The owners of a house or multi-room apartment may have a question: is it possible to use one air conditioner unit installed outside to connect several additional units inside the house?
It is possible, but taking into account the peculiarities of such a lineup. This type of air conditioning system is called multi-split. With this system, to a block fixed with outside building, it is possible to connect about 5 units installed in the premises.
The multi system allows for air conditioning in rooms of different sizes. At the same time, the blocks located inside the house practically do not differ from those usually used in standard split systems. And most often, blocks located indoors are mounted on the walls.
Advantages.
Compressors located outside the building are controlled by an inverter, which reduces energy consumption and improves the usability of air conditioners. And since there is only one multi system unit, located outside the building, it is practically not disturbed architectural view buildings.
When installing an air conditioner indoor units and one outdoor, it can be used both for air conditioning and for cleaning the air from dust. And by choosing a certain operating mode, such an air conditioner, which has several internal units, can effectively cool or heat the air in several separate rooms at the same time.
Disadvantages of multi-unit internal systems.
It is also true that there are certain disadvantages to multi-system air conditioners. All units located indoors simply do not work simultaneously when different modes are turned on. For example, one unit is located in a room on the south, sunny side and you may want to cool it. But in a room located to the north, it will no longer be possible to turn on the air heating mode separately. That is, a multi-split device can operate simultaneously with all units only in the same mode - cooling or heating.
Also, at a certain distance, from 10 to 15 meters or more, an air conditioner with two indoor units and one outdoor unit begins to consume several times more electricity. At the same time, the quality of operation of such a system also deteriorates. Therefore, when connecting a multi-split system, first of all, you need to make a detailed calculation.
When choosing a multi-split or traditional air conditioning system, pay attention to functionality, as well as the possibility of separate control of indoor units. Weighing all the pros and cons, you can see that the level of comfort, cost and maintenance of air conditioners of both systems are almost the same.
The use of split system air conditioners has always been considered the best way maintaining a suitable microclimate for work and rest in office premises, private houses, apartments and other premises.
But there are cases when a certain limitation is imposed on equipment operating on the principle of “outdoor unit = one indoor unit”. Then it is best to use multi-split air conditioners, which make it possible to freely use several indoor units at the same time with one outdoor unit.
If you install an air conditioner on two or more indoor units and one outdoor unit, it becomes possible to set a separate temperature microclimate in each room. How beneficial can this be for users of such air conditioners? It turns out that there are situations when these systems may be the only possible ones.
For example, on historical buildings, in order to preserve the architectural appearance of the building, it is prohibited to install air conditioners on its front side.
During a telephone consultation, our clients often ask the question - what is installation of air conditioner in two stages? This is the installation of a split system, in which the first stage takes place during the renovation of the room, and the second after all finishing work is completed. This is done when there is a need to hide all communications of the device into the wall (behind a plasterboard panel or in a groove). But in order to explain this process more clearly, it is necessary to briefly describe what actions are performed when installing an air conditioner.
The principle of operation of the air conditioner and the details of installation.
The split system has a special structure: communications (cables and pipes) must pass between the indoor and outdoor units. Contrary to popular myth, air from the street is not supplied into the room through pipes. This opinion is wrong. Traditional household split systems are not capable of taking in outside air, and pipes are needed to ensure circulation of the refrigerant in a closed cycle, and at different stages freon has different phase states. An example would be an ordinary refrigerator: the space in the refrigerator can be thought of as a room, and what is outside, behind the refrigerator, can be thought of as the outdoor unit of an air conditioner. The same freon and the same pipes are used, the only difference is that everything is enclosed in a single housing and the equipment has less power.
In order for the air conditioner to function correctly, all pipes must be tightly and securely connected, vacuumization must be performed and the refrigerant must be turned on. Manufacturers of split systems fill devices with freon - it is in the outdoor unit in a liquid state and under pressure.
Household air conditioners of the 7th and 9th standard sizes (2 and 2.5 kW of cooling capacity, respectively), which are most popular for use in apartments, must be installed with copper pipes with a diameter of 1/4 inch and 3/8 inch. The use of pipes of different diameters is due to the fact that freon enters the outdoor unit in a gaseous state, so a larger diameter pipe is required. A smaller diameter pipe is required to supply cooled liquid refrigerant to the indoor unit. These pipes must be thermally insulated with special thermal insulation materials for refrigeration pipes, and they have the appropriate diameter. Failure to provide thermal insulation at the installation stage will inevitably lead to a significant drop in equipment power, due to unnecessary heat loss and the formation of condensation in cold sections of the pipeline.
