Australian homeowners need to know about air conditioning systems as the country gets hotter each year. Sydney’s summer days are nowhere near bearable anymore.
The right cooling system can make a big difference to your comfort and power bills. This becomes clear since space heating and cooling takes up more than 50% of home energy use in Victoria.
Wall-mounted split system air conditioners lead the Australian market. Other cooling options are worth looking into. You’ll find solutions from whole-house ducted systems to single-room portable units, each with its own benefits.
A new, energy-smart heating and cooling system is a great way to cut power bills and help the environment. Shopping gets easier with the energy rating star system. The simple rule is – more stars mean less power consumption.
Air conditioning installation Brisbane pros, BG Electrical & Aircon, break down the different types for analysis below.
1. Ducted Air Conditioning
Ducted air conditioning stands out as a premium solution that gives you detailed climate control. You can cool and heat your entire home from a single system. Many Australian homeowners choose this option because it maintains steady temperatures across multiple rooms.
What is Ducted Air Conditioning
A ducted air conditioning system uses a network of ducts to spread cooled or heated air throughout your property. The system has an indoor unit that sits in the roof cavity or under the floor and connects to an outdoor unit. Unlike wall-mounted systems, you’ll only see ceiling vents and a control panel in your living spaces. This creates a clean look that combines smoothly with your home’s interior design.
The biggest advantage of ducted air conditioning comes from knowing how to maintain even temperatures across large spaces through well-placed ducts. This makes it ideal for homes that need steady climate control in multiple areas at once.
How Ducted Air Conditioning works
Ducted air conditioning works on the heat pump principle and moves heat between locations. The system pulls air through a return air grille with a philtre that catches dust and allergens. This air moves through the indoor unit where it gets cooled or heated before flowing back into various rooms through the ductwork.
Several parts work together in this process. The outdoor unit contains the compressor and condenser, while the indoor fan coil unit hidden in the ceiling houses the evaporator coil and fan. Refrigerant flows between these units through copper pipes. During cooling, it absorbs heat from indoor air and releases it outside. Reverse cycle systems do the opposite to warm your home in winter.
Modern systems come with zoning features. You can control different areas on their own using motorised dampers in the ductwork. This lets you set custom temperatures throughout your home without wasting energy in empty rooms.
Pros and cons of Ducted Air Conditioning
Pros:
- Even air circulation throughout your property
- Much quieter than other systems
- Clean look with only ceiling vents showing
- Custom temperature control for each room through zoning
- Better indoor air quality with effective filtration
- Boosts your property’s value
Cons:
- Costs more upfront than split systems
- Some properties lack space for ductwork
- Installation gets complex and expensive in existing homes
- Maintenance and repairs cost more
- Less efficient for single room cooling
Best use cases for Ducted Air Conditioning
Ducted air conditioning works best in larger properties that need steady climate control. It fits perfectly in:
- Large family homes with multiple bedrooms
- Multi-level properties needing consistent temperatures
- New buildings where ducts fit during construction
- Homes where looks matter most
- Areas with extreme weather changes
- Commercial spaces needing uniform comfort
These systems give you detailed climate management without sacrificing style or comfort.
Energy efficiency of Ducted Air Conditioning
Today’s ducted systems run efficiently despite covering large areas. Many use inverter technology that adjusts compressor speed based on need, saving energy while keeping you comfortable.
Zoning features help save more power since you only cool or heat rooms you use. Setting your cooling to 25°C gives you the most economical and efficient operation.
Ducted systems don’t show energy rating labels but must meet Minimum Energy Performance Standards. A well-set-up and maintained system saves substantial energy, especially compared to running multiple separate units in larger homes.
Installation and maintenance of Ducted Air Conditioning
Your ducted system needs professional installation. The process includes:
- Checking your property’s cooling and heating needs
- Designing ductwork layout for best airflow
- Setting up indoor and outdoor units and connecting refrigerant lines
- Installing ducts, vents and controls
- Testing the complete system
Regular maintenance keeps your system running well. Get professional service every 1-2 years. Between services, you should:
- Clean philtres monthly with daily use, or every three months with less use
- Remove leaves, dirt and debris from the outdoor unit
- Keep vents clear for proper airflow
Good maintenance extends system life, improves air quality and reduces power bills, making your ducted air conditioning more valuable over time.
