If you’ve ever read articles from abroad about air conditioning, you’ve probably come across terms such as „Central AC“ (central air conditioning with ducts) or the widely recommended window air conditioners. The truth, however, is that the architecture, climate and energy efficiency standards in Bulgaria are fundamentally different from those in the US.
We at Crystal We know that Bulgarian consumers are looking for something very specific: an appliance that cools effectively during the summer heat (above 35°C) and serves as a reliable primary source of heating in winter (down to -15°C and even -20°C), all whilst keeping electricity bills to a minimum.
That is why we have put together this guide, which will walk you through the most practical and effective air-conditioning solutions available on the domestic market. Here are the main types of systems and how to choose the right one for your needs.
1. High-wall inverter split systems – A classic choice for every home
This is the gold standard here. A „split“ system (from the English word ‘split’) consists of an outdoor unit with a compressor and an indoor unit, which is mounted high up on the wall.
- Why are they so popular? They offer the best balance between price, efficiency and ease of installation. Thanks to state-of-the-art inverter technology, the compressor does not switch on and off constantly, but instead smoothly adjusts its output. This results in huge energy savings.
- Who are they suitable for: They are ideal for individual rooms – bedrooms, living rooms, children’s rooms and small offices.
Take a look at our offers for wall-mounted inverter air conditioners.
2. Floor-mounted (cantilever) air conditioners – The kings of heating
Floor-mounted air conditioners They are fitted low down, just above the floor, and look rather like a standard radiator.
- Why do we recommend them? The physics is simple: warm air always rises. Console air conditioners blow warm air low to the floor, ensuring the room is heated extremely quickly and evenly. No more cold feet in winter!
- Who are they suitable for: The perfect choice for households that rely on air conditioning as their main and only source of heating. They are also an excellent solution for lofts and rooms with sloping ceilings, where there is no space for wall-mounted installation.
3. Multi-split systems – Elegance and efficiency for the whole home
What happens if you want to air-condition three or four rooms, but the rules of the block of flats or the building’s aesthetics prevent you from „decorating“ the façade with four separate outdoor units?
The answer is a multi-split system:
- How does it work? A single powerful outdoor unit powers several indoor units. The best thing is that the indoor units can be of different types – for example, a wall-mounted air conditioner in the bedroom and a floor-mounted one in the living room. Each room is controlled by its own remote control.
- Who are they suitable for: For newly built houses, multi-room flats and modern blocks of flats with pre-installed service routes.
Build your own configuration with reliable multi-split solutions.
4. Portable air conditioners and window-mounted models – A solution or a compromise?
We often receive enquiries about so-called portable air conditioners, as they do not require specialist installation. However, it is important to be honest with you: these appliances are more of a temporary solution than a long-term investment.
They are considerably noisier (as the compressor is inside the room), are less energy-efficient and require a thick air duct to be routed through a slightly open window (which allows some of the hot air to escape back inside). We at bgr.bg recommend portable air conditioners only for rented accommodation or holiday homes where permanent installation is absolutely impossible.
Window air-conditioners, although widely used in the US, are virtually non-existent on the Bulgarian market due to the design of our window frames (PVC/aluminium) and their poor insulation in winter.
A quick tip from bgr.bg: What else should you bear in mind?
Before making a final decision, our experts advise you to check three key factors:
- Capacity (BTU): Don’t buy an air conditioner „on a whim“. For a 15 sq m room, 9,000 BTU is usually sufficient, whilst a 35 sq m living room will require 18,000 BTU or 24,000 BTU. (Contact us for an accurate calculation based on your insulation and aspect!)
- Energy efficiency class and SCOP/SEER: Look for appliances with a high energy efficiency rating (at least A++ or A+++). Although the model may be more expensive initially, it pays for itself many times over through lower electricity bills.
- Wi-Fi control: Almost all the modern air conditioners we offer come with a smart control option. Being able to switch on the air conditioner via your mobile phone an hour before you get home is an invaluable convenience.
Do you need some advice?
The choice of air-conditioning system is a long-term investment in your comfort and health.
If you’re still unsure whether a wall-mounted, floor-standing or multi-split air conditioner is the right choice for your home, we’re here to help.
Get in touch with our engineers and consultants today to free advice and a personalised quote!
Or order your chosen air conditioner from online shop for of „BGR Group“ Ltd.