Air conditioners are always used to regulate the temperature in rooms. They can be found in residential buildings, shops, subway cars. They are reliable "suppliers" of coolness on hot days, cooling the air around them. However, such devices can be configured as heating devices and perform the functions of an ordinary heater, stove. In this article, we will analyze the technical characteristics of the BK-1500 air conditioner.
Air conditioning
This device is capable of maintaining specific climatic conditions in a room or in a vehicle. The simplest models only lower the temperature by cooling the air - these are the ones used in every second office on hot days.
There are more sophisticated models that are capable of combining the functions of both cooling and increasing the temperature. Such units have a built-in heat pump capable of playing the role of a heater. More sophisticated installations are equipped with filters and systems that purify the air entering the room, humidify it (for example, during a hot period), saturate it with oxygen, and can spray fragrances.
Views
According to their functions, as well as according to the place of use, all devices can be divided as follows:
- Central- are used in large-scale premises. It can be an indoor stadium, a swimming pool or an industrial plant, a factory. For smooth operation, such an air conditioner needs an external source of cold: either cold water or freon from an external unit. If the device performs the functions of a heater, then, accordingly, for its operation it needs continuously supplied and heated hot water, for example, from a central heating system.
- Precision- stand in rooms where it is necessary to maintain a strictly specified temperature. These are hospitals, kindergartens, laboratories, production related to high-precision technologies and chemical, biological reactions, as well as factories related to military production, communications, electronic support and others. Externally, the device looks like a monoblock filled with a fan, filter, water heater and electric heater. Capable of both cooling and heating air.
- Wine- work in rooms where wine is stored. Storage parameters must be observed very clearly: air temperature - 12 degrees, humidity - 60-70%. Only if these conditions are met, the wine can be stored for a very long period of time and not lose its taste and strength. On the contrary, a product stored in rooms with precise air control systems is considered more consistent, better quality and more expensive every year.
- Autonomous air conditioning systems are systems that operate with an external source of electricity. They can lower and increase the temperature, they function, as a rule, on freon.
If the air conditioner uses outside air for operation, then it is supplied; if the air is inside the room, then the unit is recirculated. Recuperative air conditioners are models that can work both ways. Above, we have disassembled the models at the place of their use. Next, we will talk about the installation methods, the features of various machines, as well as the technical characteristics of the BK-1500 air conditioner and other units.
What are the types of air conditioners?
According to the installation method and characteristics, it can be divided:
- Mobile- they do not require special installation. There are monoblock and mobile split systems. To use monoblock air conditioners, you need to remove the hose from the room and remove warm air through it. If a split system is used, a separate unit is taken out. The advantages of such air conditioners are that installation and maintenance are simplified here, and there are still no detachable connections for the freon line. Main disadvantages: high price, large dimensions, installation restrictions
- Window- consist of one block. Installed in a window or on a wall where an opening breaks through. Cons: they make a lot of noise, and also because of the reduction in area, for example, windows, the room becomes darker. Pros: low price, easy to install and maintain, very high efficiency, there is a possibility of very long use.
- Split systems- consist of two blocks: one - indoors, and the other - outside. The blocks are interconnected by copper pipes through which freon circulates. Today it is the most popular and most used type of air conditioner.
- Multi-split systems- this is almost the same as described above, but the number of indoor units can be two or more. The blocks are also interconnected by copper pipes through which freon circulates. Usually they are installed in multi-room rooms or where it is necessary to ventilate strongly and continuously.
The BK-1500 air conditioner belongs to the window type. Its description will be below. Other models of the Baku Machine-Building Plant will also be presented, in fact, where this device was produced.
BK-1500: characteristics
Next, consider the technical characteristics of the BK-1500 air conditioner. In the window version, all parts are assembled in one all-metal case, and the air flow occurs through an opening with a valve, which is located at the rear of the machine. The air conditioner is usually mounted in a window (in fact, that is why it is called so) or in a hole that makes its way in the wall. In most air conditioners of this type, the condensate that forms does not drain onto the street, but collects at the bottom of the unit, from where it is collected by special devices and dissipated over the surface of the condenser to improve heat transfer.