2. Split System Air Conditioning
Split system air conditioning is Australia’s most popular cooling option that offers a perfect balance of affordability and performance. The simple design uses just two main components, making it available to homeowners who want targeted climate control.
What is Split System Air Conditioning
A split system air conditioner uses two separate units – an indoor unit that moves air inside your room and an outdoor unit that processes outside air to match your temperature settings. You’ll typically find the indoor unit mounted on a wall about two metres above the floor. These units connect through refrigerant pipes and electrical wiring that pass through a small wall opening. Most modern systems can both heat and cool your home, giving you year-round comfort with one system.
How Split System Air Conditioning works
These systems use the refrigeration cycle to move heat between indoor and outdoor spaces. Here’s how the refrigerant moves through a closed-loop system:
- Evaporation: The refrigerant pulls heat from your room’s air in the indoor unit’s evaporator coil, which cools the air that flows back into your space.
- Compression: The gaseous refrigerant moves to the outdoor unit where compression increases its temperature and pressure.
- Condensation: The outdoor fan pushes air over the condenser coil, letting the refrigerant release heat outside and turn back into liquid.
- Expansion: The liquid refrigerant passes through an expansion valve that lowers its pressure and temperature before heading back to the indoor unit to start over.
This ongoing cycle moves heat effectively, cooling your room in summer or heating it in winter with reverse cycle models.
Pros and cons of Split System Air Conditioning
Pros:
- You can control each unit separately for different rooms
- Lower power bills thanks to energy efficiency
- Quiet operation that works well in bedrooms
- Multiple design options to match your space
- Quick installation compared to ducted systems
- Advanced philtres that catch allergens and clean your air
Cons:
- Indoor units might affect your room’s look
- You’ll need professional installation with wall modifications
- A poorly maintained outdoor compressor can be noisy
- Multiple units are needed to cool several rooms
- Your outdoor space must fit the external unit
Best use cases for Split System Air Conditioning
These systems work best in small to medium spaces up to 60m². They’re perfect for:
- Bedrooms or living areas that need specific temperature control
- Small apartments with limited space
- Rooms you use occasionally where zone control helps
- Updating older homes without existing ductwork
- Rental properties that need minimal changes
- Spaces requiring both heating and cooling
Energy efficiency of Split System Air Conditioning
Split systems rank among the most efficient cooling options. Many use inverter technology that adjusts compressor speed based on what you need, using only necessary power. You can save 5-10% on electricity for each degree adjustment.
Since April 2020, residential air conditioning units must show a Zoned Energy Rating Label (ZERL) that displays seasonal efficiency ratings for Australia’s three climate zones. Your system’s capacity should match your room size – an oversized unit might cycle too frequently while an undersized one will struggle with temperature control.
Installation and maintenance of Split System Air Conditioning
Licenced professionals must handle the installation to ensure safe refrigerant gas handling and proper electrical connections. Installation usually takes half a day and includes:
- Mounting your indoor unit in the right spot
- Setting up the outdoor unit in a shaded, ventilated area
- Connecting pipes, wiring and drainage
- Testing everything works properly
Clean or replace philtres every 1-2 months based on use. Keep plants and debris away from the outdoor unit and get professional service every 1-2 years. Regular upkeep extends your system’s life and helps maintain clean air and peak performance.
3. Multi-Split System Air Conditioning
Multi-split system air conditioning gives you a smart way to cool multiple spaces while keeping your building’s exterior looking clean. This popular choice combines the benefits of room-by-room control you get with standard split systems and the space-saving advantages of integrated solutions.
What is Multi-Split System Air Conditioning
A multi-split system air conditioner links multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit through refrigerant lines. Standard split systems pair one outdoor unit with one indoor unit, but multi-split systems let you connect two to eight indoor units to a single outdoor compressor. You can control the temperature in different rooms or zones independently without needing multiple outdoor units.
The system is really flexible. You can mix and match different types of indoor units—wall-mounted, floor-standing, ceiling cassettes, or concealed bulkhead units—based on what each room needs. Modern homes that need to balance looks and space with comfort will find multi-split systems especially appealing.
