The Earthcare range of hydrocarbon split systems

We sought to investigate improvements to the energy efficiency of small split air conditioning systems. The exercise formed part of a wider ranging project - part funded by the UK Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions under the "Partners in Technology” scheme - to look at energy saving opportunities at the time of refrigerant replacement. The result was an impressive efficiency gain of 20% and we were able to incorporate the achievements into our award-winning range of Very Environmentally Friendly (VEF) split systems, launched at the Nuremberg I. K. K. Exhibition in 1998.

The indoor unit (evaporator) was optimised using larger heat exchangers and floating head pressure control was used. The systems used fully flooded evaporators. This increases the cooling capacity and efficiency. We also maximised the advantage that could be gained by matching sensible heat ratio to climate, achieving sensible heat ratios of up to 0.93. We have now been selling Very Environmentally Friendly split systems for over ten years.

It is Earthcare’s belief that value can be drawn from reducing the environmental impact of its cooling products. Earthcare Split Systems achieve minimum environmental impact by offering the “dream-ticket” combination of natural refrigerants and optimal energy efficiency. The ESS range has been re-engineered in the UK for use with hydrocarbon refrigerants and including energy efficiency improvements recommended by EA Technology.

What is a ‘split system’?

An air conditioning split system consists of an indoor and an outdoor unit. The system can deliver either cold or hot air at a set temperature. For maximum comfort and convenience, infrared wireless remote control for temperature and fan speed control is included. Split systems are best suited to small-scale applications where the minimum of disruption is required to an existing building.

For cooling purposes, Earthcare’s split systems will maintain a constant temperature of 22°C (+/- 2°C) assuming a maximum ambient temperature in the summer of 29°C.

Earthcare’s split systems are also available with a reverse cycle heating capability, which is a more efficient method of heating than direct electric resistance heating. Our heat pumps are designed to maintain an internal temperature of 20°C (+/- 2°C) when external ambient temperatures drop to –2°C. The heating output at average winter conditions, gives a coefficient of performance (COP) of about 3.6. This represents an energy and carbon dioxide reduction of over 70% compared with an average electric heater.

By using a low energy refrigerant with a low environmental impact, minimising leakage and optimising the refrigeration cycle within the split system, Earthcare’s VEF split systems offer market-leading lifetime value at the lowest possible cost to the environment.

For further information on any of the products offered by Earthcare, please get in touch.