Floor-standing air conditioners: principle of operation, types, selection and operation

When it comes to an air conditioner, people usually think of devices placed on the wall and clearly visible from afar. But there is another option - the device is installed on the floor. It has its own characteristics and nuances that you should definitely know.

The floor-standing air conditioner works in approximately the same way as its wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted counterparts. This is usually a candy bar. Freon circulation occurs continuously, therefore the cooling effect is also not interrupted. In the evaporator, the cooling agent changes its state of aggregation, simultaneously taking heat from the air in contact with the tubes.

In the condensing unit, the opposite happens: liquefying, the freon mass throws out heat outside, and then it is already removed in a natural way. In order for the air to circulate more actively, it is necessary to use a centrifugal fan. Air intake from the outside usually occurs through an elaborate system of slots. Usually a pair of fans is used: one provides the removal of the heated mass into the air duct going outside, and the other helps to distribute the cooled air in the room.

In the lower part of the body there is a drip tray where the condensate flows.

Some devices can work in heater mode, but they have a limitation - the heating intensity is less than in full-size devices. However, in any case, modern climatic technology works according to the commands of electronic control units. Otherwise, the device of the floor air conditioner does not represent any particular complexity.

The undoubted advantage of outdoor climatic technology is its relative mobility. If a chair or sofa is being moved in the room, you can quickly move the device to a new place. Some preparatory steps are still required, but there are fewer of them than when using other types of air conditioners. There is no need to pull complex air ducts and other sophisticated communications. Therefore, the complexity of installation is less, and the likelihood of equipment failure is lower.

Coordination of the installation of the floor-standing air conditioner is not required. But this solution also has certain drawbacks. Placing the compressor and freon lines inside the housing means that operating noise is almost unavoidable. It may be rather weak, but still it is impossible to eliminate the sound. In addition, mechanical components will inevitably generate heat, which goes against the very idea of ​​air conditioning.

Difficulties can be created by the lack of condensate drainage to the outside. It will take time to manually drain and put up with a loss of efficiency if this cannot be done. Regardless of all efforts, for all the insulation, the hose that draws air to the outside will definitely overheat. Therefore, the area behind the air conditioner will be subject to the greenhouse effect. The intake of cooling air from the same room where it circulates can significantly degrade its quality.

Floor-mounted systems are definitely closer to the ideal of portable technology. They can be installed wherever the consumer wishes (as long as the location is safe). Installation is very simple and convenient, there is no need for professional help. Therefore, installation is cheaper and faster than usual.

Almost all modifications of floor standing devices are equipped with:

• timers;

• remote controls;

• air ionization option;

• deep cleaning filters.

But that doesn't mean that a floor-mounted device is unambiguously good. Such devices have a power limitation - rarely are products more powerful than 4000 watts. True, at the same time they perform their tasks relatively well, especially if the conditioned area is small.

As mentioned, floor-standing appliances are comparatively noisy. In turn, wall split systems benefit from:

• quiet work;

• relatively high power (a conventional apparatus can have a thermal power of 7 kW);

• suitability for work on an area of ​​80-100 sq. m;

• a wide variety of indoor units;

• wide range.

Air conditioners installed on the floor, we note, are also quite diverse. A stationary unit with an air duct can be an attractive enough choice. Outside, it resembles a small bedside table set on roller wheels. Therefore, it will be possible to install the device almost everywhere. You can roll it freely - the main thing is that the length of the duct is enough.

This is very important when cleaning and tidying up. You can wash the floor under the air conditioner and then put it back.

But, unlike the split system, it will not be necessary to dismantle the main walls or partitions.

But home room air conditioners with an air duct, with all their advantages, can hardly be called compact units. The closest to the mini ideal are purely monoblock models without an air duct.

In this case, the reduction in size pays off in the reduction in productivity and overall efficiency. Little of, A "clean" candy bar makes too much noise to be used safely in the bedroom or in the children's room.

Ballu BPAC-07 CE_Y17 is a prime example of a small indoor air conditioner in floor-standing design.

This Chinese machine has a cooling capacity of 2 kW. Providing optimal air parameters on an area of ​​20 square meters is guaranteed. m. In cooling mode, 785 W of current is consumed per hour. The sound volume during operation varies from 45 to 51 dB.

Another small device is Loriot LAC-07HP.

In terms of power and serviced area, it does not differ from the previous model. The current consumption is also identical. In addition, a stable noise level is guaranteed - no more than 45 dB. Any complex preparation for using the device is not required.

The inverter type of air conditioners is considered very promising.

This name is used in commercial practice, and it means devices that can change the intensity of the compressor motor. Correction of this indicator is achieved by manipulating the type of power supply. As a result, performance is significantly improved and energy is consumed much more economically than usual. An additional advantage is the ability to work over a wider temperature range and to be flexible in adapting to the situation that arises.