There is also a cyclical operation of the compressor - it periodically turns off, and then turns on again. This happens so that the mechanism does not overheat from continuous operation. The on and off is monitored by a thermal sensor. The latter is either mechanical or electronic.
Strengths
Let's name the positive qualities of these devices:
- low cost of installation or dismantling; the main thing is that there is an opening where the device will be located;
- there is no freon line, which means that there will be no refrigerant leakage;
- the function of the so-called supply ventilation, that is, the use of outdoor air, which allows it to be constantly updated by circulating through the device;
- long service life, easy to use.
But there are also weaknesses
Let's list them:
- very noisy;
- along with the noise, it should be noted that there is also poor thermal insulation between the indoor and outdoor parts of the same air conditioner; due to the passage of cold air through the apparatus, experts recommend dismantling the model for the winter season;
- and you still cannot install it in modern window frames, only if the necessary opening is provided in advance, during manufacture.
BK-1500
So, before us is the BK-1500 air conditioner. We present its description below. This unit is capable of operating in two modes, which are set manually: ventilation and cooling. It is installed in a window opening or in a hole in the wall on a special wooden or metal frame. The device is divided into two equal compartments by a stainless steel partition (usually): an internal and an external one. There is a small hole on this partition, which is closed by a flap valve. This allows you to regulate the flow of fresh air in the room: open the damper - start the air. At the heart of the device: a refrigeration unit, two fans (one - axial, the other - centrifugal), which have a common electric motor, as well as a control panel, which also includes a start-up device.
A centrifugal fan, which is installed in the inner compartment of the air conditioner, draws in air from the room. In parallel, he is engaged in pumping cooled and dust-free air. That is, it works on the "take and give" principle. The fan motor is activated when the compressor is started, although it can be activated in ventilation mode and with the refrigeration system off.
Remote controller
The control panel, which has a start-up protection device, is, of course, the "head" of the entire model. It monitors the start and stop, controls the operation of the air conditioner, sets the desired room temperature and maintains it. A stable temperature around the device saves it from excess pressure and overload. On the outside of the console there is a panel with various knobs and switches to control the entire operation of this unit. Today, many technical characteristics of the BK-1500 air conditioner are outdated. Remotes, motors, fans, additional devices produced in the Soviet Union - all this wears out, despite the very good quality.
Air conditioner BK 1500: instructions for use
- You can connect the device to the mains only with a plug, which is inserted into a special two-pole socket with an earthing contact.
- The air conditioner can only be started using the switch knob located on the remote control.
- Before restarting, a short break is required so that the device does not overheat.
- The air conditioner is able to operate even if the mains voltage deviates from normal values (220 V) by several percent. In this case, a temperature of about 20-30 degrees above zero is desirable.
- It is necessary to monitor the cleanliness not only on the air conditioner, but also inside it. The unit should be cleaned of accumulated dust, sand and other debris, do not block the air flow both from the outside and inside the room, do not put things near the unit, especially those that can be damaged by the air flow. It is advisable not to stand close to a running machine in order to prevent possible colds and diseases, since the air flow is very strong and cold. Do not open doors and windows while the air conditioner is running to prevent drafts.
Despite the fact that today the BK-1500 air conditioner is considered a rather outdated device, it is easy to find instructions for it. She describes in detail and step by step all the nuances of the operation of this device. This is not due to the fact that the unit is difficult to use, but with a very strict tracking system at enterprises during the existence of the USSR, everything had to be clear, clear, detailed, correct.
Air conditioner BK-1500: specifications, photos, reviews
In general, reviews of such devices have always been positive. The air conditioner is easy to use, with a lightweight system that, with even a little knowledge, can be repaired by yourself. Many craftsmen based on BK 1500 created their own split systems or more powerful air conditioners. A very long service life and Soviet reliability are also noted by consumers.
