When is a Split System Air Conditioner better?

Property owners have always grappled with the age-old question of when a split system air conditioner is better to have above other air conditioning options.

There are plenty of benefits for a split system air conditioner, many of which we will explore in this article. It’s important to note there is no right or wrong answer, air con will suit the individual, and whether you have a small house, large house, office or commercial space, there are plenty of options to suit every need and budget.

Closeup view about using some appliance such as air condition.

If you’re trying to decide between a ducted system and a split system, we’ll take the time to explore all the options, so whatever solution you choose for your property you can be assured you’re making an informed decision for your needs.

Let’s explore the air condition options

If you have spent any time at all exploring the options for heating or cooling your property, you would have determined there are a few main options for air conditioning. Ducted air conditioning systems, split system wall unit systems, and evaporative cooling systems.

There are benefits for each system, which we will explore and by far the main two options that are usually in properties universally are either ducted systems or split systems.

What is a split system and how is it different?

When you’re shopping around for a split system, the basic reason for the name comes down to the fact that there are two parts to the system, an outdoor metal cabinet and an indoor metal cabinet – this is the reason why the system is called ‘split.’

The indoor unit is wall hung and is attached to a refrigerant line that connects to the outdoor unit. The indoor unit and the outdoor unit are connected and need to be close to one another, and this usually means a split system will be wall hung backing onto the outdoor unit which contains the compressor, condenser, and fan.

A split system while small does need to be installed by a skilled and licensed professional because there is refrigerant in the system and this should never be installed by an unlicensed individual.

The reason split systems are very popular is because property owners don’t need to cut a hole in the wall to accommodate the system, rather they can be affixed to the wall and don’t take up a great deal of space.

Many hotels, apartments, villas, and units use split systems air conditioners due to their affordability, ease of installation and seamless integration with fixtures and décor.

What are the other options and why should I consider them?

Exploring Your Air Conditioning Options in Adelaide

If you’re searching online for air conditioning systems, you will come up with a wide range of options for your needs, ranging from evaporative coolers to ducted air conditioning systems that are installed to be used throughout the entire home.
Here is a basic overview of the options for air conditioning your Adelaide home:

Split System Air Conditioning

Split system air conditioning – this is as explained above a unit with an indoor and outdoor unit that can be installed in a room or space for heating or cooling.
>The unit is ideal for small office spaces, units, or smaller homes where one specific area such as a living room, bedroom or TV space requires heating or cooling.

Portable Air Conditioning

Portable air conditioning – a portable air conditioner is great for small areas or when an individual is renting or not able to install fixed or permanent air conditioning systems.
>On wheels and easily moved, the portable systems can be noisy however can heat or cool a space adequately when needed.
A hose vent is attached from the unit to a window to extract heat and push it outside.

Ducted or Central Air Conditioning

Ducted or central air conditioning is a popular but expensive option to install and run.
It’s ideal for large homes, offices, or commercial spaces needing consistent climate control.
Ducted systems are more practical than installing several individual split systems.
They maintain the perfect temperature across multiple rooms all year round.

Evaporative Cooling

Evaporative cooling – a process of air conditioning that cools air through the evaporation of water, an evaporative cooler while popular isn’t always suitable for all climates and should only be used in properties that aren’t located in geographic areas that are high in humidity.
If you would like to find out more, please see our evaporative cooling page.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

At the end of the day, your decision will often come down to budget and desired features.
Choose an air conditioning unit that fits your needs and financial situation.
Evaporative coolers appeal to those wanting affordable, natural cooling options.
Ducted systems suit those needing whole-home comfort with zoning control features.
Each system type offers benefits depending on your property and lifestyle preferences.

Protecting Your Investment

Whatever system you choose, make sure it includes a warranty for peace of mind.
Always have your air conditioner installed by a licensed professional.
This protects your investment and keeps the manufacturer’s warranty valid.
DIY or unlicensed installations are not covered under most warranty terms.
If your system breaks down, you won’t be covered without proper installation.
You’ll have to pay for all repairs and maintenance during the warranty period.

When is a split system the way to go?

Why Many Choose a Split System

There are basically limitless reasons why individuals wind up choosing a split system, however here are some of the main decision makers.

More Flexible Than Ducted Systems

It’s fair to say that if you have an existing home, installing a split system air conditioner is far easier and cheaper than pulling the internal walls and system of your home to retrofit a ducted system.
Split systems are installed neatly on the wall without the need for a lot of changes to the interior or exterior of the home, making them a simple and easy air conditioning option for property owners looking for a rapid solution.

Cheaper to Install Than Ducted Systems

When you have to install a ducted system you need to interconnect every living space and room within a property, making for a long and expensive process.
Imagine needing to connect the inner workings of every single room using a ducted process—it’s not going to be cheap, and it’s not going to be easy.
This is why often split systems and their simple-to-install indoor and outdoor units are chosen as an alternative.

Ideal for Small Homes, Units, or Apartments

When you live in a smaller home, unit or apartment, it’s not always easy or even allowed to install ducted systems.
Split systems can be installed in one day and are usually easily approved in properties with a body corporate.
This makes them a far easier option when approval is needed from body corporate management.

Perfect for Single Rooms or Home Offices

Suitable for single rooms or offices, split systems work well in specific spaces needing air conditioning.
If you work from home, a split system offers ideal climate control for your workspace.
You can cool one room without installing air conditioning throughout the entire property.
Split systems are a cost-effective solution for targeted cooling or heating.

Simple to Maintain

Split systems are simple to maintain with regular professional servicing.
Basic maintenance like cleaning filters can be done yourself.
With proper upkeep, you can improve performance and save money over time.

Eco-Friendly and Energy Efficient

Eco-friendly and energy efficient, split systems with high star ratings reduce energy use.
They help lower carbon emissions and are better for the environment.
Choose an energy-efficient split system to reduce your carbon footprint and power bills.
Split systems offer comfort while supporting sustainable and responsible energy use.

If you want the best advice ask the experts

You get what you pay for, especially when it comes to expert advice on split system air conditioners.
Rite Price Heating and Cooling provides complete air conditioning solutions for clients across Adelaide.
We are a proud family-owned and operated business offering trusted advice.
Our team goes the extra mile to ensure you get the right system.
We provide expert recommendations and reliable after-sales support for every customer.
If you’re considering a split system air conditioner, we’re here to help.
Speak with the team at Rite Price today for personalised service and advice.