8 Different Types of Air Conditioning: Split Systems, Ducted, Ductless, Reverse Cycle

Air conditioning systems are complex mechanical devices designed to control and maintain the temperature, humidity, and air quality within enclosed spaces. Their primary purpose is to provide both heating and cooling, ensuring optimal comfort for occupants regardless of external weather conditions. 

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1. Split Systems: These systems consist of an outdoor compressor unit and an indoor evaporator unit. Their purpose is to provide efficient cooling for single rooms or open-plan areas. Split systems are distinct because they offer a balance between performance and cost, making them ideal for homes that need to cool specific areas without the expense of a whole-house system.

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2. Multi-Split Systems: These are an extension of split systems, allowing multiple indoor units to connect to a single outdoor unit. Their purpose is to provide individualised climate control in multiple rooms or zones. Multi-split systems are unique because they offer the flexibility of cooling different areas independently while saving space and potentially reducing costs compared to installing multiple split systems.

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3. Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners: These systems can both cool and heat, reversing their operation to suit the season. Their purpose is to provide year-round climate control. Reverse cycle systems are distinct because of their versatility, eliminating the need for separate heating and cooling systems, which is particularly valuable in Australia's varied climate.

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4. Ducted Air Conditioners: These systems distribute conditioned air through a network of ducts to multiple rooms. Their purpose is to provide whole-house or whole-building climate control. Ducted systems are unique because they offer centralised, uniform cooling throughout a large space, making them ideal for larger homes or commercial buildings where consistent temperature control is crucial.

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5. Ductless Mini-Split Systems: Similar to split systems but without the need for ductwork, these units are mounted on walls or ceilings. Their purpose is to provide efficient cooling in homes or buildings where installing ductwork is impractical or impossible. Ductless mini-splits are distinct because they offer the efficiency of split systems with greater installation flexibility, making them perfect for retrofitting older buildings or adding air conditioning to specific areas.

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6. Window Air Conditioners: These are self-contained units that fit into a window frame. Their purpose is to cool small, single rooms quickly and affordably. Window units are unique because they are compact, relatively inexpensive, and easy to install, making them suitable for renters or those on a tight budget.

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7. Smart Air Conditioners: These are Wi-Fi-enabled systems that can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps. Their purpose is to provide advanced control options and integration with home automation systems. Smart air conditioners are distinct because they offer features like scheduling, energy usage tracking, and remote operation, catering to users who prioritise convenience and energy efficiency.

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8. Portable Air Conditioners: These are freestanding units that can be moved between rooms. Their purpose is to provide flexible, temporary cooling solutions. Portable air conditioners are unique because of their mobility, making them ideal for renters, people who move frequently, or for cooling spaces only occasionally.

Each of these air conditioning types serves a specific purpose and is designed to meet different cooling needs, space requirements, installation constraints, and user preferences. This variety ensures that consumers can find a system that best fits their specific situation, whether it's cooling a single room in a small apartment or managing the climate of a large commercial space. The diversity in air conditioning systems reflects the complex and varied cooling needs across different environments and user requirements.

When choosing, installing, or buying an air conditioner, it's crucial to consider factors such as the size of the space, local climate, energy efficiency ratings, and specific cooling or heating needs. The question "How many types of air conditioners are there?" doesn't have a single answer, as new technologies continually emerge. However, this article will cover eight main types commonly used in residential and commercial settings.

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What is an Air Conditioning System?

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Air conditioning is the process of removing heat and moisture from the interior of an occupied space to improve the comfort of occupants. It involves a complex system that controls temperature, relative humidity, and air quality in indoor spaces.

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The main components of an air conditioning system typically include:

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1. Compressor: Pressurises the refrigerant

2. Condenser: Releases heat from the refrigerant to the outside air

3. Evaporator: Absorbs heat from the indoor air

4. Expansion valve: Regulates refrigerant flow

5. Thermostat: Controls the system based on temperature settings

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These components work together in a cycle to move heat from inside to outside, effectively cooling the indoor space. Different types of air conditioning systems exist to suit various building layouts, climate conditions, and user preferences.

Who invented the Air conditioner?

The modern air conditioner was invented by Willis Carrier in 1902. Carrier, an American engineer, developed the first electrical air conditioning unit to solve a humidity problem at a printing plant in Brooklyn, New York. His invention controlled both temperature and humidity, marking the birth of the air conditioning industry as we know it today.

8 Different Types Of Air Conditioning systems

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Air conditioning systems can be classified based on various factors such as installation method, size, cooling capacity, and energy efficiency. The basic characteristics that distinguish different types include:

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1. Installation method (e.g., window-mounted, split, ducted)

2. Cooling capacity (measured in kilowatts or BTUs)

3. Energy efficiency (star ratings in Australia)

4. Additional features (e.g., heating capability, smart controls)

5. Portability

6. Noise levels

7. Maintenance requirements

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Understanding these characteristics helps in selecting the most appropriate system for specific needs.

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1. Split Systems

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Split systems are one of the most popular air conditioning options in Melbourne. They consist of two main units: an indoor unit (evaporator) and an outdoor unit (condenser and compressor).

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Working principle: The indoor unit circulates cool air within the room, while the outdoor unit expels heat collected from inside.

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Popularity in Melbourne: Split systems are highly popular due to their efficiency and suitability for the city's variable climate.

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Most popular brands: Daikin, Mitsubishi Electric, and Fujitsu are among the top choices.

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Best-use scenario: Ideal for cooling or heating individual rooms or open-plan areas up to about 60 square metres.

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Installation process: Typically takes 4-8 hours, requiring wall mounting of the indoor unit and secure placement of the outdoor unit.

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Average costs: 

- Purchase: AUD 600-2,500

- Installation: AUD 600-1,500

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Environmental impact: Generally more energy-efficient than window units but less so than ducted systems for whole-home cooling.

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Main advantages:

- Energy-efficient for single room cooling

- Quiet operation

- Easy installation compared to ducted systems

- Can provide both cooling and heating

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Main disadvantages:

- Limited to cooling one area or room

- Outdoor unit may be aesthetically displeasing

- Not suitable for cooling multiple rooms efficiently

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2. Multi-Split System

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Multi-split systems are an extension of the split system concept, allowing multiple indoor units to be connected to a single outdoor unit.

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Working principle: Similar to split systems, but with the ability to cool or heat multiple rooms independently.

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Popularity in Melbourne: Growing in popularity, especially in homes with 3-5 rooms requiring individual climate control.

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Most popular brands: Daikin, Mitsubishi Electric, and LG are leading choices.

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Best-use scenario: Ideal for homes or small offices with 2-5 rooms requiring independent temperature control, covering areas up to 185 square metres.

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Installation process: More complex than single split systems, typically taking 1-2 days depending on the number of indoor units.

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Average costs:

- Purchase: AUD 3,000-9,000

- Installation: AUD 1,500-3,000

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Environmental impact: More energy-efficient than installing multiple split systems but less efficient than ducted systems for whole-home cooling.

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Main advantages:

- Flexible room-by-room temperature control

- Space-saving compared to multiple split systems

- Energy-efficient for multi-room cooling

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Main disadvantages:

- Higher initial cost than single split systems

- Complex installation process

- Limited by the maximum number of indoor units (usually up to 5)

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3. Reverse Cycle Air Conditioner

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Reverse cycle air conditioners are systems that can both heat and cool, making them versatile for Melbourne's variable climate.

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Working principle: Uses a refrigeration cycle that can be reversed to either cool or heat a space.

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Popularity in Melbourne: Extremely popular due to the city's need for both heating and cooling throughout the year.

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Most popular brands: Daikin, Fujitsu, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries are top choices.

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Best-use scenario: Ideal for homes or offices requiring year-round climate control, suitable for spaces up to 90 square metres depending on the model.

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Installation process: Similar to split systems, taking 4-8 hours for a standard installation.

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Average costs:

- Purchase: AUD 1,500-3,500

- Installation: AUD 600-1,500

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Environmental impact: Generally more energy-efficient than separate heating and cooling systems, especially in moderate climates like Melbourne's.

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Main advantages:

- Provides both heating and cooling

- Energy-efficient operation

- Cost-effective compared to separate heating and cooling systems

- Suitable for year-round use in Melbourne's climate

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Main disadvantages:

- Higher initial cost than cooling-only systems

- May be less efficient in extreme temperatures

- Requires regular maintenance for optimal performance

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4. Ducted Air Conditioners

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Ducted air conditioners are whole-home systems that distribute conditioned air through a network of ducts.

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Working principle: A central unit cools or heats air, which is then distributed throughout the building via concealed ductwork.

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Popularity in Melbourne: Popular in larger homes and commercial buildings, especially new constructions.

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Most popular brands: Daikin, Actron Air, and Brivis are leading choices.

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Best-use scenario: Ideal for whole-home or building-wide climate control, suitable for spaces over 100 square metres.

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Installation process: Complex and time-consuming, typically taking 2-5 days depending on the building size and complexity.

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Average costs:

- Purchase: AUD 5,000-15,000

- Installation: AUD 3,000-10,000

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Environmental impact: Can be very energy-efficient for whole-home cooling, especially with zoning systems, but initial installation has a larger environmental footprint.

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Main advantages:

- Whole-home or building-wide cooling and heating

- Discreet appearance with only vents visible

- Can incorporate zoning for efficient operation

- Quiet operation in living spaces

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Main disadvantages:

- High initial cost

- Complex and invasive installation process

- Requires significant roof or under-floor space

- Less flexible for future modifications

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5. Ductless Mini-Split System

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Ductless mini-split systems are similar to standard split systems but typically smaller and more versatile in installation options.

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Working principle: Like split systems, with an indoor unit and outdoor unit, but without requiring any ductwork.

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Popularity in Melbourne: Growing in popularity, especially for renovations and additions where installing ductwork is impractical.

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Most popular brands: Mitsubishi Electric, Daikin, and Fujitsu are top choices.

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Best-use scenario: Ideal for single rooms, additions, or spaces up to 60 square metres where ductwork cannot be installed.

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Installation process: Relatively simple, typically taking 4-6 hours per unit.

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Average costs:

- Purchase: AUD 1,500-3,000

- Installation: AUD 500-1,500

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Environmental impact: Generally energy-efficient, especially for targeted cooling or heating of specific areas.

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Main advantages:

- Flexible installation options

- Energy-efficient for zone cooling

- No ductwork required

- Quiet operation

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Main disadvantages:

- Higher cost per unit compared to central systems

- Indoor unit visible in the room

- Limited coverage area per unit

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6. Window Air Conditioners

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Window air conditioners are self-contained units that are installed in a window or through a wall.

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Working principle: All components are housed in a single unit, which is mounted in a window or wall opening.

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Popularity in Melbourne: Less popular than in past decades, but still used in some older apartments or as temporary solutions.

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Most popular brands: Kelvinator, Mitsubishi Electric, and Panasonic are common choices.

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Best-use scenario: Suitable for small rooms up to 30 square metres, often used in rental properties or as quick solutions.

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Installation process: Relatively simple, typically taking 1-2 hours.

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Average costs:

- Purchase: AUD 400-1,200

- Installation: AUD 200-500

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Environmental impact: Generally less energy-efficient than split systems or central air conditioning.

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Main advantages:

- Low initial cost

- Easy installation and removal

- No professional installation required in most cases

- Suitable for renters

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Main disadvantages:

- Less energy-efficient than other options

- Noisy operation

- Blocks part of the window

- Limited cooling capacity

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7. Smart Air Conditioner

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Smart air conditioners are systems that can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps or integrated into home automation systems.

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Working principle: Operates like standard air conditioners but with added Wi-Fi connectivity and smart features.

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Popularity in Melbourne: Increasing in popularity, especially among tech-savvy homeowners and in new, high-end constructions.

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Most popular brands: Daikin, Mitsubishi Electric, and LG offer popular smart models.

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Best-use scenario: Ideal for users who want precise control and integration with smart home systems, suitable for various room sizes depending on the model.

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Installation process: Similar to standard split systems, typically taking 4-8 hours, with additional time for setting up smart features.

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Average costs:

- Purchase: AUD 1,500-4,000

- Installation: AUD 600-1,500

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Environmental impact: Can be more energy-efficient due to advanced scheduling and remote operation capabilities.

