Choose Reverse Cycle over Evaporative this Summer!

Here’s looking to summer and the great Evaporative Air Conditioning VS Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning debate! Customers frequently want to know the main differences between the two systems, and why Reverse Cycle is our recommended choice. So, here are our thoughts!

The Main Difference

The Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning process uses a compressor outside and a fan coil inside where cooling or heating refrigerant passes through depending on the setting. Air taken from the inside of the house is then passed across the heating/cooling fans and back into the home. Therefore, Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning works by keeping conditioned air in. The advantage of that is the air stays clean inside the home without outside pollutants and temperature can be controlled down to the degree.

On the other hand, Evaporative Cooling takes air from outside, increases the humidity by passing it through water coated filters, cools it down, and delivers the outside air back into the home. For the unit to be effective, doors and windows must be open as the unit works by pushing hot air out. This is controlled by an on/off controller with adjustable fan speed.

Choosing between Reverse Cycle and Evaporative Air Conditioning

Making the choice between Evaporative and Reverse Cycle really does come down to your specific individual requirements. It’s worth thinking of the following when deciding which system to choose.

– Area Size

Evaporative Cooling attempting to cool large areas may not be as effective nor as efficient as Reverse Cycle.

– The Climate

Melbourne’s climate does influence what system to choose. The past summer saw increasing humidity of up to 60% – this can affect the efficiency and running costs of Evaporative Cooling. While also causing discomfort to homeowners creating a “wet t-shirt” feel.

– Allergy or Asthma Sufferers

As Evaporative Cooling works by cooling outside air and bringing it in, allergy or asthma sufferers and others with lung or breathing difficulties are advised against this system. Reverse Cycle on the other hand cycles inside air ensuring outside pollution stays outside.

– Closed House vs. Open House

Evaporative systems work by pushing hot air out, this requires at least one window open in every room and internal doors to be open for air flow. This is to reduce the moisture build up in the house, often seen on walls if bedrooms have been closed. If you’re a fan of sleeping with the AC on but not comfortable leaving your windows open all night – then Reverse Cycle is the way to go. By keeping cooled air in its best run with external doors and windows closed.

– Budget

An Evaporative system can be installed for less than a Reverse Cycle system, however you will see an increase in your water bill as Evaporative systems are required to run through a “dump cycle” every few hours, refilling with fresh water.

– Effectiveness

In Victoria, Reverse Cycle systems are very popular. This is due to their ability to be extremely efficient and with the ability to zone all rooms independently, ensuring air flow or temperature control to each zone, you can save huge amounts on your running costs.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Evaporative and Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning

So, let’s look at an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of Evaporative and Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning.

Pros of Evaporative	Cons of Evaporative
+ Cheaper to install. + Reasonable running costs. + Easy to maintain.	– Doesn’t perform at its best in humidity or rain. – Limited temperature control (on/off and fan speed only). – Loud (particularly as fan speed increases or during “dump” cycle). – Possible water leakage risk. – Increased water bills from “dump” cycle. – Doors and windows must remain open during operation to avoid moisture build up in the house. – Cooling only. – Not allergy friendly.
Pros of Reverse Cycle	Cons of Reverse Cycle
+ Easy to maintain. + Reasonable running costs (particularly if zoning is installed). + Works in all weather conditions, including humid climates. + Heating and cooling solution. + No moisture builds up or humidity. + Great for allergy sufferers. + Effective air filtration systems. + Provides more comfort and features than evaporative units including zoning, fan speed, timers, Wi-Fi, temperature control and home automation. + Many options of vent styles. + Options of a ducted system, split systems or multi-head. + Daikin or Mitsubishi Electric.	– Higher initial installation cost.

Get a No Obligation, Free Onsite Inspection to find out more:

We understand that this is a lot of information to take in, so why not chat to us about your specific needs? Rapid Cold Air conditioning are the experts you’re looking for! We have a wide range of air conditioning systems and brands to ensure you have a solution.

We will only recommend the best air conditioning unit or solution that best suits you and your preferences.