Replacing a split system in Sydney? A quote checklist

If your existing split system has stopped cooling or you want to replace it before summer, send each installer the same brief. Ask for an itemised replacement quote that says what will be removed, what can be reused and what still needs checking on site.

1. Send the details an installer can use

Photograph the indoor and outdoor units and their model labels if you can do so safely from ground level. Include a wide photo showing the outdoor unit’s position and access. For a Granville apartment, note the floor, balcony access and building access rules. For a South Granville house, mention a narrow side passage, steps or any gates the installer will need to pass through.

Tell the installer which rooms the current unit serves, what prompted the replacement and whether the room layout or use has changed. Ask how they will assess the new capacity. The old model is useful background for that assessment.

2. Separate removal from new installation

Ask the quote to say who will disconnect and take away both old units, handle the refrigerant and remove unwanted brackets or covers. Agree who will make good any holes or marks that the new equipment will leave exposed.

Use the Australian Refrigeration Council consumer guidance to check refrigerant handling credentials before booking.

3. Get pipework, drainage and power in writing

Ask whether the price assumes new refrigerant pipework or reuse. If reuse is proposed, ask which model requirements and site checks support it, and what it would cost to replace the pipework if it fails inspection. Ask where the new drain will run and who will assess the existing electrical supply.

See Daikin’s guidance on reusing pipework for an example of why compatibility depends on the equipment and installation.

4. Confirm the unit location and approvals

If the outdoor unit is moving, ask the installer to show the proposed position and explain access, drainage and noise considerations. In strata, check your scheme’s by-laws and any written approval for the original unit. Ask your strata manager what is needed for this replacement, particularly if it changes the location or affects common property.

For current approval guidance, see NSW Government strata renovation rules.

5. Compare both quotes against the same checklist

• Indoor and outdoor model numbers, capacity and total price including GST.
• Old equipment removal and disposal, plus any agreed repairs to the surrounding surfaces.
• Pipework, drain, electrical work, brackets and access equipment. Mark each as included, provisional or excluded.
• Who approves additional work and how the installer prices it before proceeding.
• Commissioning, operating instructions and separate written equipment and installation warranty terms.

If two prices still differ, ask each installer to explain the largest exclusions or provisional items. You can then decide what needs a site assessment before accepting either quote.

For the next step, see our split system installation and replacement service or use the quote link below to send your checklist.

For more on comparing installation costs, read the Sydney split system installation cost guide.