Ducted vs Split System - Which Is Right for Your Home?

One of the most common questions we get from homeowners is: ducted or split system? Both are excellent solutions - but they suit different homes, budgets, and lifestyles. Here's what you need to know to make an informed decision.

Split System Air Conditioning

A split system consists of one indoor wall unit connected to one outdoor compressor. It conditions a single room or open-plan area. Most modern split systems are reverse-cycle (heating and cooling) and carry an Australian Energy Star rating under AS/NZS 3823, making it straightforward to compare running costs between models.

Split System - Pros

• ●Lower upfront cost - typically $1,000-$3,000 fully installed for a standard residential unit
• ●Easy to install in existing homes with minimal disruption
• ●Only condition the rooms you use - efficient for smaller homes or single-room use
• ●High-efficiency models available with up to 6-star energy ratings
• ●Each unit can be set to a different temperature independently

Split System - Cons

• ●Visible wall-mounted unit inside each room
• ●Multiple units needed for whole-home coverage, which adds up in cost
• ●Each unit requires its own outdoor compressor, which adds to wall and yard space requirements

Ducted Air Conditioning

A ducted system uses a single indoor unit (usually in the roof space) connected to multiple outlets throughout the home via a duct network. A smart zone controller like the AirTouch 5 allows you to open and close individual zones independently, so you're not conditioning rooms that aren't in use.

Ducted - Pros

• ●Clean, discreet appearance - only small ceiling or floor grilles visible
• ●Whole-home coverage from a single system
• ●Smart zoning significantly reduces running costs in larger homes
• ●Adds measurable value to a property
• ●Quieter operation - the main unit is located away from living areas

Ducted - Cons

• ●Higher upfront cost - typically $10,000-$20,000+ installed depending on home size
• ●More complex to retrofit into existing homes (ceiling space required)
• ●Requires professional duct design to ensure adequate airflow to all zones

What's Right for Queensland Homes?

In South East Queensland's climate, air conditioning isn't a luxury - it's a necessity. For smaller homes, granny flats, or individual rooms, a quality split system is often the most cost-effective solution. For larger new homes of 200m² or more, a ducted system with smart zoning typically provides better long-term value, with lower per-room running costs when zones are used effectively.

For new homes, we recommend discussing your options during the planning stage - ideally before the ceiling and wall cavities are closed. The cost difference between a basic and premium system can be relatively small early, but the comfort and running-cost difference over the life of the system can be significant.