What is a Split-type Air Conditioner?
A Split-type air conditioner, also known as a split AC, is a cooling system that divides the
components of a traditional air conditioning system into two separate units: one located indoors
and the other outdoors. The outdoor unit houses the compressor and condenser components,
while the indoor unit contains the distribution and filter components. These two units are
interconnected by flexible copper tubing, eliminating the need for expensive ductwork and
facilitating installation. This design allows for efficient cooling and the ability to control
multiple indoor fans with a single outdoor unit, resembling a central air system.
Parts of a Split-type Air Conditioner
The various parts are:
Compressor (Outdoor)
The compressor plays a pivotal role by compressing the refrigerant gas and converting it into
a liquid state. This liquid refrigerant then moves on to the next stage in the cooling process.
Condenser (Outdoor)
The condenser, a critical outdoor component, efficiently cools the air by dissipating heat into
the surrounding environment. In some heavy-duty air conditioning units, the condenser can
rival the cooling capacity of a refrigerator or freezer, showcasing its importance in the cooling
cycle.
Evaporator Coil (Indoor)
The evaporator coil serves as a central component in the air conditioning system. Its primary
function is to cool the indoor air by absorbing heat from the environment and transferring it
into the refrigerant, an essential step in the cooling process.
Expansion Valve (Indoor)
The expansion valve is a pressure control device that regulates the flow of refrigerant, ensuring
it maintains the appropriate pressure drop as it moves through the system.
Capacitor (Indoor)
A capacitor is crucial for stabilising the system during startup. It is also responsible for
operating various circuits and facilitating power switching within the unit.
Air Blower (Indoor)
The air blower, a type of fan, is vital in distributing the cooled air throughout the room,
ensuring an even and comfortable cooling effect.
Refrigerant (System)
The refrigerant acts as a heat transfer medium, absorbing and transferring heat from one
location to another. This process is essential for cooling the room during hot weather.
Air Filter (Indoor)
An air filter allows air to pass through while trapping dust, dirt, and solid particles. It is present
in the indoor components of the AC and requires regular cleaning, ideally on a monthly or
quarterly basis.
Drain Hose (Indoor/Outdoor)
The drain hose is used to remove excess water from the condenser. While some AC units have
a built-in pump to manage water disposal, a drain hose is necessary for overflow situations.
Motor Fan (Outdoor)
The motor fan is responsible for moving hot air from the condenser to the surrounding
environment, serving as a vent for the air that the indoor condenser has cooled.
Thermostat (Indoor)
A thermostat allows you to regulate the room's temperature according to your preferences. You
can easily set the desired cooling temperature and adjust it to maintain comfort.
Working of Split-type Air Conditioner
The working of a Split-type air conditioner is:
o A copper connection pipe and electrical wiring connect the indoor unit to the outdoor
unit in a split air conditioning system.
o This connection facilitates the flow of gas refrigerant, which is pumped from the
outdoor condenser coil and compressor to the indoor unit or units through the pipeline.
The gas refrigerant plays a crucial role in the cooling process.
o Inside the indoor unit, the refrigerant flows through the evaporator coil, undergoing a
phase change from a liquid to a gas.
o During this transition, it absorbs heat from the indoor air, effectively cooling it. A fan,
operating quietly, then takes on the role of distributing this cooled air throughout the
room.
o This process, where the refrigerant continuously cycles between the indoor and outdoor
units, is what enables a split air conditioner to maintain a comfortable indoor
temperature.
o Additionally, the system's efficiency and performance can be further enhanced by
regular maintenance and cleaning of its components.
Advantages of Split-type Air Conditioners
The various advantages of Split-type air conditioner are:
o Energy-efficient cooling.
o Quiet operation.
o Individual room temperature control.
o Improved air quality with built-in filters.
o Sleek and discreet design.
o Easy installation and flexibility in placement.