KB-0.4-01 UZ |
|
The area that the device can serve | |
Cold production, W (kcal / h) | |
Air production, m3 / h | |
The power consumed by the model | |
Refrigeration unit | Freon - 22 (R22) |
The amount of refrigerant used | |
Voltage | |
Current frequency | |
Noise level | no more than 58 dB |
Working current | not less than 5 A |
Dimensions in millimeters: height-width-depth | |
Air conditioner weight |
The technical characteristics of the BK-1500 air conditioner, of course, are inferior to the new ones, but for that time such units were "at their best". Perhaps the main disadvantage is the large weight of the model.
Finally
Soviet technology has always been of high quality and long-lasting. The designs, albeit bulky and large in weight, were reliable in use. This also applies to the models of the Baku plant of the USSR. In this article, we examined the BK-1500 air conditioner. The photos clearly show that these machines are used very actively to this day.
Today we will look at the main functions and technical characteristics of the air conditioner for home use, which the user needs to know. This material will be useful to those who are going to buy an air conditioner, even if you will not carry out the installation yourself.
Air conditioner power
Power is the most important parameter of the device. There are three directions that are indicated by the manufacturer. These are cooling, heating and power consumption.
Cooling capacity (Cooling capacity)
Cooling capacity is the most important characteristic, which is expressed in kW or BTU. If everything is clear with a power in kW, then BTU is a British thermal unit. It was in them that the power of the air conditioner was previously measured.
The area that it can cool in normal operating mode depends on the power of the device. Normal mode means the operation of the device, without constant high loads on the compressor, which arise as a result of the incorrectly calculated power of the device and the size of the room.
Thus, if you put a split system designed to cool a room of 20 square meters into a room of 30 square meters, then due to a lack of power, the device will always work at increased loads in order to ensure the set temperature, which leads to a fast wear and tear of spare parts, and as a result, the earliest possible failure of the device.
When independently calculating the capacity of the air conditioner for the room, it should be assumed that 1 kW (3412 BTU / h) of the cooling capacity of the air conditioner is capable of providing 10 square meters. area of a room with a standard height to the ceiling (2.5-3 m.). Thus6 for a room of 25 square meters the required power is 2.5 kW (approximately 9000 BTU).
Also, for self-calculation of the capacity of the air conditioner, you can use this table:
Heating power (Heating capacity)
Heating capacity is a similar characteristic of cooling capacity. It is measured and calculated in a completely similar way, but only for those devices that have such a function. Today these are the majority of household split systems, but there are also those models that do not support the heating function.
Power consumption
This parameter is often confused with cooling capacity or heating capacity, since it is also measured in kW. But this is a little different.
The power consumption of an air conditioner is a characteristic that expresses the amount of electricity consumed by the device. It can also be different (minimum, maximum, nominal) - and, as a rule, the cooling power is several times lower. Thus, with a cooling power of 2.5 kW, the air conditioner consumes about 0.8 kW - less than an iron, electric kettle and many other household electrical appliances.
Energy efficiency
The energy efficiency of an air conditioner is a parameter that contains two previous parameters. In fact, this is the ratio between them. This indicator is a technical characteristic of all modern electrical appliances and reflects energy efficiency (efficiency).
When it comes to energy efficiency within an air conditioner, it is expressed in terms of the power output (cooling or heating) to the power consumption of electricity. If we consider an example, then we take a device with a cooling capacity of 2.2 kW, and a power consumption of 0.6 kW. The energy efficiency ratio is 3.67.
In modern electrical appliances, it is customary to divide energy efficiency into groups, from A to G, the higher the class, the more economical in terms of power consumption the device is considered. In our example, this is 3.67 - which belongs to the "A" class (the most economical devices). Accordingly, devices of class B have more energy-consuming indicators than A, class C is more energy-consuming than B, etc.
Sound pressure value
It is also one of the most important parameters, which in fact displays the noise level of the device and is expressed in dB. The manufacturer usually indicates the noise level of the outdoor unit, since the indoor unit often has several speeds, depending on which the noise level also changes. In addition, the indoor unit always works quieter than the outdoor one.
