Air-conditioners can be broadly classified into domestic, commercial
and industrial, based on their applications.
Widely used, domestic air-conditioners come in two types: window
type and the split type. The split type is divided into two units:
the compressor, which is the heart of the air-conditioner and also
the noisier part which works outside the room, and the evaporator
which works inside the room. The split type is more convenient because
the noise of the AC is kept well outside the room. Choosing an AC's
tonnage depends on where you instal it & the size of the room.
For an average sized living room or office cabin, you would need
a 1-ton or 1.5-ton AC. A 1-ton AC can cool approximately 180 sq.
ft. If installed in a restaurant of the same proportions, added
tonnage is required since the head count and the body heat are greater,
increasing the load on the AC. For an office set up, the best choice
is an Air Cooled Split Ductable which conveys cool air through ducts
into space. This is recycled with some fresh air. If soft water
and space for a cooling tower are available, go for water-cooled
self- contained units. For rooms with computers and in electronic
telephone exchanges, where control of temperature, humidity and
air cleanliness are important, close control units of 7.5 tons to
10 tons are recommended. If your AC is exposed to sunlight, insulate.
Reduce glass area in a room with an AC, since glass allows a lot
of heat inside. Always allow for free circulation of air behind
the condenser.
