FAQ
TL;DR: Heating a 40 m² attic flat with a 3.5 kW inverter AC uses ≈150 kWh/month, “three times cheaper than oil heaters” [Elektroda, Jan_Werbinski, 17208334]. Expect ~PLN 100–140 monthly at PLN 0.70/kWh. Why it matters: a correctly-sized heat-pump can slash running costs while adding summer cooling.
Quick Facts
• Recommended heating capacity: 2–4 kW inverter split for 40 m² [Elektroda, Jan_Werbinski, 17205921]
• Seasonal use: ~900 kWh per 6-month heating season [Elektroda, p.obelix, 17211428]
• Typical monthly draw: 120–180 kWh at 20–24 °C set-point [Elektroda, młody2066, 17654988]
• COP/SCOP: ≈3.4 at +7 °C; may fall <2 at –15 °C [Elektroda, p.obelix, 17196653; Jan_Werbinski, 17607154]
• Noise: low hum; indoor SPL ≈30–40 dB(A) reported [Elektroda, Coremeil, 17604260]
How much electricity will a 3.5 kW split use each month in a 40 m² attic?
Users report 145–180 kWh/month when maintaining 23–24 °C indoors at outdoor temps from 0 °C to +5 °C [Elektroda, Coremeil, 17698620; młody2066, 17654988]. That equals roughly PLN 100–125 at PLN 0.70/kWh.
What is the total energy for an entire heating season?
Expect about 900 kWh for a six-month season if insulation and set-point stay moderate [Elektroda, p.obelix, 17211428].
Is air-conditioner heating really cheaper than electric radiators?
Yes. Heat-pump input is typically three times lower because COP≈3.4 at mild temperatures [Elektroda, p.obelix, 17196653]. "Two to three times less than oil heaters" [Elektroda, Jan_Werbinski, 17208334].
What happens during severe frost (-20 °C)?
COP can drop below 2, so consumption doubles, and the unit runs continuously [Elektroda, Jan_Werbinski, 17607154]. Keep backup heat or extra insulation for this edge case.
Which brands and models are recommended?
Branded splits—Fujitsu, Mitsubishi, Daikin, LG, Toshiba—offer wide modulation and high seasonal efficiency [Elektroda, Jan_Werbinski, 17232072]. Avoid entry-level on/off units with minimum input >400 W for small rooms [Elektroda, Coremeil, 17230553].
How do I size the unit correctly?
Rule of thumb: 100–150 W/m² in poorly insulated attics; for 40 m² that equals 4–6 kW heat output [Elektroda, p.obelix, 17196653]. Select an inverter that modulates down to ≤0.8 kW to avoid short cycling.
Should I switch to a dual electricity tariff?
If ≥70 % of load can be shifted to off-peak hours, G12w saves ~40 %. One user moved 90 % of winter use to cheap tariff by timing boiler and AC [Elektroda, teskot, 17606606].
How loud is indoor operation?
Reported noise is a “slight hum” comparable to 30–40 dB(A). Users sleep comfortably with the unit 2 m above floor [Elektroda, Coremeil, 17604260].
What about power outages?
Heating stops immediately; plan backup like a fireplace or 2 kW generator for outages over 24 h [Elektroda, Coremeil, 17606155].
Is combining the fireplace with AC worthwhile?
It adds resilience but rarely saves money unless firewood is free. Continuous AC alone maintains 24 °C at ~PLN 140/month [Elektroda, Coremeil, 17671747].
How can I cut overnight temperature drops?
- Set AC to 20 °C hold. 2. Close supply vents near chimney to stop warm-air draw. 3. Add 15–20 cm extra mineral wool above ceiling [Elektroda, Coremeil, 17195611].
Quick 3-step setup for efficient heating
- Set desired room temp (21–24 °C). 2. Fan on AUTO; vane horizontal. 3. Let inverter run 24/7; avoid frequent on/off switching for best COP.
What maintenance does a split system need?
Clean or replace indoor filters monthly, wash outdoor coil each spring, and schedule professional refrigerant check every two years to keep SCOP high. Missing service can raise power draw by 10 % [“DOE Heat Pump Guide”].