Choosing an effective air conditioner is a task that requires taking into account many factors, especially in conditions when there are many interesting models with different functions on the market. Every detail, from the power of the device to its advanced features, can significantly affect your comfort and energy consumption, as well as the frequency of air conditioner repair. In this article, you will learn about the basic and additional functions of modern air conditioners, which will help you make a choice in favor of the most optimal option for your needs.
Main Functions of The Air Conditioner
All modern air conditioners have the following functions:
- cooling;
- heating;
- dehumidification;
- ventilation (circulation of the internal air of the room);
- night or quiet mode.
Cooling
In the cooling mode, the split system reduces the temperature in the room to the one set by the user, and then, when the set temperature is reached, the air conditioner maintains it. To do this, split systems without an inverter are switched off and then switched on again when the temperature rises. Inverter air conditioners do not switch off completely and maintain the desired temperature, operating at reduced power.
Heating
In heating mode, the air conditioner increases the temperature inside the room to the one set by the user. The set temperature is maintained in the same way as in cooling mode.
Heating in a split system occurs due to the transfer of heat from the outside air, without the use of heating elements. Using an air conditioner for heating is 3-5 times more profitable than a heater since split systems consume less electricity.
Dehumidification
In the dehumidification mode, the air conditioner reduces the relative humidity in the room: excess moisture condenses and is discharged through the drain hose. The temperature drops by a maximum of 1 °C. Dehumidification may be necessary in damp weather, as well as in apartments on the first floor. Using this air conditioner function helps combat high humidity and prevents the spread of mold.
Ventilation
In the ventilation mode, the split system distributes air around the room, without cooling or heating. This mode is useful in winter, when the heat from the radiators rises to the ceiling, and cold air accumulates in the lower part of the room. The air conditioner in the ventilation mode mixes the air in the room, and it becomes evenly warm.
Night Mode
In night mode, most air conditioners operate at a reduced noise level. The equipment simply reduces the rotation speed of the indoor unit fan, which reduces the cooling intensity and energy consumption of the split system.
In addition, there are air conditioners that not only reduce the fan speed but also include a special temperature change program.
Setting The Fan Speed
Most models have 3 fan speeds: low, medium, and high, less often split systems have 5-6 speed levels. The higher the fan speed, the faster the set temperature will be reached. You can also set automatic speed selection depending on the set temperature.
Additional Functions of The Air Conditioner
Depending on the model, the set of additional functions of the air conditioners varies; the more expensive the air conditioner, the more options it has. However, not all of them are equally useful.
Automatic Mode
In the auto mode, the air conditioner itself selects the desired mode – cooling or heating and also sets the fan speed depending on the room temperature. Some models allow the user to set the desired temperature, which will be maintained in the auto mode, the rest adhere to the temperatures programmed by the manufacturer (usually within 23-25 °C).
Some models equipped with humidity sensors can also turn on the dehumidification or ventilation mode in automatic mode to reduce humidity levels or ensure air circulation.
Turbo Mode
In turbo mode, the split system increases its performance to 110-120% for 5-30 minutes to reach the set temperature faster. Then the air conditioner switches to the mode that was set earlier.
Timer
Most often, air conditioners have a 24-hour on/off timer function. With this function, you can program the split system so that it, for example, cools the room by the time you arrive home from work.
Air Filtration
All air conditioners are equipped with a coarse filter – a mesh that protects the parts of the internal unit of the split system from large dust, wool, fluff, and other small debris floating in the air of the room. Such filtration helps the device to work correctly and protects it from breakage.
Such cleaning is also useful for the user. There is less large dust in the air, but you should not count on deep filtration.
Air Ionization
Some air conditioner models are equipped with an ionization function – saturation of the air with negative ions. It is believed that inhaling ionized air strengthens the immune system, improves well-being, and neutralizes the negative impact of electrical appliances. However, scientific studies of the effect of ionized air on humans are very contradictory: scientists find both benefits and harm from ionization.
If it is important for you that the air conditioner has an ionization function, then choose devices with a built-in air ionizer or cold plasma generator. Devices in which fine plasma filters are responsible for the ionization effect are not able to saturate the air with negative ions; their purpose is to filter the air.
Humidification
During operation, the split system draws some moisture from the air. This happens because the air loses moisture during its cooling. Because of this, the air humidity can drop below the parameters comfortable for humans.
To restore a comfortable level of humidity, air conditioners are equipped with a steam generator, ultrasonic humidifier, or humidifying element. The air is humidified by condensate, which in conventional split system models is removed through a drainage tube.
Final Thoughts
Choosing an air conditioner that will create an excellent microclimate in your home without frequent repairs requires taking into account several key factors. High-quality materials, a reliable brand, correctly selected power, and professional installation of equipment – all this play a decisive role in the durability of the device. If the situation is such that you need HVAC repair services in Sacramento, then we recommend contacting Alpha Mechanical.
