The difference between window air conditioners and split system air conditioners

Australian summers can be hot—very hot!
Most of us love having air conditioning in our homes or Adelaide properties.
But sometimes, certain factors stop people from making the purchase.
This can lead to sleepless nights, sweaty days, and discomfort during humid weather.
When choosing between systems, the window vs split system debate becomes important.
Understanding the pros and cons of each helps you make the best decision for your comfort and budget.

Worker Man climbing ladder to work on split system air conditioners on brick wall, Split system air conditioners vs window air conditioner.

It’s great to know there are air conditioning options to suit every space—from mansions to single-room apartments.
Whether you live in a stand-alone home or a 100+ story high-rise, there’s a solution for your needs.
Two popular choices are window air conditioners and split system air conditioners, both common in homes and offices.
You’ve likely seen these systems in many properties you’ve visited, whether residential or commercial.
To help you decide, we’ll compare the window vs split system units and their differences in function and design.
This comparison will help you determine which system suits your space, budget, and cooling or heating needs best.

Window air conditioners

These units sit on a window (as the name suggests) and are an ‘all in one’ system including a condenser, head unit and air flow vents. The key to a window air conditioning unit, similar to a portable unit is its versatility. The unit can be placed in any window and removed without any wholesale renovations needed to the home. They are cost effective and require no floor space.

Installation

Window air conditioning units can be a DIY job but may need a handy man to help install a bracket to support the unit.

No floor space required

Window air conditioning units simply sit on the windowsill; they don’t poke into the room or stick out – allowing you to use all the space you have available.

Semi-permanent

Window air conditioning units can be installed and removed without only some support brackets required. This means you don’t need to punch holes into walls of rental properties, making them the perfect solution for small rental units.

Cost

Window air conditioning units are extremely affordable, require little to no installation costs, and they are extremely efficient to run. The drawbacks of the system are that similar to the portable units; they are an ‘all in one’ so they make quite a lot of noise when operating. Unlike portable units, window air conditioners can’t be easily moved between rooms once installed.
They also extend outside the window and can be seen from the external wall of your home.
Still, a window air conditioning unit is a great semi-permanent, cost-effective solution for many homeowners.
If needed, the unit can be removed and relocated, offering some flexibility over permanent systems.

Split System Air conditioners

Split system air conditioners units are the most popular air conditioners around. As the name suggests, they come in two pieces, the head unit and condenser.

The head unit sits high on the internal wall in the room of your choice, while the external condenser sits on the external wall of your home, connected by a series of electrical and plumbing pipes and cables.

Installation

Installing a split system air conditioner is a detailed process requiring a licensed and experienced air conditioning technician.
The job involves drilling holes between internal and external walls to connect the indoor and outdoor components.
If you’re renting, always get permission from your landlord before scheduling any air conditioning installation.
Installation costs typically range from $300 to $1,000, depending on unit size, installation time, and wall access.
Other factors like property type and system complexity may also affect the final installation price.

No floor space required

Split system air conditioners are mounted high up on an internal wall, almost made to blend in. These units are controlled by a remote control, so it takes little effort or time to cool the room in your home.

Permanent installation

Although these units can be removed, it must be remembered that the installation of a split system air conditioner is a permanent affair. You won’t be able to undo the holes or installation required in a hurry, so ensure you want to proceed and have all the relevant permissions before moving forward.

Cost

These units are very cost-effective to run and connect directly to your home’s wiring—no external cabling is needed.
Split systems range from $650 to $3,500, plus installation, depending on size, features, and brand.
Split systems are popular because they’re affordable, easy to install, and highly effective at cooling individual rooms.
When choosing your system, consider your space, budget, and specific heating or cooling needs.
Speak with an expert, like Rite Price, for tailored advice and a full range of air conditioning options.
For more information on cooling solutions in Adelaide, contact the professional team at Rite Price Heating and Cooling.