Let’s face it—Australia gets hot. And when the temperature soars, there’s nothing quite like walking into a cool, air-conditioned space. So, if you’re thinking about finally taking the plunge and installing air conditioning, you’re not alone.
Split system air conditioners are a popular choice for good reason. They’re efficient, versatile, and perfect for cooling individual rooms and smaller homes, and apartments. But like any big purchase, it’s important to understand all the costs involved.
So, how much does a split system cost to install in Australia? With a lot of factors and considerations, it’s not a straightforward answer.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know, from the average cost of the unit and installation to all the other factors that you’ll find on your final bill.
Split System Vs Ducted Systems
When it comes to cooling your home or workspace, two of the most common options in Australia are split system and ducted air conditioning unit. While they both get the job done, they work quite differently. A split system air conditioning units are made up of two main components: an indoor unit that is mounted high on a wall or as a floor-standing unit inside the room connected with a refrigeration pipe to an outdoor unit. These two systems work together to cool a single room or area. Ducted systems, on the other hand, are a more whole-home cooling solution. Instead of visible units, the systems are typically concealed in the ceiling. Cool air is then delivered through the ducts to multiple rooms or “zones” throughout the house. In short, if you’re after discreet whole-home climate control, ducted might be the way to go. But for targeted, efficient cooling in individual rooms, a split system offers great value and flexibility.
So, How Do Split System Aircons Work?
Put simply, split systems are made up of two main components, an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, that work together to transfer heat out of your space and bring cool air in. The cooling process happens in four steps:
1. The indoor unit contains an evaporator coil, air filters, a fan, and an expansion valve. It draws in warm air from your room and passes it over the cooling evaporator coils.
2. Inside the system, a refrigerant absorbs this heat and flows to the outdoor unit via insulated pipes.
3. The outdoor unit, which houses the compressor, condenser coil, and cooling fan, releases the heat into the outside air. The compressor pressurises the refrigerant to keep the cycle going.
4. The refrigerant then flows back to the indoor unit through the expansion valve, which regulates the pressure and cools it down, ready to absorb more heat.
Many split systems are reverse cycles, meaning they can both cool and heat your home. In heating mode, the system works in reverse, pulling heat from the outside air and transferring it inside. It’s an energy-efficient way to stay warm in winter without needing a separate heater.
The Benefits Of Split System Air Conditioners
More and more Australians are turning to split system air conditioners. With their simple design, energy efficiency, and year-round versatility, these systems offer a lot of comfort without the high running costs or complicated setup.
· Energy Efficient and Cost-Saving: Split systems are incredibly efficient, producing up to five units of heating or cooling for every unit of electricity used.
· Control Over Individual Rooms: You can heat or cool specific rooms instead of the whole house, saving power and letting everyone enjoy their ideal temperature.
· Quiet Operation: The noisy parts of the system sit outside, so your indoor unit stays whisper quiet. Perfect for bedrooms and home offices.
· Compact and Stylish: Wall-mounted indoor units don’t take up any floor space and fit neatly into most room layouts. They’re ideal for apartments and smaller homes where space is essential.
· Affordable Installation and Maintenance: Without the need for ductwork, split systems are quicker and cheaper to install. Maintenance is simple and generally more affordable.
· Heating and Cooling in One: Reverse cycle systems heat and cool, so you don’t need to buy separate appliances.
· Cleaner Indoor Air: Many systems come with built-in filters to remove dust, allergens, and pollutants. That means healthier air for you and your family.
With proper care, a split system can last 15-20 years. However, systems over 10 years old may lose efficiency and require more frequent repairs. Upgrading to a newer, more efficient model can save on energy bills and reduce the need for costly repairs.
The Average Cost of Split System Installation in Australia
If you’re budgeting for a split system air conditioner, you can expect to pay anywhere between AUD $600 and $2,200 and sometimes more, depending on your setup, how many you are installing and the complexity of the installation.
But why such a wide range? Simply, there are a few key factors that can influence the final cost. These include:
- Unit Size and Capacity: Larger rooms need more powerful units, and with more capacity comes a higher price tag.
- Installation Complexity: If your indoor and outdoor units are close together on a single wall, installation is generally quick and inexpensive. But the price rises if your setup needs extra piping, electrical upgrades, or tricky access points. For example, multi-story systems require more tools and specialised skills involve running pipework through walls or ceilings, adding both time and labour costs to the job.
