Air Conditioning Done Right. 5 Tips to Decide If Ducted or Split Systems Are Best for Your Home

Are you considering buying a new AC system for your house? Are you torn between a split air conditioner and a duct AC system? 

If it were a black-and-white matter, you would get a straight answer immediately, but the decision is a little more complex. In this blog, we will dissect the essential aspects to help you make an informed decision to choose the right air conditioning in Katoomba. But before delving into the comparison, let’s first define each system briefly.

What is Split System Air Conditioning?  

A split air conditioner system features an indoor unit mounted high on a wall and an outdoor unit placed outside the property. The internal unit “conditions” the air which involves dehumidifying, filtering and cooling the air while the external unit draws in air and adjusts its temperature. With a split AC system, you will need multiple units throughout your house to cool the entire property. 

What is Ducted Air Conditioning? 

It features an air conditioning system that works through a ducted system throughout your house. A central fan coil unit is placed on the roof and a series of ducts bring the cool air to the various rooms and spaces of your house. An outdoor unit is placed outside your house and it is usually double the size of the outdoor unit of a split system. The system is controlled through a thermostat responsible for regulating the airflow throughout the network. In a modern duct system, the thermostat also provides selective cooling to XYZ the temperature of different parts of your house. 

What Are the Key Tips to Decide Between Ducted and Split Systems?  

Installation Cost 

Ducted air conditioning systems require professional installation including more manpower and labour work. Because a duct network is important for a ducted system, installation of an AC is preceded by installing duct vents requiring more effort, upfront cost and time as well as a specialist installation.  In comparison, split system air conditioning in Katoomba offers a more cost-effective installation. Moreover, you can opt for a room-by-room installation approach, spreading out the expenses and resources over time. Therefore, if you have budget constraints, it is better to opt for the split AC system. 

Effectiveness 

Split systems are very effective for smaller homes and single rooms. If you require cooling in a larger room, you will need an 8kw unit and for cooling in multiple rooms, installing several units throughout the house is recommended. On the other hand, a ducted air conditioning system is designed to effectively cover larger spaces. It also allows you to control the temperature throughout the house with modern units. 

Suitability 

Can I afford to install separate units throughout the house? Does my property have existing ductwork? 

When choosing the AC system, many homeowners ignore conducting a feasibility analysis for their property. Failing to think and research before choosing an air conditioning system can often lead thousands down the drain. Before choosing a split system, decide if you want cooling in all rooms or just a few central spaces such as a lounge and a common bedroom.  

Similarly, if your property does not have existing ductwork, you will have to pay more for the setup of a duct system before the installation of a duct AC. Some properties also lack enough roof space to install a ducted AC making the installation impossible. Double-storey houses face issues when running ducts downstairs. In such cases, it is ideal to opt for a hybrid approach: a ducted AC system for upstairs and a split system for downstairs.   

Noise 

If you are choosing an AC system for your property, noise is an important factor to consider. A duct system is relatively quieter than an AC split system because the noise-producing components such as compressors and fans are centralized outside of the occupied space. If the occupants require a noiseless environment, such as in an office, it is best to opt for a duct AC system. In a split AC, the compressor and a fan are housed inside the internal unit. However, as technology advances, modern split AC systems are now remarkably quiet nowadays. 

Maintenance 

A split AC system requires frequent to prevent dust buildup in the filters. It is recommended to clean the filters every two weeks. Not only does this allow clean air conditioning in Katoomba but also reduces the energy consumption by 5 to 15%. Cleaning the filter is easier than you think as it involves removing it from the unit, gently washing it with a hose and placing it back in the unit. 

Ducted AC vents, on the other hand, require cleaning once in 6 months. However, you should always call a professional for the maintenance and cleaning of your ducted system. Therefore, if you prefer an upkeep of your air conditioner that requires less effort and also lasts longer, a ducted AC system is something you should consider. 

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