Review of the HEC 09HTC03 R2 split system: contender for the crown in the “cheap and cheerful” category

The budget split system HEC 09HTC03 R2 is attractive to buyers not only because of its low cost, but also because of its wide range of functions.The manufacturer has implemented all the significant options in the unit for comfortable use and uninterrupted operation of the unit.

Like any device, an air conditioner has its own strengths and weaknesses, features of operation and maintenance. Do the benefits outweigh the disadvantages identified by users? We suggest you sort things out in order.

Let's look at the technical parameters and nuances of split operation, and also conduct a comparative analysis with several of our closest competitors.

Unit design and characteristics

The model range of HEC brand air conditioners is not very diverse. Essentially, this is a modernized budget line of Haier splits. HEC units with the designation “R2” in their name refer to air conditioners with conventional compressors.

Design features of the air conditioner

The wall-mounted device has a traditional design.The HEC 09HTC03 R2 split system kit includes: external and indoor module white, remote control and two batteries, installation accessories, instruction manual and warranty card.

The block is compact, made in a laconic style. The module is suitable for various interior styles. The air inlets are located on the top bar of the block, and the outlets are located at the bottom

For convenient adjustment of the air flow direction, horizontal and vertical blinds are provided. An air filter is hidden under the front panel - removable elements for partial filtration of air flows. It requires regular cleaning.

The information display is located at the bottom of the unit on the right side.

The indicator lights are displayed here:

• power – lights up green when the air conditioner is on;
• “timer” mode – bright orange glow when the option is activated;
• operation – the light lights up if the compressor is in working condition.

An infrared receiver is located near the display; when triggered, it generates a sound signal. Somewhat to the right and higher from the screen there is an emergency shutdown button.

The external split module is made of metal, it is quite compact, its weight is 24.5 kg. There is an outlet grille on the front panel, and an air intake on the side

The connection of the interconnect cable and the refrigeration circuit pipeline is made on the right side.

Technical and operational parameters

The HEC 09HTC03 unit is designed for rooms with an area of ​​24-27 square meters. m, the BTU of the split is 9000. This cooling capacity corresponds to an air conditioner power of 2400 W.

Despite the loyal pricing policy, climate control equipment operates in four modes.In addition to standard cooling, the air conditioner is capable of warming the air, ventilating rooms and lowering humidity levels.

Model specifications:

• maximum air flow – 8.3 cubic meters. m/min;
• electricity consumption for heating – 747 W, cooling – 885 W;
• type of refrigerant used – R410a;
• energy consumption class – C;
• noise of the outdoor module – 53 dB, indoor unit – 33-35 dB;
• adjustable fan speed – 3 positions;
• The maximum length of the highway between blocks is 15 m.

The operating current for cooling and heating is 3.9 A and 3.3 A, respectively. The diameter of the liquid tube is 6.35 mm, the gas line is 9.52 mm.

The minimum permissible outdoor temperature for split operation in heating mode is -7°C. The device performs cooling if the window outside is no more than +43°C

The air conditioner is mounted horizontally on the wall, connected to a 200 V network. The manufacturer provides a 12-month warranty on the HEC 09HTC03 device.

Functionality: options and operating modes

The model provides a full range of the most popular and practical options.

Basic modes of split operation:

1. Cooling. The indoor module has a temperature sensor that monitors changes in the microclimate in the room and sends a signal to the compressor. You can independently select the cooling level, change the fan speed or entrust the work to the air conditioner - option
2. Heating. The heat pump of the unit consumes significantly less energy compared to an electric heater. In this mode, the user can also control the heating level or select a mode
3. Ventilation. The air is forced through the internal split module and filtered.The temperature in the room does not change; recirculation occurs without inflow or removal of air flow.
4. Drying. Excess moisture is removed from the room. The drying intensity is selected by the user.

In Auto mode, the unit automatically switches from cooling to heating, and vice versa. The air conditioner independently maintains the specified settings.

There is a Health button on the control panel - activating the “Healthy climate” option. The program is designed to eliminate unpleasant odors and enhance air purification

However, in the instructions for units of the HEC line there is an amendment that the mode is not available in all models. Its relevance should be checked with the seller.