- Your Location: Labour costs and availability vary across Australia. Urban areas tend to be more competitive, while rural or remote installations might attract higher travel or service fees.
- Materials: This is often a pricing factor that gets overlooked, but one that is essential to installation. When it comes to professional installation, materials are included in the cost, however, if more materials are needed, you can expect this to increase.
- Time of Year (Seasonality): Summer and winter are peak seasons for aircon installs. If you’re flexible (and willing to wait), booking during the off-season may save you money and reduce wait times.
Other Costs & Conditions
While considering the base cost of installing a split system air conditioner is important, several additional factors can add to the overall expense. Here’s what you might need to consider:
- Old Unit Removal and Disposal Fees: If you’re replacing an old air conditioner, the cost of removal and disposal should also be factored in. Legally, technicians must safely extract refrigerants from the old unit, especially if it uses harmful substances like R22 (which is damaging to the ozone layer). Some installation companies offer removal services as part of their package, but it’s essential to ensure that proper disposal is carried out.
- Maintenance and Repairs: To keep your split system running efficiently and extend its lifespan, regular maintenance is key.
- Running Costs: As much as we would like it, installing an air conditioning system does have running costs. Electricity bills will depend on your split system’s energy efficiency. Australian systems use the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) which shows how well they perform. A 2.5kW unit with an EER of 3.20 costs about AUD 0.34 per kWh. This means you’ll pay around AUD 2.69 daily for 8 hours of use, or AUD 80.73 monthly. Modern split systems with inverter technology adjust their compressor speed based on room temperature and can save up to 30% on heating costs compared to older models.
- Warranty Costs: Most leading brands such as Daikin offer standard 5-year warranties on both parts and labour, provided the system is professionally installed. However, it’s important to note that improper installation can void these warranties entirely, leaving you without coverage for any potential issues. Some installers offer extended warranties at an additional cost.
What To Expect
1. Site Inspection and System Recommendations
Before starting the installation, your technician will conduct a thorough assessment of your property. This includes evaluating ceiling heights, wall structures, and overall room to determine the best location for both the indoor and outdoor units.
They’ll measure the space to ensure the unit fits properly and identify any potential challenges, such as electrical needs or access issues. The technician will also discuss different system options based on your requirements, ensuring the model chosen meets your energy efficiency needs and fits your comfort preferences. This step can help prevent or prepare for additional modifications later on.
2. Indoor and Outdoor Unit Placement
Proper placement of both the indoor and outdoor units is crucial for optimal performance and efficiency. Installers look for an indoor spot that allows clear airflow and is accessible for future maintenance. The unit should be away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and electronic devices that could interfere with its operation.
The outdoor unit is positioned on a solid, level surface, either a concrete pad or a wall-mounted bracket. Technicians ensure the unit has enough space around it to allow for proper ventilation as too little space can reduce efficiency.
3. Running Pipes, Electrical Connections, and Commissioning
The technician will connect the indoor and outdoor units using insulated copper piping. They drill holes through walls for the pipes, sealing them to prevent water ingress (water leaks and moisture issues). The refrigerant pipes, electrical cables, and drainage tubes are then routed, with proper pipe insulation to ensure optimal performance.
Licensed electricians handle all electrical connections to meet local regulations, and most installations require a dedicated power circuit to meet the system’s power demands. After making these connections, the technicians vacuum the pipes to remove moisture and air before adding refrigerant.
4. Clean-Up and Testing
Once everything is connected, the technician conducts a full system test. They check refrigerant pressure, electrical connections, and drainage, running the unit through cooling and heating cycles to ensure everything is functioning smoothly.
Looking To Install A Split System Air Conditioner?
When it comes to air conditioning systems, split system air conditioners are a popular choice for their energy efficiency, comfort, and versatility. While the upfront cost of the unit and installation can vary depending on factors like the size of your home, the unit’s features, and the complexity of the installation, the benefits they offer in terms of long-term savings and comfort make them a worthwhile investment.
At Crown Power, we know how important it is to have a reliable, efficient cooling solution for your home. As owner-operators, we ensure your split system is installed safely and optimised for maximum performance. With our expertise, you can rest easy knowing your investment will deliver the comfort and energy savings you’re looking for. Contact us today to schedule your professional installation and experience the difference!
