KAJI EKSPERIMENTAL PENGARUH VARIASI NILAI KAPASITOR KIPAS KONDENSOR TERHADAP EFISIENSI AC SPLIT

The decrease in efficiency of a split-type air conditioning (AC) system is often caused by suboptimal performance of components, such as the condenser fan. One way to improve its efficiency is by varying the capacitor value that regulates the fan speed. This study experimentally investigates the effect of varying capacitor values of 1.5 µF, 2.5 µF, and 3.5 µF on the efficiency of a 0.5 HP R-410a Split AC. The parameters analyzed include the rotational speed of the condenser fan, the airflow rate through the condenser, electrical power consumption, and the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER). Data collection was carried out every 5 minutes for 60 minutes after steady-state conditions were achieved. The results show that increasing the capacitor value raises the condenser fan speed from 960 rpm to 973 rpm, increases the airflow rate from 0.28 m³/s to 0.36 m³/s, and decreases the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) from 19.62 to 17.30. Increasing the capacitor value of the condenser fan yields improved thermal performance of the Split AC system but negatively impacts the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER). Therefore, it is important to consider a balance between enhanced cooling capacity and power consumption when determining the most optimal capacitor value. The EER value is crucial as an indicator of energy efficiency for air conditioning units. The 1.5 µF capacitor value provides the most optimal Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) at 19.62.
Keywords: Split AC, Capacitor, Condenser Fan, Efficiency, Cooling System.