It's one of the most common questions we get at Alby Cool: "Should I go ducted or split system?" The honest answer is that it depends — and getting it wrong can mean years of higher energy bills or a system that doesn't keep up with your home's needs.
Here's our no-nonsense comparison to help you make the right call.
What is a split system?
A split system air conditioner has two components — an indoor wall unit and an outdoor compressor unit. Modern split systems are reverse cycle, meaning they both heat and cool. They're energy efficient, relatively affordable to install, and work well for individual rooms or open-plan living spaces.
What is ducted heating?
Ducted heating uses a central unit — typically in the roof cavity or under the floor — connected to a network of vents or outlets throughout the home. Gas ducted heating is the most common type in Victoria and is known for fast, powerful warmth that reaches every room simultaneously.
Ducted reverse cycle air conditioning works similarly but uses electricity to both heat and cool, making it a whole-home solution that replaces the need for separate heating and cooling systems.
The key differences at a glance
• Cost to install: Split systems are cheaper upfront — typically $1,000–$3,500 installed for a single unit. Ducted systems cost more — typically $6,000–$15,000+ depending on home size and system type.
• Coverage: Split systems cover one room or zone at a time. Ducted systems cover the whole home from a single installation.
• Aesthetics: Split systems have a visible wall unit in each room. Ducted systems are largely hidden — only vents or grilles are visible.
• Energy efficiency: Modern split systems are highly energy efficient for the area they serve. Ducted systems can be efficient whole-home solutions when correctly sized, but can cost more to run if you're only using one or two rooms.
• Installation disruption: Split systems can be installed in a few hours with minimal disruption. Ducted systems require more significant installation work, particularly in existing homes.
• Flexibility: Split systems allow independent control of individual rooms. Ducted systems with zoning can also achieve this, but at additional cost.
When a split system makes more sense
A split system is likely the better choice if:
• You're on a tighter budget and want an effective solution for the main living areas
• You live in an apartment or smaller home
• You rent and need landlord approval for any installation
• You only need to heat or cool specific rooms rather than the whole house
• You want to add cooling or heating to an existing home without major renovation work
When ducted heating makes more sense
Ducted heating or ducted reverse cycle is likely the better choice if:
• You have a larger home with multiple bedrooms and living areas
• Whole-home comfort is important to you — you want every room warm or cool without thinking about it
• You're building a new home and can install the ducting during construction
• Aesthetics matter — you don't want visible units on walls throughout the house
• You're planning to sell — ducted systems add measurable value to a property
• You're replacing an old gas ducted system and may be eligible for a Victorian government rebate of up to $5,530
What about running costs?
This is where many homeowners get caught out. A split system running in one room is very cheap to run. But if you have split systems in every room all running simultaneously, the costs add up quickly.
A well-sized ducted reverse cycle system running throughout the whole home can actually be more economical than multiple split systems running at once — particularly with modern inverter technology and zoning controls.
The key word is 'well-sized' — an incorrectly sized ducted system (too small or too large for the home) will cost significantly more to run. This is why a professional assessment before purchase matters so much.
Can I have both?
Absolutely — and many Frankston and Peninsula homes do. A common setup is ducted gas heating for winter warmth throughout the home, combined with one or two split system air conditioners in the main living areas and master bedroom for summer cooling.
This can be a very cost-effective approach, particularly if your existing gas ducted system is in good condition and you simply want to add cooling capability.
Still not sure? Let us help.
At Alby Cool, we assess your home, your usage patterns, and your budget before making any recommendation. We supply and install all major brands, and we're an authorised Braemar Dominator dealer for premium ducted gas heating installations.
We service Frankston, Mount Eliza, Mornington, Langwarrin, Seaford, Carrum Downs, Cranbourne, and all surrounding suburbs. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote.
Email: andrew@albycool.com.au
Web: www.albycool.com.au
— Andrew Albert, Director, Alby Cool Pty Ltd