Modern split systems can be effectively used not only to escape the summer heat, but also to create a comfortable microclimate in the apartment in winter, if necessary. However, when turning it on during the cold season, a number of important nuances should be taken into account - this will ensure safe and reliable operation of the device.
Illiterate use of split systems in the winter season entails rapid failure of the equipment. The drainage system and compressor are the first to suffer. For this reason, you need to be extremely careful and carefully set the performance characteristics on the device.
The operating principle of modern split systems
All climate control devices operate on the same principle, based on the property of liquids to release heat during condensation and absorb it during evaporation. Initially, all manufactured systems worked only for cooling, but today most of them are also equipped with a heating function.
In the photo: The principle of operation of the air conditioner
The operation of the air conditioner is based on the functioning of a closed system: the compressor, condenser and evaporator are connected to each other by copper tubes that form a refrigeration circuit. The refrigerant continuously moves along this circuit, transforming from a gaseous state to a liquid state and vice versa. When the equipment operates for cooling, freon first enters the condenser and then into the evaporator, where it is again converted into gas and absorbs heat from the air in the room, after which it is sent to the external unit, from where it transfers energy to the environment. When working for heating, thanks to a special valve, the process occurs in the reverse order - from the evaporator to the condenser with the transition of gas into a liquid state.
Using winter kits for air conditioners
To begin with, let's remember one rule - you cannot turn on the split system for heating in the winter. This applies to the vast majority of household models. Their maximum is -5 on the thermometer. And at best it is zero or +5. The operating principle of the air conditioner is to blame for everything - when working for heating, its outdoor unit is cooled, and in winter it completely freezes. Therefore, it is impossible to use it for heating in severe winter frosts.
Some may object - they say that there are so-called winter kits on sale that allow you to turn on the air conditioning even in winter. Let's not deny that they really exist. They are only designed for air conditioning, not heating. That is, a winter kit is equipment designed to start the air conditioner for cooling in winter.
Winter kits include electronic control units that monitor freon pressure and ambient temperature, creating conditions for the successful launch of split systems in cooling mode in winter.
Winter kits solve the following problems:
- Heat up the crankcase with oil.
- Limit the fan rotation speed.
- Ensure drainage works.
Air conditioner operation in heating mode in winter
Now let’s move on to the main thing and find out whether it is possible to run a split system to heat a room when there is a significant “minus” outside.
At what external temperatures is heating mode possible?
Most modern air conditioners can operate for heating only if the temperature outside the window is not lower than -7°C...-15°C. More accurate information on the lower temperature threshold can be found in the instructions for the device. If you use the device at lower thermometer readings, the heating power will be less. In addition, there will be a threat of icing of the drainage system and condenser, which inevitably leads to breakdown of the entire split system.
In the photo: The operating principle of modern split systems
But depending on the refrigerant and the type of compressor, some air conditioners can operate in heating mode at lower temperatures, for example -15°C...-30°C. We are talking about advanced models of inverter split systems.
For what reasons does the air conditioner not work for heating?
If the device has the ability to operate to heat the room, but it does not switch to this mode, the compressor, drainage system, or valve that switches the refrigeration circuit to heating may have broken down. There is also a possibility of refrigerant leakage at the joints of the tubes. In this case, it is worth calling an air conditioning equipment repair specialist.
Another popular reason is that the temperature outside the window is below the permissible minimum, so the air conditioner can only slightly increase the heat level in the room.
If the device works normally, but the air in the room does not heat up, then perhaps you should just wait a little - sometimes the system needs additional time for the indoor unit to warm up. This is quite normal in winter.
The display of the indoor unit, which displays error codes in the operation of the split system, can also help you understand the causes of the malfunction.
If you cannot install and fix the problem yourself, it is better to contact a specialized service center.