In addition, the units must also be connected by cable. This is necessary so that the “brain” of the system (microprocessor), which is located in the indoor unit, is able to receive and analyze data from the air conditioner sensors, as well as enable/disable certain modes and functions. Also, power must be supplied to the equipment. TO household appliances Power is usually supplied to the indoor unit. For this, a PVS cable 3x2.5 or 3x1.5 is used (depending on the power of the device). But there are also exceptions. For example, in some Hitachi models or Daikin split systems, power is supplied to the outdoor unit. Of course, such a solution lengthens power cable, but allows you to move all high-voltage communications outside the premises, thereby reducing the risk of fire or electric shock.
When the air conditioner operates, condensation forms in the indoor unit, which must be discharged outside the room. To achieve this goal, a drainage hose Ø16 mm is laid from the block along with the route. Most often, this tube is taken outside so that the water drains onto the ground. And to prevent drops from falling on passers-by or neighbors who live on the lower floors, the drainage tube is fixed to the bracket of the outdoor unit so that its edge is at the greatest possible distance from the wall (approximately 70 cm).
In some cases, it is prohibited to take the hose outside. Most often, such restrictions are found in luxury homes, where such nuances are very strictly monitored. To get out of this situation, water is diverted to the sewer along the shortest route. A shallow groove is made for the drainage hose - approximately 25-30 mm. But it is very important to know and remember where exactly this hose goes, because in the future, when making holes in the walls to install sconces, shelves or pictures, this hose can be pierced, and to repair it, you will have to disassemble the groove and spoil the repair. To protect yourself from such incidents, you need to require workers to draw up a diagram of the location of all communications that are built into the wall.
There is one more subtlety that concerns laying drainage pipe. The smaller the angle of inclination of this pipe, the higher the likelihood of it clogging in the first 1-2 years. This, of course, will not lead to failure of the air conditioner, but dripping water from the indoor unit can cause a lot of trouble. Therefore, if there is an opportunity to make condensate drainage as efficient as possible, then this should definitely be taken advantage of.
Air conditioner installation in two stages.
Sometimes, when installing an air conditioner, it is more rational to hide interconnect cables and pipes in a groove. But in this case, installation must be done during renovations in the room, and it is carried out in two stages. With this installation, all communications that lead to the indoor unit will be hidden, which allows you to maintain the integrity of the interior. Another advantage of this installation is that the indoor unit is fixed last, so it will not be contaminated with dust and building materials, which are used during repairs.
First stage.
At the first stage, installers make a groove in the wall, drill a through hole in the outer wall, heat insulate the pipes, and lay a route. On the surface outer wall The outdoor unit is attached and communications are immediately connected. This is done for two reasons: firstly, so that the ends of the cable do not oxidize and moisture does not penetrate into the pipes, and secondly, to reduce the amount of work at the second stage. It is very important to minimize work that requires opening windows, because the second stage is carried out immediately after wallpapering the walls, and the formation of drafts affects the quality of the repair.
After completing the first stage, only a bunch of cables and pipes coming out of the wall will be visible in the room.
It is important to know that the installation team is not involved in filling the grooves and leveling the walls. This task is performed by people who carry out renovations in the apartment. At the same time, making a channel is not included in the installation cost, so it makes sense to entrust this work to repairmen - this will save money, since often during repairs workers have to trench walls throughout the apartment, so the prices per meter should be lower. Also, in this case, it will be possible to discuss the removal of construction waste, which is important.
Second stage.
After completion repair work specialists are called again to complete air conditioner installation. At this stage, the indoor unit is attached and communications are connected (no wires or tubes will be visible anymore), the route is evacuated, and freon is introduced into the system circuit. After the work has been done, it is necessary to perform a test run of the air conditioner and configure it.
