Perth electrical & aircon help
Is ducted or split-system air conditioning better for my home?
Quick answer
Split systems often suit homes where one or two rooms are used most. They usually cost less to install, and you only run the rooms you need. Ducted air conditioning can make several rooms comfortable at once. It needs enough roof space and usually costs more to install.
The real trade-off
- Split system: cheaper to install, cools/heats one or two rooms well, and you only run what you’re using. Good fit if most of your time is spent in one or two areas.
- Ducted: better for whole-home comfort and a cleaner look (no visible indoor units), but needs roof space, generally costs more upfront, and running the whole house uses more energy unless it’s zoned.
Zoning changes the answer
A well-zoned ducted system lets you condition just the rooms in use, closing the gap with split-system running costs; it’s worth discussing zoning specifically rather than assuming ducted means “cool the whole house at once.”
Last updated 23 August 2026
Published by Neighbourhood Electrical & Air · Editorial process and corrections