Air Conditioning Installation Melbourne: Split System and Alternatives
Air conditioning installation refers to the process of fitting an AC unit in a home or building to provide cooling during warm weather. With Melbourne's average summer temperatures reaching the mid 30°Cs, having good air conditioning is essential for comfort.
A split system air conditioner is a type of AC unit made up of an outdoor compressor and condenser connected to a slim, wall-mounted indoor unit via refrigerant pipes and cables. Split systems are by far the most popular type of air conditioner installed in Melbourne homes, making up over 80% of residential installations.
The team at Oz Air Group have specialised expertise in recommending, supplying and professionally installing reliable, energy-efficient split system air conditioners across Melbourne. With over 20 years of experience, they know how to select the correctly sized split system to match the unique cooling needs of each space.
Choosing the right type of air conditioning system is important to get value for money. Key factors to consider are upfront costs, estimated yearly running costs, maintenance requirements, size and layout of areas needing cooling, and aesthetic preferences. Getting these decisions right from the start will ensure the system installed meets expectations for many years.
Installing air conditioning differs considerably between residential and commercial settings. Home AC units usually cool individual rooms with simple control by the owner, while commercial buildings require complex central systems zoned into sections and controlled automatically according to occupancy and use. Noise levels also need to be far lower for homes than offices.
The team at Oz Air Group tailor their professional installation service for either residential or commercial settings, ensuring the split system air conditioning meets the unique requirements whether it's for a Melbourne family home or office workspace.
How to Choose the Best Air Conditioning System to Install
To choose the right air conditioner for your home or office in Melbourne, there are several key factors to consider:
- Climate -
Melbourne experiences warm to hot summers with average temperatures in the mid 30s°C. This moderate climate means a split system designed for ambient temperatures up to 45°C will adequately meet cooling needs on most days. - Size and Type of Property -
Larger homes require bigger, more powerful air conditioning systems compared to smaller apartments and units. Consider the number of rooms needing cooling and choose adequate capacity. Also factor in if the property is old or new, as newer buildings are more energy efficient. - Room Size and Design -
Carefully measure the floorspace of rooms requiring cooling to determine the appropriate air conditioning capacity for each space. Also factor in elements like window size, sun exposure and ceiling height that can impact efficiency. - Energy Efficiency -
Choose an inverter split system or equivalent technology for maximum energy savings. Higher star energy ratings also indicate more efficiency. This is becoming increasingly important with rising energy prices. - Noise Level -
The location of outdoor units can greatly affect operational noise transmittance indoors for comfort. Units positioned away from bedrooms and living spaces are ideal. Also check sound ratings. - Installation Cost -
Get quotes from several reputable installers like Oz Air Group to compare prices. Consider any additional costs for items like safety switches, ducting, wall mounts and more. - Maintenance -
Modern split systems require fairly low, but regular maintenance for optimal performance and lifespan. Check recommended cleaning schedules and factor in costs for servicing contracts.
Split System Air Conditioning Installations Melbourne
Split system air conditioning installations are considered the top choice for most homes and offices in Melbourne. The temperate climate here with warm summers and cool winters make split system units ideal for effectively providing both heating and cooling without being overpowered.
Split systems have proven to be the most popular type of air conditioner installed across Australia over the past decade thanks to their flexibility, energy efficiency and affordability. As specialists in split system installation, the team at Oz Air Group have fitted over 10000 units across Melbourne and surrounding suburbs. With over 20 years serving the local area, their expertise provides homeowners and businesses the highest quality split system air conditioning solutions tailored for their specific cooling and heating needs all year round.
What Is A Split System?
A split system air conditioner is made up of an outdoor condenser and compressor unit connected by pipes to a stylish indoor unit often mounted high on a wall. They utilise refrigerant to absorb or remove heat from indoor air to provide cooling or heating depending on the climate control settings chosen. Split systems are very quiet, efficient and allow temperature control for individual rooms.
How Does A Split System Air Conditioner Work?