Pros and cons of heating with a split system in winter
Split system air conditioners are quite simple to operate. You don’t need to have any special knowledge or skills to manage them without problems. But is it really worth heating the premises in this way? There are both advantages and disadvantages here. Pros:
- Compared to conventional convectors, split systems are much more efficient. Their efficiency is approximately 2-3 times higher than that of a typical heating device. Perhaps this is the main advantage of air conditioners that is worth considering.
- The room heats up quickly, the principle of forced ventilation works. There is no need to wait for the optimal microclimate to appear. Most average heating systems will only take a while to create a comfortable environment.
- Automation. Thanks to the presence of several modes, it is possible to exercise complete control, creating the most comfortable climate in the house.
- Split systems are multifunctional and their use is not limited to the winter period. In summer, such devices will cool the air. That is, air conditioners are beneficial at any time of the year.
- The installation process is quick and simple. In financial terms, this option will cost an order of magnitude cheaper than, for example, a gas boiler.
- Maintenance work actually consists only of cleaning the case from dust and sometimes rinsing the internal elements with a damp cloth.
If you wish and have a minimum of knowledge, you can clean the split system yourself.
There are enough advantages. But, there are also some disadvantages. Among the most significant disadvantages of using a split system in winter, the following should be highlighted:
- As the air temperature decreases, the efficiency of the split system gradually decreases. Few models are able to properly heat a room if the temperature drops to 5-10 degrees below zero. Manufacturers are actively working on this aspect. But even today it is possible to purchase a split system that effectively operates for heating at a temperature of approximately -15°C.
- Uneven heating. For example, if the device is located under the ceiling, then you will have to forget about the warm field. Although, this drawback is also typical for the vast majority of conventional heating devices. The real breakthrough is sensors that monitor the climate in the room and can control air flow.
- Prices for split systems that operate for heating are not much lower than the cost of average convectors, and especially boilers.
The illustration shows how unevenly the room is heated by the split system.
In a word, it is worth analyzing the pros and cons and, having certain information, make the right decision. It is worth remembering that heating with an air conditioner in cold weather is advisable only when the COP of the split system is greater than one.
It is important to note that costs vary depending on the type of air conditioner. Inverter ones are more economical, especially if you use them constantly. You can read about their differences in the article “What is the difference between an inverter air conditioner and a regular one”
Air conditioner operation in winter in cooling mode
Cooling the room using a split system is permissible only if the outside temperature is not lower than +16°C or corresponds to other permissible values specified in the equipment operating manual. In all other cases, turning on the air conditioner to lower the temperature in the room is prohibited and risks the formation of ice and water leakage from the indoor unit.
In the photo: Ice formation and water leakage from the indoor unit.
If there is a need to maintain low temperatures even in winter, then it is better to install a special system that can operate at wider temperature ranges.
Another option is to modify the air conditioner with a special winter kit, which will provide greater opportunities for operating the device in cold weather.
Impressions of heating with air conditioning in winter
The advantage of heating with air conditioning in winter is that it quickly warms up the air. When I arrive in a cold house and turn on the unit on the first floor, it warms it up in five minutes.
The disadvantage of this method of heating a house is that the air is warm, but the furniture and generally everything in the house remains cold. And just imagine: you are warm, +24 in the house, but you sit on the sofa and feel how your butt is covered with frost. Not very comfortable.
Therefore, I decided to leave the air conditioner on the first floor turned on at +18 if I went somewhere for a short time. This way you can save a little, and when you return home, it’s not so unpleasant to fall into a chair.
What is a winter kit and what is it for?
A winter kit is a set of special devices that ensure safe operation of the air conditioner at temperatures below the range specified by the manufacturer. It includes crankcase heating, drain heating, and fan speed control. With the help of these devices, icing of the drainage system, the formation of ice on the body, thickening of the oil and overcooling of freon are prevented.
In the photo: Winter kit for Dantex air conditioner
But when using a winter kit, it is very important not to forget that air conditioners equipped with it can only work for cooling. Heating in this case is possible only within the temperature limits indicated in the technical characteristics of the device.
