Getting a splitty
- 4 hours ago
- 4 min read
I recently looked into getting an aircon installed. I had to do a little research because, to some people’s surprise (!!) I actually don't know everything about every trade. LOL. The internet is wild!
I am by no means even close to an expert, but below are some key things I learned about reverse cycle split system air cons. But let’s start with some basic facts.
Reverse cycle air conditioners (also called heat pumps or split systems) are the most energy efficient heating and cooling system. Space heaters are very poor, and ducted systems tend to be large and very expensive.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Ari Conditioning) is the trade that deals with this. Installation requires both plumbing and electrical. A lot of companies specialise in this type of work, and the plumbing license may be restricted to Mechanical services. Check their electrical license here, and plumbing license here.
In Victoria, currently there are rebates available for homeowners and small businesses to install energy efficient heating and cooling. You MUST use one of the accredited installers and the unit must have a minimum 5 year manufacturer warranty. More info here. In the same vain, rental properties must have energy efficient heating installed in the main living area, and as of 2027, must also have cooling. See details here. From October, Victorians are also eligible for three free hours of electricity in the middle of the day.
DEFINITIONS
The installation cost is determined by several factors.
Multi head versus single head: The ‘head’ refers to how many internal units there are (ie: the fan part that is attached to the wall) which are attached to a single motor externally.
Size of unit (in kW): Sizes range from roughly 2.5kW up to about 9kW for residential. Your installer will usually provide advice on the size needed, which relates to the room size basically.
Back-to-back: This relates to the ‘split’ part in ‘split system’. Will you have the internal and external parts basically on either side of the same wall at the same height? Copper is expensive and running pipes over long distances will add to the cost.
On slab versus wall-mounted: Externally, the unit can go on a balcony, or held by brackets on the wall. If it’s on the ground, you need a solid, level base, such as a concrete pad/slab. My understanding is the manufacturers produce different models depending on whether it’ll be wall-mounted or not.
Switchboard type/age: Depending on the type of switchboard you have, how much load it can take (ie: the electrical supply being pulled from existing appliances etc), whether it’s got an RCBO (safety) switch etc will influence the cost. Any time you have electrical work performed, they must ensure your wiring and switchboard are fault-free and up to current electrical standards. If not, you may need that work done in addition.
Dedicated circuit vs. Local: A smaller split system may be able to be hardwired into a nearby powerpoint (called a GPO) if it doesn’t draw too much power. On the other hand, it may require its own dedicated circuit back to the switchboard. If the switchboard is far away, this will add cost. If your home doesn’t have roof crawl space, this present complication = higher cost.
BRANDS
Like everything, there is a lot of competition in the market, and different brands have different reputations. My research found that Mitsubishi Electric (ME) and Daikin are two of the most highly respected brands. Also, note that Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), which you can buy at Bunnings, is NOT the same company as ME.
Fujitsu seems to get a bad wrap, although my installer prefers them. Toshiba and Panasonic are other common choices. Temperzone supposedly has good tech support for installers.
Some folks say there isn’t a lot of difference in the better quality brands, so other factors such as local service, installation quality and warranty should be the determining factors.
MODELS
The aircon model from one manufacturer could be better than another, but a second model is less good, so don’t just choose a “good” brand.
You can download brochures from each manufacturer's website to see the AEER/COP relative efficiency ratios for different models, and there is a government comparison website here. Choice have also done research about air conditioners. Look for a 3 star and above energy efficiency rating, particularly how low the compressor can ramp down to - this is where running cost savings can be made.
Some models also have add-on features such as wifi-controls meaning you can fire the heater up on your way home so the house is warm on entry (and use your phone to control the aircon when you lose the remote). Noise is another major consideration. Nobody wants a jetliner outside their bedroom when they’re trying to sleep!
It is worth noting that although you could buy a unit yourself and have it installed, because installers have access to wholesale pricing, you may not save any money. Plus, warranty becomes an issue (there will be disputes about whether the fault is labour or product), and many companies will not do install-only.
This article, like all She Bangs content, is not written with the use of any AI.
I used the Facebook Group My Efficient Electric Home, as well as government sources and the trades themselves to do my research. I hope that by sharing this basic info, it helps you too.
