TOP 6 Air Conditioners for Heating to -20-30°C

Basic understanding of the heating function of an air conditioner

The principle of operation of a split system for heating is to lower (!) the temperature of the air taken from the street. Air will be taken in, for example, with a temperature value of -16, and returned back in an even colder state, reaching -25. The difference is used for heat transfer: the resulting warm air enters the room.

However, does the device have enough strength to fully implement such a task? It is important to know: if the temperature outside is significantly below zero, then the compressor simply does not have enough strength to heat the air - it will begin to wear out. And if the equipment works at maximum, this is already fraught with the risk of breakdown.

So, the first condition is the temperature outside the window. Using an air conditioner as a heater is appropriate for regions with mild climates. And for most of our country, such equipment should be used only in the off-season, in the autumn or spring.

Running an air conditioner for heating in winter can be dangerous and can cause the drainage hose to freeze. In this case, condensation will begin to flow into the building. Today, manufacturers are trying to solve the problem by installing a 20-watt heater in the equipment. The locking system also works well: the equipment turns off when the temperature drops sharply.

Setup recommendations

Before turning on the warm air on the air conditioner, you must carefully study the operating instructions. Every manufacturer tries to stand out in order to attract new customers. For this purpose, some features are often introduced into the rules for using air conditioners. Thus, it is difficult to say exactly how to set the air conditioner for heat, because there are a large number of models of different brands on the market. However, there are several general points that will help solve the problem.

First way

First you need to carefully study the remote control of the unit. If it has a Mode button, then there should be no problems. It allows you to turn on one or another operating mode of the device. It must be pressed until the word Heat or an icon with a sun appears on the display. Then you will need to set the desired temperature that the air conditioner will maintain.

To do this, press the “+” and “-“ keys. You should also remember that during such manipulations the remote control must be pointed towards the unit. The last step is to confirm the settings changes. Various keys can be used for this purpose, for example ON. It is worth remembering that the air conditioner may require several minutes to change its operating mode, most often about five.

We recommend that you read: Air conditioning with fresh air supply

Second method

Often there is no Mode key on the remote control. In such a situation, you don’t have to worry that you won’t be able to put the device into heating mode. You need to carefully examine the remote control again for icons like “sun”, “droplet”, “snowflake”, etc. The heating mode is activated by the button with the first icon. Further adjustment is to set the desired room temperature.

You should also remember that you can switch the operating mode of the unit without the remote control, i.e. directly on the air conditioner. It is possible that there is no Mode or “sun” mode on the remote control. In this case, the purchased device is simply not designed to operate in heating mode. Most likely, it was an inexpensive model that does an excellent job of maintaining a comfortable microclimate in winter. If you know for sure that the air conditioner is capable of heating, but the function cannot be activated, then you should contact a service center.

Advantages and disadvantages of a split system for heating

Whether or not to heat using an air conditioner is a matter for each user to decide for himself privately. But if the decision turns out to be positive, then you can be sure that the air will not dry out, as when using heating devices. There are other advantages:

• environmentally friendly use (no CO2 emissions);
• Three times more heat will be produced than electricity consumed.

But in addition to improving the microclimate, there are also pitfalls. You should definitely be aware of them if you use them regularly.

1. The device will wear out 3-5 times faster. This will happen due to thickened oil, which will lose its properties.
2. There is a trend towards replacing the refrigerant - R410, which is safer for the ozone layer, will be used. This requires the installation of more advanced compressors.
3. The performance of the device will become half the nominal.
4. Air conditioning for heating often breaks down in winter.

Advantages of inverter air conditioners

When heating a room, a classic air conditioner operates linearly. Its compressor starts, goes to normal mode, and when the temperature set in the climate control system is reached, the device turns off.

An inverter air conditioner works a little more complicated. Here, a system is used to control engine speed, and, consequently, compressor performance. Inverter devices use the so-called double conversion system. This means that there are two circuits operating in the electronic power circuit.

The first reduces the 220V AC voltage to a low DC value. At the same time, beats and changes in the power level with corresponding surges in the electrical network where the device is connected are radically reduced. The second circuit does the reverse conversion. Back to high voltage. The task of this circuit is to control the output frequency.