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Main advantages:

- Remote control via smartphone

- Integration with smart home systems

- Advanced scheduling and energy management

- Potential for improved energy efficiency

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Main disadvantages:

- Higher initial cost than non-smart models

- Requires Wi-Fi connectivity and setup

- Potential privacy concerns with connected devices

- May require occasional software updates

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8. Portable Air Conditioners

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Portable air conditioners are freestanding units that can be moved from room to room.

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Working principle: Self-contained unit that expels hot air through a hose vented to the outside, typically through a window.

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Popularity in Melbourne: Moderately popular as temporary cooling solutions or for those who can't install permanent systems.

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Most popular brands: DeLonghi, Omega Altise, and Rinnai are common choices.

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Best-use scenario: Suitable for small rooms up to 20 square metres, ideal for renters or as supplementary cooling in specific areas.

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Installation process: Minimal setup required, typically taking 15-30 minutes to position the unit and set up the exhaust hose.

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Average costs:

- Purchase: AUD 400-1,200

- Installation: No professional installation required

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Environmental impact: Generally less energy-efficient than permanently installed systems.

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Main advantages:

- Portable and easy to move

- No permanent installation required

- Ideal for renters or temporary use

- Can be stored when not in use

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Main disadvantages:

- Less efficient than permanent systems

- Noisy operation

- Takes up floor space

- Limited cooling capacity

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What are the Air Conditioning Types for Residential Buildings?  

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Residential buildings in Melbourne encompass a wide range of structures, from small apartments to large family homes. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, as of 2021, there were approximately 1.9 million private dwellings in Greater Melbourne.

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For residential buildings in Melbourne, split systems and reverse cycle air conditioners are the most common choices. This preference is primarily due to Melbourne's variable climate, which can see significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. These systems provide both heating and cooling capabilities, making them versatile for Melbourne's weather patterns.

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The choice of air conditioning type for a residential building depends on several factors:

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1. Size of the home: Larger homes may benefit from ducted systems, while smaller apartments might be better suited to split systems.

2. Budget: Initial installation costs and ongoing operational expenses play a significant role.

3. Energy efficiency: With increasing energy costs, more efficient systems are preferred.

4. Building structure: Some older homes may not be suitable for ducted systems without significant modifications.

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Which Air Conditioning Type is Better for One Bedroom?

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For a single bedroom, a split system air conditioner is typically the best choice. This option provides an excellent balance of efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and performance for a space of this size.

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The main reasons for this recommendation include:

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1. Appropriate cooling capacity for the room size

2. Energy-efficient operation

3. Quiet performance, which is important for sleeping areas

4. Relatively simple and non-invasive installation process

When considering a split system for a bedroom in Melbourne, it's important to factor in:

1. Room size: A typical Melbourne bedroom (10-20 square metres) requires a 2.5-3.5kW capacity unit.
2. Ceiling height: Higher ceilings may necessitate a slightly more powerful unit.
3. Window orientation: North or west-facing rooms may need more cooling power due to increased sun exposure.
4. Insulation quality: Well-insulated rooms can be efficiently cooled with lower capacity units.

For specific areas around Melbourne:

• Inner-city apartments (e.g., CBD, South Yarra): Compact, high-wall split systems are ideal due to space constraints.
• Suburban homes (e.g., Werribee, Cranbourne): Standard split systems work well, with capacity adjusted for larger bedrooms.
• Coastal areas (e.g., St Kilda, Brighton): Corrosion-resistant models are recommended due to salt air.
• Hilly regions (e.g., Dandenong Ranges): Reverse cycle split systems are beneficial for both cooling and heating needs.

What are the Air Conditioning Types for Commercial Buildings?

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Commercial buildings in Melbourne encompass a diverse range of structures, from small offices to large shopping centres and industrial facilities. As of 2021, Melbourne had approximately 68 million square metres of commercial office space.

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For commercial buildings in Melbourne, ducted systems and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems are often the preferred choices. These systems are selected due to their ability to efficiently cool or heat large spaces and provide individualised climate control for different areas or rooms.

