How to Choose the Right Air Conditioner for Your Home

Choosing the right air conditioner for your Australian home is an important decision that affects your comfort, energy bills, and home value. This guide will help you understand your options and make an informed choice.

Understanding Your Cooling Needs

Before looking at specific systems, consider:

• Room or home size: Measure the area you want to cool in square metres


• Ceiling height: Higher ceilings require more cooling capacity


• Insulation: Well-insulated homes need less cooling power


• Window exposure: North and west-facing rooms get more sun


• Climate zone: Coastal areas differ from inland regions

Types of Air Conditioners

Split System Air Conditioners

Split systems are the most popular choice in Australia. They consist of an indoor unit mounted on the wall and an outdoor compressor.

Pros:


• Affordable to purchase and install


• Energy efficient


• Quiet operation


• Individual room control

Cons:


• Only cools one area per unit


• Visible indoor unit

Best for: Single rooms, apartments, budget-conscious buyers

Ducted Air Conditioning

Ducted systems provide whole-home cooling through vents in the ceiling. The main unit is installed in the roof space.

Pros:


• Whole home climate control


• Hidden from view


• Zoning options available


• Adds property value

Cons:


• Higher upfront cost


• Requires roof space


• More complex installation

Best for: Larger homes, new builds, those wanting a premium solution

Multi-Split Systems

Multi-split systems connect multiple indoor units to a single outdoor compressor.

Pros:


• Multiple rooms from one outdoor unit


• Individual room control


• Less outdoor space needed

Cons:


• More expensive than single splits


• If outdoor unit fails, all rooms affected

Best for: Medium-sized homes, those wanting flexibility

Sizing Your Air Conditioner

Getting the right size is crucial. Too small and it won't cool effectively; too large and it will cycle on and off inefficiently.

Room Size Guide (approximate)

| Room Size | Capacity Needed |
|-----------|----------------|
| Up to 20m² | 2.0-2.5kW |
| 20-40m² | 2.5-5.0kW |
| 40-60m² | 5.0-7.0kW |
| 60-80m² | 7.0-9.0kW |
| 80m²+ | 9.0kW+ |

Note: These are rough guides. A professional calculation considers all factors.

Energy Efficiency

Look for the Energy Rating Label:


• More stars = more efficient


• Look for both cooling and heating ratings


• Consider the Zoned Energy Rating Label (ZERL) for your climate zone

Features to Consider

• Inverter technology: Varies compressor speed for efficiency


• Smart connectivity: Control via phone app


• Air purification: Filters for allergens and dust


• Quiet mode: For bedrooms and quiet spaces


• Heating capability: Reverse-cycle for year-round comfort

Next Steps

1. Measure your space
2. Consider your budget
3. Get quotes from licensed installers
4. Ask about energy efficiency
5. Check warranty terms

Use our cost calculators to estimate installation costs for different system types.