Which refrigerator is better – one-compressor or two-compressor?

A refrigerator is one of the household items that is not purchased every day, so its choice must be taken with full responsibility. Currently, there are units with a different number of chambers, compressors, different colors and designs. Consider one-compressor and two-compressor types, find out the differences and advantages of the models.

A refrigerator is one of the household items that is not purchased every day, so its choice must be taken with full responsibility.

Features of refrigerators with different numbers of compressors

A compressor is an element of the refrigerator that is responsible for compressing, pumping, redirecting the refrigerant, thanks to which the required temperature is maintained in the refrigerator..

Compressor type refrigerators are the most common. Most refrigeration units house one compressor, which is simultaneously responsible for the operation of the freezer and refrigerator. Less common are two-compressor refrigerators. In this case, each compressor is responsible for a separate chamber..

Compressor type refrigerators are the most common.

What is the difference between refrigerators with different numbers of compressors

Before you understand: which refrigerator is better than one-compressor or two-compressor, you should figure out how they differ.

The number of compressors in the refrigerator. It mainly depends on the number of chambers, however, in two-chamber refrigerators, both one and two compressors are installed.

Refrigerant type. In modern refrigerators, a refrigerant is used: butane, propane, ether, isobutane (R600a). The most ecological is isobutane, it is harmless and does not destroy the ozone layer of the planet..

In modern refrigerators, a refrigerant is used: butane, propane, ether substances, isobutane (R600a)

Temperature regimes for freezing / cooling. In refrigerators with two compressors, independent temperature control in any of the chambers is possible. In single-compressor models, the setting of the temperature in the chambers is dependent on each other..

In refrigerators with two compressors, independent temperature control in any of the chambers is possible.

Defrosting system. Such systems include: drip, NoFrost, manual defrost. With a drip system, defrosting occurs due to the evaporator located on the rear wall, a drain is located at the bottom of the evaporator. Manual defrosting is carried out by turning off the freezer and subsequent cleaning from water and dirt. The NoFrost system is equipped with an evaporator and a fan built into the chamber wall, due to a well-thought-out system configuration, the refrigerator does not require defrosting.

Defrosting system. Such systems include: drip, NoFrost, manual defrost.

Comparative characteristics

1. Number of cooling systems

Modern refrigerators have more than two chambers, which are connected by a cooling circuit. With one compressor, independent temperature control is not possible, as there is only one circuit. With two installed compressors, independent regulation of the temperatures in the chambers is possible, since it already has two cooling circuits.

Modern refrigerators have more than two chambers, which are connected by a cooling circuit..

2. Saving energy

The most economical in this regard is a two-compressor refrigerator. Reduced energy consumption is achieved by equipping with two low-power compressors working alternately. The energy consumption of a single compressor refrigerator will be significantly higher due to the constant operation of the element.

The most economical in this regard is a two-compressor refrigerator.

3. Noise level

On average, the volume of a refrigerator with one compressor is 40 dB and is comfortable for a person, especially if the refrigerator is located in a non-living room. In small apartments, it is better to use a two-compressor refrigerator, since its noise level is on average 30 dB.

In small apartments, it is better to use a two-compressor refrigerator, since its noise level is on average 30 dB.

4. Cost

The difference in the cost of refrigerators with different numbers of compressors is significant. More expensive models are often equipped with two compressors. You can often find more budget options, but the price will still be about 25% higher compared to a single-compressor analogue, taking into account the complete similarity in functionality.

The difference in the cost of refrigerators with different numbers of compressors is significant. More expensive models are often equipped with two compressors.

5. Functionality

Due to their high cost, two-compressor refrigerators have the largest set of functions that facilitate the process of use. The main difference between the two compressors is the shutdown function of one of the cooling systems, or, conversely, the use of one circuit in the fast freezing mode.

Due to their high cost, two-compressor refrigerators have the largest set of functions that facilitate the process of use..

In addition to the advantageous differences, the two-compressor system is equipped with classic functions that are available in single-compressor versions..

No-Frost is a function that eliminates the need for periodic defrosting of the refrigerator. By automatically controlling the temperature difference, protects the freezer from snow and ice build-up.
Antibacterial – an inorganic wall coating that protects against: appearance, growth and spread of: bacteria, mold, microbes. The properties of the antibacterial coating are preserved throughout the entire period of operation.
Super Freeze – function of shock freezing of food. Eliminates the formation of an ice crust on the inner surface of the refrigerator and freezing of packages to the walls of the freezer, during defrosting, the original shape, useful properties and color of the product are preserved.
Super Cool – fast cooling of food and drinks. The function allows you to quickly lower the temperature in the refrigerator compartment for further cooling, eliminating the possibility of freezing food.
Fresh box – a freshness area, usually presented in the form of a drawer, or a separate compartment for storing fruits and vegetables with zero temperature and automatic humidity control.

