In the split system vs ducted decision, split systems cost less to buy, install and run when you only need to heat or cool one to three rooms. Ducted air conditioning suits whole-home comfort: it is hidden in the roof or under the floor, can be zoned room by room, and adds value to a family home, but it costs considerably more upfront and needs roof or subfloor space. Many Melbourne homes end up with a mix: ducted for the living areas and bedrooms, or two or three well-placed splits instead.
Quick answer by home type
| Home | Usually the better fit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment or unit | Split system | No roof space for ducts; body corporate rules often limit outdoor units |
| Townhouse, two storeys | Split systems, or a small ducted system per level | Heat rises; one system rarely serves both floors well |
| Single-storey family home | Ducted with zoning | One system, even comfort in every room, nothing on the walls |
| Older home with good roof access | Ducted or multiple splits | Depends on insulation, budget and how many rooms you use |
| One problem room (home office, west-facing bedroom) | Split system | Targets the room you actually use |
Cost compared
A single split system is the cheapest way to cool or heat a room. Installation is simplest when the outdoor unit sits directly behind the indoor unit on the same wall; longer pipe runs, a second storey or extra electrical work add to the price.
Ducted systems cost more because of the larger unit, the ductwork, the outlets, the controller and the extra labour in the roof. Zoning adds cost but lets you cool only the rooms in use.
Prices depend heavily on the home, so we quote after an inspection rather than guess. Ask for a quote and we will arrange a technician to measure up.
Running costs and zoning
For one or two rooms, a split system uses less power than running a ducted system across the whole house. A ducted system with zoning closes off the rooms you are not using, which narrows the gap. Choose efficient models: look at the Energy Rating label, and remember that sizing matters as much as the star rating. An oversized unit cycles on and off; an undersized one runs flat out.
Our running costs calculator estimates what a system will cost to run in your home.
Noise, looks and space
- Split systems: an indoor unit on the wall of each room and an outdoor unit for each (or a multi-head outdoor unit). Modern indoor units are quiet but visible.
- Ducted: only ceiling or floor vents and a wall controller are visible. The indoor unit sits in the roof or under the floor, and one larger outdoor unit sits outside.
Maintenance and servicing
Both need a professional service about once a year. Split systems have filters you clean every few weeks during use; ducted systems have one return air filter in the ceiling that needs checking every month or two. See how often to service your air conditioner.
Can you add ducted later?
Yes, if there is roof or subfloor space and room for the outdoor unit. Many owners start with splits in the main rooms and move to ducted during a renovation. If you plan to do that, tell the installer so the outdoor unit placement and electrical capacity allow for it.
Brands
Daikin, Mitsubishi Electric, Fujitsu, Panasonic, Samsung and LG all sell both split and ducted systems in Australia. Compare them in our best air conditioner brands guide and our Daikin vs Mitsubishi Electric comparison.
To compare how much different models cost to run, check the star ratings on the Australian Government’s Energy Rating website.
Reviewed by AC repair and service specialist on 22 October 2026. How we write our articles