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Ceiling Cassette Air Conditioning
Discreet Comfort with Superior Airflow Distribution
What is a Ceiling Cassette Air Conditioner?
Ceiling cassette air conditioners are split systems where the indoor unit is mounted flush within a suspended ceiling, with only a decorative grille visible from below. This elegant solution delivers powerful, even cooling throughout your space without taking up valuable wall or floor space.
The system works by drawing warm air through the centre of the unit, processing it through an internal refrigeration cycle, then distributing conditioned air through vents in up to four directions – or even 360 degrees on premium models. The compressor and noisy components remain outside, ensuring whisper-quiet indoor operation.
Increasingly popular in both commercial and residential applications across Sydney, ceiling cassettes are the go-to choice for open-plan offices, retail spaces, restaurants, and modern homes where aesthetics and performance are equally important.
Ceiling Cassette Types
4-Way Cassette
The most popular choice, distributing air in four directions simultaneously. Features independent vane control and suits large open-plan spaces. Available in standard and compact sizes.
360° Round Flow
Premium circular design providing uniform airflow in all directions. Larger flaps ensure even distribution, reducing temperature fluctuations for superior comfort.
2-Way Cassette
Directs airflow in two opposite directions. Ideal for medium-sized rectangular rooms and spaces where the unit is installed against a wall or corner.
1-Way Cassette
Targeted airflow in a single direction. Perfect for narrow spaces, corridors, or areas requiring focused cooling along one axis.
Compact Cassette
Designed to fit standard 600mm x 600mm ceiling grids. Ideal for offices with suspended ceilings, suitable for ceiling heights up to 3 metres.
Where Ceiling Cassettes Excel
Ceiling cassette air conditioners are versatile systems suited to a wide range of applications where traditional wall-mounted units aren't practical or desirable.
Commercial Applications:
- Offices: Open-plan offices, meeting rooms, and boardrooms
- Retail: Shops, showrooms, and shopping centres
- Hospitality: Restaurants, cafes, hotels, and function rooms
- Education: Classrooms, lecture halls, and administration areas
- Healthcare: Waiting rooms, reception areas, and clinics
Residential Applications:
- Large open-plan living and dining areas
- Master bedrooms in upmarket homes
- Home offices and studios
- Properties where wall-mounted units aren't aesthetically suitable
- Single-storey homes with adequate ceiling space
The centre-of-room positioning allows for truly even air distribution, eliminating the hot and cold spots common with wall-mounted systems.
Why Choose a Ceiling Cassette?
Ceiling cassettes offer distinct advantages over other air conditioning types, making them the preferred choice for many Sydney homes and businesses.
Aesthetics & Space:
- Only the decorative grille is visible – blends seamlessly with your ceiling
- Frees up wall and floor space completely
- No intrusive indoor unit disrupting your décor
- Perfect for retail and commercial spaces where presentation matters
Superior Performance:
- 360-degree or 4-way airflow eliminates hot and cold spots
- Even temperature distribution across large areas
- Centre-of-room positioning for optimal coverage
- Powerful enough for high ceilings and large volumes
Practical Benefits:
- Quieter than wall units – compressor located outdoors
- No ductwork required – simpler than ducted systems
- Each unit independently controlled for zoned comfort
- Smart features available including WiFi control and sensors
Installation Considerations
Before installing a ceiling cassette, several requirements must be met to ensure optimal performance and safe operation.
Ceiling Requirements:
- Minimum ceiling void: 300-350mm above the ceiling for the unit and piping
- Suspended/false ceiling: Required for installation
- Structural support: Ceiling must support at least 4x the unit's weight
- Floor-to-ceiling height: Minimum 2.4m, optimal 2.7-3m residential
Space & Clearance:
- Minimum 1 metre clearance on all sides for proper airflow
- Central positioning recommended for 360° air distribution
- No lights, beams, or ceiling fans near the unit
- Adequate service access for maintenance
Drainage:
- 25mm drainage port typically required
- Minimum 2.5% pipe gradient for condensate
- Many units include built-in pump with 280mm lift capacity
Professional Installation:
All ceiling cassette installations must be performed by licensed HVAC technicians. AirXperts handles the complete process, including structural assessment, electrical work, and commissioning.
Is a Ceiling Cassette Right for You?
