Split System vs Ducted Air Conditioning: Which One Is Right for Your Home?
- shineelectrical1
- Jul 14
- 2 min read

When it comes to cooling your home, the Australian climate demands a solution that’s efficient,
reliable, and tailored to your lifestyle.
The answer depends on your home layout, budget, and personal preferences. Let’s break it
down.
What Is a Split System Air Conditioner?
A split system consists of an indoor unit mounted on the wall and an outdoor compressor unit.
It's ideal for cooling or heating a single room or open area.
Pros:
Cost-effective to install for one or two rooms
Energy efficient for smaller areas
Quick installation and minimal disruption
Great for renovations or retrofits
Cons:
Not ideal for large homes
Multiple units may be needed for whole-home coverage
Wall-mounted units are visible and may not suit every interior style
What is Ducted Air Conditioning
Ducted systems cool or heat your entire home through a network of ducts in the ceiling or under
the floor, connected to a central unit.
Pros:
Whole-home comfort with consistent temperatures
Discreet vents for a clean aesthetic
Zoned systems allow you to control individual areas
Adds value to your property
Cons:
Higher initial cost
Installation is more invasive
May not be suitable for apartments or homes with limited ceiling space
Which System Is Right for You?
Ask yourself these questions:
Are you cooling one room or the whole house?
→ Split systems are great for single areas.
→ Ducted is perfect for whole-home climate control.
Do you want individual temperature control?
→ Zoned ducted systems offer flexibility for different rooms.
→ Split systems can be turned on/off separately in different rooms.
What’s your budget?
→ Split systems cost less upfront but add up if you install multiple units.
→ Ducted is more expensive initially but may be more cost-effective long-term.
Need Help Choosing? We're Here to Help
Whether you're building, renovating, or upgrading your cooling, the team at Shine Electrical &
Air Conditioning can assess your needs and recommend the best solution for your home and
lifestyle.




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