With this adjustment, the compressor motor is controlled. The lower the frequency, the lower the speed and performance. And vice versa. This double conversion scheme with the transition to the principle of motor frequency control provides a set of significant advantages:

• sharp surges in network voltage disappear almost to zero when the air conditioner is turned on, a smooth start occurs with the absence of significant starting currents;
• thanks to the smooth start, the service life of the compressor and mechanical parts of the device increases;
• achieving higher degrees of compression, therefore reducing the permissible ambient temperatures for efficient operation of the air conditioner.

Average inverter models in heating mode can operate in frosts down to -15 degrees. High-class air conditioners are effective when temperatures drop to -25...-30 Celsius. This is achieved not least thanks to the frequency control of the compressor. It can operate at low speeds, the oil in the system does not freeze, circulating constantly.

How do air conditioners work for heating in the cold season?

After you decide to buy an air conditioner , you probably start looking at different brands and models (and often this happens even before making a purchase decision). And the first thing you pay attention to is the technical specifications. These indicators present different numbers, for example: the recommended operating temperature range of the air conditioner. Exceeding it, the air conditioner goes out of the warranty zone. But this is far from the biggest minus, because then the following awaits you:

• The promised heating performance of the air conditioner ;
• The compressor wears out at an accelerated rate and eventually fails completely.

And this happens as a result of the fact that the oil dissolved in the refrigerant effectively lubricates rubbing and moving parts only at the temperatures stated by the manufacturer. In this article we will tell you about heating air conditioners , which are capable of heating a room down to -30°C outside the window, as well as about their analogues.

A regular inverter air conditioner can operate with a minimum external temperature reading of -15°C, but if you want something more, you need to select from options equipped with compressor and pan heating, air conditioners with large heat exchangers and automatic defrosting modes, air conditioners with an electronic refrigerant injection system and modern compressors.

Tips for selection and installation

A model that is considered as a candidate for the role of a heating system must be able to direct the air flow vertically downward. After all, it makes no sense to heat the ceiling. When warm air moves downward, the entire volume of the room is heated, and proper circulation flows are created.

For heating with an air conditioner, the air flow must be directed vertically downwards

There are recommendations for installing the indoor unit of an air conditioner used as a heater. This height is no more than 0.5 m from the floor. But here we need to find a reasonable compromise. Yes, for heating such an installation will be rational. But if the air conditioner is used in two modes, the flow of cold air through your legs will not please you at all.

If we consider models in the budget segment, they show performance in frosts of -5...-7 degrees. When you try to turn on such a device at -20, one of several basic situations may arise:

• the device will not start when the environmental sensor is triggered;
• the device starts, but its efficiency will be zero;
• The device will cool the air in heating mode.

Important! Running models designed for a certain temperature limit in severe frosts is highly not recommended. It's like playing roulette. It is possible that the oil in the system has thickened or partially frozen, after which the compressor will simply burn out.

Selecting an air conditioner by parameters

The list of technical characteristics of an air conditioner contains a couple of interesting parameters that can say a lot about the device in terms of heating efficiency and saving money.

The first is called the performance coefficient COP. It describes the relationship between the electrical power consumed and the thermal power supplied to the room. On average, the value of this parameter is 3.5-4.0. An air conditioner of this class with an hourly consumption of 1 kW of electricity will supply 3.5-4.0 kW of thermal power to the room. The best models have a COP value of 5.

Similar to the heating COP, the air conditioner has a parameter describing the cooling performance. This is ERR, the ratio of thermal energy removed from the room to electrical energy spent. However, you need to focus on the COP and ERR parameters with an eye to average air temperatures. The fact is that they are given for ideal conditions.

COP and EER indicators of Mitsubishi air conditioners

This means that COP and ERR are measured at 20 Celsius indoors and 7 Celsius outdoors. That is, when the room is heated to +30, the COP will fall. Likewise, ERR decreases in the summer heat. Practice shows that even the best Japanese air conditioners with a declared COP = 5 in frosts of -25 achieve only double or one and a half efficiency. That is, COP=1.5…2.0.