It should be noted that the noise level of the outdoor unit also depends on its type and size. Let's say the block "seven", type "on / off" - has a noise level of approximately 45-55 dB. But another type of air conditioners, inverter, does not have a constant noise level - but a maximum one. Since this type of air conditioner is designed in such a way that its performance is constantly changing during operation, then its noise level is dynamic. Therefore, it is customary to indicate only the maximum value.
Permissible operating temperature
The permissible outdoor operating temperature is a guideline that indicates at what temperature the device can be safely used. The operation of the air conditioner at a temperature that is higher or lower than the permissible one is fraught with a quick failure of the device.
For most household split systems that are not equipped with a heating function, the lower threshold for the outside temperature is -5 ° C. It is unlikely that you will want coolness when the temperature outside the window is such, but this is an important parameter. The fact is that at this temperature physical processes begin to change the structure of freon and compressor oil, which is why, immediately after starting, your compressor may jam. In addition, the drain hole of the drain hose freezes up - and all the condensate from the air conditioner will flow back into the room.
Distance between outdoor and indoor units of the air conditioner
This is the communication distance between the indoor and outdoor unit. Such a characteristic is often overlooked, but in vain. The fact is that if you reduce the length of the route from the recommended 5 meters (in most cases, exactly 5 meters is the recommended distance) - to 1-2 meters, then the parameters of the refrigeration cycle will change, which will lead to the earliest possible failure of the device. In such cases, the route is often twisted in a ring behind the outdoor unit. Inexperienced craftsmen cut the track to the required length.
In addition to the minimum length, there is also the maximum length of the communication route. For household appliances, this is usually 15-20 meters, all that is above is already within the power of only industrial air conditioners. The longer the path, the lower the efficiency of the device. The load on the compressor block increases, heat loss increases.
Popular functions
Ventilation (fresh air supply)
In fact, only a duct air conditioner has the ability to ventilate a room, in view of its technical features. But the majority of household air conditioners operate in this mode simply as a "Fan". The fan of the indoor unit turns on, but the compressor simply does not turn on in this mode. It is used for smooth air distribution around the perimeter of the room, for example, in the winter season, when warm air accumulates near the radiators and near the ceiling.
Although some modern models are still equipped with such a function that really takes fresh air from the street and lets it into the room, these are rather expensive and rare models that cost a lot and have a complicated installation.
Air dehumidification
In dry mode, the air conditioner reduces the amount of moisture in the air. Recommended for regions with high humidity.
It should be noted that the air dehumidification mode accompanies its cooling. This is due to the principle of its work. Warm air comes into contact with a cold heat exchanger, as a result of which condensate is released from the air, which goes into the drain hose of the device. Thus, there is less moisture in the air.
Air cleaning
Air purification often comes as an additional function to an air conditioner, although in fact it is already in every device, but to a different extent. To clean the air, a filter is placed in front of the heat exchanger in the air supply channel. Thus, all debris (fluff, hair, wool and other large particles) settles there. In air conditioners with an air purification function, an additional fine filter is installed, which cleans the air from such small particles as dust, pollen and even some harmful microorganisms.
Night mode
In night mode, the device, to reduce noise, goes into a mode of reduced fan speed, and slowly increases the air temperature by several degrees. Thus, creating a more comfortable sleeping environment.
Other characteristics
This is where the series of characteristics, which is important and may be of interest to ordinary users, ends. Of course, there are a number of characteristics that will be useful specifically for installation specialists, such as:
- overall dimensions and weight of blocks;
- tube diameters;
- maximum height difference;
- type of refrigerant;
- cross-section of power and interconnect cable;
- and etc.
But this will be enough for us.
Today, split systems are popular to maintain a favorable indoor climate. They consist of two parts: an external and an internal unit. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner is of key importance to the quality of the equipment. We will understand its structure, principles of operation and features of installation and maintenance.