While ceiling cassettes offer many advantages, they're not suitable for every situation. Consider these factors:
Best Suited For:
- Open-plan living areas and large rooms
- Commercial spaces (offices, retail, hospitality)
- Single-storey homes with adequate ceiling cavity
- Properties where aesthetics are a priority
- Spaces where wall units aren't practical
May Not Be Ideal For:
- Homes with low ceilings (under 2.4m)
- Buildings without suspended ceilings
- Multi-storey cooling from a single unit
- Very small rooms (overkill capacity)
- Tight budgets (higher upfront cost than splits)
Maintenance Considerations:
Access for filter cleaning and servicing can be challenging in rooms with high ceilings. Professional maintenance is recommended annually, particularly for coil cleaning and drainage inspection.
Ceiling Cassette Pricing in Sydney
Ceiling cassette air conditioners represent a mid-to-premium investment, reflecting their superior performance and installation complexity.
Unit Costs (Supply Only):
- 2.5-3.5kW (Compact): $2,500 - $3,500
- 5.0-6.0kW: $3,000 - $4,500
- 7.1-8.0kW: $3,500 - $5,500
- 10.0-12.5kW+: $4,500 - $6,500+
Installation Costs:
- Standard installation: $800 - $1,500
- Complex installation: $1,500 - $2,500+
Total Installed (Supply + Install):
- Small (2.5-3.5kW): $3,500 - $5,000
- Medium (5.0-7.1kW): $4,500 - $7,000
- Large (10.0kW+): $6,000 - $9,000+
Prices vary based on brand, model features, and installation complexity. Contact AirXperts for an accurate quote.
Leading Ceiling Cassette Brands
AirXperts installs ceiling cassettes from all major brands, each offering unique features and benefits.
Premium Brands:
Daikin – Industry leader with Round Flow, Fully Flat, and Compact Cassettes. Features Streamer air purification technology and exceptional efficiency.
Mitsubishi Electric – Advanced 3D i-See Sensor technology and Jet Airflow. Known for reliability and quiet operation.
Fujitsu – Excellent range including Compact, 4-Way Flow, and Circular Flow models. Competitive pricing with reliable performance.
Mid-Range Options:
Samsung – WindFree technology for draught-free cooling plus smart connectivity features.
LG – Dual Inverter efficiency with compact designs and versatile applications.
Toshiba – Super Digital Inverter technology with 7-year Australian warranty.
Australian Brand:
ActronAir – Designed and tested for Australian conditions. Operates -20°C to 50°C with Gold Fin corrosion protection.
Choosing the Right Size
Correct sizing is crucial for ceiling cassette performance. An undersized unit won't cool effectively, while oversized units cycle inefficiently and waste energy.
General Rule: 1kW of cooling capacity per 10 square metres of floor space.
Quick Sizing Guide:
- Up to 20m²: 2.5kW (Small office, bedroom)
- 20-35m²: 3.5-5.0kW (Medium office, retail)
- 35-50m²: 5.0-7.1kW (Large office, restaurant)
- 50-70m²: 7.1-10.0kW (Open-plan office)
- 70-100m²: 10.0-12.5kW (Large commercial)
- 100m²+: Multiple units (Warehouse, function rooms)
Adjustment Factors – Add 10-20% for:
- North or west-facing windows with afternoon sun
- High ceilings (add 10% per metre above 2.7m)
- Poor insulation or large glass areas
- High occupancy or heat-generating equipment
For accurate sizing, particularly in commercial applications, AirXperts provides professional heat load calculations considering all relevant factors.
Maintenance Requirements
Regular maintenance ensures your ceiling cassette operates efficiently and lasts its full lifespan of 10-15 years.
Owner Maintenance (Every 2-4 Weeks):
- Turn off unit at controller and isolator
- Remove intake grille (most detach easily)
- Vacuum filters with soft brush attachment
- Rinse under lukewarm water (under 40°C)
- Allow to dry completely before reinstalling
Professional Service (Annually):
- Coil cleaning (evaporator and condenser)
- Drainage system inspection and cleaning
- Refrigerant level check
- Electrical connection inspection
- Motor and fan inspection
- Overall performance assessment
Warning Signs Requiring Service:
- Reduced airflow
- Unusual noises or vibrations
- Water leaks or dripping
- Unpleasant odours
- Inconsistent temperatures
- Higher than normal energy bills
AirXperts offers comprehensive maintenance plans to keep your ceiling cassette running at peak performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
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