Rating Of Air Conditioners: The Best Models For An Apartment In Terms Of Reliability And Quality 2021. Review Of Manufacturers. Top Budget Models. Reviews

2024 Author: Beatrice Philips | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-07 13:49

Maintaining a favorable home microclimate is a must for a normal life in a big city. Air conditioning equipment helps to solve this problem. But in order for it to achieve its goals, you must first of all know how to choose it. Let's take a look at the rating of air conditioners in terms of reliability and quality.

Manufacturers rating

When compiling a list of the best home air conditioner companies, you need to prioritize not even the functionality of the product, but rather its reliability. Practice shows that often the presence of numerous options turns into an insufficiently stable operation of the unit. All firms engaged in the manufacture of air conditioners can be divided into 2 main parts.

The first category includes those who are independently engaged in production and scientific and technical development in this area. In the second, those who manufacture their products by ordering at other production facilities. They simply submit an order to a certain plant, and there they make certain batches of air conditioners for the company.

It is not necessary to speak seriously about the rating of such brands. After all, each new batch can be produced at a new place, so you should not rely on stable quality.

The premium class in terms of reliability includes products:

• Daikin;
• Toshiba;
• Fujitsu;
• Mitsubishi Electric.

Slightly inferior, but at the same time, air conditioners are quite reliable Gree, Panasonic, Sharp … At the middle level are brands Electrolux, Hisense, LG, Samsung, Haier, Midea … In the category of economy, it is worth mentioning products AUX, TCL, Chigo, Hyundai.

If we talk about OEM brands (the ones that give orders to other companies), then it is worth noting a few relatively solid companies.

Among them:

• Oasis;
• Komatsu;
• Shivaki;
• Leberg;
• Timberk;
• Royal Clima;
• Sakata.

The vast majority of OEM orders go to Gree, Midea, Haier . It is these 3 executive brands that control the bulk of the domestic Chinese market. At the same time, you should not trust those firms that give orders of various kinds to little-known factories. In this case, no one can guarantee that there will be no problems with the air conditioner. But you can safely trust the products of the Xiaomi brand.

It is worthwhile to analyze in more detail, however, the features of each of the above groups of air conditioners. The premium category includes not only traditional Japanese brands, but also a number of later Chinese companies . They conduct their own research in the field of HVAC equipment. However, despite this and the presence of their own production facilities, the "giants" of the market periodically give orders to other manufacturers. Such a moment will still have to be controlled independently when buying.

Generally premium products are durable and have almost no factory defects … With proper operation, it will work for 12 years or more. Almost all devices of this class are initially equipped with means of protection against errors during use. Automation will stop the device if there is a network overload or any other dangerous situation for it.

The elite category of air conditioners makes almost no noise: the volume during operation will not exceed 26 dB (which roughly corresponds to a quiet whisper at a distance of about 1 m).

Daikin products are prized for superior (compared to competitors) compressors and electronic components . It is also believed that they are distinguished by better balancing of fans and the use of high-quality plastics. Considerable benefit is also associated with the use of multi-level consumer error protection systems. Daikin air conditioners have an official 3-year warranty.

It is worth paying attention to Mitsubishi Electric equipment ., which is diverse and suitable for a wide variety of purposes. Fujitsu, General are two trademarks of one manufacturer … In terms of functionality, they are approximately the same. Equipment under the General brand differs only in execution in the spirit of the Asian school of design. Residents of Russia can choose both options.

Any Mitsubishi Heavy product confirms the advantages of Japanese technology in practice . In our country, air conditioners of this brand have been used for a long time, and the demand for them is not decreasing. This technique is ergonomic and easy to use. It is curious that Mitsubishi engineers achieve similar characteristics with competitors when using a smaller volume of freon than other manufacturers. The designers were also able to achieve very high MTBF rates. In the latest models, they have already exceeded 22,000 hours.

Toshiba technology demonstrates almost the same level of reliability as Mitsubishi products. This company has been working in the HVAC segment since the late 1970s. And more than once she managed to create unique developments that were later picked up by other firms. Gree air conditioners also deserve attention . This brand is supported by at least the fact that it occupies 30% of the world market. The company's factories are located not only in China, but also in other countries, even in South America.

The best types of air conditioners

Any brand, even a little-known one, produces a wide variety of air conditioners. And it is important to know how their specific types are suitable for an apartment, and which ones are best left aside. First of all, it should be characterized window and portable monoblock structures … They are mounted directly into the window opening, which allows to ensure the compactness of the system and significantly reduce its cost. However, in many cases, such designs are inconvenient with increased noise, and their performance is not too high.