Equipment device
The external unit of the split system is called the condensing unit (KKB). It is a key element of climate control equipment that provides cooling or heating by changing the state of the refrigerant (working substance). KKB is a building that houses:
- compressor;
- condenser (heat exchanger);
- expansion coils;
- capillary tubes;
- 4-way valve;
- filter drier (receiver);
- fan.
The outdoor unit of the air conditioner is connected to the equipment in the room through a system of freon (heat-insulating copper) lines. There is a drainage line from the indoor unit to the outdoor unit.
KKB body is made of galvanized steel.
Features of the complete set
A number of KKB models are equipped with a special "winter kit". It is designed to maintain the device's performance in the winter season at low temperatures. The winter kit works only for cooling, therefore it is optimal for installation in server rooms and other rooms with a high level of heat dissipation.
It includes the following elements:
- The fan controller turns off ventilation and turns it on when the condenser heats up.
- Heated drain tube.
- Compressor crankcase heating before starting.
The general principle of operation of a split system can be described as follows: warm air is removed from the room and taken out into the street, cooled air is supplied in the opposite direction, which loses temperature, passing through the air conditioner and contacting with the refrigerant.
When switching the split system mode to heating, the reverse process occurs. The outdoor unit draws in cold air from the outside and raises the temperature to the desired level. The indoor unit supplies heated air to the room.
KKB works due to the physical properties of the refrigerant, which transfers energy when the state of aggregation changes.
The outdoor unit of the air conditioner works as follows:
- The working substance is supplied from the container to the compressor in a gaseous state.
- From the compressor under high pressure, the refrigerant enters the condenser, where it turns into a liquid, giving off heat.
- Having lost some of the energy, freon enters the highway.
- From the line, the working substance passes into the throttling device, where it loses pressure and cools.
- The cold liquid is transferred to the evaporator, where it actively circulates through the tubes.
- The evaporator is blown with warm supply air by means of a fan.
- Cold air is supplied to the room.
- Warm supply air heats up the heat exchanger, passing through it before being supplied to the room.
- The heat exchanger heats up the refrigerant, which turns into gas.
- Freon, passing into a gaseous state, gives off cold to the air. From the heat exchanger, the gaseous refrigerant enters the compressor again, where the process is repeated.
- A closed cycle of work is created.
main parameters
When choosing and buying an external block of a split system, you need to pay attention to four main characteristics:
- Size, height, width, length.
- Power.
- The length of the lines.
The dimensions of the outdoor units depend on the power and functionality of the equipment.
Average dimensional characteristics of the outdoor unit of a split system:
- width 80 cm;
- height 50 cm;
- thickness 30 cm.
The models on the market can have different capacities. It all depends on the purpose of the equipment. A standard household split system has a capacity that allows you to cover an area of up to 100 sq. m.
An important characteristic of the outdoor unit is noise. If the air conditioner operates without noise in the room, then the outdoor unit can cause significant inconvenience to neighbors. When choosing a model, it is better to clarify the indicator of the noise produced during the operation of the external unit. The admissible indicator is 32 dB.
It is also necessary to pay attention to the permissible length of the connecting lines between the blocks.
Do not exceed the distance that is stated in the technical data sheet of the model, since this can lead to a serious decrease in the efficiency of the equipment.
Installation of an outdoor unit involves several stages. At the first stage, the installation site is determined, equipment and tools are prepared. At the second stage, the marking and direct fixation of the equipment is performed. At the third stage, performance checks and testing are carried out.
Seat selection
The structures of modern buildings (apartment buildings, shopping and office centers) provide for the installation of air conditioners and split systems. This moment is laid even during the design. Special boxes are mounted on the facades of buildings. They serve two key purposes. First, the likelihood that the fasteners will be poorly executed is minimized. Secondly, the boxes are harmoniously integrated into the design of the building and do not spoil its appearance.
If there are no boxes in the building, then the choice of location must be made taking into account the following factors.