How Multi-Split System Air Conditioning works
Multi-split systems work like standard split systems but distribute air better. Each indoor unit connects to the outdoor compressor through refrigerant pipes, condensate drainpipes, and electrical cables. The outdoor unit contains the compressor, condenser, and expansion valve.
The system moves refrigerant through a closed-loop system. It pulls heat from indoor spaces and releases it outside when cooling. New multi-split systems typically use R32 refrigerant, which is better for the environment. This refrigerant helps save energy and has just one-third of the global warming impact compared to older types.
These systems stand out because their outdoor units can handle different demands from multiple indoor units at once. The compressor speed changes based on how much cooling or heating each room needs.
Pros and cons of Multi-Split System Air Conditioning
Pros:
- Each room gets its own temperature control, so everyone stays comfortable
- You’ll save space with just one outdoor unit instead of many
- Your building’s exterior looks better with less equipment
- Indoor units come in different styles to match your interior
- Many models offer Wi-Fi control through smartphone apps
Cons:
- You’ll pay more upfront than single units, with installation costs from AUD 4,586.97 to AUD 12,231.92 depending on how many indoor units you need
- Installation takes careful planning and expert knowledge
- Performance might drop when all units run at full power in extreme weather
- Long refrigerant lines between units can reduce efficiency
- If the outdoor unit fails, all indoor units stop working
Best use cases for Multi-Split System Air Conditioning
Multi-split systems work great in homes that need several air-conditioned rooms but have limited outdoor space. These systems fit perfectly in:
- Apartments, townhouses, and condominiums with tight exterior space
- Family homes where everyone likes different temperatures
- Properties where looks matter
- Renovated buildings where adding more outdoor units won’t work
- Multi-storey buildings needing cooling on different floors
Energy efficiency of Multi-Split System Air Conditioning
New multi-split systems pack advanced energy-saving features. Many use inverter-driven compressors that adjust output as needed, which can cut energy use by up to 30% compared to ducted systems. You’ll save more energy by cooling only the rooms you use.
Today’s systems use R32 refrigerant, which transfers heat better and helps the environment. Long pipe runs can make the system work harder and use more energy. Getting the best performance starts with proper sizing calculations—over 70% of efficient systems come from accurate load assessments.
Installation and maintenance of Multi-Split System Air Conditioning
Expert installation makes all the difference with multi-split systems. Here’s what matters during installation:
- Pipe runs can stretch up to 50m between indoor and outdoor units
- Each indoor unit needs its own electrical circuit
- Proper drainage becomes vital in humid areas
- Refrigerant lines need smart routing between units
Regular maintenance keeps your system running smoothly. Clean the philtres every three months when seasons change to keep air quality high and the system efficient. Keep the outdoor unit free of debris and get professional service yearly. While most systems come with a 5-year warranty, you might want to think about replacement after 8 years.
4. Evaporative Cooling Systems
Evaporative cooling differs from regular air conditioning systems because it uses water evaporation as a natural cooling process. This traditional cooling method has evolved to suit modern homes and provides an eco-friendly option for specific climate conditions.
What is Evaporative Cooling
Evaporative cooling, also called swamp cooling, reduces air temperature naturally through water evaporation. These coolers create a cooling effect differently from refrigerant-based systems. They pass hot air through water-saturated pads, which makes the water evaporate and absorb heat from the surrounding air. The temperature can drop by 15-40 degrees Fahrenheit while using 75% less energy than traditional air conditioners.
How Evaporative Cooling works
The cooling happens just like you feel cooler near a lake or after swimming. Warm air moves through wet cooling pads and the heat makes water evaporate. This turns sensible heat into latent heat and creates cool, moisturised air that flows throughout your space.
