Reverse Cycle Air Conditioner: What, How, Why?

Welcome to our blog on one of our favourite comfort devices; the reverse cycle air conditioner. These nifty ACs keep your space at just the right temperature throughout our scorching hot Summers and chilly Winters.

But what exactly is a reverse cycle air conditioner? How does this magical cooling and heating duo work, and why should you consider installing one? Keep reading to find out!

Jump to: 

What is it and how does it work?

How is it different to split systems?

Why should I get one?

What brands do we recommend?

What size should I get?

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What is a reverse cycle air conditioner and how does it work?

A reverse cycle air conditioner is a type of cooling and heating system for indoor spaces, all within one clever unit.

Unlike conventional heating and cooling systems that ‘generate’ energy, reverse cycle air conditioners draw in outside air, utilising refrigerant gas to cool or warm the air before pushing it back indoors. This method is significantly more cost and energy-efficient.

During the cooling mode:

1. The heat pump absorbs warm air from inside your space.
2. It then transfers this heat outside, using a refrigerant fluid circulating in the system.
3. As the refrigerant flows through the outdoor unit, it releases heat into the outside air.
4. The cooled refrigerant returns indoors to absorb more heat, repeating the cycle to keep your space cool.

During the heating mode (reverse cycle):

1. The heat pump extracts heat from the outdoor air.
2. This heat transfers indoors, warming your space.
3. The refrigerant, now carrying the absorbed heat, circulates indoors to release it into your home.
4. This cycle continues, efficiently providing warmth even in colder weather conditions.

How is a reverse cycle air con different from a split system?

Reverse cycle units offer a dual benefit by delivering both cooling and heating functions within a single system. They work by harnessing outside heat to warm your indoors during winter; when summer hits, they reverse the process to cool your space.

In contrast, not all split systems offer reverse cycle air conditioning capabilities. Some are designed solely for cooling purposes. Split system air conditioners have an indoor unit to release cool air and an outdoor unit to expel heat.

You can invest in a split system heating and cooling system, but the heat function is far less efficient and effective than a reverse cycle air conditioner.

Another important note: the reverse cycle feature in split systems and ducted systems works pretty much the same way. The key difference lies in how they distribute heating and cooling: ducted systems cover the entire home; split systems focus on one room or space at a time.

Benefits of a reverse cycle air conditioner

Stay Cosy in Winter

Instead of just creating heat like traditional heaters, reverse cycle air conditioners absorb warmth from outdoor air to keep you toasty indoors. This energy-efficient technique ensures a snug home during those long chilly winters.

Stay Cool in Summer

With a simple press of a button, your reverse cycle air con transforms into a world-class cooling machine, ensuring a refreshingly comfortable space, even on those extra-humid days.

Remarkably Efficient

Reverse cycle systems are leaders in efficiency, saving you energy and money in the long run. With ever-evolving technological advancements, these devices continually improve performance and cost-effectiveness, making them a wise investment for your comfort and wallet.

Highly Adaptable

Modern reverse cycle air conditioners are equipped with thermostats and advanced inverter technology, effortlessly adapting to room conditions. This dynamic operation promotes consistent comfort all year round and efficient energy usage.

Better than Portable Heaters

Reverse cycle air conditioners provide superior heating coverage compared to old-school gas or plug-in heaters. By installing this intuitive unit in your home or work place, you can say see ya later to chilly spots and corners and hello to a totally toasty space.

Air Purification

Some reverse cycle systems go beyond standard functions to purify indoor air. These units have integrated filters that trap airborne particles, creating cleaner and fresher air for you and your loved ones.

Peace and Quiet

Reverse cycle air conditioners maximise comfort by operating quietly. Enjoy optimal climate control without unnecessary background noise interfering with your peace and quiet. You won’t even notice it’s on!

Environmentally Friendly

With significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions than standard electric heaters, you’ll contribute to a healthier, greener world while keeping your home or office ultra-comfortable.

What brands do we recommend?

You might feel overwhelmed (or spoiled for choice, depending on your outlook) when it comes to choosing a brand of air conditioner. If you need an easy roadmap for which is the best choice to make for your air con unit, some of the nation’s most trusted and reliable brands include:

• Mitsubishi Electric
• Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
• Daikin
• Fujitsu

These four brands are just a few that we can assure you are some of the best and most reputable that you’ll find commercially in Australia – all of which can be counted on for reliability, energy efficiency, and quiet operation. These brands all come with a five-year warranty for total peace of mind regarding your new system.

What size should I get?

Opting for an air con unit that’s too large for a room might seem smart for quick cooling, but it could actually lead to more drawbacks than benefits. Oversized units tend to cool down a room too rapidly, causing moisture build-up. This results in an uncomfortable environment, as high humidity levels make the room feel muggy and stuffy despite the cool temperature.

Here are some key reasons why choosing the right size can be your make or break:

1. Capacity Matching
   A suitably sized unit ensures that it can effectively heat or cool your space without being under or overworked. An undersized unit will struggle to reach desired temperatures, increasing energy consumption and general wear on the system. An oversized unit may cycle on and off frequently, causing uneven temperatures, higher energy bills, and premature wear on components.
2. Room Size and Layout
   The size of the area you need to heat or cool, along with ceiling height, insulation, windows, and doors, all influence the unit’s size requirements. Larger rooms or open-plan spaces may require a higher capacity unit to maintain comfortable temperatures. A smaller unit may work better for smaller rooms or well-insulated spaces.
3. Energy Efficiency
   Choosing the right size ensures the unit operates smoothly, avoiding excessive energy consumption. With the rising cost of living, this could be your saving grace when it comes to bill time. An appropriately sized unit will reach and maintain desired temperatures easily, reducing energy waste and lowering utility bills.
4. Comfort and Performance
   A practically-sized air con unit provides consistent and reliable heating and cooling year-round. It will intuitively lower humidity during the cooling process and distribute warm air evenly during heating, enhancing overall comfort levels no matter the season.
5. Long-Term Cost Savings: How does improved energy efficiency, reduced maintenance needs, and extended system lifespan sound? Pretty good right! Investing in the right size unit from the beginning can lead to long-term cost savings. It eliminates the need for frequent repairs or premature replacement due to overworking or underperformance.

Check out the infographic below for specific size recommendations: