An air conditioner with one outdoor unit and multiple indoor units is known as a multi-split or multi-zone system. It works by utilizing a single outdoor condenser unit that is connected to several indoor air handling units (AHUs), also known as evaporators or fan coils. Each indoor unit is placed in a different room or zone within the building, allowing for individual temperature control and zoning.
Here's how the system operates:
Cooling Process: The air conditioning process begins with the outdoor unit, which houses the compressor, condenser coil, and expansion valve. The outdoor unit is responsible for extracting heat from the indoor air and dissipating it outside.
Refrigerant Flow: Refrigerant, a special cooling fluid, circulates through a closed-loop system. The compressor in the outdoor unit pressurizes the refrigerant, turning it into a high-pressure, high-temperature gas. This hot gas then flows through refrigerant lines to the indoor units.
Indoor Units: Each indoor unit is installed in its respective room or zone. When the system is turned on, the indoor units receive the high-pressure, high-temperature refrigerant from the outdoor unit.
Cooling Indoor Air: As the hot refrigerant passes through the indoor units' evaporator coils, it absorbs heat from the indoor air, cooling it in the process. The cooled air is then distributed back into the room, providing a comfortable indoor climate.
Refrigerant Cycle: After absorbing heat from the indoor air, the refrigerant returns to the outdoor unit as a low-pressure, low-temperature gas. In the outdoor condenser coil, the refrigerant releases the heat it collected indoors and changes back into a high-pressure liquid.
Repeating the Process: The refrigerant continues to circulate between the outdoor unit and the indoor units, repeatedly absorbing heat from the indoor air and releasing it outside. This cycle continues until the desired indoor temperature is achieved.
Benefits of Multi-Split Systems:
Zoning: One of the significant advantages of multi-split systems is the ability to create different zones with individual temperature control. This allows users to cool specific areas based on their preferences and occupancy, providing energy savings and enhanced comfort.
Flexible Installation: The setup is ideal for buildings with limited space for outdoor units, as a single outdoor unit can connect to multiple indoor units.
Energy Efficiency: With individual temperature control and zoning, multi-split systems can be more energy-efficient than traditional central air conditioning systems, as they allow users to avoid cooling unoccupied areas.
Overall, multi-split air conditioning systems are a versatile and energy-efficient option for cooling multiple rooms or zones in residential and commercial buildings.