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The preference for these systems in commercial settings is driven by:

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1. The need for consistent climate control across large areas

2. The ability to zone different areas for energy efficiency

3. The capacity to handle the higher cooling loads generated by equipment and occupants

4. The flexibility to adapt to changing office layouts or tenant requirements

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The choice of air conditioning system for a commercial building depends on:

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1. Building size and layout

2. Occupancy patterns and density

3. Specific business activities and equipment heat loads

4. Energy efficiency requirements and green building standards

5. Budget for initial installation and ongoing operational costs

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What are the best Air conditioning brands to Install in Australia?

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The most popular air conditioning brands installed in Australia, based on market share and customer satisfaction, include:

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1. Daikin

2. Mitsubishi Electric

3. Fujitsu General

4. Panasonic

5. LG

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In Melbourne specifically, these brands remain popular, with Daikin and Mitsubishi Electric often leading in market share. The popularity of these brands is due to their reputation for reliability, energy efficiency, and after-sales support.

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Cost efficiency varies between brands and models, but generally, these top brands offer a good balance of initial cost and long-term energy savings. Many models from these manufacturers achieve high energy star ratings, which is particularly important in Australia's climate.

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What are the best Air conditioning brands to Install in Melbourne?

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In Melbourne, the most popular air conditioning brands closely mirror the national preferences:

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1. Daikin

2. Mitsubishi Electric

3. Fujitsu General

4. Panasonic

5. ActronAir (an Australian company popular for its ducted systems)

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These brands are favoured in Melbourne due to their ability to handle the city's variable climate effectively, providing both efficient cooling in summer and heating in winter.

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Average costs for a standard split system from these brands range from AUD 1,500 to AUD 3,500, with installation adding another AUD 600 to AUD 1,500 depending on the complexity of the installation.

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What are the cheapest Air conditioning brands to Install in Australia?

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While "cheapest" doesn't always equate to best value, here are some of the more budget-friendly air conditioning brands available in Australia, listed from generally cheapest to more expensive:

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1. Kelvinator: Average cost AUD 479 - 1,200

2. Carrier: Average cost AUD 700-1,800

3. Midea: Average cost AUD 800-2,000

4. Hisense: Average cost AUD 900-2,200

5. TCL: Average cost AUD 1,000-2,500

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It's important to note that while these brands offer lower initial costs

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What to Know for Choosing the Right Air Conditioning Type

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When selecting an air conditioning system for your Melbourne home or business, consider these crucial factors:

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1. Types of Air Conditioner

2. Size of the Room

3. Capacity of Air conditioner

4. Energy Efficiency of Air conditioner

5. Features of Air conditioner

6. Noise level of Air conditioner

7. Maintenance Needs and Costs

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Choosing the correct air conditioning size is paramount; installing an incorrectly sized unit can lead to inefficient operation, increased energy costs, and inadequate temperature control.

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How to Calculate Air Conditioning Size According to Air Conditioning Type

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Different air conditioning types have varying cooling and heating capacities, which must be carefully considered when selecting a system for your space. The air conditioning size calculator helps to learn the required capacity that depends on the specific type of air conditioner and the room's characteristics.

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For example, in a 30 square metre room:

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1. Split System: A 3.5 kW unit might be suitable.

2. Ducted System: A larger capacity of around 5 kW may be necessary due to potential duct losses.

3. Window Unit: A 2.5 kW system could suffice, as these units are often less efficient.

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The size discrepancy arises from each system's unique efficiency and distribution method. Split systems deliver cooling directly to the room, while ducted systems must account for duct losses. Window units, being less efficient, might require a smaller capacity due to their limited coverage area.

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To accurately determine the right size:

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1. Calculate the room's square meterage.

2. Consider factors such as ceiling height, insulation quality, and sun exposure.

3. Use the general rule of 0.125 kW per square metre for split systems.

4. Adjust this calculation based on the specific air conditioning type:

   - Increase by 20% for ducted systems to account for duct losses.

   - Decrease by 10-15% for window units due to their localised cooling.

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It's important to consult with a professional from Oz Air Group in Melbourne to ensure the most accurate sizing for your specific needs and air conditioning type. They can perform a detailed load calculation, considering all relevant factors to recommend the ideal system size for your space.

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