Split System Air Conditioner Installation
- Carbon Savers
- Split System Air Conditioner Installation
Split System Air Conditioner Installation: Costs & DIY Guide 2025
If you’ve been thinking about a new split system air conditioner installation for your home, now is the perfect time to invest – thanks to newly introduced government rebates for HVAC systems. These incentives are bigger than ever, meaning there’s never been a better moment to make your home energy-efficient, comfortable, and future-proof without breaking the bank. Whether you’re planning to stay cool through scorching summers or cozy up during chilly winters, a split system AC is a smart, affordable choice this year.
What is a Split System Air Conditioner?
- The indoor component is mounted on your wall, quietly keeping your room at the perfect temperature.
- The outdoor unit, where the heavy lifting happens, houses two main components called compressor and condenser.
Now, you might be thinking: what’s the benefit of choosing a split system AC?
1.
Minimal space requirements
2.
Low maintenance
3.
Precise climate control
Split System Air Conditioning Installation Costs in 2025
Improve your Environment
| Unit Size (kW) | Area (m²) | Unit Cost | Installation Cost | Total Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2.5 kW |
Up to 20 m² |
$600 – $900 |
$600 – $800 |
$1,200 – $1,700 |
|
3.5 kW |
20 – 30 m² |
$900 – $1,200 |
$700 – $1,000 |
$1,600 – $2,200 |
|
5.0 kW |
30 – 40 m² |
$1,200 – $1,500 |
$800 – $1,200 |
$2,000 – $2,700 |
|
7.0 kW |
40 – 60 m² |
$1,500 – $2,000 |
$900 – $1,500 |
$2,400 – $3,500 |
|
8.0 kW+ |
60 m²+ |
$2,000+ |
$1,000 – $2,000 |
$3,000 – $4,500+ |
5 Benefits of Installing a Split System Air Conditioner
Government Rebates Benefits +
- For residential users, think gas heaters. Outdated, costly, environmentally questionable. Replace them with reverse-cycle systems, and the rebate steps in, cutting initial outlays and ensuring long-term savings.
- Businesses, especially the small operations running on tight margins, can also cash in by upgrading to power-smart reverse-cycle systems. The financial gains are immediately felt. Plus, the overall benefits to the environment would be compounding.
- Verify your eligibility
- Lock in a certified installer like Carbon Savers
- Submit the paperwork, then wait.
01.
Energy Efficiency
Split systems replaced other types of air conditioning solutions for one reason: they’re much more energy efficient. They use far less power than traditional HVAC systems that are designed to cool your entire house down every time you turn it on. The aesthetic of Split Systems have also gained in popularity and appeal as the designs have become much quieter and sleek over time. All models nowadays have inverter technology. Inverter technology works by fine-tuning power consumption to match the room’s temperature needs.
A very typical example would be an inner suburban home that installs a 3.5 kW unit in an average lounge and subsequently seeing an electricity bill drop by 20% in just one month. Since the government is paying our rebates, it’s definitely time to ditch the ducted system, the results spoke for themselves.
02.
Cost-Effectiveness
Because of their efficiency, it’s really just much cheaper to go for split types. While the initial cost to install a split system might seem comparable to other options, it’s the long-term savings that really make it worthwhile.
03.
Simple Installation
Compared to the huge job of setting up a ducted system, installing a split system doesn’t need much manpower or hours. No need for extensive ductwork that ends up letting cold air in and out during the offseasons when it’s not on. Because the setup is less invasive, you can have it up and running in no time. Usual installations take 1 day, but for bigger jobs with more than 3 units being installed, they might span 2 or 3 days.
04.
Better Air Quality
Ever thought about the air quality inside your home? Split system air conditioners are equipped with advanced filtration systems to improve the air you breathe inside the room. Split types can remove dust, allergens, and other particles, making them a great option for families with asthma or allergies. Because of this it’s important to remember you need to clean these filters once a year, brush them down outside where it’s very ventilated, or use a facemask and a gently use a stick vacuum being careful not to tear the filter
05.
Zone Control
With a split system, you easily control the temperature in different rooms. This level of control doesn’t just boost comfort; it drastically reduces energy waste and gives you a smaller bill. There are also many systems out there that you can set up automations with, control with your phone so you can even set the system to pre heat your house on the way home from work on those cold Melbourne mornings!
Professional vs. DIY Split System Installation:
Which is Right for You?
- Do you hire a professional to handle the job?
- Do you go DIY?
When it’s time to install a split system, you have two options:
Pros.
- Legal Compliance: In Australia, most states need professional installation because of refrigerants and electrical work. Don’t risk it—leave this to the experts.
- Warranty Protection: Professional installation is the only way you can make use of your warranty. Many manufacturers won’t honour warranties unless the unit is installed by a licensed professional.
- Efficiency: At the end of the day, professionals have licenses for a reason. They’ll get the job done quickly and correctly, which means fewer headaches down the road.
Cons.
- Cost: To be honest, paying for professional installation isn’t cheap. Depending on the complexity or the size of the unit, you’re looking at somewhere between $600 to $2,000. But in the grand scheme of things, peace of mind often makes it worth it.
Pros and Cons of DIY Installation
Pros.
- Cost Savings: If you’re confident in your skills, installing the system yourself can save you a lot of money.
- Flexibility: Not tied to anyone else’s schedule, you can install your system when you’re free.
Cons.
- Legal Issues: Handling refrigerants without the right licence in Australia can lead to fines and, worse, voided warranties. That’s not a risk you want to take.
- Complexity: Installing a system involves electrical work and refrigerants, which require specific skills. One wrong move or faulty wiring and you might end up spending more than you saved.
- Time-Consuming: A DIY project almost always takes longer than you’d expect. And if something goes wrong? It can drag on for days, if not weeks.
How to Choose the Right Split System for Your Home
Room Size
Measure your space to determine the appropriaate unit size. Too small, and it’ll struggle. Too big, and you’ll waste energy.
Energy Efficiency
Opt for models with a high energy star rating and inverter technology.
Features
Look for systems with smart technology, timers, and air filters to enhance comfort and convenience.
Maintaining Your Split System Air Conditioner
Once your unit is installed, regular upkeep is key to ensuring it runs efficiently for years.
Clean or Replace Filters
If not cleaned regularly, dust will eventually cause your unit to choke and make the compressor work harder. Depending on your usage, every few months, clean or replace your filters to keep airflow strong and your system working smoothly. But no matter your usage we do recommend you clean these once a year.
Check for Obstructions
Keep the outdoor unit free from leaves, dirt, or debris that could block airflow.
Annual Servicing
Book a professional to inspect your system yearly to check refrigerant levels and electrical components. Scheduling an annual cleaning day also reduces potential leaks caused by dust-blocked drain pipes.
Clean or Replace Filters
If not cleaned regularly, dust will eventually cause your unit to choke and make the compressor work harder. Depending on your usage, every few months, clean or replace your filters to keep airflow strong and your system working smoothly. But no matter your usage we do recommend you clean these once a year.
Check for Obstructions
Keep the outdoor unit free from leaves, dirt, or debris that could block airflow.
Annual Servicing
Book a professional to inspect your system yearly to check refrigerant levels and electrical components. Scheduling an annual cleaning day also reduces potential leaks caused by dust-blocked drain pipes.
FAQs