What is not less important, adjustment is carried out smoothly, in the form of several steps... Therefore, the compressor motor works exactly as it should according to the heat load. To speed up the achievement of the necessary indicators, the use of a special option in the controller's operation is required. It sets the forced mode, which is maintained until reaching the required temperature is detected. Therefore, there is no need to constantly start and stop the compressor, thereby reducing its resource.

The advantages of an inverter circuit can be considered:

• accelerated access to the required mode;

• comparative silence during operation;

• saving current;

• the ability to heat a home even at a relatively low temperature;

• reducing the load on home wiring and minimizing inrush current.

However, the unlimited use of converter devices is hampered by their increased cost (even with other identical characteristics). An additional block increases the size and weight of the product. The electronics will not be able to turn on the compressor when the outside air is warmed up above the permissible value. This can create a slight inconvenience, but it will keep valuable equipment in good working order for longer.

In Russian conditions, models with heating will be a very valuable option for an air conditioner. Usually, this mode is used in split systems, but it is possible to implement it in floor models as well. A more common option is models with a humidifier. It is worth saying that an air conditioner without humidification is not entirely complete. Compensating for dry air that occurs simultaneously with air conditioning is extremely important for the health and preservation of some things in the room.

Water, condensing, is collected and returned to the room. Therefore, the humidity is normalized. The air is evenly humidified, and moisture does not get stuck in the upper layers of the home atmosphere. The need to constantly add new portions of water disappears.

Humidification usually helps to purify the air.

Stands out among mobile floor-standing air conditioners NeoClima NPAC-09CG.

Its modest size greatly simplifies the use of the device in small apartments and private houses. Its volume is relatively low. Condensate drainage is well organized. It is not difficult to adjust the device for the optimal microclimate.

It can perform diagnostics in automatic mode, switch to sleep mode and turn off altogether at the command of automation. The fan has 4 standard speeds. A timer is provided. You can give the command to dry the air without ventilating the room.

The small but well thought-out LCD screen is also a good addition.

As an alternative it is worth considering Ballu BPAC-09 CM.

The mere fact that the supplier is a leading company in the field of climate technology inspires confidence. The 2019 novelty will delight consumers with a number of advanced technological advances.

So, an improved control system appeared. The developers have paid great attention to ensuring the reliability and smooth functioning of their products. Considered how to provide protection against condensation and excessive moisture. The manufacturer claims that the device complies with the energy efficiency category A. What is important, the freon used is completely environmentally friendly. Other advantages of the product include elegant design and optimal price. However, the compressor makes a lot of noise.

In terms of durability during operation, it stands out favorably Zanussi ZACM-12 MS / N1.

This mobile type air conditioner also uses an environmentally friendly type of Freon. At the same time, the operating volume of the device does not exceed 50 dB. A timer is provided. The screen is bright enough for full control. Air conditioner from Zanussi consumes no more than 90 W per hour. The designers have taken care of the choice of 3 rotation speeds. Despite its compactness, the weight of the device exceeds 24 kg; you can not put it everywhere.

Electrolux EACM-08CL / N3 differs in budgetary price and at the same time practicality. But the developers have not forgotten about the attractive design.

Optimum entry of the device into any room is guaranteed.The sound volume does not exceed 44 dB. The capacity of the air conditioner is sufficient to improve the air quality in a standard two-room apartment; only the stiffness of the outlet pipe spoils the whole thing.

A very attractive solution can be Ballu BPAC-16CE... Its thermal power reaches 1600 W. Therefore, the device is able to improve air quality over an area of ​​43 square meters. m. The delivery set includes a remote control, designed according to all the rules. A timer for 24 hours is provided, the function of protection against excessive moisture and leakage is thought out; no significant shortcomings were found.

But quite a few people try to choose a combined (floor-ceiling) air conditioner. Such systems will help to provide the desired microclimate, even over a fairly large area. A good example is Timberk AC TIM 24LC CF5.

In this model, a high-level automatic system is implemented, completely freeing from manual control of air jets. Reliable protection against negative factors is also provided, including all the same leaks; the cooling capacity reaches 11,700 watts.

For the maximum extension of the service life, in particular, a reliable anti-corrosion coating was used. The timer has been significantly improved compared to other models. A quiet night mode of operation is provided. Energy consumption is comparatively low. However, there is also a serious drawback - poor appearance.

If you need a premium air conditioner, you should pay attention to Royal Clima CO-F60HN.

It has a "clean" ventilation mode and a self-diagnosis option. 30cc air jet m per minute will improve the microclimate even in a large cottage. The cooling power is 17,000 W, and the heating power reaches 18,500 W. The only noticeable weakness is the lack of a supply ventilation mode.

But the excuse here would be:

• excellent drainage;

• ease of management;

• thoughtful remote control;

• reliable protection against icing of internal channels;

• memory of settings;

• use of fine filters.

It would be possible to talk for a long time about the specifics of individual models, but it is much more important to know something else - how to make the right choice so that the floor air conditioner does not disappoint. Monoblocks without an air duct must be chosen if it is required not only to cool the air, but also to humidify it.