Of course, two-compressor units are superior to their “younger brothers” in functionality. For example, a refrigerator with two compressors will help out during a long trip, it is enough to set the necessary functions.

Main pros and cons

Like all household items, refrigerators with different numbers of compressors have their positive and negative qualities..

1. Single compressor models

In 1874, K. Linde invented the first refrigeration machine with one compressor, the device was used in industry and for the transport of products. A few years later, Elijah Thompson took up the improvement of the refrigerator and provided the machine with the ability to work on electricity. And the modern equipment of the unit was created by the Danish engineer Christian Steinstrup, who placed the entire structure in a sealed box..

In 1874, K. Linde invented the first refrigeration machine with one compressor, the device was used in the field of industry and for the transport of products.

Now single-compressor models of the unit are the most popular among their users. But are single compressor refrigerators so good at using them? To understand this, it is worth considering all the pros and cons..

+ Stable and trouble-free operation of the cooling system.

+ One temperature controller.

+ Unit sizes range from compact to larger models.

+ Useful Features: Antibacterial, Fresh box, Super Freeze, No-Frost.

+ Low cost. Models with one compressor are less functional, due to which a low cost is achieved.

– The powerful motor-compressor is very noisy during operation. Such models should be installed in the kitchen, or in another room not intended for relaxation..

– During defrosting, it will not be possible to turn off one chamber, this function is not provided in single-compressor models. Therefore, it will be possible to defrost the refrigerator only by turning it off completely..

– Energy consumption. Due to the fact that one powerful compressor is installed, which operates almost constantly, energy consumption increases significantly.

Video: How the compressor works

Important!

When choosing a place to install a refrigerator, it is worth considering places away from heating devices (oven, kettle, battery, fan heaters, and so on). The location next to them negatively affects the compressor and provides overheating of the motor, due to this, the power consumption of the unit will increase several times in comparison with stable operation. It is also undesirable to install the refrigeration device near water. The ingress of liquid into the motor-compressor will cause irreparable consequences in the form of: short circuit, motor breakdown. Compressor replacement is one of the expensive repair services.

2. Two-compressor models

Refrigeration units with two compressors have appeared relatively recently and have earned attention from consumers who value comfort, convenience and functionality. But, like many modern technology, such models have their positive and negative qualities..

+ Faster freezing process.

+ The function of turning off the refrigerator compartment, in case of a long trip.

+ In the event of a breakdown of one motor-compressor, the operation of the second continues, thus you can continue to use the working chamber.

+ Alternating compressors for quieter operation.

+ The power of each motor is low, so the energy consumption is much less.

– If both compressors start at the same time (this rarely happens), then the operating noise will be comparable to the operation of the most powerful motor with a noise level of 50 dB.

– High probability of breakage of one of the many parts.

– High price. On average, the cost of a two-compressor unit is 25-30% higher, which is not always justified..

Video: Refrigerator with two compressors pros and cons

Which refrigerator to choose?

When the choice is between a refrigerator with one or two compressors, first of all, it is worth considering the availability of the necessary functionality and ease of use of the unit. To make the right choice, experts recommend making a personal list of needs regarding the refrigeration appliance..

For example, if you need a unit in a studio apartment, where the device will be located in close proximity to the recreation area, it is worth considering models with two compressors. They are quieter in operation and will not cause discomfort to their owners during the day. It is also worth choosing this type if the consumer is often away. To save energy and resources of the motor, the function of turning off the refrigerating chamber is provided, which will turn out to be a big plus in use..

Important!

A two-compressor refrigerator is perfect for storing large quantities of food. When the chambers are fully loaded, the motors will perform well the task of cooling and freezing food..

For storing small quantities of food, it is better to use small-sized models of single-compressor refrigerators. In this case, you can save space, especially for small kitchens, such as in “Khrushchev” and “Stalin”.

Video: Which refrigerator to choose

Useful advice when choosing

The refrigerator is an important and useful form of technology in the modern world. Here are some guidelines for choosing the right food “keeper”.

Size is also important; when choosing a size, it is necessary to take into account the area of the room where it will be located. You should not choose a large unit for a small kitchen.

Height. Here the choice depends on the average height of all users, the use of the device should be comfortable for each family member..

Refrigerating and freezing chamber volume. It is necessary to take into account how many blanks are made in freezing for the winter and daily filling with food.

Appearance should be pleasant or suitable for interior design.

The defrosting method is very important if it is not possible to periodically defrost the refrigerator..

The noise level is important, you should pay attention to the number of dB, it should not exceed 40.

The location of the shelves. The best step between the shelves is 10-15 cm, which is convenient for adjusting the height.

Energy consumption. It is advisable to stop the choice on class A-C, it is they who use less energy.

Video: “Useful tips” Choosing a refrigerator

Let’s conclude which refrigerator is better with one compressor or two? Of course, each is good in its own way, because the functionality and benefits are different. Everyone chooses the most convenient for themselves, the main thing is to take into account their needs!

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