Ducted air conditioning distributes cool or hot air throughout a building via a series of ducts. These systems are discreet, with the ducts usually hidden in the ceiling or floor.
A central unit cools or heats the air before pushing it through the ducts to various rooms. This gives you consistent climate control throughout your home.
Many ducted systems also have zoning controls. You can set various zones to different temperatures or switch off the air con completely in rooms you aren’t using.
You might see ducted air conditioning as a luxury. But ducted systems are a smart investment in whole-home comfort, energy efficiency and property value.
Let’s take a deep dive into ducted air con where we’ll cover:
- The cost
- How it works
- Benefits of ducted
- And more
Ducted air conditioning might be the solution you never knew you needed.
How Much Does Ducted Air Conditioning Cost in Brisbane?
Ducted air conditioning typically costs between $11,000 and $15,000 in Brisbane. The price depends on the system type, size, etc. and can rise to $20,000 or more.
You can expect to pay less if you’re buying ducted air con for your home. Commercial buyers are likely to pay more because they need bigger systems.
Factors Impacting the Cost
- System type – Different types of ducted air conditioning systems have varying costs. These include standard, inverter and reverse cycle systems.
- System size – More ductwork and more powerful units are needed for larger home or commercial properties, increasing costs.
- Building size – You must have a bigger unit to heat or cool a larger building, adding to the costs.
- Zoning – This lets you control the temperature in different areas for added comfort but raises the cost.
- Complexity – Installation complexity can significantly impact costs. Home design, accessibility and additional electrical work can add to prices.
- Location – Salt air corrosion can affect units situated within 3KM of the ocean. Some brands apply a protective coating to air conditioners, increasing costs.
Read more about Ducted Air Conditioning Costs in Brisbane.
Why Choose Ducted Air Conditioning in Brisbane?
- Entire-home solution
- Boost property value
- Energy efficiency
- Zoning features
- Runs quietly
- Discreet
Entire-Home Solution
Ducted air conditioning is a solution for your entire property. You get consistent temperature control throughout your home or office.
Split systems only target specific rooms. But ducted covers every part of your property for year-round comfort.
Boost Property Value
You can increase the value of your property with ducted air conditioning. Ducted systems are a great selling point for prospective buyers.
Energy Efficiency
Expect high energy efficiency with modern ducted air conditioning systems. Inverter technology adjusts the compressor speed to match demand, reducing energy consumption and bill costs.
Zoning Features
Create multiple zones within your home with ducted. Zoning lets you independently control temperatures in different areas.
Only want to cool or heat the rooms you’re using? Zoning features let you do that, improving comfort and boosting energy efficiency.
Runs Quietly
Quiet operation is a main benefit of ducted air con. Indoor units are hidden away and produce very little noise, while the compressor fan is generally outside. This makes ducted air conditioning ideal for living rooms and bedrooms.
Discreet
Components are hidden away in the ceiling or under the floor, making ducted units very discreet. Only the vents are visible but can blend in with your home’s aesthetic for a sleek look.
You may be interested in the 3 Best Ducted Air Conditioners.
Key Differences: Ducted vs Non-Ducted
Control and Flexibility
A common question is: What is the difference between ducted and non-ducted air conditioners? Ducted systems cover whole houses, while non-ducted systems focus on single rooms.
Each approach has merit. If you want room-specific control, non-ducted might make sense. But if you prefer a stable climate across the entire property, ducted is the way to go.
Installation and Cost Differences
Installation costs vary greatly between these options. Central ducted systems take more effort to install, with higher upfront costs. For larger homes, this can be more cost-effective than buying several split system units.
Ducted air conditioning typically costs between $11,000 and $15,000 in Brisbane. With split system air con, you can expect to pay between $1500 and $5000.
That’s a big difference. But remember – ducted covers your entire home, while a split system targets a specific room.
Energy Consumption
Which is better: ducted or ductless? This depends on your needs.
For a couple in a two-bedroom apartment, non-ducted would likely be better for energy consumption.
