Are you ready to equip your home with a brand-new air conditioning system? You will encounter endless choices in terms of brands, price range and capacities. But before you begin to consider any of these options, you must first determine whether a split or ducted system best fits your home. Both of these air conditioning systems serve the same purpose: regulate the temperature of your premises, but there are substantial differences between the two. The right one for you will vary depending on your requirements, budget, and home type. We are here to help you make the choice. Find out which is best for your home – a ducted or split system and invest your money in the right place.

What is Ducted Air Conditioning

In ducted systems, a central unit is installed on your roof or other suitable location and distributes air throughout your home via air ducts and vents.
Pros

• It cools/heats your entire premises. There is no need to install multiple air conditioners.
• With a zoning feature, you can control individual rooms and areas however you like.
• Far more energy efficient than running multiple split systems.
• With the vents being the only visible part, they offer a discreet look and don’t compromise the aesthetics of your premise.

Cons

• The unit costs a bit more than split systems, and the installation work is also expensive, so the upfront cost is higher.
• It is not ideal for small homes or apartments without enough space for ductwork.

What is Split-System Air Conditioning?

A split-system air conditioner comprises a wall-mounted indoor unit and an outdoor compressor. It is only meant to cool the room or space where the indoor unit is placed.
Pros

• Installation is far more affordable than ducted systems and the process is simple and quick.
• They are a cost-effective choice for small living spaces.
• As they are used to heat single rooms, you use energy only where needed, making them an energy-efficient choice.
• Modern split systems offer quiet operation — making them perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, and even home offices.

Cons

• One unit can only cool a single room.
• These wall-mounted models can appear too bulky.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Air Conditioner for Your Home

Size and Layout of Your Home
If you live in a small or medium-sized home with an open layout or single rooms, a split system could be the right choice for you. But for spacious homes with extensive heating and cooling a ducted system could be the right fit.

Budget
A split system can cost anywhere between $1,500–$3,000. On the other hand, a ducted system can cost you $8,000–$15,000 or even more if you account for the cost of the unit and installation charges.

Installation Requirements
Both split and ducted system installation require professional help. But installing a split air conditioner is fairly simple. Whether you live in an apartment or other premises with limited roof space, they can be installed without any hassles. As for ducted models, you will need ample ceiling or underfloor space for ductwork and vents. The ideal choice will vary depending on your property layout.

Cooling/Heating Needs
If you have spot heating or cooling requirements, split systems can be the easy and affordable choice. Ducted systems also offer zoning functionality, even if the cost runs a bit higher. Once done, you can regulate the temperature of your entire premises with ease.

Energy Efficiency
Ducted systems use more energy to cool/heat large premises at once but with the zoning feature, you can cut down the use. On the other hand, the targeted heating/cooling function of split systems makes them an energy-efficient choice.

Aesthetics & Noise
The noise and bulky design of split air conditioners were always a concern but modern units offer noiseless operation and come in sleek designs. The ducted system naturally offers a clean, minimalist look with only the vents visible.

Maintenance & Access
Just clean your filters and conduct occasional checkups, and a split unit is good to go. For ducted air conditioners, it is often more complicated, especially when it comes to the ducts and central unit. Both split and ducted systems require professional maintenance, so maintenance is not something you need to worry about. Your chosen professionals will undertake it all without inconveniencing you in any way.

Property Type
If you are renting a space or living in an apartment, a split system can be the best choice for you as you can easily remove them and take them along whenever you decide to move. But if you are building a home or renovating your spaces, you can include ducted aircon installation to the plan and achieve a cost-effecting heating/cooling system for your home while minimising the costs.

Choose and Install the Best With Us at Onsite Air

If you are still confused about whether to go for a split or ducted air conditioner for your home, our experts are here to guide you. As experts in the industry, we can help you look at it from all possible angles and help you make an informed choice. From selection to installation, we can help you at each step of the way and ensure a seamless and satisfactory experience. We have worked with all leading air conditioning brands like Daikin, Fujitsu, Mitsubishi Electric, LG, Hitachi, Carrier and more and we specialise in residential and commercial systems. So, whatever your aircon requirement might be, trust our experts to offer the desired assistance.

To know more about our services or to resolve any aircon-related queries, connect with us for comprehensive assistance. We are always here to serve you and help you make optimum air-conditioning choices.