Another important point. It is advisable that final installation air conditioner was produced with an industrial vacuum cleaner. This will keep it clean not only during installation, but also after it. In this case, it means cleanliness on both the floor and the walls. When drilling walls using a vacuum cleaner, it becomes possible to avoid dirty spots on the surface of the walls, which is quite common if the walls are painted. Therefore, when choosing an installation team, it is better to clarify this point.
The need to use quality materials.
The efficiency of the air conditioner directly depends on the quality consumables(pipes, cables, thermal insulation, etc.) used by the installation team. For example, we use copper pipe Mueller (American manufacturer) - considered one of the highest quality. The use of such a pipe guarantees the absence of creases and microcracks at bends and in places of rolling. When it comes to fastening materials, we prefer Hilti parts. This is very reliable fastening, so you don’t have to worry that the outdoor unit of the air conditioner will fall down during strong gusts of wind or additional load in the form of snow and ice. The brackets must only be galvanized so that under the influence atmospheric precipitation their service life was not reduced and the original appearance. In terms of service life, such parts are almost eternal. By the way, one such bracket is designed for a load of up to 150 kg, while the weight of the outdoor unit is about 40 kg.
A multi-split system for 2 rooms with one outdoor unit is an inverter technology characterized by great productivity. The device operates silently and comes with a 10-year warranty.
Types of multi-split systems
Additional blocks can be different forms and sizes
The multisplit system differs in the method of connecting devices: up to 16 indoor units of different capacities can be connected to one outdoor unit at once. This allows you to simultaneously cool or heat the air in different rooms depending on their independent purpose.
Stationary MSS include one outdoor unit and several indoor modules. The number of connection connectors on the external device is equal to the number of internal ones. Outdoor unit Multi-split systems for 2 rooms are equipped with one or two compressors. In the latter case, room modules can be turned on for cold and heat at the same time, since they have different circuits. If the systems have one compressor, the modules inside operate in a single mode. Each of them is presented remote control(remote control), the same for all devices.
The console unit is installed against the wall on the floor or under the ceiling
Multi-split systems consist of one external module and several internal blocks. They are connected using separators. It is possible to install three compressors in an external unit, operating on one circuit. All internal modules operate in a specific mode: “cold”, “heat” or “drying”. Internal modules are connected under the condition that their total power does not exceed the performance of the external device.
Types of indoor units:
- wall;
- cassette;
- floor-ceiling;
- console
All multisplits are equipped with remote controls, each of which can be configured when setting up the equipment. The first DP system has a privileged right and can control the entire system, creating common task for internal modules. For example, if a “cold” mode is created on one unit, it will automatically be extended to other modules.
Advantages and disadvantages
Multi-split systems for 3 rooms are actively used to create the desired temperature in rooms of different sizes. They can be used to heat or cool rooms depending on the outside temperature.
Compared to conventional air conditioners, 3-room split systems have the following advantages:
- Power of the external device. MCC installs modules with increased productivity, allowing air exchange in large rooms.
- Quiet operation. This is achieved through a remote compressor, which is quite noisy.
- Great selection. Modules differ from simple air conditioners in appearance, shape, size, and mounting (ceiling, wall, floor).
- Installation of one external unit. When there is no space on the façade of a building to install several devices, the use of a multi-split system is justified.
Disadvantages of the device:
- Difficult installation of modules. To equip a duct complex, it is necessary to install communications connecting the outdoor unit and room units, as well as air ducts.
- Installation of a split system with two indoor units can only be permanent. It is impossible to move or rearrange them to another place. It is possible to dismantle such equipment, but this must be done by specialists.
- If the outdoor module breaks down, all rooms are left without air conditioning.
System components
External block of multi-split system
The MSS includes:
- External block. Installed on the outside of the building.
- Communication distributors: power mains, air ducts, pipes with freon inside, combining the external and indoor modules into a single complex.
- Room modules.
Basically, an air conditioner for 2 rooms with one outdoor unit is equipped with inverter compressors and is combined with internal modules of different types and performance. All internal nodes, their categories or a separate block can work synchronously.
The use of an inverter modification of a multi-split system air conditioner significantly saves energy, since the capacity of the outdoor module is adjusted depending on the load.
Power selection
When calculating the performance of a multi-split system, several factors must be taken into account:
- Rooms in which a multi-split system will be installed: area, purpose of the room, heating system.
