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How Does a Split Air Conditioner Work?

How Does a Split Air Conditioner Work? | Parts & Installation Process

October 28, 2024 Hussain Bhatti No Comments

Unlike traditional air conditioners that rely on a single central indoor unit and extensive ductwork to transport the cool air through the house — split systems utilize individual room units. Moreover, the flexibility of split systems means they can be used in new building projects and as upgrades to existing systems without significant renovations. So, consider the pros and cons of split air conditioning before making the final decision.

How Do Split Air Conditioners Work?

More than 90% of homes have conventional duct systems built after 2000. On the other hand, a mini split air conditioner offers a ductless solution to those who don’t want to get involved in the time-consuming process of ductwork installation. Plus, it’s ideal for older homes with limited space for additional ductwork. Yet, these units are individual indoor units mounted on the wall of each room or zone. Each zone operates independently, so no energy is wasted in cooling rooms that aren’t in use.

How Split Systems Manage Airflow?

Each indoor unit features its own fan and evaporator and is connected via refrigerant lines to an outdoor compressor, just like a normal HVAC setup. The system pulls hot air from the room, which passes over the evaporator coil, where it is cooled and then blown back into the room.

Got it?

As the refrigerant in the lines circulates through a compressed outdoor cycle, it expels heat and then comes back to absorb more warm air from the home.

The Refrigeration Cycle

As it expands, the gas’s temperature drops dramatically, cooling the air about to be returned to the room. This cycle runs continuously until the temperature you set is reached, at which point the unit shuts down without you manually turning it off.

7 Major Components of a Split Air Conditioner

Below are the seven components of mini-split air conditioners; each one is critical for its operation:

  • Outdoor Compressor: It acts as the heart of the system, pumping refrigerant through the cooling circuit and expelling heat from the indoor air.
  • Indoor Unit: Mounted on the indoor room wall, this unit houses the fan and evaporator coil that cools and recirculates air back into the room.
  • Refrigerant Lines: Connect the outdoor compressor to the indoor units, carrying the refrigerant that absorbs and releases heat as it moves through the system.
  • Evaporator Coil: Located inside the indoor unit, it cools the air as the refrigerant evaporates and absorbs heat from the indoor environment.
  • Condenser Coil: Found in the outdoor compressor unit, it releases the heat removed from the indoor air into the outside environment.
  • Thermostat: Controls the system’s setting to get the temperature you want within the room or zone.
  • Expansion Valve: This valve regulates the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator coil, aiding in the rapid cooling and expansion of the refrigerant.

Do Split Systems Offer Heating and Cooling?

Yes, split systems offer both heating and cooling options, which makes them highly versatile for year-round climate control, unlike traditional air conditioners, which only cool, split systems can reverse their operation thanks to a component called the heat pump.

During colder months, the heat pump extracts heat from the outside air—even in cold conditions—and transfers it indoors to warm the room. This dual functionality makes split systems a practical choice.

Meanwhile, the seamless switch between heating and cooling in split systems is governed by a simple adjustment on the thermostat. It allows users to maintain a comfortable indoor environment regardless of the external weather.

For example, you can maintain a cooler temperature in the bedroom for sleeping while keeping living areas at normal temperature during the day. This reduces energy consumption and lowers utility bills.

How to Install the Split Indoor Unit?

  • Location: Choose a wall away from direct sunlight and heat sources. This will prevent later heat issues. The wall should have sturdy support to hold the weight of the indoor unit. Ensure there is enough space around the area for proper air circulation.
  • Mounting the Plate: Secure the mounting plate to the interior wall at the appropriate height; usually, it is mounted about 7 feet from the floor. Use a level to ensure the plate is perfectly horizontal.
  • Do Drilling: Drill a hole through the wall behind the mounting plate, typically 3 inches in diameter, to pass the refrigerant lines, electrical cables, and drain pipe to the outdoor unit.
  • Connect Electrical Lines: Attach the electrical cables and refrigerant lines to the indoor unit according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not bend the pipes sharply, as this can cause kinks.
  • Mount Indoor Unit: Lift the indoor unit and hook it onto the mounting plate. Ensure it fits securely and is stable.
  • Secure Connections: Secure all connections and use a leak detector to check the refrigerant lines. Proper sealing is crucial to prevent leaks and ensure efficient operation.
  • Connect the Drain Pipe: Attach the drain pipe to the indoor unit and ensure a slight downward slope toward the outside to facilitate drainage without backups.

How to Install the Split Outdoor Unit?

  • Choose a Suitable Location: The outdoor unit should be placed on a flat, stable surface. This can be a concrete pad or a level area free from debris and vegetation. We recommend elevating your outdoor unit to prevent flooding and similar issues later.
  • Install the Concrete Pad: If not already present, install a concrete pad slightly larger than the footprint of the outdoor unit. This pad should be level to prevent vibration and reduce noise. You can also place a thick rubber material for the same purpose.
  • Position the Outdoor Unit: Place the outdoor unit on the pad, ensuring it is level. If necessary, adjust the position of the unit to correct any imbalance.
  • Connect Copper Refrigerant Lines: Run the refrigerant lines from indoor to outdoor units. These should be as short as possible to minimize the risk of leaks and maintain efficiency.
  • Make Electrical Connections: Connect the power cables from the indoor and outdoor units. You can follow the manufacturer’s wiring diagram.
  • Secure Refrigerant Lines and Electrical Connections: Use clamps to secure the refrigerant lines and electrical wiring along their route to protect them from damage for a neat installation.
  • Check for Leaks and Test the System: Once all connections are made, check the system for refrigerant leaks. After confirming that there are no leaks, start the system to test its operation.

What Size of Split AC Do You Need? - Split AC BTU Size Calculator

Enter the size of your room in square feet:

Alongside consider these factors if you’re going to install a new AC:

  • Room Size: The size of the room is the primary factor in determining the capacity of the AC needed. It is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). A unit that’s too small won’t cool, and a large one can lead to inefficient energy use and uneven temperature control. That’s why the BTU capacity should match the room’s square footage.
  • Location: The geographical location of your home significantly affects your cooling needs. Rooms in hotter, sunnier climates may require a more robust air conditioning system than those in more relaxed, shaded areas. Additionally, the placement of the unit should avoid direct sunlight and heat sources.
  • Sun Exposure: If you have no option to install AC other than the shade room, Then you have to go for a higher BTU capacity to increase the cooling to meet the needs. South-facing rooms tend to get more sunlight throughout the day; thus, they need more cooling.
  • Insulation Quality: Well-insulated rooms retain cool air better, requiring less energy for cooling. Poor insulation, on the other hand, can lead to significant energy losses.
  • Room Height: Rooms with high ceilings may require air conditioners with higher BTU ratings to compensate for the increased air volume.

The Bottom Line

All in all, we hope you now understand how split air conditioners work. If you’re looking for authorized HVAC technicians to install the AC, call Ventiluxes! We’re here to maximize your comfort within hours.

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