Another disadvantage of window monoblocks is the ingress of cold air during the winter months. You will have to put up with this, because the isolation of the room in this case is impossible. Such problems have forced even all leading manufacturers to abandon the further development of window air conditioners. In addition, they can only be installed in a special niche. It will take too long and costly to prepare it from scratch.

Mobile air conditioners are also performed according to the monoblock scheme, which means placing all the required nodes in one case. While it may seem that a ductless design is unambiguously good, in reality this is not entirely true. All noisy components of the air conditioner will be inside the room. It is unlikely that such an additive will contribute to the comfort of the residents. However, mobile climate technology does not need to be installed. Therefore, the structure turns out to be more economical and easier to use, it can be moved, albeit with some restrictions.

Hot air from the mobile air conditioner will be discharged outside through a special hose. He will certainly have to be taken out the window. It is for this reason that you still have to choose a suitable place for a mobile air conditioner.

The hose should not pass where it will interfere with someone or can be damaged by high temperatures, sharp objects, or caustic substances. In addition, the length of the hose also acts as a limiter, which does not often allow the device to be rearranged to the desired location.

A more traditional type of household air conditioner is split systems … They have 2 components: wall units located outside and internal air outlets. The advantages of such a technique are undeniable - suffice it to say that it is actively used by large organizations interested in an optimal microclimate at their facilities. Placing the noisiest block on the street allows you to solve the typical problem of monoblocks.

Not all split systems are wall-mounted. Indoor units can also be located on the floor. The floor-standing design is believed to optimally distribute the air flow throughout the room. And channel equipment is quite expensive, however, it is recommended to use it for:

• large apartments;
• cottages;
• offices;
• warehouses;
• industrial facilities;
• trading establishments.

Duct air conditioner must be installed by laying pipes. They will have to be placed in the gap separating the front and draft ceilings. Otherwise, the design characteristics of the room deteriorate significantly. Cassette complexes differ from channel systems only by the absence of the need for pipes. Air will be supplied through a special duct located at the bottom of the inner segment (cassette).

Overall dimensions cassette split system always is 0.6x0.6 m. Deviations from it, even by a few millimeters, are not allowed. Therefore, masking the air conditioner with ceiling tiles is not difficult. However, such systems can only be used where everything is done for the normal use of the ceiling gaps.

If initially the architects and engineers did not foresee this, they will either have to abandon their idea, or resort to very complex and expensive revision.

The overwhelming majority of people then prefer to use other types of air conditioners, without engaging in dubious manipulations. But to maintain the necessary microclimate in several rooms at once, it is worth giving preference to multi split systems. They have several blocks connected in various ways to one external device. Inverter air conditioners also deserve attention. The increased price in comparison with "simple" devices is justified:

• lowering the noise level;
• stability of the maintained thermal regime;
• lower total current consumption;
• longer operation (under normal conditions).

Classic air conditioner constantly stops and resumes its work in order to maintain the required temperature on average. Therefore, inevitable fluctuations of 1-2 degrees arise. But the inverter system operates continuously, only its power varies. Therefore, the deviations of the air temperature turn out to be 2-4 times less than when using classical models, in addition, the current consumption is reduced by at least 20%.

Cassette air conditioners classified by the number of streams that are sent to blow the desired place. They can be 2, 4 or 6. Sometimes we talk about column (they are also cabinet) systems. It is almost never necessary to use such a technique in apartments. It is mainly intended for large open spaces such as hallways and foyers.

Indoor units column apparatus do not attach to anything, but are placed directly on the floor. The heated air will be drawn through the grate. Inside, due to contact with the cold street masses, it lowers its temperature. The cooled jets are then blown from the top. The streams can be directed both horizontally and vertically, but due to the excessive power, they will definitely not please the owners of a medium-sized apartment.

Top models

If you decide to choose a monoblock window, then you should pay attention to the relatively inexpensive popular model General Climate GCW-09HRN1 … The device is distinguished by its functionality and therefore takes up a little more space than other variants in the same line. It will certainly not work to put the unit with the output in the window. In return, however, users can enjoy options such as enhanced heating and remote control.

Solid electronic components are used for control. Externally, the air conditioner looks stylish. The remote control is included in the delivery set.

A timer function and fault detection are provided. In the event of minor faults, the restart will occur automatically. But this model has a drawback - its solid energy consumption.