A number of options are designed to increase the comfort of using climate control equipment:

1. Timer. Allows you to set the period for turning on and off the device. Time range – 24 hours.
2. Turbo. Cool or heat a room in a short period of time. The compressor and fan operate at increased performance - increasing noise and energy consumption.
3. Silent operation mode. Suitable for relaxing, reading a book. The equipment operates almost silently. However, if you use Quiet mode for a long time, the actual air temperature may not match the selected value.
4. Automatic operation. The system automatically regulates the temperature of the air flow and the speed of rotation of the ventilation blades in accordance with the established algorithm that promotes healthy sleep.

Sleep mode can only be activated when the air conditioner is operating for dehumidification, heating or cooling. When ventilating, the option is not available.

The manufacturer has provided protection systems and control functions: self-diagnosis of problems, anti-freeze technology, memory of settings

The restart function is responsible for saving the entered settings. In the event of an emergency disconnection from the network, the device remembers the necessary parameters. After the current supply is restored, the air conditioner will resume operation in the mode in which it functioned before the failure.

Self-diagnosis is necessary to determine the cause of a malfunction - a microcircuit is built into the unit. The type of failure can be determined by the light indicator. You can read about how to deal with the most common breakdowns of climate control equipment Here.

The automatic defrosting option is necessary when using the split in winter for heating. As the outside temperature drops, the outdoor unit runs the risk of icing up, which can lead to poor heat transfer or fan failure. When there is a risk of ice formation, the unit automatically turns on defrosting - heating the outdoor module.

Climate control

Temperature adjustment, mode selection, and change of air flow direction are carried out using the remote control. It has a small information screen.

The display shows:

• icon of the current operating mode;
• fan rotation intensity – three speeds are possible;
• remote control lock indicator;
• activity of the “timer” option;
• the value of the current temperature set by the user;
• indication of additional modes – when activated, the corresponding symbol is displayed.

Below the display there is a button to turn on and off the split, as well as a button to select silent mode.

Below there are three switches that determine the operation of the air conditioner: Cool - cooling, Heat - heating the room and Dry - dehumidification

The manufacturer provides detailed instructions for controlling the remote control and using the air conditioner.

Key meaning:

• buttons Temp – setting the desired temperature;
• Auto – switching the air conditioner to automatic mode;
• Swing – change in the air flow vector;
• Fan – selection of fan speed;
• Timer – setting the time for starting the unit or stopping operation;
• Health – enabling the “healthy climate” option;
• Extra Function – alternate activation of additional functions: sleep mode, increased productivity, redistribution of air flows;
• Confirm/Cancel – a button confirming the user’s choice;
• Lock – remote control locking, an option convenient when there are small children in the house;
• Light – illumination of the indoor module display panel;
• Reset – reset of entered settings.

Wireless control is carried out if the distance from the remote control to the air conditioner does not exceed 7 m.

Advantages and disadvantages of the device

In technical terms, the unit is very well “savvy”. It provides basic systems for protecting equipment from failures and implements significant functions and options.

Among the main advantages of the HEC 09HTC03 split are: compactness of the modules, quiet operation despite the absence of an inverter compressor, complete set of accessories for installation, ease of control

The popularity of the model is primarily due to its affordable price and advanced functionality. Most users are satisfied with the purchase.

Among the disadvantages, some consumers highlight:

• duration of cooling, heating to the desired temperature;
• If the installation is poor, the external module vibrates;
• when changing modes, a slight crackling sound is heard;
• not economical consumption of electricity;
• no backlight on the remote control.

Overall, the device is worth the money. In most cases, the ineffective operation of the split is due to unscrupulous installation - poor rolling led to freon leakage.To avoid encountering such a problem, we recommend that you read the instructions for installation of a split system.

The nuances of using a split system

To ensure trouble-free operation of the unit, the manufacturer recommends that you perform annual system maintenance and regularly clean the air filter. The first job should be entrusted to the service center specialists, and the user can handle the second task independently.

Preventative maintenance consists of the following:

• washing heat exchangers, cleaning drainage pans;
• drawing connection contacts;
• checking the operating parameters of the refrigeration circuit, the condition of the terminals, printed circuit boards and connectors.

To clean the air filter, you need to remove the front panel of the indoor module by lifting it up.

Next, you need to take the grille by the middle part, pull it up until you hear a characteristic click - it should come out of the latches

The filter can be washed with water or vacuumed. Place it back after it has completely dried and close the block cover. Read more about how to carry out preventative maintenance on a split. Further.