What are the consequences of turning on the air conditioner for heating in winter?
If you turn on the air conditioner for heating in winter, at negative temperatures, then nothing good will happen - that’s for sure. Here is a list of possible breakdowns:
It is impossible to turn on the air conditioner in winter for cooling at sub-zero temperatures. The reason is simple - the oil in the compressor will freeze.
- The compressor will break down due to simple freezing of the oil, which becomes thick and prevents the heart of the unit from working.
- Malfunction of the outdoor unit due to condensate freezing - it simply has nowhere to go.
- Damage to refrigerant lines.
Here are three main reasons why you should not turn on your air conditioner in winter when the temperature is below zero. And the personal experience of many users suggests that already near the zero mark, heating efficiency is quickly lost. Sub-zero temperatures will completely destroy the unit - this is no longer a warranty case.
Which systems can operate in heating mode in winter?
The modern market offers equipment that can be safely turned on in heating mode in winter - even when the temperature drops to -15°C...-30°C. These are inverter-type split systems. What distinguishes them from standard air conditioners is the presence of an inverter compressor, which provides performance control. The use of an inverter compressor with EVI-injection of refrigerant vapor and receiver allows for stable operation at very low ambient temperatures - some models provide operation at -30 °C.
Heating with a split system in winter - reviews from real people
We have collected reviews from real people about heating with split systems. All of them are based on personal experience and characterize the real state of affairs.
Stepan Akhmetovich, Ufa
I purchased a split system 2 years ago and made the right choice. At first I was sure that the store consultant was openly exaggerating when talking about the advantages of the air conditioner. But in practice it turned out that the seller was absolutely right. The room warms up perfectly. The temperature outside is sub-zero, but in my home it’s warm and cozy.
Sergey, Moscow
It's difficult to find any shortcomings. Perhaps the only downside is the price. But during operation, I still realized that the cost is quite justified. I wiped off dust several times a month, sometimes cleaned the internal parts, and that’s all the maintenance of the device is limited to. I am completely satisfied and would be happy to recommend this heating option to my friends.
Anna and Yuri, Kyiv
My husband and I recently had twins. A happy event, but also full of troubles. In particular, it was necessary to think about the warmth in the house. Adults can still tolerate some discomfort, but children are a different story. We debated the topic of heating for a long time and decided on a split system. The child grows up in an atmosphere of love, warmth and comfort. There are no complaints.
Yulia, Leningrad region
I live alone, and, to put it mildly, I don’t understand these heating systems. On the advice of my brother, I purchased and installed an air conditioner. In summer - pleasant freshness, no stuffiness. But in winter it’s not particularly happy. If the temperature drops below 0°C, the efficiency is not impressive. Still, there is some discomfort, and I am forced to use additional means to heat the room.
Ivan, Kazan
I’ve been thinking for a long time that my heating bills are too high. Moreover, the climate in the region is far from cool. Purely by chance I saw an advertisement for a modern split system. I don’t really trust these marketing ploys, but, as they say, he who doesn’t take risks, doesn’t drink champagne. My risk turned out to be completely justified. Profitable, functional, practical - an excellent option for residents of central Russia.
In the publication, we looked at heating with air conditioning, the disadvantages and advantages of this option. You can leave your reviews and opinions in the comments. Don't forget to share the post with your friends!
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Preparing the air conditioner for winter
In order to prepare the device for the winter season, a number of preventive measures need to be taken.
It is necessary to dry the indoor unit from accumulated condensate. To do this, the air conditioner must first be turned on for cooling for a while, and then turned on for heating for the same period. Clean the built-in filters from accumulated sawdust and dirt. If conditions permit, install a protective canopy on the external unit.
If there is a standard household air conditioner in the room, then it is better to limit it to turning it on in heating mode only during the off-season - until the temperature drops below the limit values set by the manufacturer.
