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How much does a Split System Air Conditioner Installation cost?

$350 - $1,000

    How Much Does a Split System Air Conditioner Installation Cost?

    A split system air conditioner can switch between heating and cooling. It can eliminate the need to have two separate systems, or it can act as a supplemental heat source. The cost of a ductless split system installation cost can range from $600 to $5,400 for larger systems.

    Factors Impacting the Cost

    Brand. The brand of the unit can have a significant impact on cost. When comparing brands, make sure that you are comparing groups of similar size and power. You also need to compare the features and amenities. Given two identical units, the brand can have a significant impact on cost. The more expensive one might not be the best choice. Be sure to check reviews and customer ratings to see how they stack up. A Daikin 7kw split system price might be much more than an unknown brand. 

    Size. The size of the unit has an impact on the split air conditioner price. A smaller, portable unit can cost about $500, while a larger system typically begins around $900

    Size of Home. Choosing the size and type of unit that you need will have a significant impact on the split air conditioner installation cost. For a small apartment or studio, a portable unit might be all that you need. However, for a larger home, you might need a zone system. In general, you will need about 10W for every 100 square metres of space. 

    Different Technology Options. You can choose from a range of units from smaller portable ones to a larger capacity wall unit. For larger systems, you might need to have modifications to your electrical system, which can add to the cost. Ducted systems are often installed when the home is built. If you want to add the system in an existing structure, a ductless split air conditioning system can be installed with much less disruption and expense. You do not have to retrofit it to the existing system as you would with a ducted system. 

    Ongoing Maintenance/Parts. Another thing that you need to consider in the split system cost of the unit is the cost of maintenance and replacement parts. This is where buying a lesser-known brand can cost you more in the long term because parts might not be as readily available. Ongoing costs can include items such as fixing leaks, refrigerant recharge, tune-up, circuit board replacement, air filter replacement, and resetting the thermostat. These items can cost anywhere from $50 to $1,600, depending on the problem. 

    Heat and Cooling Loss. One factor that you will need to consider is the height of your ceilings and the number of windows that you have. Both of these factors can result in heating and cooling loss. Windows account for about 40% of the home’s heat loss.

    Price Estimates for Different Types of Split System Air Conditioners

    The type of system can also have a significant impact on the price of the style. Let’s explore the costs of serval options. 

    Reverse cycle split system. A reverse cycle system is one that uses the same coolant. The cycle can be reversed so that the liquid is either heated or cooled, depending on the need. Smaller reverse cycle systems begin in the $600-$900 range. 

    Multi-head split system. A multi-head split system allows you to heat and cool two different areas at the same time. You can choose the proper temperature for different zones of your house. They are typically more expensive than reverse cycle split systems due to the technology involved. They are a larger system and multi-split air conditioner price can start around $2,400 and up. 

    Mitsubishi 2.5KW Reverse Cycle split system. $750

    Fujitsu 12,000 BTU mini-split. $1,900

    Daikin 9,000 BTU multi-split system. $850

    Dual split system 27,000 BTU air conditioner. $2,400

    Does the Cost Differ from City to City?

    The installation of a split system aircon differs according to the area. The most significant factor that affects the cost is the difference in labour rates. Air conditioning installation requires an electrical license. Rates for electrical work follow set standards. Here are some examples of ranges for installation according to city.

    City Average Installation Costs
    Sydney $500 – $1,000
    Melbourne $500 – $900
    Brisbane  $600 – $1,000
    Canberra $600 – $1,000
    Perth $500 – $900
    Darwin $600 – $1,000
    Hobart $600 – $1,000
    Adelaide $550 – $1,000

    How to Create an Accurate Estimate

    When calling to hire an installer, you want to help your professional give you the most accurate estimate possible. You want to avoid any surprises in the end. Here are some tips for obtaining an accurate estimate. 

    • Provide as much information as possible. The more information you can provide about your home, the better your professional can estimate your needs. Know how many rooms the unit will need to cover, the size of the rooms, and ceiling heights. You also need to know if there are sufficient electrical outlets for smaller units. 
    • Know what you want. Do your research on the various types of units available and know what you want the unit to do. There is a big difference in price between units that only cool and a split system. 
    • Know your budget. Know what you have to spend and how much flexibility you have with the budget. That way, you can come to a set price that is agreeable to you and the installer. 
    • Have an idea of what the job will involve. If you can, try to foresee any challenges that the installer might have, such as access and crawlspaces. The fewer surprises they have, the better estimate they can provide.

    How to Hire a Split System Air Conditioning Installer

    The Fair Work Australia guides have affected the costs associated with air conditioning labour. It is essential to get multiple quotes because there might be differences in how the contractor charges for the job. The quotes might include different factors and perks. The rates charged are different according to the difficulty and level of work needed. Here are the basic hourly rates, but these can more than double for Holiday rates.

    • Level 1: $30.00 per hour
    • Level 2: $35.00 per hour
    • Level 3: $40.00 per hour
    • Level 4: $45.00 per hour

    How to Save Money When Hiring a Split System Air Conditioning Installer

    Here are some tips to help you save money on air the installation costs of a split air conditioning system. 

    • Consider peak vs non-peak times of the year. It will be more expensive during peak times of the heating and cooling season than in non-peak times, such as fall or spring. 
    • If possible, avoid service calls during national Holiday hours. If you can put it off for a day, it can make a big difference in the cost of service calls. 
    • Shop around for the units and installation costs. It pays to shop around, but be sure that you are comparing similar services and types of air conditioning units. 
    • Get the right-sized unit. If you do not need to heat or cool a larger area, make sure to get a unit that is the right size for your space. There is no need to get a unit that is bigger than you need. A professional can help you choose the correct sized unit for your needs.

     

    * The cost data is based on Oneflare and third-party sources.

    Real Oneflare Customer Quotes

    Enrie's Air Conditioning Job

    Location PinBrisbane, QLD
    Job type

    Supply and fit

    Air conditioner type

    Split system

    House type

    Low set house

    $2400inc. gst

    Quoted by Mark Lawrence Electrician

    Kate's Air Conditioning Job

    Location PinMelbourne, VIC
    Job type

    Air conditioning installation

    Air conditioner type

    Split system

    Place of installation

    Lounge room of small house

    $1900inc. gst

    Quoted by Helcro Pty Ltd

    Nicky's Air Conditioning Job

    Location PinSydney, NSW
    Job type

    Removal and installation

    Number of units installed

    2 x Mitsubishi 7.1kw split systems

    Place of installation

    Lounge and rumpus room

    $660inc. gst

    Quoted by Airwave & Company

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