How to choose the right air conditioner!

Whether in the office or at home, summer days are hot and the idea of air conditioning is getting closer. However, choose the right device is not easy, because there are many models that seem to cool.

In this article you will get an overview of the wide range of air conditioners and a basis for your purchase decision.

 

1. decentralized cooling options

There are numerous small devices on the market, which are relatively inexpensive to purchase and require little installation effort. While the devices are relatively inexpensive to begin with, they are energy inefficient when used frequently.

However, these small devices are well suited if individual rooms are to be cooled only on selected heat days.

 

Monobloc devices

The simplest device among the air conditioners is the monobloc. It consists of only one module and can be set up and switched on immediately after purchase. If the unit works with an exhaust hose, it must be installed in an exterior wall or in the shop window.

• The installation is relatively inexpensive compared to other air conditioners. However, the monobloc units are significantly less energy efficient and therefore more expensive to operate than alternative units.
• While it is an advantage that no complex installation is required, the device can be quite noisy. Responsible for this are the compressor and fans. In this case, the noisy components are located inside the building.
• The warm exhaust air cannot escape to the outside. Therefore, it must also cool the self-produced exhaust air and thus negatively affects energy efficiency.

 

Split air conditioners

Split air conditioners consist of at least two modules. Here, the external module contains the compressor.

The external module is connected by hose to the internal module, where the actual air conditioning takes place.

• This is an advantage, because in this way the loud noises are generated outside. However, it must be borne in mind that the loud external noise can lead to difficulties with neighbors and residents.
• Unlike monobloc devices, split air conditioners are already much more suitable for continuous use. As a rule, they are clearly more energy efficient.
• However, the installation of these devices is more complex. These are permanently installed. Installation may only be carried out by a specialist.
• The investment costs, including installation, are usually several thousand euros.

Mobile compact air conditioners

In addition, there are mobile compact air conditioners as a decentralized option. These are usually very mobile, because they are on rollers. In the process, one or two hoses are routed to the outside.

• The stated energy efficiency values are often not particularly meaningful. This is because they do not take into account the fact that the amounts of warm exhaust air must be replaced by warm outside air, which again brings a lot of warm air into the room.
• In addition, there is the disadvantage of noise development.
• Although the investment costs for this device are usually far below 1000 euros, but the cooling effect is very small.

 

2. central cooling possibilities

Central cooling units are suitable when several rooms or a complete building are to be cooled.

 

Multi-split air conditioners

A multi-split air conditioner is a good solution when only a few rooms in a building need to be cooled.

• In this case, several indoor modules are distributed to the rooms to be cooled and connected to a single outdoor module.
• This solution is a good way to find a path between a decentralized and centralized solution.

Compared to many individual solutions, the costs of the multi-split air conditioner are significantly lower – both in terms of purchase and ongoing operation. In addition, it is much less disruptive to the appearance of the building.

 

Central air conditioner

Central air conditioning systems supply complete buildings.

This solution is especially useful when many to all rooms need to be cooled regularly. However, in Central European countries, such as Germany and Austria, there is no permanent need for cooling.

• Compared to the previous cooling units, a large number of rooms can be operated with this device the most favorable. However, the acquisition costs and installation costs are many times higher.
• The installation of a central air conditioning system requires detailed planning and can usually only be retrofitted at great constructional and financial expense.
• In addition, this variant, just like all other devices that cool via the air, has the disadvantage of air circulation. On the one hand, drafts are created and, on the other, bacteria, viruses and dust are swirled through the air.

 

Surface cooling

This solution involves the installation of surface elements on the wall and ceiling, through which cool water flows.

Unlike the cooling options already mentioned, this variant works via radiant heat or cooling. Here, it is not primarily the air that is cooled, but the surrounding matter that is cooled via radiation exchange.

• In this way, there is no annoying air circulation, which would cause drafts and dust swirling.
• Surface cooling is more expensive to purchase and install than decentralized solutions, but pays for itself after just a few years due to low operating costs.
• With the installation and use of cold generation surfaces (e.g. underneath or even in the basement), the operating costs can even be driven down to such an extent that the energy costs are almost 0 cents.
• Surface cooling can also serve as surface heating in winter, making it a multi-talent.
• In addition, surface cooling can be installed with little effort in both new construction and retrofitting.

 

Conclusion: There is a suitable solution for every need!

If there is only one room to cool, then a decentralized cooling solution may make sense for you. Is it several rooms or, for example, a whole attic? In that case, a centralized solution makes sense for you. When considering the purchase of an air conditioner, you should always keep in mind the purchase costs and the ongoing operating costs.

However, not only that. Always keep in mind the impact of the air conditioner on your health and the health of those around you.

Surface cooling , for example, proves to be very cost-effective and healthy for people in many situations.

Our surface cooling is energy-saving and healthy for people. If you also want to benefit from the energy-saving and healthy surface cooling, click here.

Yes, I would like to benefit from energy-saving and healthy surface cooling.

 

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