Split air conditioners are available in five main types. Below, we describe their features, advantages, and disadvantages to help you choose the most suitable system for your needs:
1. Wall-Mounted Split Air Conditioner
Advantages:
- The most common type, suitable for individual rooms.
- Generally more affordable than other Split types with similar technical specifications.
- Cooling capacity ranges between 12,000 and 24,000 BTU/hour.
- Easy to install with good performance in small to medium spaces.
Disadvantages:
- Requires a suitable wall for installation, which can be a limitation in certain spaces.
2. Cassette Split Air Conditioner
Advantages:
- Ideal for large or open spaces.
- Cooling capacity starts from 18,600 BTU/hour.
- Efficient air distribution (one-way, two-way, or four-way).
- Ceiling-mounted, enabling central placement for even airflow distribution and eliminating hot spots.
- Available in low-profile models designed for narrow false ceilings.
Disadvantages:
- Requires sufficient ceiling height and generally a false ceiling.
- More expensive and complex to install.
- Maintenance can be challenging due to its location.
3. Multi-Split Air Conditioner
Advantages:
- Connects multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit.
- Perfect for controlling different temperatures across multiple rooms.
- Cooling capacity per indoor unit ranges between 9,000 and 36,000 BTU/hour, exceeding 60,000 BTU/hour in complete systems.
- Eliminates the need for ductwork, simplifying installation.
- Reduces the use of multiple outdoor units.
Disadvantages:
- Higher risk of refrigerant leaks due to longer piping lengths.
- Efficiency loss in the compressor suction if the indoor piping is excessively long.
4. Floor or Ceiling-Mounted Split Air Conditioner
Advantages:
- Suitable for rooms without walls fit for a wall-mounted Split.
- Floor-mounted: Easy and quick installation with more accessible maintenance.
- Ceiling-mounted: Does not require a false ceiling.
Disadvantages:
- Floor-mounted units take up space, which can be inconvenient in small areas, and are prone to physical damage.
- Ceiling-mounted installation is often more expensive than wall-mounted units.
5. Ducted Split Air Conditioner
Advantages:
- Distributes cool air to multiple areas via a duct system.
- Typically hidden installation for a more aesthetic appearance.
- Lower risk of refrigerant leakage due to shorter piping.
- Centralized electrical connections reduce the need for multiple points.
Disadvantages:
- High installation costs.
- Requires ceiling space to accommodate ductwork.
- During maintenance, all areas may lose air conditioning simultaneously.
