When you’re renovating your home or business and require air conditioning, you may be uncertain deciding between which type of air conditioning system to choose. How do you decide which system is right for you, split-systems or ducted? It’s down to personal preference and what will work most efficiently for your budget and comfort, so let’s help you make that decision.

What is Split-System Air Conditioning?

A split-system air conditioner consists of two parts: an indoor and an outdoor unit. The split system air conditioner will be reverse cycle which mean it has heating as well as cooling.

The split-system air conditioning installation process starts with one of Kool Air’s experienced air con installers coming to assess the area in which you want it placed. The correct position & sizing to be done through this process & a quote prepared.

Generally, the indoor unit is installed high up on an external wall with the outdoor unit directly behind. This is called a back-to-back installation. We can also install the indoor unit on an internal wall, with a bit of compromise & we can also install the outdoor unit in a more remote or hidden location. We generally install the outdoor unit on a wall bracket where possible.

What is Ducted Air Conditioning?

Ducted air conditioning is a very good option for private homes and workplaces. Like split-system air conditioners, it has two units that work together, but the indoor unit is typically hidden in the roof space. A series of ducts distribute cool or warm air throughout the building to each room where it is required, allowing for a consistent temperature throughout the entire premises.

Ducted air conditioning installation will initially involve one of our qualified air conditioner installers performing a site visit to assess your space and determine the best placement for the units and the ductwork. Then we will provide a detailed proposal and following your approval, the central unit will be installed, connecting it to the ducts which will be running through your ceilings. We generally have a common area zone & then up to 8 separate zones so that those rooms can be turned on & off as required. Lastly, a control panel will be installed, and the new system is then tested to ensure it works properly and as efficiently as possible. Wi-Fi can also be added to the so that you can remotely control the system from your phone.

Finding The Best Air Conditioner for You

Deciding which air conditioner is right for your situation is a very personal decision. It will depend on what you want to achieve and what is most suitable for the environment in which it will be installed. These are some factors you should keep in mind when making your decision.

Suitability for Different Spaces

Split-system air conditioning is more suitable for individual rooms and smaller spaces. This does mean that it won’t be able to control the temperature of the entire building. Ducted air conditioning will be best for whole-home climate control, meaning the system settings of the main control panel affect the whole building.

It’s important to consider whether you are looking for an air-con for one specific area or if it’s for larger spaces.

Aesthetics and Space Consideration

Both types of units will have slightly different visual impacts on your space. Split-system air conditioning has an indoor and outdoor unit. It will be mounted high on a wall inside the room, whereas ducted air conditioning indoor units will mostly be concealed in the roof space with only the outlets visible I the room.

Some people may prefer the sleek look of a split-system AC, but others may prefer the unit to be hidden from view. This decision is primarily down to personal preference and if you are bothered by having a small unit visible.

Control and Flexibility

Split-system air conditioning units are set up individually in each room. This means that each room can adjust its temperature individually, but you would need to install multiple units for multiple rooms.

Depending on the model you choose, ducted air conditioning units can heat or cool specific zones in the building through the control panel. This means you can control the temperature in each room depending on personal preference.

Larger multiple rooms can be controlled by zone motors which ensure that only the space requiring air conditioning at the time is heated or cooled. This is an essential part of reducing running costs and improving the overall efficiency of the system.

Pros and Cons of Split System & Ducted Air Conditioning

Split-System Air Conditioning

Pros:

· Offers individual room control, so you can adjust temperatures as needed

· They are typically more energy-efficient than ducted air conditioners

· Easy installation process with less impact on your home

Cons:

· Can affect the visuals of the room, as the indoor unit is visible

· May need more regular maintenance than ducted air conditioners

Ducted Air Conditioning

Pros:

· Provides whole-house cooling or heating, maintaining consistent temperatures

· Some units will have the option to heat or cool specific areas in your home

Cons:

· The installation process can be more complex than split-system air conditioning

· They can be less efficient and therefore in some situations may be more expensive to run

Air Conditioning Installation Time!

Hopefully now you understand the difference between ducted air conditioning and split system air conditioning and are ready to start planning your air con installation!

However, if you are still unsure which air conditioner is best for you, the Kool Air team would love to help you out! Just send us a quick email or call and we will be in touch with you as soon as possible!

We look forward to helping you get cool with Kool Air!