How a Multi-Split System Works
A multi-split system is climate control equipment where 2 to 5 indoor units are connected to a single outdoor unit. Each indoor unit is installed in a separate room and regulated independently of the others using its own remote control.
When cooling two rooms is required, the choice is usually between two independent split systems or one multi-split set. Both options have technical features that affect the final cost and ease of operation.
Advantages of a Single Outdoor Unit Solution
The main argument in favor of a multi-split system is preserving the aesthetic appearance of the building façade. In some buildings in Chișinău, there are restrictions on placing multiple outdoor units on the front side of the building.
- A single outdoor unit takes up less space on a service balcony or façade.
- The overall noise level outside the building is reduced compared to running two separate outdoor units.
- Only one electrical power connection point is required outside.
Financial Side: Cost Comparison
Total expenses consist of the equipment price and its installation cost. The installation of one indoor unit of a multi-split system at Arctica Service costs 1 000 lei.
For comparison, the cost of standard installation for a separate split system depends on the room area: up to 35 m² — 1 800 lei, 40–55 m² — 2 200 lei, 60–80 m² — 2 400 lei, 80–100 m² — 2 800 lei.
| System type | Room area | Installation cost |
|---|---|---|
| Two separate air conditioners | up to 35 m² + up to 35 m² | 3 600 lei |
| Two separate air conditioners | 40–55 m² + 40–55 m² | 4 400 lei |
| Multi-split for 2 rooms | any 2 rooms | 2 000 lei (indoor units) + pipework (line set) |
It is important to consider the communication pipework (line set). With a large distance between rooms, routing long freon pipework (line set) for a multi-split system increases the cost of work. In this case, installing two separate air conditioners turns out to be cheaper.
Disadvantages and Possible Risks of Multi-Split Systems
Before purchasing a multi-split system, it is necessary to take into account the technical limitations of this equipment format:
- If the outdoor unit breaks down, all indoor units in all rooms stop working.
- The complexity of laying communications is higher, as the pipework (line set) from all units must converge at a single point.
- Operating modes must be the same: you cannot simultaneously switch one unit to cooling and another to heating.
Installation Terms from Arctica Service
Arctica Service sells and installs air conditioners throughout Moldova. Equipment installation is completed in one working day.
For clients in Chișinău, a free survey and calculation of the pipework (line set) length are available. Payment for completed work takes place after the installation is finished. Installments via iute are also available.
A 2-year warranty is provided for all equipment and installation work. When undergoing annual maintenance and cleaning, the warranty period is extended to 5 years.
Selection Recommendations
The choice between the two systems depends on the architecture of the building and the distance between the rooms. If the rooms are located at opposite ends of the apartment or on different sides of the house, it is financially more profitable to install two independent air conditioners.
If façade work is restricted and the rooms are located next to each other, a multi-split system will be a technically justified solution.
In Brief
- Multi-split uses one outdoor unit to run 2–5 indoor units.
- If the outdoor unit breaks down, all indoor units temporarily stop working.
- Two separate air conditioners are cheaper when there is a large distance between rooms.
- Arctica Service warranty on installation and equipment is 2 years and extends to 5 years with annual cleaning.