Comparison with similar models

To assess the competitive advantages or disadvantages of the unit in question, it is advisable to compare its parameters with similar values ​​of air conditioners in the same price category. For comparison, let's take three splits from other manufacturers with similar power and cost.

Competitor #1 – Scoole SC AC SP9 09

A budget offer from a Chinese brand with a good set of functions. The air conditioner is designed to serve rooms within 25 square meters. m, cooling capacity, like the HEC split, is 9000 BTU.

Specifications:

• operating modes – heating, cooling, drying and ventilation;
• cooling and heating performance – 2.7 kW and 2.75 kW, respectively;
• power consumption – 756-840 W;
• noise pressure of the indoor module – 24-33 dB;
• The minimum outdoor temperature for heating is from -15°C.

In terms of functionality, the model is not inferior to the unit from HEC. There is an automatic, night mode of operation, an option to remember settings, a timer, system self-diagnosis, and fan speed adjustment. The air conditioners are similar in size.

Advantages of Scoole: economical energy consumption, quiet operation of the split, fan operation at 4 different speeds. Reviews about the air conditioner are mostly positive: the plastic is of good quality, the unit works efficiently, the external unit is treated with an anti-corrosion coating.

Competitor #2 – Roda RS-A09F/RU-A09F

Another representative of the “nine” series from a Chinese company. The price of the air conditioner is slightly higher than the cost of HEC 09HTC03. The model is very popular among buyers - this is evidenced by many user reviews.

Specifications:

• basic modes: cooling, air heating, humidity reduction, ventilation;
• Split performance – 2.65 kW and 2.75 kW for cooling and heating, respectively;
• power consumption – 825 W;
• noise from the indoor unit – 33 dB;
• heating the room at an outside temperature not lower than -5°C.

Roda products are in good standing with consumers. Air conditioners are assembled at the AUX plant; more expensive brands Dax, Midea, and Pioneer are also produced here. Roda units have a rotary compressor from Toshiba.

Numerous reviews allow us to conclude about the main advantages of the split: quick achievement of the desired temperature, quiet operation of the internal module, affordable pricing, good build quality.Users note simple controls, full functionality, and convenient temperature display on the front panel. Some even use air conditioning to cool rooms of about 30 square meters. m.

Compared to the HEC split, this model loses in two respects. Firstly, heating a room is possible at a temperature of -5°C and above, and secondly, the distance between the units is reduced to 10 m. The disadvantages are very conditional, but these features should be taken into account when choosing a household unit.

Competitor #3 – Hyundai H-AR2-07H-UI016

The model is designed to serve compact premises - no more than 25 square meters. m. Technical parameters are similar to the HEC air conditioner, but externally the module from Hyundai looks more bulky. In terms of price, the compared units are almost the same.

Specifications:

• 4 main modes: cooling, heating the room, reducing humidity, blowing;
• unit performance – 2.39 kW and 2.3 kW for cooling and heating;
• electricity consumption – 800-820 W;
• noise from the internal module – 31 dB;
• The minimum temperature value for heating a room is -5°C.

The device has a built-in anion generator and has a night and automatic mode. One of the features of the split is the presence of a “warm start” option. The technology does not allow the entry of cold air - the fan turns on only after preheating the air flow to the user-specified temperature.

The main advantage of the Hyundai air conditioner is its good price-technical parameters ratio. Disadvantages identified by users: the external unit is noisy, the compressor relay makes clicks when switching modes, the plastic looks quite flimsy.

Conclusions and best offers on the market

Air conditioner HEC 09HTC03 among the “nines” used on an area of ​​25 square meters.m, is one of the most affordable. In addition to the cost, buyers are attracted by the variety of modes, compactness of the module, and quiet operation.

However, user reviews are not always positive. Some are dissatisfied with the cooling time and vibration of the outdoor module. The Roda RS-A09F/RU-A09F split does not have these shortcomings - its performance is enough to quickly reach the set temperature and serve rooms of 25-30 square meters. m.

Other Chinese analogues do not outperform the HEC air conditioner; the main difference is in the design of the indoor unit and the availability of secondary options.

Are you looking for an inexpensive air conditioner for your apartment? Or do you have experience using this split system model? Please leave feedback on the operation of the equipment, comment on our material, ask questions and participate in discussions. The contact form is located below the article.