Air conditioning is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity for comfort in Australian homes and businesses. Whether you’re building a new property or upgrading an existing system, understanding the aircon installation requirements for split and ducted systems will help you make the right decision. Choosing the correct unit and ensuring proper installation ensures long-term efficiency, safety, and reliability.
Why Proper Aircon Installation Matters
Air conditioners are complex systems that combine refrigeration, electrical, and airflow components. Poor installation can cause:
- Higher electricity bills due to inefficiency.
- Frequent breakdowns and costly repairs.
- Poor airflow and uneven cooling.
- Shortened unit lifespan.
- Safety risks such as electrical faults or water leaks.
That’s why it’s important to know what each system requires before arranging an installation. Let’s break down the differences between split and ducted systems.
Split System Aircon Installation Requirements
Split systems are the most common choice for individual rooms, small apartments, or specific areas of the home. They consist of two main units: an indoor wall-mounted unit and an outdoor compressor unit.
1. Power Supply
- Most standard split systems require a dedicated 240V power outlet near the outdoor unit.
- Larger capacity systems may need a separate circuit from your switchboard, installed by a licensed electrician.
2. Indoor Unit Placement
- The indoor unit should be installed high on the wall for optimal airflow.
- It must be mounted on a solid surface to reduce vibration and noise.
- Clear space of at least 15cm around the top and sides ensures unrestricted airflow.
- Avoid placing units above electrical appliances, beds, or direct sunlight.
3. Outdoor Unit Placement
- The outdoor condenser needs to be positioned on a stable base or wall brackets.
- Adequate ventilation around the unit is essential to prevent overheating.
- It should be located away from bedrooms or quiet spaces to minimise noise disturbance.
- Proper drainage for condensation must be ensured.
4. Piping and Wiring
- Copper refrigerant pipes connect the indoor and outdoor units, usually running through a small wall penetration.
- Drainage piping carries away condensation.
- Electrical wiring between the units must comply with Australian standards.
5. Compliance and Certification
- Installation must be carried out by a licensed air conditioning technician with ARCtick certification for handling refrigerants.
- Electrical work should only be done by a licensed electrician.
In most cases, a split system aircon installation can be completed within 3–5 hours, depending on complexity.
Ducted System Aircon Installation Requirements
Ducted air conditioning provides whole-home climate control, with a central unit connected to ducts that distribute air throughout multiple rooms. This type of system requires more extensive planning and installation.
1. Power Supply
- Ducted systems generally require a dedicated circuit from the switchboard due to their higher capacity.
- A licensed electrician must ensure wiring complies with safety standards.
2. Indoor (Central) Unit Placement
- The indoor unit is typically installed in the ceiling cavity, roof space, or under the floor.
- Adequate space is needed for the unit, ducting, and future maintenance access.
- The unit must be mounted on secure brackets or platforms to reduce noise and vibration.
3. Outdoor Unit Placement
- Similar to split systems, the outdoor unit needs a level surface with good ventilation.
- Because ducted systems are larger, more space is required to accommodate airflow.
- Placement should consider noise, service access, and weather protection.
4. Ductwork Requirements
- Flexible or rigid ducting is installed throughout the roof or floor cavity.
- Ducts must be insulated to reduce energy loss and condensation.
- Proper sealing of connections is critical to prevent leaks and inefficiency.
- Adequate ceiling or underfloor space is required to accommodate the ducts.
5. Zoning and Controls
- Modern ducted systems often include zoning features that allow different areas of the home to be cooled separately.
- Control panels should be installed in easily accessible locations.
- Smart controllers can be integrated with Wi-Fi for remote operation.
6. Compliance and Certification
- Like split systems, ducted aircon installation must be carried out by licensed technicians.
- All refrigerant handling requires ARCtick certification.
- Electrical work must be completed by a licensed electrician.
Due to the complexity, ducted installations usually take one or more full days to complete.
Split vs Ducted: Which Is Right for You?
When considering aircon installation, it’s helpful to compare the two systems:
| Feature | Split System | Ducted System |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Single rooms or small apartments | Whole-home comfort |
| Cost | Lower upfront and installation costs | Higher upfront and installation costs |
| Energy Efficiency | Very efficient in small spaces | Efficient with zoning, but higher running costs |
| Installation Time | 3–5 hours | 1–2 days |
| Flexibility | Easy to add more units later | Requires planning at build or renovation stage |
Preparing Your Home for Aircon Installation
Before booking your installation, it helps to prepare:
- Choose the right system size. An undersized unit won’t cool effectively, while an oversized unit wastes energy.
- Check your electrical capacity. Ensure your switchboard can handle the new load.
- Plan placement. Consider both indoor and outdoor unit locations for efficiency and comfort.
- Ensure access. Installers need safe access to ceilings, roof cavities, or outdoor areas.
- Confirm approvals. In some strata or body corporate properties, approval is needed for outdoor unit placement.
The Bottom Line
Aircon installation is not just about fitting a machine – it’s about ensuring your comfort, safety, and energy efficiency for years to come. Split systems require less work and cost, making them ideal for smaller spaces, while ducted systems offer complete climate control for larger homes.
Whichever option you choose, always use licensed and certified professionals to ensure your air conditioning system is installed correctly and in line with Australian standards. With the right setup, your aircon will keep you cool through summer and warm in winter without hassle.