In terms of reliability, the compact monoblock stands out favorably floor-standing type Electrolux EACM-11CL / N3 … It is slightly more expensive than the previous version, but it is fully justified. The device is perfect where for some reason it is impossible to install a split system. The reviews note the attractive design of the air conditioner and the ease of installation. The maximum serviced area is 27 sq. m. The device can not only condition the room, but also operate in simple ventilation mode, and dry the air.

The operating volume is no more than 44 dB. Condensation goes away without unnecessary worries. It is carried away by jets of heated air. The energy efficiency of the Electrolux design allows it to be classified as class A. The temperature can be adjusted in steps, with an accuracy of a degree. The brand warranty is given for 24 months. However, in the night mode, the device still does not become silent - the sound volume is almost not reduced. And besides, it cannot be used to warm up the air.

Italian is a good alternative. monoblock Zanussi ZACM-09MS / N1 … A compact and attractive looking air conditioner will delight almost any user. The device will be able to improve the air condition in rooms up to 30 square meters. m. The condensate is usually carried away automatically. But if the air is very humid, liquid can still accumulate in the provided container, a special indicator indicates its filling.

If you do not limit yourself to budget proposals and focus only on models worthy of quality, then you should pay attention to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries SRK-25ZM-S … This is a solid inverter split system with wide functionality. The device is very quiet. In cooling mode, it creates a noise of about 21 dB, and in heating mode - 19 dB. A draft-free accelerated cooling option is available. The winter heating mode can be implemented at temperatures down to -15 degrees. For those who love order and stability in people's lives, a timer will come in handy, which sets the operating modes for a week ahead of the day.

It is also worth noting:

• a reliable filter with a photocatalytic effect that suppresses bad odors;
• automatic cleaning of the indoor unit;
• retention of pet hair and other allergens.

An even more elite split system is Toshiba RAS-10SKVP2-E … The device is designed for allergy sufferers and those suffering from respiratory problems. The machine has been independently tested to meet the Japanese JEM1467 standard. A positive feature of the air conditioner is a plasma filter with two stages of cleaning. It reliably stops contamination at the level of 0.001-0.01 microns, which is beyond the power of cheaper models.

The filter plates are also made using silver ions. Therefore, a powerful antibacterial effect is provided. The service life of the filter is the same as that of the main unit.

After the heat exchanger has dried, it is disinfected with ozone. This gas is produced in the device itself; no additional refueling is required.

Many people, of course, cannot afford such an advanced technique simply for financial reasons. Then comes to the rescue Hisense AS-10HR4SYDTG5 … The cost of this Chinese split system does not exceed 17,000 rubles. At the same time, she copes with her task relatively well. Outwardly, the device looks quite solid and in terms of energy efficiency is not inferior to advanced Japanese designs.

Hisense product can work on an area of up to 30 sq. m. Air purification is carried out using an ultra-high density dust grid. Additionally, filters with photocatalytic function and disinfection effect are used. The last word belongs to the reliable plasma filter. Automatic control is provided to control vertical and horizontal blinds; if necessary, the system will reboot.

For the bedroom, a considerable part of the experts recommend premium air conditioner Daikin FTXG20L … The fact that it costs over 80,000 rubles scares off many consumers. But the money paid is justified by 100% high product excellence. The indoor unit is made in strict accordance with the principles of modern design. A silver or snow-white (optional) model will harmoniously fit into any interior.

The air conditioner is practically silent. The description states that the sound pressure level will not exceed 19 dB. A sensor for recognizing human presence in the room is provided. If no one is present, the system automatically switches to the economy maintenance mode.

A night energy saving program has also been implemented, along with energy saving, it allows you to avoid excessive cooling or overheating of the air. Filtration of air flows takes place in filters of several successive stages.

LG P07SP also deservedly can be considered a good air conditioner for the bedroom. And this is an economy class model that Koreans make on an inverter system. The maximum serviced area is 20 sq. m. Characterized by a comfortable and not too assertive design. The body is made of high quality plastic. The sound volume of this modification reaches 19 dB (when switched to night mode). A rationally designed fan helped to achieve this result. Its shoulder blades are inclined at an angle of 15 degrees. The external module is also relatively quiet. Its volume is reduced by using an inverter-type twin-rotor compressor.

An accelerated cooling option is provided. The designers took care of preventing the accumulation of microbes and fungi on the heat exchanger. Intelligent diagnostics have been implemented, allowing you to find faults even through a smartphone.

