Are you in the market for a new air conditioning system? Deciding between ducted air conditioning vs split system can be overwhelming.
Not only do they vary greatly in cost and performance, but they also have different advantages and drawbacks.
To help narrow down your options, we will cover the pros and cons of ducted and split air conditioners in this post.
What is Ducted Air Conditioning?
Ducted air conditioning is a type of climate control system that uses a network of ducts to distribute cooled air or warm air throughout a building. It’s an effective and efficient way to maintain a comfortable temperature in large spaces.
It features a central control unit, which allows for centralised control of the entire system and enables efficient temperature zoning.
The system distributes cooled air through the ducts to each room, ensuring even climate control across the property.
This setup allows for whole-house climate control. Ducted reverse cycle systems can provide both heating and cooling throughout the entire system.
How Does a Ducted Air Conditioner Work?
A ducted air conditioning system is designed to deliver seamless climate control across your entire home or building. It is called ‘ducted’ due to the ductwork used to direct air through the home.
At the heart of this system is a central unit, usually installed discreetly in the roof space, which houses the fan coil, cooling, and heating components. This central unit draws air from inside the building, conditions it to the desired temperature, and then distributes the cooled or heated air through a network of ducts. These ducts run throughout the property, delivering air to each room via vents installed in the ceiling or walls.
One of the standout features of ducted air conditioning is its ability to provide whole-house climate control. With proper zoning, you can set different temperatures for various areas, ensuring optimal comfort and energy savings.
Ducted air conditioning systems are especially cost-effective for larger homes or buildings, as they maintain a consistent temperature throughout the entire space. This type of air conditioning system is ideal for those seeking a streamlined look, as only the vents are visible, and the main components are hidden away in the roof space.
The Pros of a Ducted Air Conditioning System
Ducted air conditioning unit offers a wide range of benefits, including:
Energy Efficiency
Modern units are engineered to be energy efficient, especially when using zoning technology. This allows you to cool or heat only the rooms you are using, reducing energy consumption and lowering your utility bills.
Low Noise Levels
Ducted air conditioners operate at a relatively low noise level, making them an ideal choice if you’re looking to cool your home without worrying about noise disturbance.
Whole Home Heating and Cooling Capacity
Ducted systems are great for larger, multi-room homes as they can efficiently cool multiple rooms and maintain a comfortable temperature throughout.
Ducted air conditioning systems offer heating and cooling, so you can keep your house comfortable all year round.
Increase your property’s value.
Installing a ducted air conditioning unit increases the value of your property, making it more attractive to potential buyers and renters.
The Cons of Ducted Air Conditioning
A few cons of ducted air conditioning include: Ducted systems require adequate space in the ceiling or roof cavity;
High Installation Costs
Due to the complex ductwork and wiring required, installation costs for a ducted system are higher than those for other air conditioning systems.
Maintenance costs for ducted systems are generally higher due to their complexity and the need for professional servicing.
Designed to be Permanent
Due to the permanent nature of the ducted AC system, it’s not suitable for properties where fixtures and fittings may change in the future. It is also not suitable for small homes or apartments where installation may not be feasible.
It’s important to consider the size of your home, energy efficiency needs, and budget before investing in a ducted air conditioning system.
What is Split System Air Conditioning?
Split system units are popular in Australia as they provide effective cooling and heating for one room or area. They’re typically more cost-effective than ducted systems, making them an attractive option for those who don’t require full-house climate control.
Split system air conditioners consist of indoor and outdoor units, with the indoor units (also called internal units) mounted inside the room and the external unit (outdoor unit) placed outside the building.
The external unit is installed outdoors and works together with the indoor unit to provide climate control. The air is cooled or heated inside the indoor unit before being distributed to the room via vents. Internal units are designed for quiet operation and can be placed in various locations to suit different room layouts.
Some homes may use multiple split systems or individual split systems in different rooms for greater flexibility and tailored comfort. Each unit operates independently, allowing for individual control of temperature in each room.
How Does a Split System Air Conditioner Work?
Split system air conditioners are a popular choice for targeted cooling or heating in individual rooms or specific zones. This air conditioning system’s indoor and outdoor units are connected by refrigerant lines, allowing the system to efficiently transfer heat between the indoor and outdoor environments.
When you turn on your split system, the indoor unit draws in air from the room, cools or heats it as needed, and then circulates the conditioned air back into the space. Each split system air conditioner operates independently, giving you precise control over the temperature in each room.
Thanks to their energy efficiency and flexibility, split system air conditioners are a smart solution for homes where only certain areas need climate control, or where installing ductwork isn’t practical.
The Pros of Split System Air Conditioners
Split system air conditioners offer a range of benefits, including:
Affordability
Split systems are generally more affordable to purchase and install compared to ducted systems. Inverter technology in many models helps optimise energy use and reduce running costs, making them even more cost-effective over time.
Easy Installation
Installation is straightforward and less invasive, as only a small hole is needed for the connecting pipes and wiring. Many split systems also come with remote control options, allowing users to adjust settings conveniently from anywhere in the room.
Perfect for small offices and single rooms
Split systems are best suited for smaller homes or single rooms, as they’re not designed to cool an entire house.
The Cons of Split System Air Conditioning
Before deciding to get one, here are the cons of installing a Split System Air Conditioning:
Space requirements
The outdoor unit of a split system air conditioner requires some space, so it may not be suitable for homes with limited yard or balcony space.
Noise Levels
The outdoor unit of a split system air conditioner can be noisy, especially if it is not properly installed. This can be a nuisance for neighbours or for people who live in close proximity to the unit.
