From ducted air conditioning in Perth to wall splits, the choices can feel endless when it comes to picking the best cooling and heating system for your needs.

It can be difficult to choose the best air conditioner for your residential or commercial property. How do you choose between the many different models and types on the market?

You’ve probably heard a lot about both ducted and split system air conditioning. So, what is the difference between the two types? 

Let’s get started by briefly explaining each type of air conditioner.

Split Systems

A split system refers to a residential air conditioning system that has part of it (the condenser) outside the house. This is typically located on an exterior wall. The rest of the system, including the head unit, is located inside the system. It is normally attached to an internal wall or as a free-standing unit.

The Benefits of Split Systems

Split systems have the advantage of being less expensive than ducted air conditioning systems. They can also be installed in a single area of your home. Start with the main living area, then add more units as you have the budget. Split systems are a good choice for apartments or double-storey houses. They can be a better choice than ducted systems in smaller properties where only one room needs a residential air conditioning system.

A split system operates remotely. This gives you complete control of the temperature in each room or zone. Split systems have lower running and installation costs than Perth ducted air conditioning systems, but this is not the only consideration when selecting the best system for your home. Split systems are usually cheaper to buy but have limitations.

Limitations of Split Systems

A split system has a cosmetic effect that can be detrimental to your home. Problems can arise from having a condenser system located outside of your home. Although a professional installer will make every effort to locate the unit discreetly, it’s not always possible to conceal them. You may have to invest more in screens and plants if the unit is visible from the street. You should also consider the potential negative effects of split residential air conditioning systems on your ability to decorate the rooms in which they are located. There are many options, including bulkhead-mounted units and ceiling mounts, that can help you in this regard. Split system innovation has come a long way.

Split systems can only cool the area in which they are installed. This is not a problem if the system is powerful and there are no walls. Your split system’s ability to push cold air past its immediate precincts is dependent on several important factors.

• How much power does it consumes
• How much will it cost to operate
• The unit’s position on the interior wall
• The layout of your house

This problem is partially solved by some more expensive systems (multiheaded split systems). These systems allow multiple rooms or zones to be cooled simultaneously. This will depend on whether the exterior unit is located close to the head units. A multi-headed split system might be an option if a ducted system is impossible due to space limitations. 

Another solution is to install multiple split systems. You should consider a variety of factors when deciding whether this is an option.

• Additional split systems can result in higher installation costs.
• There are limitations to interior wall space, and potential cosmetic issues with having multiple interior units.
• Additional condenser units may be required if the location is outside.
• Noise from your system could have an impact on the enjoyment and use of your neighbours’ properties.

However, there are certain situations in which a split system can be the best solution to your problem of cooling your home efficiently and effectively.

Ducted Systems

A Perth ducted air conditioner system is more discreet than a split system. The unit is typically hidden in the roof space or placed unobtrusively on the outside of the property. Through a network of concealed conduits, the cool air is directed to various rooms or areas within the building. Only the vents are obvious.

The Benefits of Ducted Systems

A ducted system is usually more expensive than a split system. The main advantage of a ducted commercial air conditioning system in Perth is its ability to cool your entire home. The thermostat controls the temperature and allows for uniform temperatures throughout. Maintaining an even temperature is beneficial for your flooring, furniture, and pets.

Depending on the model, some ducted systems can be zoned. This allows you to turn off the air conditioning for rooms you are not using. You can also have different rooms cooled to different temperatures with a zoned system. A zoned system can be more expensive than a standard one.

A few ducted systems, like their split system counterparts, have the option to be reverse cycle units that can heat your home in winter. You can avoid having to install heating systems in every room by installing a ducted re-cycle system. This creates a more attractive result. It’s also more costly.

If you are planning to remain in your property for a long period, a ducted system will be more cost-effective and quieter than traditional systems. While there are higher initial costs, you maximise the likelihood of your investment being recouped over time.

The Limitations of Ducted Systems

However, ducting systems have their limitations. A ducted system cannot be installed in certain areas due to limited space. Critics also point out that ducted systems can only be installed in areas where there is sufficient space for ducting. This means that the system will cool the entire building at a cost you might not need. If you don’t choose a system with Wi-Fi, tablet, or smartphone connectivity, the controller will be hardwired to your wall. This makes it less portable and convenient than a remote control. A ducted system, however, can increase the property’s value and marketability.

Split System vs. Ducted Systems – The Verdict

As with all systems, it’s impossible to say which one is better. In the end, it is up to the user to decide which system is most suitable for their home. Again, it would depend on the users’ preferences and their Perth commercial or residential air conditioning needs.

Need more information on ducted reverse cycle vs split system air conditioning? Get in touch with us at IACS today to discuss your requirements!