How the two layouts differ
Split system
Equipment serving selected spaces
Split systems condition individual rooms or zones using an indoor unit connected to an outdoor unit. Multi-split arrangements can connect more than one indoor unit, subject to product design and a site-specific assessment.
- Separate indoor units remain visible in each served space.
- Spaces can usually be controlled independently.
- Outdoor-unit positions, pipe routes, drainage and electrical supply need assessment.
- Adding units progressively may be possible, but each addition still needs proper sizing and design.
Ducted system
Air distributed to several spaces
Ducted systems distribute conditioned air through ducts to outlets in multiple rooms. Controls may divide the home into zones, but the available zoning and minimum operating requirements depend on the selected equipment and design.
- Ceiling, underfloor or bulkhead space may be needed for equipment and ducts.
- Supply outlets are less visually prominent than wall-mounted indoor units.
- Duct routes, return-air location, insulation and air sealing affect performance.
- Existing homes may need access changes or visible bulkheads; feasibility cannot be assumed.
Decision factors to take to an installer
System type alone does not determine performance. Product efficiency, sizing, installation, controls, climate, building and use all matter.
Rooms used together
List which rooms need heating or cooling at the same time, including overnight patterns.
Building constraints
Ask how roof space, structure, apartment rules, outdoor-unit locations, drainage and electrical capacity affect the design.
Sizing evidence
Request the assumptions behind the proposed capacity rather than selecting equipment from floor area alone.
Zoning and controls
Confirm which spaces can operate independently and any limits on how many zones may close at once.
Efficiency comparison
Compare the zoned energy label and registered product data for the actual models proposed.
Scope and access
Compare equipment, ductwork or pipework, controls, electrical work, condensate drainage, commissioning and exclusions.
Compare proposed products, not generic labels
A split system is not automatically more efficient than every ducted system, and zoning does not by itself prove lower energy use. Capacity, star ratings, climate-zone performance, controls, duct losses, setpoints and operating patterns can change the result.
Ask for the exact model numbers and use the Australian Government Energy Rating tools to compare registered products. Running-cost estimates are planning outputs based on assumptions, not predictions of a household bill.
Official tools and guidance
Use these sources to check product labels, compare registered models and confirm refrigerant-licensing details.
YourHome
Heating and cooling
Australian Government guidance on heating and cooling choices, system sizing, labels and household design factors.
Open official sourceEnergy Rating
Energy Rating labelling
Australian Government information about mandatory energy labels and the zoned label used for air conditioners.
Open official sourceEnergy Rating
Energy Rating Calculator
Compare registered products using label information and estimated running costs for the selected location and use assumptions.
Open official sourceAustralian Refrigeration Council
Look for the Tick business search
Search for businesses authorised to acquire, store and dispose of regulated refrigerants and technicians who hold the relevant handling licence.
Open official sourceRequest a site-specific installation proposal
Supplier availability varies by location and project. A request does not guarantee supplier contact, a response or a quote. Information submitted to The Wombat is not a site assessment, load calculation, design or quote; confirm the proposed equipment, scope and licensing directly before proceeding.
Start an installation enquiry