Inside the indoor unit, a filter cleans the air which is then passed over a cold refrigerant coil to lower its temperature, effectively cooling it before being re-circulated back into the room. This cooler air displaces the naturally warmer air in the room which is sucked into the outdoor unit. Here, the refrigerant absorbs the heat from the air and dissipates it outside before being sent back to the indoor unit in a continuous cycle. Reverse cycle split systems also operate in heating mode, with the refrigerant flowing in the opposite direction to take heat from outside and transfer it indoors.
How to Choose the Type of Split Air Conditioner System to Install
There are several main types of split system air conditioners to consider:
- Wall Split Systems -
The most popular type, these slimline indoor units mount high on a wall with the outdoor unit placed externally. Well-suited for residential cooling. - Floor Console Systems -
The indoor unit is freestanding on the floor rather than wall-mounted. Allows flexible positioning. - Ducted Systems -
Designed for whole home cooling with indoor units hidden and air channelled through vents via ductwork. Ideal for larger homes.
The major factors that influence the choice between split system types are home size, number of rooms needing cooling, efficiency, noise, aesthetics and installation costs. Getting the right advice from experts like Oz Air Group ensures the best split system solution.
How to Choose the Size of Split Air Conditioner System to Install
To choose the correct size split system to install, the main factors are:
- Floor Area Dimensions -
Precisely measure the room’s length x width to determine the required KW for effective cooling. - Number of Occupants -
More people means more body heat to cool. Sizing up accommodates this increased load. - Window Size -
Larger windows that let in more sunlight necessitate higher capacity systems. - Room Use -
Bedrooms require less capacity than living areas for example based on occupant activity levels. - Ceiling Height -
Air conditioning finds it harder to cool high internal ceiling spaces, meaning more capacity assists.
An accurate assessment here by a professional installer ensures peak cooling while avoiding issues with under or oversized air conditioner installations.
How Much Does It Cost To Install A Split Air Conditioner In Melbourne?
The average cost to install a split system air conditioner in Melbourne is typically between $1,800-$5,500 per indoor/outdoor unit. Smaller jobs can start from $1500. while complex installations for commercial properties can exceed $20,000. The major factors influencing price are:
- Unit Size and Type -
Larger, more advanced units have higher install costs - Ducting Needs -
New ductwork adds expense - Outdoor Wall Mounting -
Creative or challenging locations increase labor - Additional Charges -
Items like safety switches, larger circuit boards and premium copper piping add to price - Complexity -
Multi-zoned systems take longer than straightforward installs
As one of the most experienced companies installing split systems locally, Oz Air Group offers very competitive pricing tailored to your unique requirements. Their transparent quotes clearly outline all inclusions so there are no unexpected costs down the track.
How Long Does It Take To Install A Split Air Conditioning?
The installation time largely depends on if it's a first-time fit or a replacement unit. Basic installations without complications take approximately:
- New Install: 2-6 hours
- Replacement: 2-4 hours
Factors that can increase installation time include ducting work, challenging locations, multi-system setups and modifications to existing electrical and gas connections.
How Much Does It Cost To Run A Split Air Conditioner In Melbourne?
The running cost of a split system air conditioner depends on several key factors:
- Unit Size -
Measured in kW rating. More capacity equals more energy consumed. - Hours Used -
Daily duration the system runs impacts electricity usage. - Location -
Melbourne's moderate climate is more efficient than extreme weather regions. - Features -
Inverter systems that automatically adjust power use save energy.
Typical running costs for a standard 2kW split system in Melbourne used 5 hours per day are:
- Monthly - $30 to $60
- Annually - $350 to $700
And for a large 5kW commercial unit running 12 hours per day:
- Monthly - $150 to $250
- Annually - $1,800 to $3,000
Careful sizing, using timers judiciously and selecting high efficiency systems can minimise operating expenses.
What Are The Best Split Air Conditioning Brands To Install In Melbourne?
The most popular split system brands installed in Australian homes and offices are Daikin, Fujitsu, Mitsubishi Electric, Panasonic, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Hitachi. These companies offer advanced inverter compressor technology for superior energy savings and provide great warranty support.