Initial cost
Split system air conditioners may be more expensive than other types of air conditioners, such as window units. This is because they require two units, one for the inside of the home and one for the outside.
Before investing in a split-system air conditioner, consider your home’s size, cooling needs, and budget to ensure you get the best system. With the right information, you can make an informed decision and enjoy a comfortable home all year round.
Cost Analysis of Air Conditioning Systems
When comparing ducted air conditioning systems and split system air conditioners, understanding the costs involved is crucial.
Ducted air conditioning systems tend to have higher upfront costs. This is due to the complexity of installing ductwork, the central unit, and the need for sufficient roof space. Nevertheless, since ducted systems offer whole house climate control, it can be more cost effective for larger homes or buildings in the long run.
Split system air conditioners, on the other hand, are generally more affordable to purchase and install.
While the initial investment is lower, you may need multiple units to cool or heat an entire building, which can increase the total cost. It’s also important to factor in ongoing costs such as energy bills and maintenance.
Ducted systems may have higher running costs due to their size, but they can be more efficient when cooling or heating multiple rooms simultaneously. Split systems offer lower running costs for single rooms but may become less efficient if you need to install multiple units.
Always consider both installation costs and ongoing expenses when choosing the right air conditioning system for your needs.
Ducted Air Con: Installation and Maintenance
Installing a ducted air conditioning system is a significant project that requires careful planning and professional expertise. The process involves placing the central unit in the roof space and running a network of ducts throughout the building to deliver air to each room. Proper sizing and insulation of the ducts are essential to ensure efficient airflow and minimise energy loss. Because of the complexity, installation should always be handled by experienced professionals to guarantee optimal performance and safety.
Maintenance is equally important for keeping your ducted air conditioning system running smoothly. Regular tasks include cleaning or replacing filters, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting the ductwork for leaks or damage.
Over time, dust and debris can accumulate in the ducts, so professional duct cleaning is recommended to maintain good indoor air quality and system efficiency. By staying on top of maintenance, you can extend the lifespan of your ducted air conditioning system, reduce energy bills, and enjoy consistent comfort throughout your home.
Ducted Air: Climate and Regional Considerations
When selecting a ducted air conditioning system, it’s important to factor in your local climate and regional conditions. In areas with hot, humid summers, you’ll need a ducted air conditioning system with a high cooling capacity to keep your home comfortable.
Conversely, in colder regions, a system with robust heating capabilities is essential. Regional energy costs can also impact the overall affordability of running a ducted air conditioning system, making it more expensive to operate your system.
Additionally, the availability of adequate roof space for the central unit and ductwork can influence whether a ducted system is suitable for your property.
By considering these climate and regional factors, you can choose a ducted air conditioning system that delivers optimal performance, energy efficiency, and cost effectiveness for your specific location. This ensures you get the most value and comfort from your investment, no matter where you live.
Which AC System Should I Choose: Ducted or Split System?
Air conditioning is a necessity for many people, but with so many different systems on the market, it can be tough to decide which one is right for you.
However, the best system for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you have a large home, ducted systems with zoning allow you to cool or heat only the areas you need, improving efficiency and comfort.
If you have a smaller home or only need to cool one room, a split system may be a better choice.
Here are the factors to consider when choosing an AC system:
- The size of your home
- The climate in your area
- Your budget
- Your energy efficiency goals
- Your comfort preferences
- Temperature control options
Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you’ll be able to choose the best AC system for your home.
Need Professional Help?
Are you struggling to decide between a ducted and split system air conditioner? Don’t worry, you’re not alone.
There are a lot of factors to consider when making this decision, and it can be tough to know where to start.
We’re experts in ducted and split system air conditioners, and we can help you choose the right system for your home. We’ll consider your needs, your budget, and other essentials to recommend the best system for you.
We’ll also provide you with a FREE quote! So what are you waiting for?
Contact SmartWay Air Conditioning today and let us help you choose the perfect air conditioner for your home.
Why Should You Choose Smart Way Air Conditioning?
SmarWay Air Conditioning is Australia’s leading air conditioning provider for quality installation and maintenance services.
Here are some of the benefits of working with SmartWay Air Conditioning:
- Over 30 years of experience.
- We have served thousands of happy clients all over Sydney.
- We’re experts in ducted and split system air conditioners.
- We’ll provide you with a free quote.
- We are certified and insured.
- We’re committed to providing our customers with the best possible service.
Contact Smartway Air Conditioning today and let us help you choose the perfect air conditioner for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main benefits of a split system air conditioner?
Split systems offer several benefits, including cost-effectiveness, ease of installation, and cooling for one room or area.
Are split systems as effective as ducted units?
While split systems are limited to single rooms/areas, they are still effective in cooling or heating the space. A ducted system may be better for larger homes with multiple rooms, as it can cover a greater area.
Should I hire a professional to assess my home before buying an air conditioning system?
Yes, it’s always best to have a professional technician assess the size and layout of your home before deciding which system is best for your needs.
Conclusion
So now you know the pros and cons of ducted and split system air conditioners to help you make an informed decision. Once you have considered all of these factors, you will be able to choose the best air conditioning system for your home. A ducted system is a good option if you have a large home and need to cool or heat multiple rooms. However, they are more expensive to install.
If you have a smaller home or only need to cool one room, a split system may be a better choice. Split systems are less expensive to install and can be more flexible than ducted systems.
However, the best way to choose your home’s air conditioning system is to talk to one of our qualified HVAC technicians, who will assess your needs and recommend the best system for your specific situation.
Contact us today to get a FREE estimate!