The system has three main parts:
- Cooling pads that absorb and hold water
- A water pump that circulates water from a reservoir to the pads
- A fan that draws air through the wet pads and into your home
Pros and cons of Evaporative Cooling
Pros:
- Uses 50-75% less electricity than standard air conditioners
- Contains no harmful refrigerants or CFCs
- Provides fresh air circulation instead of recycling indoor air
- Keeps humidity at optimal levels (40-60%) for better breathing comfort
- Philtres dust particles, pollen and allergens
Cons:
- Works poorly in humid climates with moisture-heavy air
- Uses water heavily – 41-70 litres per hour in Hobart to 67-116 litres per hour in Adelaide
- Needs regular maintenance to avoid mineral buildup and mould growth
- Cannot match the cooling capacity of refrigerated air conditioning
- Requires open doors or windows for proper ventilation
Best use cases for Evaporative Cooling
These coolers work best in hot, dry climates where humidity stays below 50%. They are perfect for:
- Sport centres and gyms that need constant fresh air
- Data centres with heat-generating equipment
- Warehouses and distribution centres with large spaces
- Arid regions of Australia with low natural humidity
- Homes where people prefer natural ventilation
Energy efficiency of Evaporative Cooling
Power consumption ranges from 200-400 watts – nowhere near what conventional air conditioners use. Simple mechanics make these systems energy efficient. They only need enough power to run a fan and small water pump. Most units use 200-700 watts per hour, while standard AC units need 2000-3500 watts.
Installation and maintenance of Evaporative Cooling
A professional installation will ensure proper placement for airflow and drainage. Regular maintenance helps achieve the best performance:
- Clean the water reservoir monthly during peak usage
- Get new cooling pads every 3-6 months based on use
- Clean philtres weekly using mild detergent and warm water
- Book professional service once or twice yearly before summer
- Check and lubricate moving parts often
Roof-mounted units need special attention to meet State and Federal safety regulations.
5. Window Air Conditioners
Window air conditioners are a simple, all-in-one cooling solution that people have relied on for decades. These compact units combine convenience with affordability and serve as a practical option to meet specific cooling needs.
What is a Window Air Conditioner
A window air conditioner packs all cooling components into a single unit that fits right into your window or a custom wall opening. Unlike split systems, you’ll find the compressor, condenser, evaporator, fans, and controls all housed in one box. You can install these units without making permanent changes to your property. Many newer models now offer both cooling and heating features, which makes them useful year-round.
How Window Air Conditioners work
These units cool your space through a refrigeration cycle. The window AC unit acts like a heat pump that moves heat from inside your home to the outside. The process starts when the internal pump compresses refrigerant (typically R-410A, a mixture of difluoromethane and pentafluoroethane) into liquid form. This liquid releases heat outside as it passes through the outdoor radiator.
The refrigerant then reaches the expansion valve, where limited amounts pass through and create lower pressure on the other side. This drop in pressure makes the refrigerant evaporate and cool substantially. The cooled refrigerant flows through indoor radiator coils while a fan blows room air across them. Your space becomes more comfortable as this process cools the air and removes humidity.
Pros and cons of Window Air Conditioners
Pros:
- Cost-effective with prices from AUD 229.35 to AUD 993.84
- Easy installation that doesn’t need professional help
- You can move them between properties
- They cool individual rooms well
- Small spaces benefit from their energy-efficient operation
Cons:
- Your window view and natural light get blocked
- Ground-floor installations raise security concerns
- Units make noise, especially older models
- Built-in systems look better
- Water might not drain properly outside
Best use cases for Window Air Conditioners
Window air conditioners work best at cooling specific areas rather than entire homes. They suit:
- Spaces up to 250 square feet (depends on BTU rating)
- Rental homes where permanent AC isn’t allowed
- Rooms beyond central system’s reach
- Areas needing targeted cooling
- Occasionally used bedrooms or small living spaces
Energy efficiency of Window Air Conditioners
The right size unit is vital for energy efficiency. An oversized unit cools quickly but fails to dehumidify properly, while an undersized one runs non-stop. Room air conditioners use British Thermal Units (BTUs) ratings that should match your room size. A 150-250 square foot room needs a 6,000 BTU unit.
ENERGY STAR certified models now include better sealing and insulation materials to optimise efficiency. New units feature variable speed compressors that adjust temperature by changing internal motor speed. This results in quieter operation and lower energy bills.
