Is it worth paying extra for an inverter air conditioner? When it is necessary?

How does a regular air conditioner work?

Conventional air conditioners are called start/stop or on/off systems. In them, the compressor periodically turns on and off. Operating cycle of a non-inverter air conditioner:

1. The compressor turns on, freon circulates through the system and cools (heats) the room.
2. When the temperature reaches the set temperature, the compressor turns off. The refrigerant stops circulating through the system.
3. The indoor fan continues to circulate air to ensure mixing and even temperature distribution.
4. When the refrigerant or room air temperature changes by 1-2 degrees, the compressor turns on again.

If the air conditioner is of normal quality, you will not notice that the compressor turns on or off. This can be determined when you are under a stream of air at the moment you turn it on. Depending on the mode (heat or cold), the air from the indoor unit will slightly change the temperature.

How does an inverter air conditioner work?

In an inverter air conditioner, the compressor does not turn off. It works constantly, but at different speeds. Electricity consumption and performance change accordingly. Inverter air conditioner operating cycle:

1. The compressor turns on, the refrigerant circulates through the freon line, and the air in the room is heated or cooled.
2. When the temperature reaches the temperature you set, the compressor slows down.
3. As soon as the air warms up or cools by 0.5-1 degrees, the compressor picks up speed.
4. When the room cools down to the desired level, the speed drops.

When an inverter air conditioner is operating, like a conventional air conditioner, the fan of the indoor unit is constantly running. It is responsible for mixing and distributing air throughout the room. In rooms served by inverter split systems, the temperature difference rarely exceeds 0.5 degrees.

Types of inverter air conditioners

Inverter air conditioners are modern split systems consisting of two modules: external and internal.

Manufacturers produce inverter air conditioners of various models, differing in power, energy efficiency, filtration system, control technology and length of communications.

The cheapest models have limited functionality, low power and a simple design. Devices in the mid-price range are reliable in operation and have higher quality characteristics.

The most expensive are premium segment split systems, characterized by a high degree of air purification, high power, increased functionality and long service life.

Why is an inverter more expensive?

No matter how stupid it sounds, an inverter air conditioner has an additional component - a voltage inverter. It is responsible for the speed of the compressor. The more filling there is in a technique, the more expensive it costs.

The operation of a voltage inverter is based on switching a constant voltage source to periodically change the polarity of the voltage at the load terminals. The switching frequency is set by control signals generated by the control circuit (controller).

Article about Voltage Inverters on Wikipedia

The main difference in the structure of conventional non-inverter models from inverter ones is the presence of a voltage inverter. Without it, it is impossible to regulate the operation of the compressor. In simple words, the principle of operation can be explained as follows:

In conventional split systems, the signal from the temperature sensor is processed by the air conditioner control board. It gives a signal when to turn on or turn off the compressor.

In inverter models, the control board responds to the temperature sensor readings. It calculates at what speed the compressor should operate and what voltage is needed for this. The board gives a command to the inverter, which converts standard 220V into the required voltage. The speed of the compressor depends on the voltage applied to it. The smaller it is, the lower the speed.

Influence of the inverter on noise level and power consumption

Inverter split systems work differently than standard air conditioners. The compressor is powered by a DC motor. The control module in split systems converts direct current into alternating current of a given frequency. This process is called inversion.

This transformation allows you to change the rotation speed of the compressor engine over a wide range, and accordingly, the creation of coolness and warmth. The power of the motor is regulated by simply changing the voltage: more voltage means the rotation of the motor shaft increases.

Accordingly, the movement of refrigerant from the compressor accelerates. And vice versa, the voltage decreases - the engine speed decreases, and the speed of freon through the tubes decreases. The standard device uses a compressor with an AC motor, and its power is regulated only by turning the motor on or off.

It turns out that the inverter device is designed to change the standard frequency of the electrical network. The device has an integrated control board, through which the operation of the device is regulated. It is located in the outdoor module and regulates the number of times the device is turned on.

Consequently, for air conditioners with inverters, the compressor moves the refrigerant whenever the split system is turned on in cooling mode (at the same time, its speed is either higher or lower). This has three important advantages:

• The engine has no starting torque.
• Possibility of smooth regulation of cool air movement.
• The inverter air conditioner in the apartment operates in the created mode.

As a result of the first advantage, the split system consumes approximately 20-25% less electricity than a classic climate control device. The second point indicates that the compressor of an inverter air conditioner operates in the range of 0.5-1˚C degrees (and for standard split systems the range is 1-5˚C).

The third advantage means quieter operation of the air conditioner. Thanks to this mode, the air conditioner operates silently and is often used in bedrooms at night. At the same time, it switches to an economical mode with slow rotation of the fan impeller. Inverter wall-mounted air conditioners from Hitachi are especially suitable for this setting.

