Which brand of air conditioner is best to choose for an apartment: the best manufacturers of various types of equipment
The summer weather at +30 degrees is good outside, but at home with such a temperature you won’t enjoy much comfort.And in general, everyone’s temperature threshold is different - some need coolness to feel great, others need constant warmth.
The problem will be solved by choosing the right apartment climate control, and a review of specific models in this article will tell you which brand of air conditioner is best for your apartment.
We will tell you how to choose the right power of climate control equipment and the type of suitable unit for the conditions of a particular apartment. We will also describe in detail the most proven modifications of well-known and popular companies, based on the assessments of customers and leading engineers.
Attention! We have compiled a ranking of the best air conditioners on the market today. To check out the latest news go here.
The content of the article:
Power calculation and design type determination
Modern air conditioners are wall-mounted, floor-mounted, ceiling-mounted (duct and cassette), window-mounted and mobile. It’s good if you already have a clear idea of what type of home is desired. If not yet, you should decide on it. The choice must be made based on the area of the room.
For every 20 sq. meters, you need to supply 2 kW of air conditioning power in order for the machine to have a decent effect.
In addition, if there are powerful heating systems and household appliances in the same room, and if the room is frequently visited a lot, it would be correct to add a few more kW of work. Otherwise, using the device will lose its meaning.
You should not play it safe and choose an air conditioner that is too powerful with a generous reserve of power without making calculations.
Quickly coping with a task in a space inappropriate for its size, it will often switch from sleep mode to work mode, and then vice versa. This will lead to unpleasant waste of energy and rapid wear of the equipment.
Selecting the type of air conditioner for an apartment
Now, knowing the area of the room and the required power for maintenance, you can determine what type of desired equipment is best installed in your apartment.
Each type has its own characteristics:
- Mobile models – autonomous, as a rule, floor-mounted, do not require assembly, coverage area – no more than 30 sq. meters. The downside is noticeable noise and steep cost.
- Window – built under a window or into a window, inexpensive, compact. The downside is noise and the need to order a special window.
- Split systems – ideal air conditioners for apartments, covering an area from 15 to 90 square meters. meters, low noise, not limited to one action, powerful. Features - require special installation, usually on the wall.
- Multi-split systems – the same as split systems, but with the ability to install several devices in different rooms with a single output module. Suitable for multi-room apartments and houses, architectural monuments, and have an affordable price.
- Duct and cassette air conditioners. Split systems can take the form of invisible ceiling systems, where the equipment is built directly into the ceiling.
They cope well with large areas up to 100 m2 and more, have advanced functions of ventilation, air purification, breeze and heating modes. But they require large energy resources and are expensive.
Floor-standing, non-mobile models deserve special attention. These modifications differ from mobile ones only in that they have an air duct. Which, however, can be easily brought outside even through just an open window.
The coverage area of such a device is 20-30 square meters. meters. Although they are sometimes also called mobile.
Analysis of manufacturers' models
If you don’t know which air conditioner company is best to choose for your apartment so that it helps create a comfortable microclimate, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the selection of the best equipment, taking into account specific operating conditions.
Below are the best manufacturers of each segment of climate control equipment.
Group #1 - the best window technology
The method of air conditioning in an apartment with a window monoblock is not the most popular for residents of the CIS, but indispensable for owners of small square meters and areas in architectural monuments.As you know, it is impossible to drill the facades of such houses.
In addition, the method is very inexpensive. It is all the more surprising that the Russian-London brand holds the unconditional leadership here General Climate. Reviews specifically about window chillers of this brand are invariably positive, although the brand supplies various climate control equipment.
Compact prototypes of General Climate are easily mounted on window sills, under windows, and in vents. Easy to dismantle and put away for the winter. The purpose of the models is to reduce high indoor temperatures to a given scale, down to a minimum of +15 degrees.
Best car characteristics:
- comfortable price;
- universal design;
- quick installation;
- auto-evaporation of condensate (on the radiator);
- availability of heated series;
- mobility.
