Ducted Versus Split System Air Conditioning

Choosing an air conditioning system is an age-old dilemma, with split system air conditioning and ducted air two of the most popular systems. There are pros and cons to both systems. When you’re trying to choose between ducted or split, it’s important to evaluate which system will suit your needs. We take a closer look at both to help you make an informed choice. 

What is split system air conditioning?

A split system air conditioner contains two separate units, split between the inside and the outside. The outdoor unit contains the compressor and condenser. The condenser dispels heat from the area being cooled before passing it into the building, while refrigerants inside the compressor then cool the air. The inside unit, which is wall mounted, has a fan inside, which then blows the air into the room. 

What are the advantages of a split system?

A split system has lots of advantages, which is why it’s such a popular choice. It’s often seen as the easier, more cost-effective solution, due to the simplicity of its installation, and its pricing. 

Easy installation

One difference between a split system and ducted air conditioning is the installation. Split systems are relatively easy to install, as the units are mounted onto the walls. Ducted air conditioning requires access to your roof or ceiling space and ductwork. As split systems are simpler to install, they can usually be fitted more quickly. 

Cost-effective

The easier installation process also makes a split system air conditioner a cost-effective choice. In addition to a cheaper install process, split systems can be more energy efficient, which brings their running costs down. Their single outside unit can also reduce maintenance costs. 

Independent control

The separate inside units of a split system give users the ability to independently control the temperature of separate rooms by turning individual units on or off. This is both a bonus for temperature controlling different parts of your home, and a cost-saving measure, as you don’t need to heat or cool areas that you aren’t in. 

Quiet

While you want your air conditioning unit to heat and cool efficiently, you also don’t want to hear it! Split systems run very quietly, so they’re perfect for any room in the house, even the bedroom of the lightest sleeper. 

Energy efficient

As we mentioned, split systems are extremely energy efficient. This is because they move air, rather than generating or creating it, which takes more energy. To increase that efficiency, make sure you select the right system for your space. 

What are the disadvantages of a split system?

While split system air conditioning is a great way to cool or heat your home, there are some potential disadvantages to consider. 

Multiple units

Split systems do require multiple units. In addition to the outside unit, in order to control the temperature of multiple spaces, you need multiple units. If you prefer a more minimal look to your home, multiple air conditioning units may not be what you want. 

Wall mounted units 

In addition to the multiple units you need, you also need to remember all your indoor units will have to be wall mounted. This means they will take up wall space, may interfere with the look of a room and will need regular cleaning. 

Outdoor unit required 

You need to consider if you have the outside space to accommodate an outdoor unit. It will also need to be placed somewhere that is easy to access and ideally out of the sun (heating up over time will reduce its efficiency). While this is not usually a deal breaker, it is worth bearing in mind. 

What is ducted air conditioning?

Ducted air conditioning is a method of heating or cooling a space 

by distributing air through a series of vents and ducts. A central air conditioning unit filters the air before dispersing it through the appropriate vents. 

What are the advantages of ducted? 

There are plenty of advantages to ducted air conditioning, both in terms of aesthetics and the way that the system functions. Ducted is seen as the gold standard of air conditioning due to its smooth running and capabilities. 

Whole home coverage

Ducted air conditioning offers whole room coverage from a single system. Its central thermostat offers even temperature coverage for your whole home, which is great news for households with larger families and pets, as no matter which room of the house you are in, you will reap the benefits.

Zoning

In addition to the ability to offer even coverage to your whole home, a ducted system has the opportunity to zone off sections. This means you can set different temperatures for each room, which is useful if you have family members with different needs, or areas that you rarely use. 

Aesthetics

Aesthetically, the sleek lines of a ducted system are hard to beat. With ducted, all the units are hidden from view; all you will see are the vents, so your system won’t interfere with your design scheme. 

What are the disadvantages of a ducted system?

For all its advantages, there are a couple of potential drawbacks to ducted air conditioning, which you need to take into account before you select the system for you. 

Expense

A ducted system is likely to be more expensive than a split system. The installation process is lengthier because it involves ceiling access, as well as cutting and securing vents. This can be disruptive. The installation will require specialist knowledge, which makes it more expensive. 

Installation limitations

A ducted system requires a certain amount of space in your ceilings or floors to accommodate the indoor unit. This means it might not be suitable for every home design. It’s not advisable for a single room unit. 

Which is better, a ducted or split system? 

When it comes to split system vs. ducted,  it comes down to a matter of personal taste. 

What is more efficient, a ducted or split system? 

If you compare ducted vs split system efficiency, generally ducted systems are seen to be more efficient at providing an even temperature throughout a home. 

When it comes to energy efficiency, split systems offer a more energy efficient heating or cooling process because they are modifying the temperature of existing air, rather than generating it. 

Which system has higher running costs?

If running costs are an issue and you are trying to choose a ducted or split system, you may prefer a split system. Split systems generally cost less to run because you can turn individual units on and off. They’re also much more energy efficient, as we mentioned above, so this again makes them cheaper to run. 

How do they compare for repairs? 

There is little difference between a ducted and split system when it comes to how often they need repairing. That said, when it comes to the repair, often split systems are cheaper to repair because they have fewer components. It’s also usually easier to access a split system air conditioner because its units are all visible and accessible. 

As we mentioned, whether a ducted or a split system is right for you will depend on your individual circumstances, and what’s important to you. Our talented HVAC technicians have extensive experience with both systems, both on the installation and maintenance and repairs side. So please contact us and we would be happy to help you make your decision about the type of system to suit your needs.