A little about efficiency

The second most important characteristic of any air conditioner is the conversion coefficient. It is designated COP (Coefficient Of Performance), sometimes called the efficiency of the air conditioner. The higher it is, the better.

COP is measured not in percentages, but in units. It characterizes the ratio of thermal energy conversion to consumed electricity. For example, if COP = 3, it means that for 1 kW of consumed electricity, 3 kW of heat is supplied (in heating mode) or removed (in cooling mode).

For comparison, the COP of electric heaters is no higher than 0.98. That is, for 1 kW of electricity consumed, it produces 980 W of heat. For fan heaters it is even lower.

The conversion factor depends on:

• Type of refrigerant in the air conditioner (R22, R410a, R32);
• Compressor power;
• Temperature differences between indoors and outdoors.

Air conditioner COP depending on indoor and outdoor temperatures.
Due to the high COP, inverter splits have a larger operating temperature range. Conventional air conditioners can operate for heat when it’s above -5…0 outside, and for cold when it’s +35…+40. With a large temperature difference, their energy consumption increases greatly.

Inverter split systems can work for cooling when the outside air temperature is above +45. The minimum outside temperature for heating is -10...-5 degrees. Some models have a wider range. But they are not classified as air conditioners, but as air-to-air heat pumps.

Principle of operation

What are the differences between conventional air conditioners and our heroes? And what is an inverter split system? Which air conditioner is better - inverter or conventional? Is there a risk of overpaying? These and other questions arise in the mind of the future owner of climate control equipment. And you can answer them only by analyzing the differences between an inverter air conditioner and its conventional counterpart.

Regular air conditioner

A conventional device must regulate the temperature in the room based on the readings of the temperature sensor - the latter is set by the user. The bottom line is that if the specified indicator is exceeded, the device simply turns off. Naturally, after some time the temperature begins to rise, so a restart occurs, during which a conventional air conditioner begins to operate at full power. Thus, the equipment works for the entire specified time.

Such on-off switches do not have the best consequences:

• peak load on the device at the time of startup;
• surge in the power grid (increased energy consumption);
• wear of mechanism parts.

It turns out that a non-inverter device operates cyclically. And in order for its engine to accelerate, large starting currents are consumed. After the start has occurred, the compressor begins pumping 50% of the total volume of freon from the low pressure zone to the high one. In this case, all systems are used to the maximum.

How does the pressure normalize after the compressor is turned off? The throttle system is responsible for this. But in any part of the system there remains a risk of freon boiling (this can occur in the main line, in the receiver, and in the capillary tube). And the unused potential cold comes out, irrationally cooling the air outside. Of course, there is compensation, but it is small - at the same time, cold is generated into the room. To some extent, this equalizes the losses when the compressor is turned on again.

Inverter model

With an inverter air conditioner, everything is different than with conventional models. Here the control unit converts alternating current into direct current, and then converts it back into alternating current, but at the current frequency.

Knowledge of physics will help answer the question of what an inverter is in an air conditioner. It turns out that the inverter is aimed at increasing and decreasing the usual network frequency. This inverter control of the power of the air conditioner formed the basis for the name of the device. It affected the change in the number of revolutions of the compressor engine, and, therefore, its performance.

The operating principle of an inverter air conditioner consists of the following technical actions. The device has a thermostat, designed as a standard temperature meter, but when the desired level is reached, it does not turn off, but simply reduces the power in operation (leaving only 5-10% of the usual). In this case, the temperature will drop much more slowly, but when the permissible threshold is passed, the compressor will start again. An inverter compressor operates in the range of 1-1.5 degrees (compared to conventional ones, for which such data varies from 1 to 5°C). In this case, there will be no 100% load on the device.

The inverter air conditioner circuit includes the usual outdoor and indoor units.

1. The outer one contains elements such as a compressor, followed by a system filter with freon, followed by a fan for cooling freon and a condenser. Also worth mentioning is the control and connection board.
2. Now about the indoor unit: the first thing worth mentioning is the evaporator for cooling the air, the fan, the parts of the blinds, as well as the filter and pan into which the condensate drains.

Differences between an inverter air conditioner and a conventional one

Longer service life . The compressor does not experience stress when turned on constantly. It wears out more slowly, and this is the heart of any air conditioner.

Costs more . An inverter split has an additional unit - an inverter. Accordingly, it cannot cost the same as a regular, non-inverter model. But the price gap is narrowing every year.

Less electricity consumption . An inverter air conditioner does not have the starting currents required to start the compressor. They can significantly affect energy consumption. The COP of inverter air conditioners is higher due to the size and volume of the evaporator and condenser.

Precise temperature maintenance . Indoor temperature will fluctuate between 0.5-1 degrees. For start-stop systems, this range is within 2-4 degrees.

