What’s the Right Air Conditioning System for Your Home?
Right Air Conditioning systems comes in different packages. The market offers various types of air conditioning system to meet the demands of every Australian family. Some brands specialize in low- to mid-range air conditioners that offer efficient cooling with less advanced features. These brands typically target families with average income and small to medium houses.
Other brands, on the other hand, specialize in mid- to high-range air conditioners that offer more efficient cooling with advanced and convenient features. These brands typically target families with above-average income and medium to large houses.
However, choosing an air conditioning system is not as simple as that. There is more to it than size, features, and cooling power. Be sure to know all of your options before you spend hundreds to thousands of dollars on an air conditioning system. This list will tell you when each type can be considered the most suitable choice.
The Right Air Conditioning for Your Room
Window Air Conditioning
As the name suggests, this type fits into window sills and cools small rooms effectively.
The box-shaped unit extends outside while the cooling interface remains accessible inside the room.
Advantages
Window air conditioners offer the most affordable and low-maintenance solution.
They consume less energy because they use a single compact unit.
Anyone with basic DIY skills can install this unit without hiring a technician.
Disadvantages
The motor usually maxes out at 1.5 horsepower, limiting its reach to smaller spaces.
It creates noticeable noise and can block natural light or interfere with curtains.
Best For
Use this air conditioner in bedrooms or private offices with accessible window sills facing open air.
It’s ideal for sealed rooms where the window remains closed most of the time.
Coverage
Most models cool 12 to 14 square meters, but stronger ones (1.5 HP) cover up to 25 square meters.
Common Features
Standard models include humidity control, timers, and dust filters.
Advanced features are rare, keeping it budget-friendly for the low-end market.
The Right Air Conditioning Comes in Split or Wall Split
Split-type air conditioners include two parts: an indoor unit with controls and features, and an outdoor unit with the compressor and fan.
Drain pipes and cables connect them, allowing use in rooms without windows.
Advantages
Although larger than window units, split systems save space by mounting on walls above furniture.
They operate quietly and maintain a sleek appearance regardless of the room’s design.
You can use them in internal rooms without natural ventilation.
Disadvantages
Split systems cost more than window units and typically require professional installation.
Best For
Install them in bedrooms, nurseries, workshops, or garages—especially where windows aren’t available.
Coverage
Most systems run on 1 to 1.5 HP, cooling areas of 15 to 25 square meters.
Some premium brands offer 2.5 HP, covering up to 35 to 37 square meters.
Common Features
Expect humidity control, timers, bacteria filters, and dust filters as standard inclusions.
The Right Air Conditioning for Floor Standing
Though often seen in offices, floor-standing units now appear in modern homes for larger room coverage.
Like split systems, these include two parts, but the indoor unit stands freely on the floor.
Advantages
Floor-standing systems efficiently cool large open areas like living rooms, dining rooms, and function halls.
You only need to install the external part while the indoor unit uses minimal floor space.
It operates quietly, making it suitable for professional environments.
Disadvantages
These units are expensive and use more electricity than smaller systems.
Though installation is easier than split types, it still requires setup.
Best For
Choose this option for common areas or large workspaces needing powerful cooling performance.
Coverage
Most tower models feature 2.5 HP capacity, ideal for 37 to 45 square meters of floor space.
Common Features
Look for humidity control, timers, dust filters, and cool-breeze functions.
Some models even include humidifier or dehumidifier capabilities.
The Right Air Conditioning Comes in Ducted or Centralized
This system uses the same cooling principles as split and tower units but on a larger scale.
Instead of one compressor and fan, it may use several units and a network of ducts to distribute air throughout the home.
You can use this system for both cooling and heating since it also functions as an HVAC setup.
Advantages
Centralized systems offer the most efficient and cost-effective way to cool or heat an entire house.
They eliminate the need for installing multiple individual units in different rooms.
This setup reduces electricity bills and simplifies climate control across the home.
Disadvantages
These units carry higher upfront costs and require regular professional maintenance.
Installing the system involves reworking the ceiling to accommodate ducts, pipes, and internal units.
Best For
Install centralized systems in medium to large homes or commercial spaces with multiple rooms and shared areas.
Coverage
Coverage depends on how extensively the ducts spread across the structure.
You can scale the system to meet any room layout or house size.
Common Features
Expect full heating, ventilation, and air conditioning support.
Most units also include brand-specific tech for advanced air management.