The most rated models by customers: General Climate W-05CM And General Climate W-09HRN1. They differ in the absence/presence of a remote control, the possibility of heating, and dimensions.
The first sample is smaller and fits in a standard window. But it only works in cold weather. The second has a good heating, anti-humidity function, and less noise. However, if the size is larger, installation will require modifying the window and providing protection from natural phenomena.
The main disadvantage of window units is high noise level and increased energy consumption. In the more expensive General Climate prototypes, these disadvantages are reduced by an order of magnitude, but still the models of this brand remain cheaper than any others with the same characteristics.
A good working car can be purchased for 13 thousand rubles (as of summer 2018). The most expensive installation will cost 30 thousand.
Group #2 - optimal mobile versions
In production mobile climate systems Swedes and Italians are in the lead. Mobile development Electrolux And Zanussi recognized as the best examples of mobile temperature technology.
Compact floor-standing modifications are in no way inferior to stationary machines and outperform many models due to the ability to easily move them to where you need them most, at least several times a day.
Offers from Electrolux - rectangular, streamlined monoblocks no more than 70 cm in height and 50 cm in width. At the same time, the price is comparable to some window analogues.
Undeniable advantages:
- effective cooling and elimination of excessive humidity in the house;
- the ability to set the exact temperature down to a degree;
- comfortable chassis for movement;
- automatic on/off to achieve and maintain results;
- good energy savings;
- eye-catching design.
However, there are two disadvantages: high noise and the heating function is not always available. Heating must be selected according to the series.
But the company's managers explain the high noise level only by improper installation - an uneven base, touching other devices and objects. Or a defect, which must be shown to the service center specialists and removed.
Zanussi machines are slightly more expensive analogues, differing in that they cool the room a little longer than their Swedish counterpart - 30-40 minutes versus 20, 18-20 sq. meters.
However, users note their better mobility and real noise reduction in night mode. However, noise from such equipment should not be completely absent. Heating is also not always provided.
The most interesting offers here are: Electrolux EACM-11 CL N3 And Zanussi ZACM-12 MS N. Both operate electronically, do not require constant draining of condensate, are beautiful, and are easy to set up.
They are also ideal for use in apartments, cottages, kitchens, as well as in mini-greenhouses where certain humidity and temperature are required, and summer attics. Cost - 20-25 thousand rubles.
Group #3 - the best split systems for all rooms
Highly thought-out developments from Japanese manufacturers deservedly reign in this category. Mitsubishi-Electric, Mitsubishi-Heavy-Industries (these are two different brands), Toshiba And Daikin – if the air conditioner is from one of these companies, then it is always a successful choice.
Each model from Japan is capable of completely freeing the owner from worries about ensuring comfort in the home.
These manufacturers have many different series and lines - it’s easy to get confused in them.However, they are all equipped equally well, differing only in “tricks”-bonuses in the form of a more stylish design or additional functions. It is impossible to make a mistake here; only the price of the prototype will vary.
Household splits Mitsubishi-Electric should be chosen when in one bottle you need cooling, heating, ventilation, ionization, dehumidification, air purification and a price affordable for a working person. It is characterized by low noise level of 22 dB, while mobile prototypes produce 45 dB.
Mitsubishi-Heavy-Industries offers the best premium split systems. These samples are completely inverter-based and perform all climate control functions possible for air conditioners.
They provide full heating even at -15 degrees outside the window. Completely silent, completely draft-free. And they can report the weather forecast for a given time, atmospheric pressure, temperature, air humidity at home, outside.
Standard split systems from Daikin - a great option when you don’t have to choose between price, quality and reliability.
Cooling, heating, silent ventilation, remote control, self-diagnosis, self-cleaning, destruction of bacteria - all at the highest level. Models from this manufacturer are always distinguished by their subtle style and considerable longevity.
Toshiba – a good alternative to previous brands that produce products of no less high quality at budget prices.
If you need a good inverter without separate bells and whistles, only with high-quality air conditioning (cold, heating), ventilation, drying, you need to look split systems Toshiba. High energy saving, quiet, no drafts. All this makes Toshiba the most up-to-date brand.