Few people will tell you about this

Small temperature changes are not noticeable. But your body reacts to them. If it gets a little cooler, your metabolism speeds up and your body begins to produce more heat. If it gets warmer, the processes slow down, but not immediately.

It's a little stressful, but still stressful. It is generally harmless, but in some people it can cause fatigue, malaise, and decreased vitality. If you are weather dependent, or have small children in the family, start-stop air conditioning is a bad option.

Fast heating and cooling . When turned on for the first time, it warms or cools the room faster than a regular on/off air conditioner.

There are no power surges in the network . To turn on the compressor of a non-inverter air conditioner, a high starting current is required. Because of this, there may be voltage drops; it can drop to 170V. The inverter system starts the compressor only once when turned on.

Expensive repairs . It takes more time to determine the breakdown. Some spare parts are difficult to obtain and are expensive. Repairs should be performed by a professional who is familiar with electronics.

Wide operating temperature range . When a conventional air conditioner cannot cope, an inverter air conditioner can work. At the same time, its COP will always be greater than 1. It will produce more heat or cold than it will consume electricity.

Advantages of the device

The advantages of inverter air conditioners are largely due to the technology used to generate electric current, as well as the presence of built-in automation. Today, this type of equipment is popular in the market due to its versatility, reliability and cost-effectiveness.

The main advantages of inverter systems include:

• The equipment is capable of operating 24 hours a day.
• The inverter provides stable current even with significant overloads and voltage surges in the network.
• Excellent efficiency of the equipment, reduces costs for the homeowner.
• Built-in automation is capable of accurately maintaining the temperature specified by the user.
• The air conditioner operates with a reduced noise level, which allows it to be used in bedrooms even at night.
• Ensuring maximum comfort and optimal indoor microclimate.
• The equipment is reliable and has a long service life.
• Most models have a room heating function, which can significantly increase the comfort of living in the house during the winter season.

We recommend that you read: Air conditioning for server rooms

Myths and fairy tales about inverter air conditioners

The inverter air conditioner does not make noise . Yes it is. But is a regular, non-inverter one noisy? Modern start-stop split systems operate quietly, almost silently. If the air conditioner starts to rustle, click, or just work loudly, call a professional.

With an inverter air conditioner, 30-40% of electricity is saved . The entire Internet is full of such statements. One of the cunning sellers started this canard and it is reprinted in 90% of articles about air conditioners. Such savings can be achieved if you replace a twenty-year-old unit with a modern one.

Inverter split systems are more environmentally friendly . This expression is simply a PR move by sellers and manufacturers of air conditioners. Freon has an impact on the environment when it leaks. It all depends on its type. Different types of refrigerants have different effects on global warming and the Earth's ozone layer.

Selecting the best models

The choice in HVAC stores today is so wide that it is difficult for the average buyer to make the right choice. It is necessary to take into account not only the manufacturer of the equipment and the specific model, but also power indicators, installation method, possibilities for subsequent expansion of functionality and a number of other characteristics. By choosing the right air conditioner, you can subsequently completely solve problems with heat and cold in the room, while such equipment will not cause any trouble during operation.

Air conditioning systems from Daikin

The Japanese company Daikin is one of the world leaders in the production of climate control equipment. The offer includes two product lines: FTXN and FTX. Such air conditioners differ in their purpose, power and installation method. The ratings of inverter air conditioners are invariably topped by models from this Japanese brand. You can choose both compact wall-mounted options and powerful equipment that is best mounted on the floor.

Both presented lines of Daikin climate control equipment are distinguished by a long service life , have excellent ergonomics and good energy-economic indicators, are characterized by minimal noise, and a large assortment will allow each buyer to choose the optimal model that fully suits his requirements. The only drawback is the high cost, which is typical for products of all Japanese brands.

Inexpensive devices from LG

Air conditioners built using inverter technology from the South Korean manufacturer LG are very popular. In the offer of this brand you can find universal equipment intended both for domestic use and for installation in offices and large administrative buildings. Installing an inverter air conditioner from this manufacturer is not particularly difficult.

We recommend that you read: Split air conditioning system

The advantages of LG air conditioners include:

• minimal wear rates;
• high power;
• availability of fully automatic control;
• minimal noise;
• excellent efficiency and economy;
• available range of choice;
• affordable prices;
• long-term quality guarantee.

Buyers are offered both relatively simple and inexpensive models that do an excellent job of cooling an apartment with an area of ​​50-60 square meters, as well as fully automated kits that feature advanced functionality and are capable of maintaining an optimal indoor microclimate in a completely autonomous mode. An undoubted advantage of air conditioners is the presence of numerous LG service centers, which greatly simplifies the maintenance and repair of such equipment.

Electrolux and Beko

The main advantage of such air conditioners is their reliability, functionality and affordable cost. If models from Japanese brands with similar functionality and power can have a price of 100-150 thousand rubles, then equipment from Beko and Electrolux is offered much cheaper, so every buyer can afford it.

