Ducted reverse cycle air conditioners are popular systems for whole-house cooling. Unlike split systems, ducted ACs can supply air throughout the home without requiring indoor air handlers. The reverse refrigeration cycle also allows you to use the unit for heating during the cold season. Therefore, if you don't have a heating system in your home, a reverse-cycle AC is an ideal choice. As you plan to install this system, check out these tips to boost its efficiency and performance.
Plan your zones correctly
Zoning is a must-have feature for modern heating and cooling systems. It allows you to customise temperature control for rooms with unique heating and cooling needs. However, for the zones to be effective, they should be designed correctly. Below are the key questions to address when planning your indoor zones.
- How do you intend to use individual rooms in the home?
- Are there rooms that receive natural heating or cooling?
- Do the rooms have heat-emitting appliances?
- Do the rooms have features that will affect their load?
Rooms with a higher or lower load than others should have their own zones. For example, spaces with large glass doors and windows should be zoned separately to avoid cooling imbalances in adjacent rooms. However, you can have multiple rooms in one zone, especially if they feature an open plan design. For example, you can classify an open living area that includes the kitchen and dining space as one zone.
Invest in a variable-speed unit
Modern air conditioning systems have either dual-speed or variable-speed compressors. Dual-speed compressors have two speeds to vary airflow, while variable-speed compressors have multiple speed settings. While dual-speed units are efficient, they aren't the best option for whole-house cooling. Since different rooms have varying airflow needs, a dual-speed unit with only two settings may not meet your heating and cooling needs.
Opt for a variable-speed air conditioning system for your home. The compressor can operate anywhere between the highest and lowest settings. When used with a zoned system, this unit can significantly increase energy efficiency and boost indoor comfort. When some zones are turned off, the compressor lowers the motor speed, which regulates air pressure and moderates the airflow to the rest of the home.
Install ductwork correctly
Proper ductwork installation optimises airflow, eliminates air pressure issues, and prevents hot and cold spots in the home. Therefore, to optimise your unit's performance, design and install the ductwork correctly. Ensure there are no kinks in the ducts that may impede airflow to some rooms in the house. Also, run the ductwork in insulated spaces to avoid heat exchange, which can affect the unit's overall performance.
The performance of your ducted reverse cycle air conditioning system depends on proper system design and installation. Contact an HVAC contractor for professional installation services.