- Power of indoor units. Their total performance must not be allowed to exceed the power of the external module. There are online services to calculate this indicator.
- Pipeline length. The higher this indicator, the more powerful the blocks in remote rooms should be.
Among the inexpensive multi-split air conditioners are the following manufacturers: LG, General Climate, Midea. Sets of multi-split systems for 4 rooms are already distributed according to power. One outdoor module can cool eight rooms with a total area of up to 200 square meters. m.
When choosing a multi-split system, you need to take into account the placement of the modules: on the floor, wall or ceiling.
MSS installation methods
Multi-split system with Twin installation
Installation of a multi-split system for 4 rooms is carried out in two ways: “slim” and “twin”.
“Slim” involves connecting all internal modules into a single circuit, which in turn is connected to one port of an external device. A common network is obtained, with independent internal modules created that are switched on from individual remote controls.
“Twin” involves connecting each indoor device with a separate line to a specific port.
The total length of all pipelines can be up to 55 meters, and to the indoor module - 15 meters.
Installation of a multi-split system
The outdoor unit is always placed with outside at home: on a wall or roof, sometimes in common passages or corridors. Each room has a separate module.
Between the indoor units, pipelines with refrigerant are laid, as well as cables for power and control. The outdoor module contains a compressor, condenser, fan and auxiliary equipment.
The installation process includes:
- fixing the outdoor unit;
- electrical wiring;
- preparation of communication;
- pipe installation;
- cable installation;
- filling the line with freon;
- checking the split system for leaks.
When installing external and internal modules, choose a place so that when drilling holes you do not get into the fittings. To do this, it is recommended to use a metal detector. If you plan to install an air conditioner on the roof, you need to calculate permissible loads on the roof.
The obvious advantage of the MCC is the presence of only one outdoor unit, this is especially significant when there is no space to accommodate several models. Proper installation will ensure the efficiency and durability of the device and create an optimal microclimate in the room.
For two internal blocks, i.e. You can connect two split systems to the external unit and place them in two separate rooms.
An ideal option if there is no free space on the facade of the building.
Models of multi split systems for two rooms
Recently, the use of such an air conditioning scheme has become increasingly popular. This is explained by the fact that often in newly built multi-story buildings residential buildings allocate a special place for external unit. This area is protected by a decorative basket. But what if you need to cool two rooms, but there is only one place for an outdoor unit?
There is no fundamental difference from a conventional air conditioner. By the way, many people think that multi-split should cost less. Unfortunately, this is not true: the cost of the equipment itself and its installation will be approximately the same amount. The outdoor unit is initially more reliable, and the total length of the routes, as a rule, is slightly longer than when installing two independent air conditioners, so installation will cost a little more, even despite the need to display only one air conditioner on the facade.
The only “inconvenience” is that the external unit is capable of providing internal operation either only in cooling mode, or all in heating mode. On the other hand, it is difficult to imagine a situation where it is necessary to cool the air in one room and heat it in another. It is worth noting that the internal units of such an air conditioner are in all other respects absolutely independent and operate independently.
Laying a freon route into a wall recess at the repair stage.
Laying a multi-split system route along the floor, the shortest direction.
A classic painting after the renovation was completed. Before the second stage of installation.
Completion of installation work: fastening and connection with vacuum.
Japanese brands are rightfully considered the best and most reliable air conditioners. Such as Daikin, Mitsubishi Electric, Mitsubishi Heavy, Toshiba. Based on our experience and statistics of equipment failures and service cases, we strongly advise you to choose a split system from Japanese manufacturers when choosing an air conditioner for 2 rooms. This is reliability, this is build quality, this is functionality.
There is a special offer for many models: standard installation as a gift! Check with the managers: you will be pleasantly surprised by the final price including installation!
