Ducted vs Split System: Which is Right for Your Sydney Home?

One of the most common questions we get from Sydney homeowners is: "Should I get ducted or split system air conditioning?" Both options have their merits, and the right choice depends on your home, budget, and cooling needs.

Let's break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

The Quick Comparison

Split System:

• Best for 1-3 rooms
• Upfront cost: $1,400 - $4,000 per unit
• Installation: 1 day
• Visible indoor unit

Ducted System:

• Best for whole home
• Upfront cost: $8,000 - $20,000+
• Installation: 2-5 days
• Hidden, only vents visible

What is a Split System?

A split system consists of two parts: an indoor unit mounted on your wall and an outdoor compressor unit. Each indoor unit cools one room or area independently.

Pros:

• Lower upfront cost
• Zoned cooling (only cool rooms you're using)
• Quick, simple installation
• Easy to add units as needed
• Independent temperature control per room

Cons:

• Visible indoor units on walls
• Limited to one room per unit
• Multiple units needed for whole-home cooling
• Multiple outdoor units can clutter your yard
• Less consistent temperature across the home

What is a Ducted System?

A ducted system uses one central unit (usually in the roof or under the floor) connected to a network of ducts that distribute air through vents in each room.

Pros:

• Whole-home comfort from one system
• Discreet – only vents visible
• Consistent temperature throughout
• One outdoor unit
• Zoning available for efficiency
• Increases property value

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost
• Requires adequate roof/floor space
• Longer installation time
• Potentially wasteful if only cooling one room
• Modifications require professional work

Cost Comparison for Sydney Homes

Split System Costs:

• Single bedroom unit (2.5kW): $1,400 - $1,800
• Living room unit (5-7kW): $2,000 - $3,000
• 3 x split systems (whole home): $5,000 - $8,000
• 4 x split systems (larger home): $6,500 - $11,000

Ducted System Costs:

• Small (up to 150m²): $8,000 - $12,000
• Medium (150-250m²): $12,000 - $18,000
• Large (250m²+): $18,000 - $25,000+
• Premium with full zoning: $20,000 - $30,000+

The Breakeven Point:

Generally, if you need to cool 3 or more rooms regularly, ducted becomes cost-competitive with multiple split systems while offering superior aesthetics and whole-home comfort.

Running Costs: Which is Cheaper to Operate?

This depends entirely on how you use your air conditioning.

Split Systems Win If:

• You only cool 1-2 rooms at a time
• Different family members have different schedules
• You want precise control over individual rooms

Ducted Systems Win If:

• You regularly cool most of the home
• You have a zoned system (only cool occupied areas)
• You want consistent whole-home temperature

Which Suits Your Sydney Home Better?

Choose Split Systems If:

• You're in an apartment or unit (strata may restrict ducted)
• You're renting or planning to move soon
• You have a tight budget
• You only need to cool 1-2 specific rooms
• Your home has limited or no roof cavity space
• You want to cool rooms independently at very different temperatures

Choose Ducted If:

• You own a medium to large home
• You want whole-home comfort
• Aesthetics are important (no wall units)
• You're building new or renovating
• Your home has adequate roof space
• You want to add value to your property
• Multiple family members need cooling simultaneously

The Multi-Split Alternative

Can't decide? Multi-split systems offer a middle ground:

• One outdoor unit connects to 2-9 indoor units
• Lower visual impact than multiple split systems
• More flexible than ducted
• Costs between standard splits and ducted

Ideal for townhouses, apartments with space restrictions, or homes where ducted isn't practical.

Sydney-Specific Considerations

Humidity Factor:

Sydney's humid summers mean your air conditioner works harder. Both split and ducted systems handle humidity, but ducted with whole-home dehumidification can be more effective for overall comfort.

Multi-Storey Homes:

Two-storey Sydney homes often struggle with heat rising upstairs. Options include ducted with zoning (separate upstairs/downstairs), split systems on each level, or multi-split with units where needed.

Heritage Homes:

Older Sydney homes with ornate ceilings or no roof cavity may be better suited to split systems, which require minimal structural work.

Strata Properties:

Many Sydney strata schemes have restrictions on outdoor unit placement, ductwork through common property, and noise levels. Check your by-laws before deciding. Split systems are often easier to approve.

Our Recommendation

For most Sydney families in homes over 150m², we typically recommend ducted air conditioning with zoning. The ability to heat and cool your entire home discreetly, with zone control for efficiency, provides the best long-term value and comfort.

However, split systems remain excellent choices for apartments and units, smaller homes under 120m², budget-conscious homeowners, and rental properties.

The best choice is the one that matches your specific needs, home, and budget.

Get Expert Advice

Still unsure? AirXperts offers free, no-obligation consultations for Sydney homes. We'll assess your property, understand your needs, and recommend the best solution – whether that's split, ducted, or something in between.