Outdoor temperature matters

In the passport of any air conditioner model, in the technical data section, there is one of the most important characteristics that determines the permissible outside air temperature parameters for cooling and heating modes, within which range the air conditioner will operate stably and efficiently. This refers to the temperature of the air in which the external unit of the split system is located, because it can also be installed in a basement, attic or on a glazed loggia, where the temperature will be different. All air conditioners can be divided into three main categories, each which will have their own parameters of the characteristics described above.

1. Constant performance air conditioners;
2. Inverter air conditioners;
3. Inverter air conditioners of “Arctic” design.

The thing is that when the temperature exceeds the permissible value, the efficiency of the air conditioner in heating mode decreases significantly and can reach an equivalent ratio, that is, consumption will be equal to productivity, and accordingly there will be no savings.

Constant performance air conditioners

Split systems equipped with a constant-capacity compressor will effectively heat the air at an outside temperature of only -5°C. Accordingly, the use of such air conditioners as a full-fledged heating module is not considered. They are perfect in autumn, spring, cool summer, when it is cold and not frosty outside.

Inverter air conditioners

Split systems with continuously variable power control have a wider range of outdoor air temperatures for heating mode, up to -15°C. Such systems will effectively heat the room even if it is frosty outside, and can become a full-fledged alternative to other heating systems not only in European countries. Thus, inverter split systems can be considered as economical heating almost all year round, even in St. Petersburg, making an exception on those days when the temperature drops below the permissible value. You can read more about all the benefits of inverter air conditioners here.

Inverter air conditioners for heating “Arctic version”

One of the first to apply new technologies and produce an air conditioner with an effective heating function, even in frosty conditions of -25°C, was the Mitsubishi Electric company, releasing the “Zubadan” series model to the market. Translated from Japanese as “super heating”. Now almost all manufacturers produce similar models aimed at the harsh Scandinavian climate. You can view prices, compare and select an air source heat pump model in the category - air conditioners for heating in winter

For example, one of the Japanese tested and provided data that models of Arctic air conditioners of the “Nordic” series in heating mode at a temperature of -25°C have an energy efficiency coefficient = 2.14. It follows from this that even on a cold frosty day, when the snow cracks underfoot, the air conditioner is more than 2 times more efficient than any electric heater. The Arctic design of the outdoor unit of a split system with an inverter implies a number of additional improvements and differences, which include:

1. The size of the heat exchanger of the external unit has been increased;
2. A special heating cable is installed in the pan of the outdoor unit housing;
3. Compressor crankcase heating;
4. The compressor has a felt insulating casing.

The feasibility of heating with an inverter air conditioner

From the previous section it is relatively clear why, with the efficiency stated in the passport, an air conditioner saves only 15-20% of electricity compared to classic heaters. The point is both in the drop in parameters and in the increase in the duration of thawing and defrosting cycles in a strong minus overboard. In addition, the oil pan and compressor unit need to be heated.

Therefore, the answer to the question of whether or not to buy an inverter air conditioner as a heater depends on many factors. You should definitely not purchase a household model that is forced to operate at the edge of its permissible temperature range. It is worth considering the pros and cons of an inverter in regions with low electricity prices.

Affordable Inverter Air Conditioner with Heating Mode Mitsubishi Heavy Industries SRK20ZSPR-S / SRC20ZSPR-S

But if the average annual low temperatures last for a long time, it is wise to pay attention to expensive air conditioners. These are devices with COP of 4 and higher. In this case, it is highly desirable that the average annual frost be in the middle or closer to the upper limit of their permissible operating temperature limit.

Heating with air conditioning - myth or reality?

We understand that it is a little strange and unusual to think about warming up a room with air conditioning, and even this phrase hurts the ear and mind. But if you analyze reality and discard all stereotypes, it becomes clear that heating with air conditioning is many times more profitable than using the methods we are used to. Judge for yourself:

• It's cheaper. The air conditioner produces 4 times more heat with the same energy consumption, compared with an electric boiler;
• This will keep your family safe. Unlike electric heaters, the split system is placed in a place inaccessible to children and pets, which minimizes the possibility of damage;
• It's comfortable. You can benefit from winter/summer air conditioning throughout the year;
• It's much faster. Air conditioners warm up a room up to 25 square meters. m in 5 minutes! And at the same time they do not dry out the air.