Models that you should pay attention to when choosing the best version for your apartment:
- Mitsubishi-Electric - DM 25 VA (MSZ, MUZ);
- Mitsubishi-Heavy-Industries - SRK 25 ZMX-S;
- Daikin - ATYN 25 L;
- Toshiba - RAS 10 EKV-EAV EE.
Along with advanced Japanese manufacturers, good split systems are also offered by Taiwanese, Korean companies and Chinese developers.
Here the championship is held Samsung air conditioners (Korea), HiSense (China) and models Ballu (Taiwan). If you need simple but working systems at very affordable prices, you should look for them.
Group #4 - separate split systems for bedrooms
Climate control equipment does not come under a separate category “for bedrooms”. Split system models produced by companies are completely universal and equally suitable for any conditions.
However, some proposals are especially well suited to the special requirements that are needed for good and healthy sleep in a separate room.
The best air conditioners for installation in the bedroom are offered by Toshiba, HiSense, LG, Panasonic.
List of “quiet” split systems:
- HiSense AS Series Sm DC Inverter – reduced noise, silver ionization, control of differences. Maintains heating.
- Toshiba RAS 07 EKV EE – silent inverter, elegant design, high-quality temperature maintenance.
- LG P 07 SP – very quiet operation, only 19 dB, soft design, antibacterial air purification, smart self-diagnosis. There is heating.
- Panasonic CS/CU E 7 RKD (W), Delux line – rapid cooling, heating, noiselessness, dehumidification, great energy savings, smart air purification from household dust and allergens. Coverage area is a little more than 20 square meters. meters.
The listed analogs have a price range from 19 to 40 thousand rubles, in ascending order. However, there are 2 more systems that belong to the highest class “Premium”.
They are ideally installed in spacious luxury bedrooms of expensive apartments. It's about Mitsubishi-Heavy-Industries SRK/SRC 20 ZS S And Daikin FTXG 20L for a price of 65 and 100 thousand rubles, respectively.
The peculiarity of these modifications is that they are distinguished by a unique high-tech design in calm colors, an ultra-low background noise of 19 dB, and a noise reduction function of the external monoblock to take care of the neighbors’ ears.
A smart motion sensor will turn off the system when no one is there and turn it on quietly when someone enters, directing the air away from the person entering. Other advanced functions are, of course, also present. Even control over the Internet.
Group #5 - models for allergy sufferers
People with a sensitive respiratory system will benefit from developments that destroy foreign elements in the air using special filters, an optimal combination of humidity and temperature, as well as special technologies.
It must be said that almost all series of equipment in the middle and higher price ranges are equipped with similar functions.
However, the most proven among them are:
- Mitsubishi-Heavy-Industries SRK 25 ZM S – contains the option of purifying the air from the smallest animal hairs.
- Mitsubishi-Electric FH 25 VE series – owner of Plasma-Quad technology, which destroys up to 99% of foreign suspended elements in the air.
- Toshiba RAS 10 SKVP 2 E – produces real ozone, works with a plasma filter that stops pollen, bacteria, smoke, spores and other small elements.
- HiSense AS 10 HR 4 SYDTG 5 – a plasma system for allergy sufferers who cannot afford expensive options. Cleanses, ionizes with silver, destroys bacteria.
It is worth knowing that the latter analogue, however, has a drawback. This is increased noise compared to conventional split systems.
Group #6 - top multi-split systems
The Japanese brands Mitsubishi-Electric, Toshiba Mitsubishi-Heavy-Industries, and Daikin are still leading here. The best models of wall-mounted multi-split systems in this price range: Mitsubishi-Electric MSZ/MUZ FH 25 VE, Daikin FTXB 35 C, Daikin RXB 35C.
The models are characterized by high energy saving, quiet operation, and combine from 2 to 4 autonomous machines per 1 monoblock.
