Reasons to Consider Ducted Heating and Cooling

Ducted heating and cooling is a fantastic system for your entire home. It provides a more complete solution than a split system, which is generally designed for a single room.

When it comes to keeping your entire home comfortable, a ducted heating and cooling system does the job efficiently. It allows you and your family to enjoy comfortable temperatures no matter where you are in the house. With ducted heating and cooling, you can achieve an even distribution of cool or warm air throughout your home.

Before considering the many benefits of ducted air conditioning, let’s take a look at some of the basics, such as …

What is Ducted Heating and Cooling?

Ducted heating and cooling is an all-encompassing solution that offers complete climate control. It comprises an outdoor compressor and a centralised indoor unit that is typically installed in the ceiling or beneath the floor.

A network of concealed air ducts extends from the central unit to discreet vents positioned through the home, providing the desired flow of warm or cool air. With ducted heating and cooling, you can choose to have vents in all rooms or just select spaces.

Reverse cycle technology is a common feature in ducted air conditioning, allowing it to both heat or cool as needed. The temperature and other settings can be adjusted using a wall-mounted thermostat. Many modern systems offer additional smart features that enable users to manage airflow remotely through a Wi-Fi app.

Although you gain total climate control, most people will be wondering how much it’s all going to cost.

Is Ducted Air Conditioning Expensive?

Ducted air conditioning is a highly efficient and comprehensive method of climate control that provides unparalleled comfort to its users. However, the cost of installation for this type of system is higher than alternative air conditioning systems.

Apart from the central unit and outdoor compressor, you need to factor in the expenses associated with:

• Installing the air ducts
• Wiring
• Drainage
• Labour costs and
• Potential removal of an existing system

Considering the long-term benefits of ducted air conditioning, it is best viewed as an investment that yields immediate returns. While the price of a system varies depending on the specific needs of your home, it is recommended that you request a fixed-price quote for ducted work.

This way, you will have a clear understanding of the total cost of the installation upfront and avoid any unpleasant surprises in the form of unexpected fees.

Does a Ducted System Cost a Lot to Run?

The cost of operating a ducted heating and cooling system is influenced by several factors. These include:

• Size and type of the system
• Energy efficiency rating
• Size of the house
• Operating temperature
• Local electricity tariffs

According to comparison website Canstar Blue, the average household can add up to $450 annually to electricity costs if a 6kW output system operates for 80 hours per quarter.

If you want to calculate the running costs of new appliances, it’s best to consult the Energy Rating sticker. However, this information is not mandatory for ducted air conditioning systems.

How to Work Out Ducted AC Running Costs

Here’s a brief guide on determining the maximum running costs of a ducted heating and cooling system:

• Look for a printed label on the unit or an online description that specifies the air conditioner’s kilowatt usage per hour (or kWh).
• Use your most recent energy bill to work out what you pay per kilowatt. Since energy prices differ from state to state, you will get a more accurate estimate from a previous statement than online research.
• Multiply the air conditioner’s kilowatt usage by the kWh price on your most recent bill to determine your hourly cost. You may use this number to calculate your daily usage costs, based on how long you expect to run the air conditioner.
• Using this data, you can estimate quarterly and annual running expenses. Keep in mind that cooling consumes more energy than heating and there’s a difference between peak and off-peak energy prices.

The Benefits of Making the Switch

When you need to spend considerable money to install ducted heating and cooling, you would hope that it’s going to pay off in many ways.

Fortunately, a ducted system is highly likely to live up to its reputation with many benefits that justify the initial cost. Let’s examine some of those benefits in more detail, such as:

• Complete climate control – Ducted heating and cooling systems offer the advantage of distributing hot or cool air evenly throughout a home. They extend beyond just the central living area and reach bedrooms, dining areas and other desired spaces. By opting for a ducted system, you can avoid the frustration of installing a split system only to discover its inadequacy on the hottest days of the year.
• Zoning increases energy efficiency – Ducted systems use zoning, allowing users to customise the temperature and airflow in each room according to their preferences. With the help of a thermostat, users can adjust the heating and cooling of specific areas or even turn off some zones entirely to save energy. During winter, you can choose to heat up only the living room and master bedroom. While in the summer, you might select to cool down rooms that receive direct sunlight.
• A ducted system can save money – By implementing zoning techniques and selectively treating essential areas with air conditioning, you can considerably decrease the operational expenses of ducted air conditioning systems. Additionally, adjusting the temperature can also contribute to reducing costs. According to Origin Energy, it’s advisable to maintain the thermostat temperature above 24°C, as each degree below that consumes 5% more energy.
• Ducted systems look good – Even with the most careful designing, split systems can be visually intrusive and may detract from the overall aesthetic appeal of your home. However, opting for a ducted heating and cooling system ensures that the entire unit is concealed within the roof, walls and floors, thus preserving the seamless look of your home. The only visible components are the unobtrusive vents that can be customised to blend seamlessly with your interior design.
• Increase your home value – Investing in a ducted heating and cooling system can significantly increase your home’s overall value. The convenience of having complete climate control throughout your living space is an attractive feature that can appeal to potential homebuyers. Whether you are planning to sell your property in the near future or not, a ducted HVAC system is a valuable addition that can improve the comfort of your home.

In Conclusion

When it comes to air conditioning, there isn’t a single solution that fits all needs. For those who are building their dream home and looking for top-of-the-line systems, ducted air conditioning is an excellent choice. However, if you’re living in a single-bedroom home or an open-plan apartment, a split system may be sufficient.

While ducted air conditioning may not be the best fit for every situation, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking an efficient and aesthetically pleasing way to cool their living space. By taking a few simple steps to reduce running costs, you can enjoy the benefits of ducted air conditioning for years to come.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.