Overview
Choosing the right air conditioning system is an important decision for any homeowner. With different system types, capacities, energy ratings and installation options available, it can be difficult to know which one is actually suitable for your home.
The right air conditioning system should provide comfortable heating and cooling without unnecessarily increasing your energy bills. Your home’s size, room layout, insulation, windows and how you use each space should all be considered before making a decision.
In this guide, we’ll explain the main types of air conditioning systems, how to choose the right size, what to look for in energy efficiency and why professional installation matters.
What Type of Air Conditioning System Is Best?
There isn’t one air conditioning system that is perfect for every home. The best option depends on the size and layout of your property.
Split System Air Conditioning
A split system is a popular choice for individual rooms such as bedrooms, living rooms and home offices. It consists of an indoor unit connected to an outdoor unit.
Split systems are generally suitable when you only need to control the temperature in specific areas rather than the entire house.
Multi-Split Air Conditioning
A multi-split system can connect several indoor units to a single outdoor unit. This allows different rooms to have individual temperature settings.
It can be a practical option for homes that require air conditioning in multiple rooms but don’t necessarily need a complete ducted system.
Ducted Air Conditioning
Ducted systems distribute conditioned air through a network of ducts and vents throughout the home.
They can provide whole-home heating and cooling and are particularly suitable for larger properties where multiple rooms need to be controlled.
Reverse-Cycle Air Conditioning
Reverse-cycle systems can provide both heating and cooling. This makes them useful for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures throughout the year.
The Australian Government’s heating and cooling guidance notes that reverse-cycle air conditioners can be an efficient option for providing both heating and cooling.
How Do You Choose the Right Air Conditioner Size?
Choosing the correct capacity is just as important as choosing the right system type.
An undersized air conditioner may have to work continuously to reach the desired temperature. On the other hand, an oversized system may cycle too frequently and may not provide the consistent comfort you expect.
Several factors can affect the required capacity, including:
- Room size and ceiling height
- Insulation
- Window size and orientation
- Direct sunlight
- Number of occupants
- Room usage
- Open-plan layouts
- Existing heating and cooling requirements
For this reason, choosing a system based only on floor area isn’t always enough. A professional assessment can help determine the appropriate capacity for your property.
What Should You Look for in Energy Efficiency?
Energy efficiency should be considered alongside the initial purchase price.
Air conditioners sold in Australia can display a Zoned Energy Rating Label, which provides information about energy efficiency, estimated energy use and heating and cooling performance.
You can learn how to compare these ratings through the Australian Government’s Zoned Energy Rating Label guide.
When comparing similar systems, look at:
- Energy rating
- Heating and cooling capacity
- Estimated energy consumption
- Inverter technology
- Noise levels
- Suitable operating modes
A more efficient model may have a higher upfront cost but can potentially provide lower running costs over its operating life.
Where Should an Air Conditioner Be Installed?
Correct positioning can have a noticeable effect on system performance.
The indoor unit should be positioned where it can distribute air effectively throughout the room without being blocked by furniture or other obstacles.
The outdoor unit also needs sufficient airflow and should be accessible for maintenance. Excessive obstruction around the outdoor unit can affect its operation.
Professional air conditioning installation takes these factors into account while also considering electrical requirements, drainage and manufacturer specifications.
How Much Does Air Conditioning Installation Cost?
The cost of air conditioning installation varies depending on the property and system selected.
Factors that can affect the overall price include:
- Type and capacity of the system
- Number of indoor units
- Installation location
- Electrical work required
- Length and complexity of pipework
- Ductwork requirements
- Removal of an existing system
- Access to the installation area
Because every property is different, getting a system-specific quote is generally more useful than relying on a single advertised price.
Why Professional Air Conditioning Installation Matters
Buying a quality air conditioner is only part of the process. Correct installation is essential for safe and reliable operation.
Professional installation can help ensure that the system is correctly positioned, connected, tested and commissioned.
Refrigerant handling also has licensing requirements in Australia. The Australian Refrigeration Council provides information about refrigerant handling licences and the types of work covered.
Electrical work should also be completed by appropriately licensed professionals. Energy Safe Victoria advises consumers to use registered electrical contractors rather than attempting electrical work themselves.
How Can You Reduce Air Conditioning Running Costs?
Choosing an efficient system is only one part of keeping energy costs under control.
You can also:
- Clean air filters regularly.
- Keep doors and windows closed while the system is operating.
- Avoid setting extremely low or high temperatures.
- Keep the outdoor unit clear of unnecessary obstructions.
- Use timers when appropriate.
- Make use of energy-saving or eco modes where available.
- Maintain the system according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Good insulation and window coverings can also reduce the amount of heating or cooling your home requires.
Which Air Conditioning System Is Right for Your Home?
Choosing the right system becomes easier when you consider the areas you want to heat and cool, your home’s layout and your everyday comfort needs.
| Home Requirement | System to Consider |
|---|---|
| One main room | Split System – Ideal for cooling or heating an individual room. |
| Several individual rooms | Multi-Split – Allows multiple rooms to be controlled using separate indoor units. |
| Whole-home heating and cooling | Ducted System – Distributes conditioned air throughout multiple rooms. |
| Heating and cooling throughout the year | Reverse-Cycle System – Provides both heating and cooling in one system. |
| Better long-term efficiency | Energy-Efficient Model – Compare energy ratings and estimated energy consumption before buying. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best air conditioning system for a home?
The best system depends on your home’s size, layout and heating and cooling requirements. Split systems can work well for individual rooms, while multi-split and ducted systems can be more suitable for multiple areas.
Is reverse-cycle air conditioning worth it?
Reverse-cycle air conditioning can be a practical choice if you need both heating and cooling. It allows one system to provide temperature control throughout different seasons.
What size air conditioner do I need?
The required capacity depends on factors such as room size, insulation, windows, sunlight, ceiling height and occupancy. A professional assessment can provide a more accurate recommendation.
Is split system or ducted air conditioning better?
Neither is universally better. A split system is often suitable for individual rooms, while ducted air conditioning is designed to provide conditioning across multiple areas of a property.
How can I reduce my air conditioning electricity costs?
Use an appropriately sized efficient system, clean filters regularly, avoid extreme temperature settings, maintain good insulation and use timers or energy-saving modes where appropriate.
Does professional installation make a difference?
Yes. Correct installation helps ensure appropriate positioning, safe electrical connections, proper refrigerant handling and reliable system operation.
Choose the Right Air Conditioning System With Green Saver Australia
The right air conditioning system should suit your home, lifestyle and energy requirements rather than simply being the cheapest or most powerful option available.
At Green Saver Australia, homeowners can get professional advice on choosing suitable air conditioning solutions and understanding their installation requirements.
If you’d like to learn more about the business and its services, you can visit Green Saver Australia’s business profile.
Taking the time to compare system types, capacity, energy efficiency and installation requirements can help you make a more informed decision and enjoy comfortable indoor temperatures throughout the year.