Winter is getting colder, so you’ll want your spaces to feel cosy and warm during those chillier mornings.
Whether you’re renovating a property you just purchased or need to replace an older heater, it can be tough to decide on what heating option works best for you.
But not to worry, this blog will outline everything you need to consider before committing to a purchase.
There’s many types of heating options on the market, and comparing them yourself can be overwhelming! Let’s take a look at both ducted and split system heating to make it just that little bit easier.
Ducted heating systems use a network of ducts to push warm air around your home, and this is consistent. There are no cold corners. The best thing is, it will heat your spaces with a single unit and can be powered by electricity or gas.
Split systems have two separate units: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit connected by refrigerant lines. This indoor unit is commonly wall-mounted and delivers cool or heated air into your rooms, so you have a lot of choice when it comes to customising your temperature. As for the outdoor unit, it contains a compressor and processes the refrigerant. You can either have one split system or multiple split systems, depending on the size of your home.
A heating and cooling system should have a good energy rating, be good for the environment, and ultimately keep you warm in winter, but let’s weigh things up in more detail! What are some things you should note down?
According to a Hipages cost guide, ducted heating in 2025 can cost from $2000 for a small capacity system designed for apartment living and up to $10,000 for a system that can heat a larger home. Ducted installation specifically ranges from $5000 to $30,000. These prices are based on national averages. The type of system you choose will have an impact on its price, installation fees and running costs.
Split Systems in 2025 can cost from $600 to $4900, and the cost depends on the type of unit and the complexity of the installation, starting at $600 for a reverse cycle system up to $4900 for a multi-split system. Whether you choose to purchase from a company that offers supply and installation or buy a unit yourself, explore both options to see what works for you financially.
What are some points to think about?
What does ducted heating energy efficiency look like? According to Sustainability Victoria, a ducted reverse-cycle air conditioner (unzoned) in a medium house (160m2) has an efficiency rating of 1 star, an annual energy cost of $1848, and uses 34.7 GHG emissions (tonnes) over 10 years.
As for a multi-split reverse-cycle air conditioner for a medium house, it has an efficiency rating of 1.5 stars, an annual energy cost of $1,232, and uses 23.1 GHG emissions (tonnes) over a 10-year period.
Figures have been updated to reflect the energy prices in mid-2024. Compared to the last update (December 2023), electricity prices have decreased slightly, while natural gas, LPG and wood prices have increased. The 10-year emission coefficient for electricity has increased somewhat, based on the emission coefficient projections published in December 2023.
These should be used as a guide only. Actual energy costs will depend on:
The energy costs and emissions are based on an average pre-2005 existing house in a Melbourne climate.
What are some of the reasons a Mitsubishi ducted heating and cooling system will work for you?
They are heating solutions for any space, not just a single room. Mitsubishi Electric ducted systems come in a range of capacities, so they can work for any Australian property. For example, there’s a compact FDU Series with a low profile design for tight roof cavities, or a FDUA Series with a splittable indoor unit for easy handling when being installed.
They are energy efficient due to an advanced component design and smart programming. With lower energy use and lower energy bills, there are more benefits to pairing with zoning options.
They are easy to zone control temperatures in different areas of your home. Flexizone or Airzone zoning helps you set temperatures for different rooms. Turn off ducts in rooms you’re not using. All in all, they cost less to run.
They run quietly. Every ducted Mitsubishi Electric system is perfect for loungerooms, bedrooms, and any other areas where noise might be a problem. All Mitsubishi Heavy Industries ducted systems come with silent operation, so you’ll sleep at night uninterrupted.
They improve the air quality. Mitsubishi ducted systems are equipped with filters that remove pollutants and contaminants from the air. This improves the air quality in your home (or commercial spaces), which is perfect if you have allergies (dust or pollen) or respiratory problems such as asthma.
The design is discreet. The indoor unit and ducting are located in the bulkhead or ceiling, so the grills are the only thing visible on the ceiling!
They are simple to maintain. All you need to do is clean the filter or get a professional HVAC technician to keep it running. Sometimes, too much dust accumulates over time, and it needs a refresh.
If you would like to learn more about Mitsubishi systems, read: Mitsubishi Electric air conditioning – a guide to maintenance and repairs.
Let’s explore some of the great features of the Daikin split system.
Whether you’re interested in gas ducted heating, multi head split systems, ducted reverse cycle heating and cooling, or electric heating and cooling, Aust Climate can guide you in the right direction.
How big your space is, the area/climate you live in, energy efficiency needs, and whether you prefer gas or electric all play a part in your buying decision.
If you want to heat a single room, a split system can work for you. However, you’ll be up for more money if you choose to buy a split system for every room. In this case, ducted electric or ducted gas heating and cooling is better as it can heat/cool all rooms at once, but you can also shut off certain areas if you don’t use them.
That said, you might not want to spend money on ductwork and think a split system is easier to install. Either way, your property will be cosy all winter long!
But if you want more professional insight and aren’t sure what to pick, Aust Climate’s HVAC technicians can explain things to you in detail. We are fully qualified and industry-trained in sales and installation, warranty repairs, service, repairs, and maintenance!
Beginning our journey 25 years ago, we are a leader in the heating and cooling industry. If you need a quote, one of our experienced sales consultants can meet you onsite, in your home, or in our showroom.
Contact us today by calling 03 9726 4444 or emailing [email protected] for an online quote and peace of mind. Our work is carried out by ACS and covered by all relevant industry insurances, including VBA compliance and public liability insurance.
Check out our New Season Products; we have a 6-year workmanship guarantee and can also help you with a VEU Rebate if you’re considering upgrading from gas to electric.
