For more than a century, the basic configuration of the complete set of refrigerators has not changed. They consist of a compressor and a refrigerator with a refrigerant supply system through special tubes, regardless of models. But manufacturers are constantly engaged in improving refrigerators. Trying to make them less noisy, add economy in the consumption of electricity during operation. One of these is the inverter compressor in the refrigerator, which has its pros and cons. Therefore, to understand what it is good for, it’s worth understanding what IR is and how it works.
The principle of operation of the device
The principle of operation of the inverter refrigerator is easy to show even on an advertising poster
Linear compressors are launched at their maximum capacity and independently shut off when the temperature in the refrigerator reaches the set value. The relay controls the work processes associated with starting and stopping. For this element, it is characteristic to create an accompanying sound, similar to a click, at the moment of operation. These sounds and engine noise during operation are clearly audible to other people.
Important! Such compressors are used in the manufacture of computer and medical equipment, in the automotive industry and in the production of measuring instruments.
Permanent starting the engine at full power, alternating with stops, leads to overheating of the compressor. And over time, the refrigerator fails. In addition, each such inclusion of the engine increases the load in the mains. This is not economical due to excessive energy costs. The output optimizing the efficiency and duration of the operation of cooling devices was the invention of an alternative to old devices. Inverter models became such an innovation.
Principle of operation:
- the compressor is turned on;
- while working, he cools the inner chamber;
- the action of the inverter is aimed at maintaining the specified temperature in the chamber;
- with such a system, the compressor, while slowing down, does not turn off completely.
The device operates smoothly in a measured mode. You can draw a parallel, which will show the difference in operation of the linear and inverter compressors. If you compare with the operation of the motor, the inverter is a car that travels along a perfectly flat track. And the compressor of the linear type is movement along a dirt uneven road with steep ascents and descents.
Advanced models use brushless three-phase motors. They are also used in the production of modern measuring and medical equipment, and other latest engineering developments.
Inverter refrigerator benefits
Refrigerator with inverter compressor produces a minimum of noise
Like all devices, inverter refrigerators have both advantages and disadvantages. But despite all the disadvantages, they are increasingly gaining popularity among buyers.
The main advantages that the device has:
- Reduced energy consumption. Manufacturers claim that consumption can be reduced by up to 40% when compared to linear compressors.
- Increase the life of the device. Due to its lower power, its individual parts are subject to reduced mechanical stress. Therefore, they do not wear out so quickly during work. In confirmation of this, manufacturers guarantee each of their devices up to 10 years of uninterrupted operation.
- Silent workflow. This effect was achieved by low inverter speeds.
- Improved storage conditions for food. The inverter compressor ensures no temperature differences due to the constant smooth operation. This contributes to the long-term storage of food.
Features and disadvantages
Uninterrupted power will protect the device from frequent breakdowns
There are some features that do not allow people to massively purchase inverter-type household appliances. One such is the high price. The difference in cost with devices equipped with linear compressors is approximately 30%. Continuously operating inverter compressors, unlike non-inverter ones, have a greater number of electronic components. They are called to be responsible for the conversion of variable frequencies, voltages. Such additional equipment and affects the price of this type of refrigerator.
Important! The inverter type of compressor has five different levels of intensity. They help the refrigerator to adapt to environmental fluctuations and mechanical influences of different strengths.
It is also important to know that, when purchasing inverter refrigerators, it is necessary to ensure uninterrupted operation. Due to the increased vulnerability of the device to interruptions in the supply of current, it may fail or allow an excessive consumption of electricity. Therefore, it is worth worrying in advance about the serviceability of the wiring in the house, maintaining the voltage in the network at the right level. You will definitely need to buy a UPS or a voltage stabilizer.
Inverter refrigerators have less accuracy in temperature control
It should also be noted that inverter refrigerators have less accuracy in temperature control. This is due to the fact that the device operates continuously, which is why a permanent failure of the settings occurs.
If the issue of overstated short-term financial costs is unprincipled and there is an understanding of future savings, then you need to buy advanced refrigeration units.
Popular models with inverter compressor
Inverter refrigerator Samsung
To appreciate the quality, operational efficiency and other functional capabilities, manufacturers are subjecting this type of refrigeration unit to lengthy research. A competent assessment of all these parameters will allow the devices to be durable, safe and, importantly, to obtain a high level of ergonomics.
Therefore, only companies with sufficient conditions for testing devices can arrange the production of such models of refrigerators. Today there is the following gradation of the brands that produce them.
Popular models of refrigerators with inverter compressor:
- Samsung
- LG
- Hitachi;
- Mitsubishi
- Sharp
- Kaiser;
Hitachi Inverter Refrigerator
All other manufacturers that manufacture refrigeration units with this type of compressor present their own models for sale in a total amount of only 3% of the total sales market. Of course, this does not mean the low quality of products of such brands. But they can offer a lower guarantee than manufacturers who have established not only a larger release, but also a high level of testing their electrical appliances.
Inverter equipment can be equipped with several compressors if it has two separate cooling chambers with different temperature indicators. This design makes it easier to distribute the cold between the opening and mostly closed part of the refrigerator.
Invertor refrigeration equipment is slowly, but quite confidently gaining popularity among customers. All this happens due to the high technical characteristics of the devices. The latest models of refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines and other “human helpers” with similar equipment are appearing.