Of course, many do not understand how it works and are generally afraid of everything new; after all, we are talking about heating, and this is the safety of the entire house and those who live in it. But by spending a little time studying this issue in more detail, you will gain new knowledge that entails all of the above benefits. They will benefit you for many years to come. But decide for yourself which air conditioner to buy , based on your personal needs and capabilities. We hope our TOP 6 + selection of analogues will make your choice easier and help you make the right decision.

TOP 6 series of air conditioners for heating from the company “Holod Service”

1. Cooper&Hunter Vip Inverter Series (up to -30°C)

air conditioner provides heating down to -30°C. The sound threshold does not exceed 18 dB, so they can be installed in bedrooms and children's rooms. Despite its small dimensions - only 960x320x205 mm, it is capable of covering an area of ​​up to 50 square meters. m.

• Works for heating up to -30°C and cold up to +54°C.
• Aluminum front panel of the indoor unit, champagne color.
• Wi-Fi function, remote control and management.
• Resized “huge” heat exchanger of the outdoor unit, increasing productivity due to the large amount of air passed through the enlarged condenser.
• The presence of an electric valve, an electronic refrigerant injection system, increases productivity due to more accurate gas supply to the system.
• The most unique compressor. Two-stage inverter compressor with intercooler, 20% higher performance than competitors.
• Intelligent defrost. The air conditioner automatically defrosts only when necessary when the efficiency decreases; the system automatically determines the moment of defrosting without user intervention and does it extremely quickly.

Price: from 27,550 UAH to 31,610 UAH.

An excellent analogue of this model range can be air conditioners for heating Cooper&Hunter Supreme R32 Series.

Price from 31 060

UAH up to
41,380
UAH.

2. Cooper&Hunter Series ICY Inverter NG R32 (up to -30°C)

Air conditioning Cooper&Hunter Series ICY Inverter NG R32 operates for heating down to -30°C. Includes functions of ionization and stabilization of air humidity. These units are equipped with the latest, two-stage inverter compressors, are resistant to temperature fluctuations and operate stably at ultra-low frequencies.

• Works for heating up to -30°C and cold up to +54°C.
• Wi-Fi function, remote control and management.
• Resized “huge” heat exchanger of the outdoor unit, increasing productivity due to the large amount of air passed through the enlarged condenser.
• The presence of an electric valve, an electronic refrigerant injection system, increases productivity due to more accurate gas supply to the system.
• The most unique compressor. Two-stage inverter compressor with intercooler, 20% higher performance than competitors.
• Intelligent defrost. The air conditioner automatically defrosts only when necessary when the efficiency decreases; the system automatically determines the moment of defrosting without user intervention and does it extremely quickly.

Price: from 26,360 UAH to 41,270 UAH .

If you are looking for an inverter air conditioner similar to this series, then turn your attention to Tosot ELION Winter Inverter.

Price: from 22,300 UAH to 35,930 UAH.

3. Tosot Series LYRA Winter Inverter R32 (up to -25°C)

Tosot LYRA Winter Inverter R32 operates for heating down to -25°C. The unique design line is distinguished by grace and smooth outlines. It is famous for its high energy efficiency thanks to environmental freon R32. This winter/summer air conditioner supports control via Wi-Fi/remote control and air flow control.

• Heating operation down to -25°C.
• Informative LED display.
• Turbo mode.
• “Comfortable sleep” and “I Feel” functions.
• Air preparation.
• Self-diagnosis.
• Self-cleaning of the heat exchanger.

Price: from 17,430 UAH to 31,320 UAH.

Cooper&Hunter DAYTONA (R32) and Cooper&Hunter DAYTONA GOLD (R32) have proven themselves to be high-quality analogues of this line.