Beko inverter split systems are popular on the market, combining attractive appearance, ease of installation and high power. Some models have a built-in air ionizer and are equipped with a dehumidification function. Buyers can choose installations for a specific area of ​​the premises, and the brand’s offer includes models for both apartments and installations for use in administrative buildings, shopping malls and office buildings.

Electrolux is a leading Swedish manufacturer of household appliances. The brand’s inverter splits have proven themselves to be high-quality and versatile appliances. They are equipped with simple controls, the automation is reliable and durable and is fully optimized for use in cold climates. Split systems have anti-icing protection, so they can be used all year round to cool and heat indoor air.

Cassette inverter air conditioners are in demand among buyers today, due to the functionality, versatility and cost-effectiveness of the equipment. You just need to decide what an inverter air conditioner means and its differences from standard models. By choosing an inverter or conventional air conditioner from leading brands, you can be sure of the versatility of use.

On sale you can find equipment models from European brands, as well as fully automated, powerful, ultra-modern Japanese installations. You need to decide on the subsequent use of the equipment, which will allow you to purchase a high-quality air conditioner, which during operation will not cause any hassle or difficulties.

How much can you save?

This is perhaps the most important question when choosing the type of air conditioner. There is no clear answer to this. Savings depend on many factors, such as:

• Cost per kilowatt of electricity;
• air conditioner COP;
• Temperatures inside and outside the room.

Inverter air conditioners using R410a or R22 freon will help save 5-15% of electricity. If the split system runs on R32 refrigerant, the savings will be 10-25%. You can see the average consumption of air conditioners depending on power in this table:

The label shows the heating output of air conditioners in BTU (British Thermal Units) and kW. The average values ​​of electricity consumption when operating at rated power are given. Some models may have higher or lower consumption.

In common parlance, air conditioners are called by their thermal power:

• Seven – 7000 BTU;
• Nine – 9000 BTU;
• Twelve - 12000 BTU.

You also need to take into account that the price of electricity may depend on the time of day. It is different in houses with gas and electric stoves. Tariffs in different cities may differ by 3-4 times. At the time of writing, one kW in Irkutsk cost 5 times less than in Moscow. Therefore, it is better to calculate savings in kilowatts.

Important

All calculations below are based on average statistical data. Actual energy consumption varies depending on the climate in your area, frequency and time of use of the air conditioner, its characteristics, etc.

Cooling savings

On average, air conditioning is used for cooling 450 hours per year. In mid-latitudes, it spends the same amount of time heating. Of course, in the south there is no point in heating a house or apartment with air conditioning. Just like cooling your home in the north of the country. Therefore, let's calculate how much an inverter air conditioner can save in kilowatts.

On average, an office air conditioner works 700 hours a year for cooling. 'This is based on an 8-hour working day and a 5-day working week.

A home air conditioner operates in cooling mode for about 450 hours a year. This is the case if you don’t use it at night, but turn it on after hours, when it’s really hot outside.

By simple calculations you can calculate how much an inverter air conditioner can save depending on the type and freon used:

Savings when heating with an inverter air conditioner

When it comes to heating, the numbers are completely different. In summer, you can turn off the air conditioning when you are at work; Do not use it in the morning until the air has warmed up. During the cold season, it is necessary to maintain a constant temperature.

On average, the air conditioner will work for heat for 120 days or 2880 hours. Based on this, let’s calculate how much an inverter air conditioner can save:

As can be seen from the last two tables, heating costs are much higher than cooling costs. Is it worth overpaying for an inverter air conditioner if you are only going to use it in the summer? Hardly. But if you have a private house, then this is a good alternative to heating with electricity, gas, wood or coal.

Let us remind you once again that all values ​​are averaged. Each air conditioner has its own heating and cooling capacity, COP. If you replace an expensive start-stop system with a cheap inverter air conditioner, your energy costs may even increase.

So is it worth paying extra for an inverter air conditioner?

It's time to take stock. In short, an inverter air conditioner is worth buying if:

• The family has small children;
• You are going to use the air conditioner for heating;
• Your region experiences severe frosts in winter or heat in summer;
• The air conditioner will operate for more than 6 months per year.

In the article we talked about the differences between conventional split systems and inverter ones. They provided an approximate calculation of electricity consumption and potential savings. Whether it’s worth overpaying for an inverter air conditioner is up to you to decide. This largely depends on your specific situation and your budget.

Do you want to get help from a master, a specialist in this field? Go to the professional search portal. This is a completely free service where you will find a professional who will solve your problem. You do not pay for posting an ad, views, or choosing a contractor. If you are a master of your craft, then register on Pro and receive a flow of clients. Your profit is just one click away!

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