Disadvantages of Split-type Air Conditioners
The limitations are:
o Higher initial cost.
o Requires professional installation.
o Limited to cooling (may not provide heating).
o May require multiple units for larger spaces.
o Outdoor unit placement can be challenging.
o Regular maintenance is necessary.
Applications of Split-type Air Conditioners
The various uses of Split-type air conditioners are:
o Homes and apartments.
o Offices and commercial spaces.
o Hotels and hospitality establishments.
o Server rooms and data centres.
o Retail stores and shops.
o Educational institutions.
What is a Window Air Conditioner?
A window air conditioner is a self-contained unit installed in a window that cools a room by
removing heat and humidity from the air. It consists of key components like a compressor,
evaporator coil, condenser coil, thermostat, fan, and filter, working together to cool the air and
circulate it back into the room.
Construction:
• Enclosure: The unit is housed in a casing that typically fits within a window frame.
• Components:
o Compressor: Pushes refrigerant, a liquid that changes state to create the
cooling effect.
o Evaporator Coil: A cold coil inside the unit that absorbs heat from the air,
causing the air to cool.
o Condenser Coil: A hot coil outside the unit that releases the absorbed heat into
the environment.
o Thermostat: Controls the temperature and turns the unit on or off as needed.
o Fan/Blower: Draws in warm air from the room and circulates the cooled air.
o Filter: Removes dust and other particles from the air.
• Refrigerant: A substance that cycles through the compressor, evaporator, and
condenser, absorbing and releasing heat during the process.
Working
• The evaporator fan sucks the air from the room to be conditioned through air filter. It
passes the air over the evaporator (cooling) coil.
• In the evaporator, the liquid refrigerant picks up heat Jing 100 from the room air. This
cool air brings down the temperature and humidity levels in the room and provides
comfortable conditions.
• The compressor compresses the low-pressure vapour refrigerant coming from the
evaporator. It converts refrigerant into high-pressure vapour refrigerant.
• The high-pressure vapour refrigerant is then passed into the condenser where it is cooled.
• Outside air is drawn in by the another fan (which is also driven by same motor.) Thus, it
cools the refrigerant to become liquid
• The high-pressure low-temperature liquid refrigerant from the condenser enters the
capillary tube (ie., Tenoitib expansion valve).
• The pressure and temperature of the refrigerant drops when it leaves the tube. Then, the
low-temperature refrigerant from the tube passes to the evaporator coil.
• In the evaporator, the liquid refrigerant picks up heat and gets vapourised. This cycle
repeats again and again.
• The unit stops automatically when the required temperature is reached in the room by
help of thermostat.
Advantages:
Affordability:
Window ACs are generally cheaper to purchase and install compared to split ACs, making
them a budget-friendly option.
Easy Installation:
They are straightforward to install, often without requiring professional help, and can be
moved between different rooms.
Individual Room Cooling:
They effectively cool specific rooms or areas without requiring a whole-house cooling
system.
Space-Saving:
They don't require floor space, as they are installed in a window frame.
Temporary Solutions:
They are a good option for renters or situations where a permanent AC system isn't
desired.
Disadvantages:
Lower Energy Efficiency: Window ACs tend to be less energy-efficient than split ACs,
potentially leading to higher electricity bills.
Noise: They can be noisier than split ACs, especially at night.
Limited Cooling Capacity: They may struggle to cool larger spaces or rooms with high
heat loads.
Window Blockage: Installing a window AC unit can block natural light and restrict the
view from the window.
Aesthetics: Some find the appearance of window AC units less appealing compared to
split ACs.
Applications:
Single-Room Cooling:
Window ACs are best suited for cooling individual rooms, especially smaller spaces like
bedrooms, offices, or apartments.
Renters:
They are a convenient and affordable option for renters who don't want to install a
permanent AC system.
Budget-Conscious Individuals:
Their lower cost makes them an appealing choice for those on a tight budget.
Temporary Cooling Needs:
They can be used as a temporary solution for cooling a room or area without the need for
a full-blown HVAC system.
