What is a Split System Air Conditioner and Should You Have It?

For many of us, we’re only familiar with one type of air conditioner; one that is all too common in many homes and commercial spaces. It comprises an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, and is known endearingly as simply, “aircon”. In actuality, there’s a name for this—split system air conditioning, and it is just one of several air conditioning systems available on the market. Choosing the right air conditioning system for your home or commercial space could go a long way in determining how efficiently air is cooled in those areas. In this article, we’ll delve into the inner workings of the split system air conditioner so you can decide if it’s right for you.

Components: Understanding the Split System

The split system air conditioner’s namesake is aptly derived from the fact that it comprises two main components—an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The former is typically mounted on a wall inside the room, while the latter contains the compressor and condenser, and is located outside one’s home. You can probably see the outdoor unit perched on the ledges of most HDB flats. The indoor unit, which is responsible for cooling the air inside the room, and the outdoor unit, which releases the absorbed heat, are connected by refrigerant lines and electrical wiring. This also makes professional aircon cleaning in Singapore challenging at times, especially if the outdoor unit requires cleaning, too.

Cooling Efficiency: The Power of Heat Exchange

Source: Torr Engineering

One of the main reasons why the split system air conditioner is so popular in sweltering hot countries like Singapore is due to its high cooling efficiency. Operating on the principle of heat exchange, this system uses a refrigerant to absorb heat from indoor air, undergoing a transformation from a liquid to a gas. The hot gas is then pumped to the outdoor unit where the heat is removed, turning the gas back to liquid and continuing the cycle to maintain the desired temperature.

Quiet Operation: Comfort without the Noise

Machines can sometimes be noisy and disruptive, and air conditioners are no different. However, that’s probably not something you’d want in your home or commercial space. Split system air conditioning solves this issue effectively by placing the components responsible for making noise—especially the compressor—in the outdoor unit. This design ensures that the indoor unit continues to operate quietly, making it an ideal choice for bedrooms, offices, and other noise-sensitive areas.

Zoning Capabilities: Tailored Comfort and Energy Efficiency

Source: NJ Airpros

Another feature that sets the split system air conditioner apart from other systems is its zoning capabilities. This allows users to compartmentalise their space and control the temperature in each zone independently. For instance, you can set a lower temperature in the living room during the day and a slightly higher temperature in unused bedrooms. This level of control and personalisation could also contribute to significant energy savings, as you may choose to only cool the areas that are in use. Additionally, because you don’t have to turn all units on all the time, the need for commercial aircon servicing would be less frequent, resulting in additional cost savings for you.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Split System Air Conditioners

There’s a good reason why split system air conditioners are everywhere—the flexibility that comes from being able to cool individual zones independently and the resulting savings are highly appealing for families and businesses looking to save a dollar or two amidst the rising cost of living. Moreover, many indoor units take on sleek and stylish designs and could enhance the aesthetics of the room even more.

On the other hand, the initial cost of purchasing and installing a split system air conditioner can be higher than other kinds of air conditioning units. Moreover, as the indoor and outdoor units are connected by refrigerant lines, the installation process could be more complex and may even require the expertise of trained and licensed professionals, especially if the room is located high up in a block of flats or a commercial building.

Learn More: What You Need To Know About Split System Air Conditioner Installation

The question remains—is a split system air conditioner right for you? A good checklist to help you decide should contain key factors like cooling needs, budget, and layout of your space. For instance, if you need your space to be cooled independently and quickly whilst remaining quiet, then the split system air conditioner would be your best bet. 

Nevertheless, it would be beneficial to consult a professional technician from trusted and reputable companies like GoodCool who can personally assess your space and determine the best system for you. Here, our team of highly trained and experienced aircon technicians offers a wealth of knowledge and information to help you find the most suitable air conditioning system for your space. We’re also a one-stop hub for a wide range of countrywide aircon services—whether you need aircon servicing in Yishun, aircon servicing in Bukit Batok, or anywhere else on our sunny island, we’ll be there to address your most pressing aircon needs.

If you’d like to learn more about our services, please contact us today.