees. We are talking about inverter models... The Mitsubishi Electric and Daikin brands have proven themselves very well. But even in this case, it is worth clarifying whether it is possible to use equipment for the purpose of heating.
Unlike standard devices, inverter units have a drive that can independently adjust the power level. This makes it possible to use the air conditioner at a temperature outside the window from -12 to -15 C °, and for some manufacturers this rule works up to -40 C °.
Preparing the device for winter
How the climatic technology "survives" the cold season depends on its performance in the next season. Here is the minimum preventive measures which must be done if it is not planned to turn on the air conditioner in winter.
- Remove residual moisture from the heat exchanger of the indoor unit - for this, it is enough to turn on the device for two hours.
- The filters inside the device can be cleaned by yourself.
- It is advisable to cover the outdoor unit with some kind of waterproof material (if possible, this is done if it is within reach).
And if the equipment was bought in winter, how can you check its performance? It can be turned on only at the minimum specified in the instructions or by purchasing the mentioned low-temperature kit. If these conditions are not met, it is better to wait for the onset of spring.
Since turning on the air conditioner "for heating" in winter is fraught with serious problems, it is best to use this function only during the off-season, and then, the device turns on for a short time. But even in this case, it is necessary to give climatic technology only a secondary role: there are a large number of specialized devices that will cope with this task much better than it.
At what temperature can the air conditioner be turned on? This question is often asked by owners of climatic equipment of different companies and types. Will it turn on if the unit is started up in winter for heating or cooling?
Let's try to deal with these issues. So, is it possible to turn on the air conditioner in winter for heating or cooling at sub-zero temperatures?
First, let's say a few words about the principles of the split system. When the unit is operating in heating or cooling mode, electrical energy is used to transport heat between the street and the room. In summer, it is removed into the atmosphere, and in winter, on the contrary, it is pumped from the street into the room.
Heating by air conditioner
Is it possible to turn on the air conditioner at subzero temperatures for heating? Yes, you can. But you need to consider several factors and features of a particular device. During operation in heating mode, freon in liquid form enters the outdoor unit, evaporates there, taking some of the heat. After that, the gaseous refrigerant is pumped by the compressor into the indoor unit, where it condenses in the evaporator, releasing the accumulated heat. This is how the air conditioner works for heating in winter.
During this process, the heat exchanger in the outdoor unit is cooled to a very low level, as a result of which moisture from the outside air pumped by the fan freezes on it. This is one of the main problems when using an air conditioner for heating in winter.
The second problem is the increased viscosity of the oil in the compressor. Since it uses a moving mechanism, it needs lubrication. To do this, oil is poured into the compressor at the factory, which can thicken in the cold. When starting the compressor with too thick oil, it may break down.
Freezing of the outdoor unit
In order to avoid negative points, before turning on the air conditioner for heating in winter in freezing weather, the following steps must be taken:
- In the instructions for the split system, find the paragraph on the boundary permissible temperatures. If it is lower on the street, then the device cannot be turned on.
- Make sure that the outdoor thermometer readings are above the minimum allowable level.
- On the remote control of the air conditioner, find the button responsible for the heating mode and press it. Typically, a stylized sun icon is used to represent it.
- Select the desired temperature. No need to try to heat up the room too much. The unit may not be powerful enough. It is recommended to heat the room up to 18-24 degrees in winter.
Many owners of a split system have a question whether it is possible to turn on the air conditioner for heating in winter. To begin with, you should understand the principle of operation of such equipment, learn a few rules of use and carefully study the instructions. This is due to the fact that each model has its own functions.
First, learn how your device works.
Heating during the cold period
Almost every device has not only a cooling, but also a heating effect, but when operating an air conditioner in winter, several factors must be taken into account.
During heating, freon penetrates into the outdoor unit, after which it evaporates there, taking some of the heat. Then the gaseous refrigerant enters the inner side, where it condenses and releases all the accumulated heat. According to this principle, the air conditioner works at sub-zero temperatures.
At the same time, the heat exchanger, which is located in the outdoor unit, is cooled to a minimum level and an ice layer forms on it. This is one of the reasons why you cannot turn on the air conditioner in winter. The second is associated with the increased viscosity of the oil in the compressor: the moving mechanism can function normally only in a lubricated state. And in the cold, this substance thickens strongly, which causes a breakdown of the device.
Before turning on the split system, read the instructions Before turning on the split system at negative temperatures, you need to do the following:
- Carefully study the instructions, find in it the point where the permissible temperatures are indicated. If it is colder outside, then the device should not be used.
- Check that the reading on the outdoor thermometer is higher than the minimum allowed.
- On the remote control, find the button that is responsible for the heating mode and press it. A stylized sun icon should appear on the device.
- Set the required temperature, while not heating the room too much, since the device may not have sufficient power. It is enough to warm up the room to + 18 ... + 24 ° С.
It is worth noting that after all the actions performed, the device starts working only after 5-10 minutes.
The fact is that at first the air conditioner is prepared for the process, moreover, it does it without turning on the indoor unit, so you should not worry that the device has broken down.
Cooling in winter
Some rooms need heat removal even during the cold season, for example, MRI rooms, so it is worth figuring out if the air conditioner can be used for cooling in winter.
Almost all devices in the factory configuration are not capable of operating in this mode. The minimum temperature is usually + 5 ... + 10 ° С. Special precision equipment is required to provide cooling, but it is usually very expensive.
Basically, the devices are being finalized on their own, using non-inverter blocks for this. But in this case, problems with freon may arise, since the freezing temperature lowers the pressure, respectively, its condensation becomes much more difficult.
To solve the problem, an additional winter kit can be installed in the outdoor unit, which regulates the pressure during condensation. This action takes place by decreasing and increasing the speed at which the fan will operate. Although there are modern units on which the required set is already installed.
The winter set consists of:
- Drainage heater... It works for cooling in the indoor unit, where moisture condensation occurs. Water entering the street can freeze.
- Crankcase heater... This device contains oil, it is the heater that prevents it from thickening.
- Fan speed controller... It can have two options for functioning: in the first, work occurs due to the pressure indicators in the system, in the second, temperature sensors that are installed on the condenser can be used.
It should be added right away that the winter kit does not bring significant help for heating the room in the winter.
Winter set consists of 3 elements From the entire list provided, only the crankcase heater is used for the heating function, while such equipment is not installed on inverter models.
Features of winter operation
Each model of the split system has its own minimum temperature regime... You can find out which model is inherent in this model in the instructions. They also adhere to the following indicators:
- inverter units can be operated within the range from -10 to -15 ° С;
- non-inverter ones are designed up to -5 ° С, and some devices - only up to + 5 ° С;
- there are heat pumps designed for heating at -28 ° C and below.
Whether the air conditioner can be used for heating in winter directly depends on the outside temperature. At zero, you can turn on almost any device, while it will give out more heat than electricity consumed. In addition, some split systems can function perfectly even at minus values, but then it is necessary to ensure that the outdoor temperature regime does not exceed that specified in the instructions for the unit.
And also it is worth paying attention to the fact that the stronger the cold, the lower the activity of the unit.
Loading ...