General rules for choosing a location for an air conditioner:
- The unit is mounted on the wall adjacent to the apartment. You cannot fix the device on the "territory of neighbors". Before starting work, you need to clarify whether it is possible to install air conditioners on the facade of the building. The city authorities may issue a decree according to which such works are prohibited, since they spoil the historical or cultural appearance of the building. There may be other reasons for the ban.
- The optimal places for installation are considered to be the space under the window, slightly below the sill, and the place to the side of the window. This arrangement will facilitate installation work and allow easy maintenance.
- If the block cannot be mounted on the facade, you can install it inside an open balcony or loggia.
Installation tool
Before starting work, be sure to prepare a set of tools. To mount the outdoor unit, you will need:
- puncher;
- a drill for drilling a hole in the wall through which the line will be laid;
- drills for making holes for fixing brackets;
- a vacuum pump that removes moisture and air from the freon circuit;
- gauge manifold for connecting the refrigerant cylinder to the container in the block;
- a set of rollers, which are needed for rolling copper pipes when connected to air conditioner valves;
- pipe cutter for cutting copper pipes;
- pipe bender for forming bends on tubes;
- standard set of wrenches, hexagons, screwdrivers, wire cutters, level gauge.
When installing, it is imperative to take into account the following rules:
- Availability of fresh air supply. It is impossible to mount the outdoor unit in a closed space without air access and or with limited air supply (glazed loggia). Such an error will lead to overheating and damage to the KKB.
- During operation, you will periodically have to change the refrigerant. To do this, the valves must be positioned so that the master can freely and without risk make a replacement. On most models, the valve is located on the left side.
- It is necessary to provide for a competent drainage of condensate so that it does not fall on the walls, canopy or sidewalk.
- Fasteners must be mounted on supporting structures, which must be designed for a load of several tens of kilograms. Do not fix the brackets on aerated concrete walls, on an external decorative facing layer or on a layer of insulation.
- The distance from the wall to the unit should be at least 10 cm. This distance will allow for ventilation and reduce the risk of overheating of the device. The distance from the wall to the inner wall of the unit must not be too great. It is impossible that direct sunlight falls on the hidden wall of the block.
- When laying connecting lines, a large number of bends should be avoided, since they will lead to a decrease in the required intensity of the movement of the refrigerant, this will reduce the efficiency of the air conditioner.
- It is recommended to equip a cornice that will protect the external unit of the air conditioner from direct moisture ingress.
Wall mounting is carried out using special brackets, which are usually included in the package. It looks like a profile of various sections bent at an angle of 90 degrees. It has several holes: some for fixing to the wall, others for mounting the unit. The bearing capacity of the brackets exceeds the weight of the air conditioner several times, so their use will ensure safety and reliability.
Installation process
Step-by-step instructions for installing an external air conditioner unit:
- The layout of the block on the wall, holes and channels for trunk lines is being made. The key parameters mentioned above are taken into account.
- Holes for brackets are made in the wall.
- A hole is made in the wall for communications. A box is laid in the hole, into which the freon and drainage lines, electrical wiring are laid.
- Brackets are fixed. To fix them, anchor bolts or dowels with "wood grouses" are used. The block is mounted on the brackets. It is fixed with bolts.
- Strength, reliability and stability are tested.
- The chamfer is removed from the freon tubes, and flaring is performed. The tubes are connected to the block.
- Wires are being put into KKB. Their optimal length is measured, they are stripped and connected to the terminal block. The connection of each wire is made in accordance with the electrical diagram, which must be attached to the technical passport of the device.
- After installing the indoor unit, a vacuum pump is connected to the KKB, with the help of which air is dehumidified and evacuated from the lines and internal elements of the unit.
- A protective box is put on.
- The container for the refrigerant is filled with freon. A test run of the equipment is carried out, the modes and correct operation are checked.
Breakdowns and malfunctions
Like any other appliance, the outdoor unit of the air conditioner can break. At low temperatures in winter, using the air conditioner without a winter kit may damage the compressor. The outdoor unit cools and freezes under the influence of external natural factors. Under such conditions, freon cannot boil in the external unit. Liquid refrigerant enters the compressor, which leads to its breakdown.
