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Ducted Air Conditioning vs Split System Air Conditioning

February 28, 2023
February 28, 2023

When it comes to air conditioning, choosing the right system for your home or office is no small matter. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide on the right one—that’s why we’ve compared the two systems in the following article. Read on to learn all about ducted and split system air conditioning.

What is Ducted Air Conditioning?

Ducted air conditioning is a popular choice for larger spaces such as homes, offices or commercial buildings. This type of air conditioning system consists of a central unit connected to ducts that distribute cool air to various rooms or zones. The main benefits of ducted air conditioning include:


·     Efficient cooling of a large space quickly & effectively

·     Discrete vents that are only visible in the ceiling or floor

·     Temperature control options for each room, providing flexibility & comfort

Ducted Air Conditioning Maintenance & Repairs

Ducted air conditioning requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and to prolong its lifespan. Maintenance tasks include cleaning the filters, checking the refrigerant levels and inspecting the ductwork for leaks or damage. It is recommended to have ducted air conditioning serviced annually by a professional.


If ducted air conditioning is not properly maintained, it may require repairs more frequently. Common repair issues include leaking ducts, malfunctioning thermostats and faulty compressors.

What is Split System Air Conditioning?

Split system air conditioning consists of two units: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit is installed in the room you want to cool, while the outdoor unit houses the compressor and the condenser. The main benefits of split system air conditioning include:


• Ideal for smaller spaces, such as bedrooms or living rooms

• Suitable for spaces with limited ceiling or floor space

• Energy efficient when placed in the right environment

• Convenient to install, making it a cost-effective choice for homeowners

Split System Air Conditioning Maintenance & Repairs 

Split system air conditioning also requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and to prolong its lifespan.

Maintenance tasks include cleaning the filters, checking the refrigerant levels and inspecting the outdoor unit for debris or damage. Just like a ducted system, it is recommended to have your split system air conditioning serviced annually by a professional.


Split system air conditioning is generally easier to repair than ducted air conditioning, as the indoor and outdoor units are separate. Common repair issues include malfunctioning compressors, leaks in the refrigerant lines, and faulty thermostats.

Comparison: Ducted Air Conditioning vs Split System

When choosing between ducted and split system air conditioning, consider the following:


• Size & layout of your home or office

• Cooling needs

• Maintenance & Repairs

Ducted air conditioning is the best choice for:


• Larger spaces

• Cooling larger areas more efficiently

• Flexibility of temperature control for each room

• Commercial spaces or large homes with multiple zones


Split system air conditioning is a cost-effective option

These systems have lower energy consumption, faster installation, maintenance and repairs and are ideal for:


• Smaller spaces

• Homes with limited ceiling or floor space


Consider the energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness of each system before making a final decision. With the right system in place, you can keep your home or office cool and comfortable all year round.

Still Can’t Decide on the Best System?

At GSA Group, we have over 30 years of experience servicing the Townsville area’s air conditioning, refrigeration and electrical needs. Our team of professionals can advise you on the best system for your commercial or domestic requirements while providing amazing customer service every step of the way—from inspection and quote to installation. Get in touch with us today via our contact form with any questions or give us a call on (07) 4728 2974 to learn more about our products and services.

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