Price: from 17,440 UAH to 31,360 UAH.

4. Cooper&Hunter Arctic Inverter NG Series

Cooper&Hunter The Arctic Inverter NG series is another development from C&H, which is distinguished by improved functionality and a stunning, trendy design. C&H inverter air conditioners

• Works for heating up to -25°C and cold up to +54°C.
• Wi-Fi function, remote control and management.
• Resized “huge” heat exchanger of the outdoor unit, increasing productivity due to the large amount of air passed through the enlarged condenser.
• The presence of an electric valve, an electronic refrigerant injection system, increases productivity due to more accurate gas supply to the system.
• Intelligent defrost. The air conditioner automatically defrosts only when necessary when the efficiency decreases; the system automatically determines the moment of defrosting without user intervention and does it extremely quickly.

Price: from 18,390 UAH to 33,210 UAH.

Did you like this conditioner , but for some reason it doesn’t suit you? Then perhaps the analog Tosot Hansol Winter Inverter will be exactly what you are looking for.

Price: from 16,970 UAH to 30,500 UAH.

5. Cooper&Hunter Nordic Evo NG Series (R32)

Cooper&Hunter Nordic Evo NG (R32) is a practical combination of efficiency and stylish design. Also, the samples presented above are famous for their reliability and safety. When cooling a room, the air is supplied horizontally, thanks to which, falling from the ceiling to the floor, the flow evenly cools the action area and you will not feel an unpleasant draft. But when operating for heating, heat is emitted vertically downward to maintain a cozy atmosphere at foot level.

• Works for heating up to -25°C and cold up to +54°C.
• Wi-Fi function, remote control and management.
• Resized “huge” heat exchanger of the outdoor unit, increasing productivity due to the large amount of air passed through the enlarged condenser.
• G10 warm start technology. This air conditioner is not afraid of any frost; easy start-up is ensured in any frost.
• Intelligent defrost. The air conditioner automatically defrosts only when necessary when the efficiency decreases; the system automatically determines the moment of defrosting without user intervention and does it extremely quickly.

Price: from 17,170 UAH to 31,550 UAH.

6. Tosot North Inverter PRO Series (up to -20°C)

air conditioners are effective in operation in areas up to 50 m2. The user will choose one of many operating modes. Forget about any vibrations of the compressor, because the new generation G10 engine is installed. A self-cleaning system that prevents the appearance of fungus or mold and the use of R410A environmentally friendly freon.

• Work for heating up to -20 and cold up to +48.
• Resized “huge” heat exchanger of the outdoor unit, increasing productivity due to the large amount of air passed through the enlarged condenser.
• G10 technology allows you to maintain the compressor in a state of readiness in any frost, the so-called “WARM START”. The air conditioner can start without problems in any frost without the risk of damaging the air conditioner.

Price: from 14,090 UAH to 27,670 UAH.

Conclusion

The modern market is huge and the range of heating air conditioners is impressive. But in such abundance it is not difficult to get confused. Today you learned about the TOP 6 model ranges which, in our opinion, are the best in their segment. The manufacturers listed above are reliable and have been tested for decades. And what is important, the Kholod Service company is the official dealer of all of the above TMs in Ukraine, which means that we can provide service for all our air conditioners. High-quality, professional installation of air conditioners, timely maintenance and inexpensive repairs - all these are the benefits of cooperation with a highly qualified team. Choose only the best!

Tips for use

It is important to know the following nuances: for the first few minutes, the device should work as an air conditioner, not a heater. This is necessary to warm up the outdoor unit and thaw any ice that may have formed in the drainage. The next time this moment will be adjusted by the ventilation speed. Also, many models have a special DeIce function, which will prevent you from confusing the correct switching mode.

Here are some more tips that will help improve the performance of your equipment.

1. Heating the drainage will allow the water not to freeze and remove condensation.
2. When the compressor is stopped, you can turn on the heater, which will heat the oil and prevent it from thickening. In this case, the refrigerant will not be able to leak into the crankcase.
3. If the outdoor unit has a fan controller, it will adjust the current temperature and prevent freezing of the indoor unit.