Daikin and Mitsubishi air conditioners lead the Australian market share currently and are an excellent choice for residential use with innovative features and reliable performance.
What Are The Advantages Of Installing A Split Air Conditioning?
Advantages of installing split air conditioners include:
- Maximises Comfort -
Controls cooling for any home or office setting - Reduces Noise -
Quiet operation ideal for peaceful environments - Saves Space -
Slim, wall mounted units that blend nicely in any room - Accurate Temperature Control -
Conditions the exact area that needs it - Improves Air Quality -
Effective built-in filtration clears dust, dirt and pollen - Good Value -
Affordable systems that cool effectively long-term - Enables Multi-Room Control -
Zoned systems allowing custom conditioning
What Are The Disadvantages Of Installing A Split Air Conditioning?
Potential downsides of split air conditioner installations include:
- Initial Expense -
Purchase and installation costs can start from around $1,500 - Ongoing Energy Bills -
Running costs from use add electrical expenses - Appearance -
Visible wall mounts indoors and outside impact aesthetics - Future Repairs -
All systems require occasional maintenance and servicing - Ineffective In Largest Spaces -
Central ducted air is better for very open layouts - Noise Transference -
Nearby outdoor unit operation can sometimes be overheard inside
Who Can Install Air Conditioning Systems In Melbourne?
Only licensed technicians with an ARCTIC Refrigeration Licence and air conditioning trade certificate can legally install and service air conditioning systems in Australia. Specialist skills and experience working with gas pressure lines, electrical wiring and following strict regulations are mandatory.
The expert team at Oz Air Group all hold relevant qualifications and have collectively installed thousands of high quality split system, ducted and commercial air conditioning systems across Melbourne over the past 20+ years. Their advanced technical expertise and outstanding customer service makes them a top choice for any air conditioning installation
Why Choose Oz Air Group For Air Conditioning Installation In Melbourne?
Oz Air Group have built an exceptional reputation locally for air conditioning solutions thanks to:
- Extremely Knowledgeable and Friendly Service
- Highest Quality Equipment from Leading Brands
- Professional Installation by Qualified Technicians
- Exceptional Value Pricing and Transparent Quotes
- Outstanding Track Record Over 20+ Years
- Fully Compliant to Standards and Regulations
- Extensive Experience Tailoring Any System to Unique Needs
For total peace of mind that your air conditioning installation will be hassle-free while delivering reliable, efficient performance for many years, Oz Air Group is an excellent choice for homes and businesses across Melbourne.
What Suburbs Do Oz Air Group Serve For Air Conditioning Installation In Melbourne?
Oz Air Group are trusted, specialised air conditioning installers and maintenance technicians servicing homes and businesses across many Melbourne suburbs including:
Air Conditioning Installation and Maintenance in:
With fast, friendly service across metropolitan Melbourne, the experienced team from Oz Air Group make it simple to keep comfortable with perfect air conditioning all year round.
What Are The Alternatives To Installing A Split Air Conditioning System?
The most common alternative to split systems are ducted air conditioners in which the compressor is located outside with air channelled indoors via duct work in the ceiling or floors. Whilst less popular than splits, ducted systems are preferable for larger, open plan homes. Our team can provide expert advice on the best alternatives tailored for you - simply reach out by phone or contact us at 1300 069 247 or info@ozairgroup.com.au
What Are The Best Air Conditioning Types For Residential Buildings?
The top choices for air conditioning residential properties are:
- Split System Units -
Wall, floor or ceiling mounted for room by room temperature control. Affordable, flexible, easy to install and very energy efficient. - Multi split systems -
Multiple indoor fan coil units, running of q X outdoor unit. - Ducted Systems -
Ideal for whole home cooling in larger houses with zoning control possible. More powerful, requires ductwork.
What Are The Best Air Conditioning Types For Commercial Buildings?
The top choices for air conditioning residential properties are:
- Packaged Units -
Roof-mounted external systems for multi zone temperature management via ducting - Split Systems -
Efficient and flexible although requires multiple installations for large areas - Chilled Water Systems -
Centralised plant chilled water piped to air handling units zoning sizable facilities
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