Installation and maintenance of Window Air Conditioners
Double-hung windows make installation straightforward. The setup requires you to:
- Get accurate window measurements
- Attach side panels without leaving gaps
- Tilt the unit slightly (about 1/4 inch) for proper drainage
- Secure the unit with L-brackets
Your unit needs regular care to work its best. Clean or replace philtres monthly or bi-monthly during regular use. Regular seal checks help maintain efficiency, and proper mounting keeps the unit secure. A well-maintained window air conditioner typically lasts 5-10 years.
6. Portable Air Conditioners
Portable air conditioners are a flexible cooling option that lets you move and set up your unit without permanent installation. These standalone units have become popular alternatives to cool specific areas, though they do have some performance limits.
What is a Portable Air Conditioner
A portable air conditioner works as a standalone cooling unit that you can move between rooms. Unlike fixed systems, these compact units pack all cooling parts—compressor, condenser, evaporator, and fan—into one housing. Most models come with wheels and need just a power outlet and window access to work.
How Portable Air Conditioners work
The cooling process in portable air conditioners matches other cooling systems. The unit pulls warm room air over evaporator coils filled with refrigerant. The refrigerant absorbs heat and evaporates to cool the air before blowing it back into your room. The unit also removes humidity through condensation.
Hot refrigerant moves to the compressor and turns into high-pressure gas. It then flows through condenser coils to release heat. You must vent this heat outside through a window-connected exhaust hose. So proper venting makes the unit work better.
Pros and cons of Portable Air Conditioners
Pros:
- You can move it between rooms easily
- No need for permanent installation—perfect for rentals
- Costs less than split-system air conditioners
- Easy to store in cool weather
- Some units can heat too
Cons:
- Uses way more energy than other systems
- Makes more noise since all parts are in one unit
- Has zero-star energy rating
- Exhaust hose limits where you can place it
- Many units need regular water drainage
- Heavy units (13-43kg) aren’t truly portable
Best use cases for Portable Air Conditioners
These units work best for temporary cooling needs. They suit:
- Rental homes where you can’t install permanent units
- Spaces up to 40m²
- Rooms with windows that work for venting
- Short-term or backup cooling needs
- Areas where you can close doors and windows to stop drafts
Energy efficiency of Portable Air Conditioners
Portable air conditioners rank at the bottom for energy efficiency with a zero-star rating. Single-hose models create negative pressure that pulls warm air from nearby spaces, making cooling harder. Dual-hose designs work better because they use separate hoses for intake and exhaust.
Installation and maintenance of Portable Air Conditioners
Setting up your unit means placing it near a window, connecting the exhaust hose to the window kit, and sealing it properly. Keep the unit at least 50cm from walls to work its best.
The unit needs regular care. Clean the philtre every 1-2 weeks during heavy use, empty water collection tanks, and keep the exhaust hose straight. Good maintenance helps the unit last longer and cool better.
Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners
Reverse cycle technology stands out among air conditioning systems. It’s a unique solution that handles both cooling and heating through a single economical unit. Australian homes are choosing this versatile option more frequently to control their climate year-round.
What is a Reverse Cycle Air Conditioner
A reverse cycle air conditioner combines heating and cooling in one system. These systems transfer heat between locations instead of generating it like standard electric heaters. They work great in areas that experience both hot and cold weather throughout the year. The term “reverse” describes how the system can switch its refrigeration cycle to provide heat when it’s cold outside.
How Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners work
The system pulls heat from indoor air and sends it outside when cooling. The process switches during heating – taking heat from outdoor air and bringing it inside. This system works well even when temperatures drop to -15°C, thanks to automatic defrost cycles. Heat from outside moves through an external coil with refrigerant, which then compresses into hot gas and releases warmth inside your home.
Pros and cons of Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners
Pros:
- Amazing energy efficiency (300%-600%)
- Complete comfort with dual heating/cooling features
- Better indoor air quality through filtration
- Earth-friendly operation
Cons:
- Higher upfront installation costs
- Regular professional maintenance needed
- Ducted versions might leak air
- Whole system risks failure if outdoor unit breaks
Best use cases for Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners
These systems work best in:
- Homes that want both heating and cooling
- Areas with extreme temperatures
- Buildings focused on saving energy
- Spaces needing steady comfort all year
Energy efficiency of Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners
Yes, it is impressive how these systems achieve efficiency ratings of 300% to 600%. One unit of electrical energy turns into 3-6 units of heating or cooling power. They’re the most efficient combined heating and cooling systems you can get. Modern versions with inverter technology adjust their compressor speed based on what you need.
