Ducted vs Split Systems – Which Is Best for Your Home?

Ducted vs Split Systems

3 minutes

26 Sept 2025

Written by Jake Deppeler — Plumber & Founder of Trust Trade

Introduction

When choosing an air conditioning system, two options dominate the Australian market: ducted air conditioning and split systems. Both can keep your home comfortable, but they work differently and come with their own advantages and drawbacks. Here’s an in-depth look at five key areas to help you decide which system suits your home best.

Installation and Upfront Cost

Ducted Systems
Installing ducted air conditioning is a major project. It requires a central unit (usually in the roof space) connected to a network of ducts running through ceilings or under floors. This makes it more expensive upfront, and not every home has the space to accommodate it.

Split Systems
Split systems are far easier and cheaper to install. They consist of an indoor unit mounted on the wall and an outdoor compressor unit. Installation can usually be completed in a few hours, making them a cost-effective solution for single rooms or small homes.

Energy Efficiency and Running Costs

Ducted Systems
Ducted systems can be efficient for cooling or heating large homes, especially when fitted with zoning controls that allow you to only run certain areas. However, if the whole house is running at once, they use a lot of energy.

Split Systems
Split systems are highly efficient for heating or cooling individual rooms. Because they only condition the space you’re using, they often lead to lower energy bills in small or medium homes. For large homes, though, multiple units may push running costs up.

Comfort and Temperature Control

Ducted Systems
One of the biggest advantages of ducted air conditioning is whole-home comfort. Every room can be cooled or heated evenly, and with zoning, you can control different areas independently. Air is distributed quietly and discreetly through ceiling vents.

Split Systems
Split systems provide strong, targeted airflow in the room they’re installed. However, they only cover one space at a time. In multi-room setups, different units can be set to different temperatures, but this means multiple remotes and systems to manage.

Aesthetics and Space Requirements

Ducted Systems
Ducted systems are almost invisible inside the home. All you see are small ceiling or floor vents. This makes them a good choice for homeowners who want a seamless, minimalist look. The trade-off is the space required in ceilings or under floors for ducting.

Split Systems
Split systems are visible on your wall, which some homeowners find bulky or unattractive. The outdoor compressor also needs clear space outside. For renters or those in apartments, though, split systems are often the only practical option.

Maintenance and Lifespan

Ducted Systems
Ducted systems require professional servicing, including filter cleaning, duct inspections, and checks on the central unit. If something goes wrong with the ductwork (like leaks or blockages), repairs can be costly. When looked after, ducted systems can last 15–20 years.

Split Systems
Split systems are easier to maintain. Homeowners can clean filters themselves, and servicing is usually straightforward. Replacement parts are widely available, and a well-maintained split system typically lasts 10–15 years.

What to Do Next

Choosing between ducted and split systems comes down to your home size, budget, and comfort expectations.

If you want whole-home comfort and a clean, discreet look and you’re willing to pay more upfront a ducted system may be worth it.
If you need a cost-effective, efficient solution for one or two rooms, a split system is often the better choice.

To get tailored advice and an accurate quote, use Trust Trade to connect with verified HVAC installers who can assess your home and recommend the best option.

Choosing between ducted and split systems comes down to your home size, budget, and comfort expectations.

If you want whole-home comfort and a clean, discreet look and you’re willing to pay more upfront a ducted system may be worth it.
If you need a cost-effective, efficient solution for one or two rooms, a split system is often the better choice.

To get tailored advice and an accurate quote, use Trust Trade to connect with verified HVAC installers who can assess your home and recommend the best option.

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