In
the case of reversible air conditioners, we don’t usually talk of
heat pumps because their main function is air conditioning in
summer.
Nevertheless, choosing during selection a reversible model
(practically with no extra cost) is a sensible choice.
However,
the electric power on our electric meter must be sufficient to allow
this (or plan for electric load-shedding at peak times).
We
must particularly choose a model equipped with an anti-freeze system
allowing operation in outside temperatures of less than 7 [°C] (44.6
°F).
In fact when approaching 0 [°C] (32 °F) water vapour
contained in the outside air cooled by the HP condenses and freezes
on the evaporator.
To eliminate this ice a short reversal of the
refrigerating cycle is triggered. The heat required for de-freezing
is therefore taken, momentarily, from the inside of the heated
building.
We can identify (see E-book « Air conditioners – Part 1 »):
“Window” reversible air conditioners- – – – – – – – – – Monosplit reversible air conditioner
Multisplit reversible air conditioners