To avoid compressor breakdowns from freezing of the outdoor unit, you should install a winter kit or use the device in accordance with technical instructions: heat the room only in autumn and spring when outside temperatures are positive.
Another possible type of mechanical failure is the failure of the fan, which pumps air into the unit. Premature fan wear can be caused by dirt and dust getting inside the unit.
Malfunctions in the electronics are associated with the failure of the control and regulation boards. There may be problems with the integrity of electrical networks.
Maintenance and care
In normal operation, the outdoor unit requires a routine maintenance inspection once every 6 months. The foreman inspects the mountings, checks the integrity and level of contamination of the filters, specifies the amount of refrigerant and measures the operating pressure of the networks.
The greatest difficulty in servicing is the replacement of the working fluid.
Refrigerant is a chemical that poses a health hazard, so it is worth entrusting a professional technician to work with it. You can check the condition of the filters, remove dust and dirt yourself.
Basic requirements for brackets for installing an outdoor unit of an air conditioner:
- The bracket must be strong but not heavy and can support the weight of the outdoor unit of the air conditioner. And also it must match the diameter of the holes.
- Depending on the weight of the equipment, the brackets must have an adequate margin of safety. The minimum allowable figure is twice the weight of the outdoor unit itself.
- Meet the requirements of GOST for climatic technology. The material must withstand any temperature conditions and have an anti-corrosion and antioxidant coating.
Outdoor unit mounted on rectangular brackets
Recently, an increasing number of manufacturers have resorted to the manufacture of stainless steel brackets, due to the metal's susceptibility to corrosion from the ingress of water on their surface.
The most common types of brackets used in the installation of air conditioners
Air conditioner contracting companies use several types of brackets. Among them are the following:
- Fasteners at right angles, made of welded together rectangular metal corners with a thickness of 2-2.5 millimeters
Rectangular brackets
Brackets of this type are characterized by ease of manufacture, which is why they are cheaper than their thicker and stronger counterparts. However, this type of fastening is not quite reliable and suitable for long-term operation, since it has a rather small margin of safety. When vibrated, it is subjected to strong stress, which can damage the protective seam. When the anti-corrosion coating begins to disperse, the brackets become vulnerable to the harmful effects of water and other particles that can compromise the integrity of the metal structure.
- U-shaped metal fasteners, interconnected. Like the previous sample, they have a 90 degree right angle. The thickness of the material is 2-2.5 millimeters and is held together with special bolts.
This design is more expensive than conventional rectangular brackets, but it is more reliable. Vibration is applied only to the connecting element, while the load on the rest of the structure remains minimal. At the same time, galvanized bolts are not subject to corrosion and oxidation. The cover of the brackets reliably resists the harmful effects of moisture and other atmospheric particles.
- U-shaped metal structure with an elongated body, fastened at the bottom with an additional section of the channel. The thickness of the metal elements is 2 millimeters.
In appearance, this design seems to be the most reliable of all. Despite the small thickness of the metal elements, the structures can successfully withstand blocks of almost any weight. They do not deform with constant vibration, which guarantees a long service life of the brackets. The coating reliably protects the structure from negative atmospheric influences, preventing deformation, corrosive and oxidative processes in the metal.
- Rectangular structure of two straight metal corners with a thickness of 2-2.5 millimeters
This type of brackets almost completely copies the first sample. The difference between them is that here both corners are fastened together with a connecting metal bar, which significantly strengthens the brackets, allowing them to withstand blocks of almost any weight. All elements are connected to each other using bolts. The bar eases the load on the fasteners, and the coating reliably prevents the occurrence of corrosive and oxidative processes due to the negative effects of moisture and atmospheric precipitation. The connecting strip greatly simplifies the mounting of the brackets.
All of the above samples of almost any outdoor unit. The size of the brackets for air conditioners is traditionally about 40 centimeters in length for the vertical mounting sections.