The built-in compressor is guaranteed for 10 years. However, this air conditioner as a whole has only a one-year warranty, and it will help to heat the air in the house only at temperatures no higher than - 5 degrees.

In the sector of split-systems of a universal class, it stands out favorably Mitsubishi Electric MSZ-DM25VA / MUZ-DM25VA … The system will be able to maintain a good microclimate at outdoor temperatures up to -10 degrees. The power consumption of the air conditioner corresponds to category A +. The volume is 22 dB. The designers, when thinking over their development, provided for the use of a filter with silver ions.

Choosing a budget split system, you should give preference Pioneer KFR20BW / KOR20BW … The system is designed for air cooling up to 21 sq. m. In the off-season, as long as the temperature is not too high, you can use it as a heater. There is no need to rely on inverter control. However, the equipment works quite quietly (the volume is not lower than 24 dB), and its dimensions are relatively small. The classic design also attracts attention.

Deservedly has a good reputation and LG S09SWC … This air conditioner is designed to work in rooms up to 40 sq. m. In a minute, he can pass up to 6 cubic meters. m. of air. There is a drying mode, and the maximum volume does not exceed 38 dB. Of the other useful properties, it is pertinent to note:

• air ionization;
• automatic adjustment to room conditions;
• inverter control;
• timer for 24 hours;
• filtration of bad odors.

General selection criteria

To choose the right air conditioner for your home, you need to immediately consider how large the room is, and whether it will be on the sunny or shaded side. If the room is lit by the sun, you will have to choose a more powerful device . Usually 1 sq. m. 0.1 kW of total power is consumed. With a cooling capacity of 2 kW, an optimal microclimate can be ensured on an area of up to 20 sq. m. Of course, if there are no additional heat sources.

The choice of a mobile air conditioner is often explained by the fact that it is easy to move it from one room to another . However, such a system also has a drawback - you will need to constantly pour out water. If time is constantly not enough, and the cost of the device is not critical, mobile technology is quite acceptable. It also allows you to save money on the installation.

If the area of home rooms is large, you will have to give preference to split systems. They are twice or three times more expensive than mobile counterparts, but their characteristics will definitely be better. But the orientation towards the country of production has no sense for a long time. Even the price does not depend on it, not to mention the quality. The main parameters depend primarily on corporate policy. When calculating thermal loads, pay attention to:

• heat coming from outside (due to temperature differences);
• heat brought by the sun's rays;
• penetration of heated air through ventilation and cracks;
• heat generated by residents themselves, computers, refrigerators, gas boilers, stoves and so on.

But it is better to entrust the competent calculation of the heat inflow to experienced specialists. It doesn't even make sense to look for formulas for an approximate calculation. A common mistake is buying a very cheap air conditioner that "has a bunch of extra features." In practice, this always turns into an increased high cost of the model, even in comparison with the giants of the market. But technically, the product will be completely helpless.

The following options are really useful:

• air heating;
• its disinfection;
• cleaning from allergens;
• additional hydration;
• suppression of bad smell;
• reduction of noise at night.

If it is critical to maintain a strictly specified temperature, then inverter air conditioners should be preferred. But when you have to often warm up or cool the room after coming home from work, then a device with the afterburner function will help out. Important attention should be paid to the control of climatic equipment, the remote control has long ceased to be an advanced option.

Timer control or automatic adjustment of the air conditioner using special sensors is considered much more promising. Very useful are models with automatic restart in the event of a failure or power outage, which do not lose the original settings.

Review overview

We will give in the review and assessments that the audience gives to the previously named models of air conditioners. The General Climate GCW-09HRN1 is praised for its compact design and vibration damping in embedded piping . However, the angle type condenser makes cleaning and maintenance more difficult by reducing the size of the device. It is not so easy to install the device. However, this is a typical problem with window climatic technology.

Electrolux EACM-11CL / N3 is mobile and powerful . He successfully copes with freshening and dehumidifying the air in equal measure. However, there are also weaknesses - you will have to think about how to bring the pipe out into the street. But compared to other mobile devices, the device works almost silently.

Zanussi ZACM-09MS / N1 is recommended by 80% of consumers . On the whole, this air conditioner works well. But sometimes it does not cover all the needs that it has to provide. Sometimes there is not enough power and the length of the duct is not enough.

Hisense AS-10HR4SYDTG5 positively appreciated for the excellent build quality. Also noted in different reviews:

• silence during work;
• pleasant appearance;
• Excellent value for money and quality;
• work efficiency on hot days.

The secrets of choosing the right and reliable air conditioner are presented below.