Which AC System is Cheaper to Run? Ducted vs Split System

The first question many homeowners have is, ‘What type of air conditioner should I buy?’

We think this is a very sensible question!

Did you know the most commonly bought type of air conditioners are in fact ducted and split air conditioner systems? So, we’ve (perhaps) narrowed down your choices.

However, how do you decide between them? Especially since, to the regular observer, the differences may not be obvious.

Let’s take a look at the differences between them now, so you can make an informed decision when buying your dream air conditioner.



What are the differences between Split systems and Ducted Air Conditioners?



Installation costs

A ducted air conditioning system requires a specialist and expert installation, and, therefore, has a larger installation cost. This, however, depends significantly on the size of the house and the number of rooms that need to be air-conditioned.

Split systems, on the other hand, are a lot cheaper to install. Did you know that split systems can be installed a room at a time, so the cost is spread out too?

Running costs

Split system running costs are cheaper since they run on an individual unit basis. Although a ducted air conditioning system has higher ongoing costs as it operates throughout the entire house, zoning features allow you to bring down and control the costs. What is zoning? This feature allows you to turn off the air conditioning in rooms that are not in use.



Summer and winter costs

Both systems have reverse cycles (in other words, they will work as both cooling and heating systems), so costs will vary depending on how much you use them throughout the year.

Split systems will likely still prove cheaper overall, but keep in mind that insulation, temperature settings and the age of your aircon system will impact costs in both summer and winter.

How to calculate running costs

To calculate the costs, you need to consider the capacity or size of the ducted or split system, your location, the temperature of the unit, how long the air conditioner is running, and whether you have floor insulation/double glazing.



So, which air conditioner is right for me?

This is a tough question! It depends entirely on your living situation.

Let’s say you want to cool your entire home at a consistent temperature, then a ducted system is the way to go. But, if you’re thinking of getting an air conditioner on a budget, and are happy with one or two rooms being cooled, then a split system might be the best option for you.

If you’d like to know more about ducted and split air conditioning systems on the Sunshine Coast, feel free to give our professional and friendly team at Davies Refrigeration & Air Conditioning a call on 0412 846 854. Alternatively, drop us an email at wes@daviesqld.com for a free quote.

Would you like to know more about Reverse Cycle Split Systems? Read our previous blog about What Are The Benefits Of Reverse Cycle Split Systems For Heating? or contact our helpful team.