The choice of the bracket for attaching the external unit of the air conditioner should be approached as responsibly as possible. First of all, make sure that the lifting capacity of the bracket is twice the weight of the outdoor unit. This is necessary because the ice periodically covering the block significantly increases the weight of the equipment.
The holes on the fasteners must match the bolts and other fixtures for the brackets. It is strongly not recommended to drill additional holes: this can damage the protective layer of the elements, as well as reduce their carrying capacity, which will accelerate corrosion and oxidation processes as a result of the negative influence of moisture and atmospheric precipitation. But it is also fraught with skewing or collapse of the entire structure under the weight of the weight of the external unit of the air conditioner.
And also pay attention to the anti-corrosion coating. The traditionally used enamel, although it reliably protects the metal from the negative effects of moisture and atmospheric precipitation, loses its properties after a year and a half, which can contribute to deformation and corrosion of the metal structure. The polymer coating is more reliable: it penetrates deeper into the material and better protects the metal from corrosion.
Among all anticorrosive agents, metal zinc plating is recognized as the best. Experts guarantee that galvanized brackets will last at least ten years. The split system itself can last about the same.
Above, we have discussed what types of brackets are and what are their main advantages. To get a high-quality bracket and not make a mistake with the choice, a few practical tips will help:
- When purchasing brackets yourself, do not forget to make sure that the product itself is certified. By law, the seller is obliged to provide the relevant documents. If the product is not certified, it is better to refrain from purchasing it - there is a possibility of counterfeit or poor-quality processing. In this case, the reliability of fixation is significantly reduced, which can lead to the collapse of the structure itself and the external block installed on it.
- Fasteners must correspond in area to the length and width of the unit to be installed. The maximum permissible load should be twice the mass of the block itself, which will save the brackets from collapse when ice forms on the block itself
- Among all the same products, focus on value for money. If the unit is fairly light and the vibration level is low, then regular rectangular brackets will work for you. For heavier blocks, a U-shaped structure reinforced from below is useful. A sales assistant can help you here, who will tell you which type of brackets is more suitable for your air conditioner.
- The simpler the product, the easier it is to install and the stronger it is. If you are installing the bracket yourself, then a rectangular bracket is suitable for you, the sections of which are fastened together with a metal bar. These brackets are best for those who install the brackets alone.
Thus, almost any brackets are suitable for the outdoor unit. The higher the permissible load level, the more reliable the structure itself. With proper operation, the fasteners will serve you for at least ten years, which is comparable to the service life of the split systems themselves.
What brackets do you prefer for attaching the outdoor unit of the air conditioner?
Air conditioning has long been a common household appliance. Of all the variety of devices for air cooling, the most popular are split systems, consisting of two unit-blocks, one of which is installed outside the room, and the other is inside. The indoor unit of an air conditioner is a complex device that takes warm air from the room and sends it back cooled down.
Any air conditioner functions due to the properties of liquids to release thermal energy when a liquid is released and to absorb heat when it evaporates.
The indoor unit is always placed indoors (usually mounted on a wall or ceiling), while the outdoor unit is located outside it. Both units are interconnected by electrical wiring and a copper pipeline through which freon circulates continuously during operation.
Regardless of the design and dimensions, the internal block of the split system necessarily has the following components in the design:
- Compressor. Responsible for the compression of the refrigerant and its circulation in a closed loop.
- Evaporator (heat exchanger). In this radiator, freon is converted from liquid to gas.
- Fan. Forces the air flow to the evaporator.
- Thermostatic expansion valve. Helps to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant in front of the evaporator. As a rule, it is a thin, coiled, copper tube.
- A set of filters. Retains dust and larger fractions of debris that are inevitably contained in the room air.
- Air distribution system.
- Louvers responsible for the direction of the air flow.
- Temperature sensors.
- LED indicators.
- Information table.
Indoor unit design
Note! Since the indoor unit of the split system is often located at an unattainable height, the device always contains a remote control in the kit.
The external unit is simpler, and instead of the evaporator, the device has a condenser - a unit responsible for the phase transition of freon from a gaseous state to a liquid state.