Therefore, do not be surprised when you see the cost of “0.0 rubles” in the “Installation” column. This is true.
| Model | BTU | Price | Installation | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
SCM40ZS-S external unit | 4.0 | 69900 R | 15400 |
| SCM45ZS-S external unit | 4.5 | 78900 R | 15400 | |
 |
MXZ-2D33VA external unit | 3.3 | 75650 R | 6000 |
| MXZ-2D42VA external unit | 4.0 | 88790 R | 6000 | |
| MXZ-2HJ40VA external unit | 4.0 | 77490 RUR | 6000 | |
| MXZ-2D53VA external unit | 5.2 | 113630 R | 6000 | |
 |
2MXS40H external unit | 4.0 | 59677 R | 15400 |
| 2MXS50H external unit | 5.0 | 93293 R | 15400 | |
 |
2MSHD14A external unit | 4.1 | 64000 R | 0,0 |
| 2MSHD18A external unit | 5.0 | 66000 R | 0,0 | |
| 2MSHD21A external unit | 7.1 | 66000 R | 0,0 | |
 |
AMW2-16U4SGC1 external unit | 4.6 | 40100 R | 15400 |
| AMW2-20U4SNC1 external unit | 5.8 | 55000 R | 15400 | |
 |
RAS-2M14S3AV-E external unit | 4.0 | 59230 R | 15400 |
| RAS-2M18S3AV-E external unit | 5.2 | 60916 R | 15400 | |
 |
RAM - 33 NP2B external unit | 3.3 | 76700 R | 0,0 |
| RAM - 40 NP2B external unit | 4.0 | 81600 R | 0,0 | |
| RAM - 53 NP2B external unit | 5.3 | 95100 R | 0,0 | |
 |
2U14CS4ERA external unit | 4.1 | 43600 R | 15400 |
| 2U18FS2ERA external unit | 5.1 | 54100 R | 15400 | |
The main differences between models from different manufacturers are the cooling power, the dimensions of the external units and the functionality of the internal units of air conditioners. And the price, of course. The most reliable brand - Daikin and Mitsubishi Electric will cost 20-30% more than their analogues. But this is a 100% guarantee of durability and efficiency. Indoor units are selected for each model separately, taking into account the required cooling power and required functionality.
Not everyone knows what installing an air conditioner in 2 stages is. Why is this installation method interesting, and why is it important to know all its nuances? Today I will tell you a few “tricks” that are often forgotten during the renovation process.
When air conditioners first appeared, no one thought about how to harmoniously fit them into the interior. They tried to place the devices closer to each other to simplify installation. was the main task! Hiding the “wires” was of secondary importance.
Currently, air conditioners have become such a part of our everyday life that laying communications under them has become one of the main points in the repair estimate. Now almost every designer or foreman thinks about installing a split system, as well as about sockets, switches, lighting fixtures.
What work is performed in two stages
First stage. air conditioner and the planned location of the units. (drainage, tubes, cables). At the first stage, you can also install an external unit (but you can do without purchasing the “split” itself). Each case is discussed individually.
After this, the owner connects the “power” cable to the air conditioner and continues the repair (“the route” is plastered, the walls are painted or wallpaper is glued). The “power” cable can be laid before the air conditioning technicians arrive.
Second stage. Upon completion of the repair, the indoor unit is installed (and the external unit, if not installed). Then it is carried out (through an external unit). The air conditioner starts only when the temperature parameters are met. Therefore, it is better to plan the second stage at positive temperatures.
Advantages and disadvantages of installing an air conditioner in two stages
Like any decision there are positive and negative aspects. In the case of “piste” for air conditioning, it is very important to understand what you will get in return for the money and effort spent.
Advantages:
Flaws:
Important features of 2-step installation for the user
- The most difficult thing in this matter is to find responsible executors who will approach the solution of your task with all seriousness. At the same time, they will have to take into account all your wishes and interior features. Then offer the most rational options in terms of efficiency and comfort. It is not easy to find craftsmen who think first of all about user convenience. Some are only interested in their own benefit.
- Already at the first stage, a place for an air conditioner should be provided. You need to know at least: where the furniture will be located, how much the ceiling will be “lowered”, what size it will be ceiling moldings. I know the task is difficult! But it needs to be solved!
- If you purchase an air conditioner at the first stage, this will be a plus when laying lines. All characteristics of the device will be 100% known (since there are now a lot various systems). But at the first stage you can still do without buying an air conditioner.
The nuances of laying the route for installation teams
To summarize, I want to say that if you do not provide an air conditioner right away, then upon completion of the repair the choice of installation location will be limited. In this article, I talked about the main points of installing an air conditioner in 2 stages. Maybe I missed something, so please add your comments!