But a family in a five-bedroom house has different needs. A ducted system is probably the better option in this scenario.
Sound and Aesthetics
Noise is a factor worth noting. Central ducted systems are quieter because noisy parts are hidden away. You might find quieter operations indoors with ductless, which are designed to run at low sound levels.
Aesthetically, ducted systems win by being invisible. They hide ductwork, maintaining the beauty of your space. This is ideal for those valuing clean lines and minimal interference with décor. Non-ducted systems take up visible wall space which might impact the optional design of your home.
Brands like Mitsubishi Electric offer efficient, quiet ducted options that maintain control with minimal design impact.
How Ducted Air Conditioning Works: Essential Steps
- Collects, cools or heats, distributes, and returns air
- Ensures balanced temperatures throughout
- Incorporates filters for cleaner air
Step 1: Air Collection
Ducted air conditioning collects air from inside your home. The system pulls in air through return air grilles, often installed in ceilings or walls.
This is an ongoing process that ensures old air is constantly cycled out and makes room for fresh, conditioned air. The grilles direct air to a central unit for treatment.
Step 2: Cooling or Heating Process
Once collected, the air is sent through evaporator coils within the ducted system. These coils have a central role: adjusting the air to the temperature specified by the home’s thermostat.
This process involves either cooling or heating the air, depending on user settings. The workings of these coils are often compared to the methods used in refrigerators, where heat exchange is the primary function.
The thermostat acts as the system’s brain, sending signals to control heating or cooling processes. Modern thermostats are programmable, enabling homeowners to set specific temperatures and schedules.
This convenience ensures that the system operates efficiently, reducing energy use when full climate control isn’t necessary.
Step 3: Air Distribution
After the air reaches the desired temperature, it’s time for distribution. The conditioned air is pushed through the ductwork spanning the property, which carries it to different rooms.
Ducts are insulated to maintain the conditioned air’s temperature en route. This step differentiates a ducted system from split systems, as ducted units offer broad, uniform coverage rather than individual room control.
Conditioned air reaches rooms through vents strategically placed throughout the home. These vents are key to delivering a steady and balanced airflow.
Location and number of vents can influence the system’s effectiveness. Consulting with professionals like Russell Air ensures this is set up correctly.
Step 4: Return Air Process
Eventually, the air returns to the system. This creates a continuous loop, as part of the air is cycled back to be reconditioned.
This cycle repeats until the thermostat reaches its target. Then, the system goes into a standby mode, engaging only as needed to maintain set temperature conditions.
Cycling air back means the system can be more energy efficient compared to models that don’t recycle.
Step 5: System Monitoring and Control
Every ducted air conditioning system comes with a built-in monitoring mechanism for optimal performance. These systems track temperature variance to ensure flawless operation and notify users when servicing is needed.
Regular servicing maintains an efficient system and helps prevent future breakdowns.
Those with more advanced needs may invest in smart integrations that allow real-time status reviews and remote control via mobile apps. Technology continues to evolve, so staying updated can lead to significant performance and power savings.
Is Ducted Air Conditioning Worth It?
For many, the simple answer is yes. Ducted air conditioning is worth it.
Ducted systems offer a whole-home solution. They provide even temperatures and the quietest operation. They often increase home value, too.
The costs are higher upfront, which is understandably a concern for many people. But weigh that against the benefits like hole-home comfort, increased property value and energy efficiency.
Comparing the initial cost with the long-term savings is always a good idea when considering ducted air conditioning.
And ducted air con does have some disadvantages:
- Complex installation
- Harder to maintain and repair
- Needs significant ceiling space
Conclusion
Ducted air conditioning can transform your living space. You get a whole-home solution with zoning capabilities for added energy efficiency.
You now have insights into its cost, benefits, workings and differences with non-ducted systems. While considering your options, remember that the right system can make your home more comfortable, efficient and valuable.
The initial investment might seem significant, but the long-term benefits often outweigh the costs.
Need help with your ducted air conditioning needs? The friendly team of air conditioning experts at Russell Air would love to help!
Please don’t hesitate to contact us today.
