The biggest decision when buying air conditioning in Australia isn't which brand — it's which system. Split systems are cheap to install and brilliant for one or two rooms. Ducted systems cool the whole house but cost five to ten times more upfront. Here's exactly what you'll pay for each, and how to decide.
Split System Cost — What You'll Actually Pay
A standard split system (one indoor head unit + one outdoor compressor) costs $1,200–$3,500 supplied and installed. The price swings based on capacity and brand:
| Capacity | Suitable For | Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5 kW | Small bedroom (up to 20m²) | $1,200–$1,800 |
| 3.5 kW | Medium bedroom / study (20–30m²) | $1,500–$2,200 |
| 5.0 kW | Large bedroom / small living (30–45m²) | $1,800–$2,800 |
| 7.1 kW | Open-plan living (45–65m²) | $2,200–$3,500 |
| Multi-head (3 rooms) | 3 indoor units, 1 outdoor | $4,500–$7,000 |
Ducted System Cost — What You'll Actually Pay
Ducted air conditioning hides everything in the roof cavity and delivers conditioned air through ceiling vents. It's invisible, whole-home, and expensive:
| Home Size | System Size | Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 3-bed home (~150m²) | 10–12 kW | $8,000–$12,000 |
| 4-bed home (~200m²) | 14–16 kW | $10,000–$15,000 |
| 5-bed home (~280m²) | 18–22 kW | $13,000–$18,000 |
| Zone control add-on | Per zone | $300–$600 extra |
The Real Cost Comparison
Here's what it actually costs to cool a typical 4-bedroom home under each approach:
Pros and Cons: Side by Side
✓ Split system strengths
- Low upfront cost ($1,200–$3,500 per room)
- Easy to install — no roof work needed
- Only cool the rooms you're using
- Easier and cheaper to repair
- Perfect for renters or apartments
✗ Split system weaknesses
- Visible indoor and outdoor units
- Multiple units = multiple electricity bills
- Clutters walls and outdoor areas
- Inefficient to cool many rooms separately
✓ Ducted system strengths
- Invisible — vents flush with ceiling
- Whole-home comfort from one system
- Adds significant resale value
- Quieter operation throughout home
- Zone control lets you isolate areas
✗ Ducted system weaknesses
- Expensive upfront ($8,000–$18,000)
- Major installation — requires roof access
- Not suitable for apartments or small homes
- Higher servicing costs annually
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Running Costs: Who Wins Long-Term?
Ducted systems are less efficient than inverter split systems — you're moving air through long duct runs which lose energy. A well-zoned ducted system costs roughly $800–$1,400/year to run for a 4-bed home. Equivalent split systems cost $600–$1,000/year. The gap narrows significantly with good zone control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add ducted to an existing home?
Yes, but it's more expensive than new builds — installers need to retrofit ducting through existing roof cavities and walls. Budget an extra $1,500–$3,000 above typical ducted prices for a retrofit install.
Is ducted air conditioning worth it for resale?
Generally yes. Real estate agents consistently report that ducted AC adds $10,000–$25,000 to a home's perceived value in Australian markets, particularly in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
How long does each system last?
A quality split system lasts 10–15 years. Ducted systems last 15–20 years when serviced annually. The compressor is the first thing to go on both — budget $800–$1,500 for a compressor replacement.
What's the best brand for air conditioning in Australia?
Daikin and Fujitsu are consistently rated highest for reliability and efficiency. Mitsubishi Electric is also excellent. Avoid no-name brands sold through discount electrical retailers — parts availability is a serious issue after 5 years.
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