What is a split AC unit? Here’s everything you need to know

Split air conditioners are among the most used types of ACs and for good reason. These clever systems break away from the bulky window unit design, offering a quieter and more aesthetically pleasing solution for climate control. Unlike window ACs, split systems consist of two separate units: an indoor unit that blows cool air and an outdoor unit that houses the noisy compressor and condenser. This separation keeps noise levels down inside your home, while the outdoor unit efficiently dissipates heat. 

But that’s not all! Split ACs are also known for their energy efficiency, often featuring inverter technology that tailors power usage for consistent cooling without constant on-and-off cycles. So, what exactly is a split AC, how does it work, and what are the advantages and disadvantages to consider? This comprehensive guide will answer all your questions and help you decide if a split AC unit is the perfect cooling companion for your home. 

​Understanding what a split AC unit is

Split AC units are a popular choice for home or office air conditioning, offering both efficient cooling and quieter operation than window units. They consist of two main components working together to cool your space. The indoor unit, mounted on your wall inside, houses the evaporator coil that absorbs heat from the air.

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A fan within the unit circulates the cooled air throughout the room. Meanwhile, the outdoor unit, as the name suggests, is placed outside your house and works like a heat exterminator, containing both the compressor that pressurizes the refrigerant. The condenser coil releases heat from indoors, and the expansion valve controls the refrigerant flow. These two units are connected by insulated tubing that carries refrigerant. 

How does a split AC work?

A split air conditioner works by absorbing heat from the indoor air and releasing it outdoors through a cycle involving refrigerant, as detailed in the following steps below: 

1. Heat absorption:

The indoor unit’s evaporator coil absorbs heat from the warm indoor air. This causes the refrigerant to circulate through the coil to turn from a liquid to a gas, absorbing heat in the process. 

2. Refrigerant circulation:

The now-gaseous refrigerant travels through the insulated tubing to the outdoor unit. 

3. Heat release:

In the outdoor unit, the compressor pressurizes the refrigerant, increasing its temperature. The hot refrigerant then passes through the condenser coil, where a fan blows outside air over the coil, releasing the heat extracted from indoors. 

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4. Pressure reduction and cycle repeat:

The refrigerant then passes through the expansion valve, which reduces its pressure and temperature. The cooled refrigerant travels back to the indoor unit’s evaporator coil, ready to absorb more heat and repeat the cycle. 

​​Advantages of split AC units

Split air conditioners offer several advantages over window units, making them a popular choice for home comfort. Here are the key benefits of split AC systems: 

1. Energy efficiency:

Split AC units are generally more energy-efficient than window units due to the separation of noisy components (compressors) outside the house and better insulation of refrigerant lines. 

2. Quieter operation:

Since the compressor is located outdoors, split AC units operate much quieter than window units. 

3. More flexible cooling:

Split systems allow for multiple indoor units connected to a single outdoor unit, enabling you to cool several rooms easily and efficiently. 

4. Space saving:

Unlike window units that protrude from windows, split AC units have a slim indoor unit mounted on the wall, saving valuable window space. 

​Disadvantages of split AC units

While split AC units offer many advantages, there are also some drawbacks to consider: 

1. Installation cost:

Split AC units require professional installation to connect the indoor and outdoor units and ensure proper refrigerant handling. This can be more expensive upfront compared to a window unit. 

2. Maintenance needs:

Regular cleaning of air filters and occasional professional maintenance are necessary for optimal performance. 

3. Limited to only cooling (may not provide heating):

Not all split ACs offer heating capabilities. If you need year-round climate control, ensure the chosen model provides both heating and cooling functions (heat pump). 

4. Outdoor Unit placement can be challenging:

The outdoor unit needs to be placed strategically considering noise, airflow, ease of access for maintenance, and proximity to the indoor unit (limited by refrigerant line length). 

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All in all, split AC units offer efficient and quiet cooling solutions for your home. While the initial installation cost might be higher than window units, their energy efficiency and multiple room cooling capabilities can translate to significant savings in the long run. Consider your cooling needs, budget, and desired level of comfort when deciding if a split AC unit is the right choice for you.