Installation and maintenance of Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners
Professional installers help pick the best spots for indoor and outdoor units. Your maintenance checklist should include:
- Clean philtres monthly during heavy use
- Get professional service every 2-3 years
- Keep outdoor units clear of plants and debris
- Use self-cleaning features when your unit has them
Good maintenance helps your system last longer and keeps your air clean while saving energy.
8. Ductless Mini-Split Systems
Ductless mini-split systems have become a popular choice because they offer flexible and targeted comfort control. These trailblazing cooling and heating solutions give homeowners unique advantages to manage their climate without major property modifications.
What is a Ductless Mini-Split System
A ductless mini-split system pairs an outdoor compressor unit with one or more indoor air handlers connected through small refrigerant lines. These units don’t need extensive ductwork because they deliver air straight into individual rooms. You can mount each indoor unit on walls, ceilings, or floors based on your space needs and priorities.
How Ductless Mini-Split Systems work
The system works like conventional air conditioning but eliminates duct-related air loss. Room air flows through the indoor unit and passes over evaporator coils with refrigerant before returning as cooled air to the space. The refrigerant moves heat to the outdoor unit where it disperses. The process reverses for heating – the system pulls heat from outdoor air and brings it inside, working well even when temperatures drop to -22°F.
Pros and cons of Ductless Mini-Split Systems
Pros:
- 60% more energy efficient than standard electric heating systems
- Individual room temperature control through customised zoning
- Easy installation in various locations with minimal structural changes
- Better air filtration leads to improved indoor air quality
Cons:
- Costs more upfront than window units or central systems
- Room aesthetics might suffer from visible indoor units
- Philtres need monthly cleaning
- System installation requires professional expertise
Best use cases for Ductless Mini-Split Systems
These systems work best in homes without existing ductwork, room additions, and small apartments where adding ducts isn’t practical. Multi-family housing, high-performance homes, and spaces needing separate temperature zones also benefit from these systems.
Energy efficiency of Ductless Mini-Split Systems
These systems rank among the most efficient options with SEER2 ratings up to 28.5 for cooling and 18 HSPF2 for heating. The absence of ductwork prevents the 30% energy loss that central forced-air systems typically experience.
Installation and maintenance of Ductless Mini-Split Systems
Professional installers mount indoor units 6+ feet above the floor, drill a 3-inch hole for refrigerant lines, and place the outdoor unit within 50 feet of indoor units. The system’s longevity depends on monthly philtre cleaning, yearly refrigerant level checks, and keeping outdoor units free of debris.
Conclusion
Your choice of air conditioning system comes down to several factors – the climate where you live, your budget, property type and cooling requirements. Each of these eight systems has its own strengths and limitations that make it ideal for specific situations.
Split systems are Australia’s most popular choice because they balance cost and performance well, while ducted systems give complete coverage for larger homes. On top of that, multi-split setups work great when you want to cool multiple rooms while keeping your home’s exterior looking good.
People living in dry climates might find evaporative cooling systems more economical and eco-friendly. You could also go with portable or window units if you’re renting or just need temporary cooling without permanent setup.
Reverse cycle air conditioners really shine with their ability to both heat and cool, which makes them perfect for year-round use. Mini-split systems let you target specific areas without major structural changes.
Energy efficiency should play a big role in your decision. Modern systems now use inverter technology that adjusts compressor speed based on what you need, which saves energy while keeping you comfortable. Star ratings help you compare different systems, but note that getting the right size is crucial – an oversized unit will cycle too often and won’t dehumidify properly, while an undersized one won’t keep up with your cooling needs.
Professional installation will give you the best performance no matter which system you pick. Regular maintenance helps your system last longer, keeps your air clean, and maintains efficiency over time.
Now that you understand your air conditioning options better, you can pick a system that gives you reliable comfort, energy efficiency, and value for your home in Australia’s warming climate. Making the right choice today means you’ll have cooler, more comfortable spaces and potentially lower energy bills for years to come.