Split system air conditioners vary based on many things
Split system air conditioners are one of the most popular ways to keep your home climate-controlled and protected from extreme weather year-round in Australia. From budget-friendly options to advanced units featuring artificial intelligence, there’s a wide range to suit every household. There are many factors that influence the performance, price, efficiency, and suitability of split system air conditioners. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key elements to help you make an informed decision.
Price
There is a huge price range when looking into split system air conditioning units. The more budget friendly model starts from around $650 to purchase, then around $60 – $120 per hour to install. The cost of installation will vary based on your home, your access to internal & external walls as well as a range of other elements.
In addition to this, the range of features you select – or don’t select – will change the overall cost of your unit. We will run through these now.
Brand
Brand Impact on Price
Your split system air conditioner price may vary depending on the brand you choose.
Tier-2 models from lesser-known brands offer similar features without the premium price tag.
They can save you money but may not provide the same long-term support or warranty coverage.
Premium brands like Mitsubishi, Carrier, Samsung, or Daikin offer strong warranties and trusted customer support across Australia.
Tier-two brands can still deliver great performance but may lack the same perceived reliability or brand reputation.
Features That Vary Between Units
The main factors that affect split system air conditioners are the features included in each unit.
Wi-Fi Control
Wi-Fi-enabled units let you control the air conditioner from anywhere using your smartphone or a web app.
This helps you switch your system on or off remotely to maintain comfort and reduce energy waste.
Pre-set the ideal temperature before arriving home and avoid overworking the unit upon return.
Noise Reduction Technology
Most split systems are quiet, but premium models go further with ultra-low noise levels, perfect for bedrooms or living areas.
Some systems operate as low as 19dB, making them almost silent as they circulate temperature-controlled air throughout your home.
Smart Sensors
High-end models come with intelligent sensors that detect human presence and adjust airflow for optimal comfort.
These sensors can also redirect airflow to avoid drafts and optimise energy use when rooms are unoccupied.
The unit can stay on longer, more efficiently, without wasting energy when no one is in the room.
Self-Cleaning Functionality
Some advanced systems feature self-cleaning mechanisms that keep the internal components and airflow fresh and hygienic.
These systems remove dust, bacteria, and allergens—delivering clean, healthy air for your family year-round.
Self-cleaning helps prevent mould build-up and improves overall air quality inside your home.
Aesthetics
Some split system air conditioning units look as though you have simply put a refrigerator on the wall of your home. They are big, bulky and white.
There are ranges of sleek designed, coloured systems to meet the needs of your homes colour scheme almost becoming a feature in itself rather than an eyesore.
Energy Efficiency
This is considered as one of the main factors that can vary between the split system air conditioning units. The running costs of the systems themselves, especially in areas where they will be running for a large amount of time.
The more energy efficient – or the more stars – the lower your power bill will be at the end of the day!
Multi-Room Systems
A multi-room or multi-head system is the one major varying factor that changes the split system air conditioning units. A Multi-head system allows for up to eight head units to be placed in separate rooms around the home. This will allow you to have one condenser unit, cooling eight zones around your house at different temperatures!
These systems are perfect for people with no access to roof cavities – for a ducted system – or don’t have room outside for more than one split system condenser unit to be installed.
Warranty
This is one of the big ones. You split system air conditioner may look the same, sound the same and cost the same as the one next to it – but is the warranty the same. If a company offers a long warranty, they back the quality of the parts and labour that went into building your machine. Consider this when purchasing your system! The split system air conditioner although it may vary in price, features, warranty, a number of head units or energy efficiency, there is no question that it will add a great deal of comfort to your home. Speak today with Rite Price for quality advice, products and services to get the right air conditioning solution for your home.
To find out more information about air conditioning systems for your property in Adelaide speak with the professional team from Rite Price Heating and Cooling today.