Among the budget proposals, the following are highly rated:
- Royal-Clima RC P 29 HN;
- Pioneer KFR 25 BW;
- Ballu BSW 07 HN;
- LG S 09 SWC;
- General-Climate GC-GU EAF 09 HRN 1.
These brands are optimal in terms of cost and quality ratio; they differ from expensive ones only in a slightly shorter service life, and not always, and in increased energy consumption.
In general, multi-split systems almost completely repeat their mono-analogs in the series in terms of content and design.
The only difference is that they include several equal air conditioners in different rooms, united into one network by a single air duct outlet. And, accordingly, they cost much more.
How to navigate prices?
In order to more easily navigate the vast market for climate control equipment, having a certain budget in hand, it will be useful to know the price limits adopted by different companies.
The most elite and high-quality models are produced by the Daikin concern. Perhaps that’s why there are no super cheap options among this brand’s analogues.
The concept of “inexpensive” for a company starts from 35-40 thousand rubles - this is how much basic split systems of proper quality will cost. The average price of functional equipment is 60-80 thousand rubles. Premium upper-class models cost from 100-130 thousand and above.
Concerns Electrolux, Toshiba, Hitachi, LG, Zanussi adhere to a more flexible policy. Among their products there are enough excellent offers, no more than 25 thousand rubles, and solid workhorses for 85 thousand and above.
Highly regarded by Aeronik customers of Australian origin. Its climate systems are not inferior in quality to the giants, but are completely affordable.
The best budget models belong to Korean, Chinese and Russian-partner brands: LG, Hyundai, Samsung, HiSense And General Climate. Shivaki, Royal-Clime, Pioneer also have a loyal pricing policy.
All these manufacturers offer good climate systems starting from 13 thousand rubles. There are also very expensive options available. But they are still inferior in quality to their famous brothers.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
A story about the world's best air conditioner manufacturers with many years of experience:
All Daikin Emura features, New Year review:
Expert recommendations on choosing climate control equipment for domestic use:
Choosing an air conditioner will not be a problem if you clearly define what exactly will be required of it and what the conditions of use will be. By comparing these factors with your available budget and expert advice, you will be able to find the model that will turn your apartment into the most comfortable place on earth.
Share with readers your experience of using a household air conditioner. Tell us what the choice of split was based on, and whether you are satisfied with the purchase. Please leave comments on the article, ask questions and participate in discussions. The contact form is located below.
I agree that General Climate is the best choice now. A good split system for little money, without overpaying for a well-known brand. Easy to install yourself, does not require special skills. Of course, it also has disadvantages - the main one being noise. It is not suitable for the bedroom; it will disturb you at night. But for such little money it is difficult to demand an ideal, the main thing is that it really helps to survive the summer heat.
You wait a few years, I think your opinion regarding General Climate air conditioners will change significantly. It also worked for me for the first season without any complaints, but then it went away. First, some kind of crackling noise began during operation, and one day the air conditioner simply did not start.
I called the person from the company that installed it - it turned out that the control board had failed. They removed the indoor unit and sent it to the service center. Okay, at least under warranty. By the end of the second season, the cheap plastic the system was made of had turned yellow. It makes noise and rattles during operation. Cheap "China" as it is. Now I'm thinking about taking something more serious.
I myself was once faced with the choice of a split system for a private house. I chose and based, of course, on low power consumption and a good manufacturer. Before purchasing the system, I also first calculated the required power based on my square meters. At the same time, I also looked at suitable options, since they come in different types: split systems, mobile systems, window systems. I chose the Toshiba split system; it turned out to be the highest quality available at the price.
Now I’m choosing which air conditioner to install in the apartment. At first I was interested in the idea of a mobile floor air conditioner, but after reading the reviews and watching the video I changed my mind, they were too noisy. I will take a classic split system. I haven’t decided on the manufacturer yet, but I want it to be a well-known brand. I understand that air conditioners have their own specifics and, perhaps, there are companies here that specialize only in them, but I will be calmer if the device is from LG, Electrolux or Toshiba. In general, from a well-known brand.I give preference to Japanese or South Korean technology.