There are numerous air conditioning solutions available for different situations. These solutions include everything from ceiling cassette units to wall-mounted splits. However, one of the most popular options is multi-split air conditioning.
Yet why is this the case?
To explain, this guide will spotlight the main advantages of using multi-split air conditioning, along with how it compares against VRF systems.
What is multi-split air conditioning?
First, let’s explain what a multi-split air conditioning system is and how it works. Based on the name alone, you can gather that it involves multiple air conditioning units. With that said, there’s more to its functionality than that.
A split system is known for comprising of both internal and external components. Pipework and electrical cables are used to connect the two components together, and this ensures the refrigerant is able to flow to and from each air conditioning unit.
The external condenser features not just the system’s biggest components, but also the loudest. As a result, this keeps noise to a minimum for the air conditioning units that are used inside the property – the noise is away from the rooms you are occupying. As it features multiple internal units, it can also be installed in various rooms and areas of a building as needed.
What’s the difference between multi-split and VRF systems?
When doing research into multi-split air conditioning, it is inevitable you will also come across references to VRF systems. What is VRF? What is difference between multi-split air conditioning & VRF systems?
VRF stands for variable refrigerant flow. In terms of general function, it matches up to multi-split systems in that both are designed to cool and heat. However, there are notable differences between multi-split air conditioning & VRF systems, and the one you choose is dependent on your requirements.
For instance, a VRF system installation is more suitable for larger commercial building structures. Its added technological capabilities can also be beneficial, such as being able to heat and cool simultaneously across different areas of a property.
For residential settings and smaller commercial structures, however, a multi-split system will typically be the wiser choice of the two. Below we’ll explain why.
The benefits of using a multi-split air conditioning system
You know the general advantages of using air conditioning. You understand it helps you to control the indoor air quality in your home or business premises. Nevertheless, what makes a multi-split system so beneficial for either residential or commercial use? Here are the main points to consider.
Temperature control with flexibility
If you have a single split air conditioning system in your property, this can make it tricky to control the temperature – particularly if the space is extensive in size. Certain areas will be warmer or colder than others. With a multi-split air conditioning system, this isn’t a concern you have to worry about.
The biggest advantage is the ability to connect to multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit. You are able to heat or cool multiple rooms. Designed for small to medium commercial applications multi split systems use a smaller size of refrigerant piping which is aesthetically more pleasing since it requires less space and is easier to contain. Each indoor unit has its own set of refrigerant pipework leading back to the condensing unit.
Quiet in operation
As touched upon above, another benefit of using a multi-split air conditioning system is that it’s quiet when in operation. The outdoor element contains the compressor which can be the noisiest part of the system and this is installed outside your building.
An easy installation process
This may not seem like it would be the case. After all, pipework is required to run to each air conditioning unit. Fixtures need to be made to mount units and ensure they remain in place. That’s a complex job, right? Well for professionals, it is a routine straightforward task.
Just remember, the key word in that sentence is professionals. It takes expert installers to make the job an easy one and keep you on the right side of the regs. Always choose a REFCOM registered company with engineers who have completed the relevant F-Gas refrigerant training and certification. It’s vital that you can trust your contractor to install or maintain your system in line with the current regulations. If you hire carefully and correctly in that regard, it shouldn’t take long for your multi-split air conditioning system to be installed.
A cost-effective solution
If you only focus on the upfront costs, you might not think it’s all that cost-effective. However, installing a multi-split system can be cheaper than you might expect. Of course, the price of systems can vary significantly depending on the system’s features, how many units you require, and the type of installation work that needs to be done.
Another factor to consider with regards to cost-effectiveness is its energy efficiency rating. Again, you may expect that such a system could use a lot of electricity because it runs multiple units. However, that’s not always the case. As long as you choose the right system to suit your business operations, or your home, multi-split air conditioning units can be among the most energy efficient around.
It is worth the investment?
In many ways, adding a multi-split air conditioning system to your building can be more than worth the investment. Overall, it can help you to save money on your utility bills, as it can be more energy efficient than alternative solutions for heating and cooling.
Another benefit is that it can add value to your business or property. Whether you install the system in your home or a commercial space, it will boost its overall value. More and more people are searching for properties that feature air conditioning as standard.