To some extent, this disadvantage is offset by an affordable price. If you need to select a device for large rooms of 50, 60 sq. m and so on, it would be better to have a mobile floor split system.

Of course, serious money will have to be paid for it. But in large areas, only the effectiveness of such a technique helps people out in extreme heat. Evaluating the number of hoses, their length and method of attachment, it will be possible to understand how mobile the air conditioner is and how exactly it should be installed. Accordingly, it is easy to find out whether a given device is suitable at all (sometimes, due to an error in choosing, it is not possible to install an air conditioning system). When choosing, you need to pay attention to exactly how the condensate is removed.

For busy people, models with a vaporizer are much better than those designed for collecting and draining liquids. If you plan to provide an ideal microclimate for a house or apartment, you need to look to have a variety of climatic functions. “Too many” of them do not exist in this case. But for a summer residence, an air conditioner is selected taking into account a different circumstance: it must be resistant to power drops and to instability of current parameters. When choosing a device for a sleeping room, it is undesirable to give preference to very powerful devices - they are often too noisy.

The presence of a special night mode only solves this problem to some extent.After all, sometimes you want to relax during the day, and it is somewhat difficult to constantly turn on special settings. The exceptions are models in which the volume reduction is set by a timer. Then you can immediately set certain hours at which the device starts to work less actively. And yes, it makes little sense to purchase a floor-standing air conditioner without a remote control.

But the air conditioning unit has been selected. It's time to mount it. And here it is also important not to make mistakes that can devalue any modern product. It is often said that floor-standing air conditioners are installed very simply with their own hands, but still there is a certain technology that must be followed. Mobile monoblocks are more often installed, leading out the air duct through the window. It is both easier than breaking through walls and safer.

Usually, HVAC appliances are sold with ready-made installation kits. If there is no such kit, you will have to manually insert it into the window opening.

It is undesirable for furniture or other objects to be located near the air conditioner (you need to try to move them at least 0.5 m).

The plexiglass insert is made after accurate measurement of the window sash. This insert should be in the shape of a rectangle, and a passage for the air line is cut through it. The channel is slightly narrower than the pipe diameter. Otherwise, she will not be able to hold on tightly enough.

It is advised to use self-adhesive rubber seals for sealing. During the installation of the insert, the window must be constantly open. The piece of plexiglass itself is fixed with masking tape or special clamps. It is worth remembering that the air duct is first connected to the air conditioner, and then taken out into the street.

Only then can the drainage channel be attached.

Floor split systems begin to be installed by drilling a through channel in the wall with a cross section of about 0.06 m. This hole will allow a refrigerant pipe to be connected to the outdoor unit of the air conditioner. Drainage pipes and electrical cables will also pass there. The hole is laid in accordance with the marks made by the manufacturer on the mounting panel of the air conditioner. A channel is drilled with an outward slope, otherwise rain will flow and condensate will stagnate.

The outer part is attached with special brackets. Holes are drilled inside the wall to fit the bolts. The required brackets are usually included in the delivery set. When the block itself is attached, they make sure that at least 0.05 m remains to the wall (and ideally, 2-3 times more). Be sure to check how securely the mechanism is fixed, otherwise there may be serious troubles.

Installation of the outer part of the air conditioner on balconies and loggias is allowed. However, you have to take care that there is a steady supply of fresh air. The inner part is much easier to install. All you need is to select a suitable site and attach 4 wheels from below.

All manufacturers in the instructions necessarily mention that floor-standing air conditioners can be used only when plugged into a power outlet directly. Extension cords and adapters of any kind are strictly unacceptable. Make sure the outlet itself, the air conditioner, and the wiring are well grounded. It is strictly forbidden to start the device after removing the outer grille. In the same way, installation of an air conditioner in the open air, in bathrooms and shower cabins, is prohibited.

Grounding should not take place through gas pipes, gas and plumbing equipment. It is imperative to make sure that access to the outlet is not difficult.A floor-standing air conditioner can be very affected by overheating, therefore it should only be placed in the shade. Moreover, it must be located strictly vertically. More detailed requirements for each specific device can be found in the instructions.

There are a few more subtleties that buyers of outdoor air conditioners should consider. By purchasing a cheap model, you will have to put up with a fairly high noise level. If you want to make life as calm as possible, you need to give preference to expensive equipment. You will have to pay a high price for especially compact models, while their performance is not impressive.

When adjusting the air conditioner, it makes no sense to set the air cooling to more than 18 degrees. This is not only irrational in terms of energy expenditure, but also simply unhealthy. The likelihood of colds, rheumatism increases.

In order for the power of the device to exactly match the needs of the customer, you need to immediately consult with professionals.

At night, even if the heat does not decrease, the air conditioner should be switched to a less intensive mode. You can reduce the cooling by 1-2 degrees, since the body consumes less heat at night.

Climatic equipment must be cleaned, and this will have to be done systematically. Both external and internal filters can be cleaned. The carbon filter blocks are not washed, but completely replaced.

You will learn more about floor-standing air conditioners by watching the following video.