Ducted Heating vs Split System: Which is Better?

Choosing the right heating system for your home is crucial for comfort and energy efficiency, especially in Australia where the climate can vary significantly. Homeowners often find themselves deciding between ducted heating and split systems, each offering distinct advantages and features.

In this article, we will delve into the specifics of both ducted systems and split systems. By understanding their differences, installation processes, installation costs, and overall performance, you can make an informed decision that best suits your residential needs.

An Overview of Ducted Heating

Ducted air conditioning systems are designed to heat an entire home through a network of ducts connected to a central heating unit. This unit, typically installed on the roof or under the floor, distributes warm air through vents located in each room, ensuring consistent and efficient heating throughout the residence.

One of the primary benefits of ducted heating is its ability to provide even temperature control across multiple rooms. This ducted air conditioning system allows homeowners to set and maintain a comfortable indoor climate regardless of the outside weather. Additionally, ducted heating systems often come with zoning options, enabling different temperature settings in various areas of the home, which can enhance energy efficiency and comfort.

Furthermore, ducted air conditioners are known for their unobtrusive design. Since the central unit and ducts are hidden, the aesthetic appeal of the home is maintained, and only the discreet vents are visible. This makes ducted heating an excellent choice for those who prioritise both functionality and aesthetics in their home heating solution.

The Versatility of Split Systems

Split systems are a popular heating solution for many Australian homes, consisting of an indoor unit that delivers warm air and an outdoor unit that extracts heat from the outside air. These systems are highly versatile, providing both heating and cooling capabilities, making them suitable for year-round use.

One of the main advantages of split system air conditioning is its ease of installation. Unlike a ducted system, which requires extensive ductwork, split systems involve a simpler setup with just two units connected by refrigerant piping and electrical wiring. This makes them an attractive option for homes where installing ducts might be impractical or too costly.

Additionally, split systems offer flexible temperature control. Each indoor unit operates independently, allowing for customised heating in different rooms or zones. Most split systems are also reverse cycle units, which means they cool as well as heat specific areas.

This feature not only enhances comfort but can also contribute to energy savings, as you can heat only the spaces that are in use. Split systems also come with remote controls and programmable settings, adding to their convenience and user-friendliness.

Comparison of Installation Processes

When deciding between ducted heating and split systems, it’s important to consider the installation process for each:

• Ducted heating:
  • Complex installation: A ducted heating system requires extensive ductwork throughout your home, which often means more invasive installation, especially in homes not already equipped with ducts.
  • Time-consuming: The installation can take several days, depending on the size of your home and the complexity of the system.
  • Higher initial costs: Due to the complexity of installation, initial costs are typically higher than those for split systems.
• Split system:
  • Simpler installation: These systems consist of an indoor unit mounted on the wall and an outdoor compressor. They require minimal drilling and no ductwork, making the installation less invasive.
  • Quick setup: A standard installation can be completed in a single day, making it a quicker option than ducted heating.
  • Cost-effective: Installation is generally cheaper due to the simplicity and speed of setting up the system.

Each system has its merits, and the best choice often depends on your specific needs and the layout of your home.

Energy Efficiency

Ducted heating systems are generally known for their efficiency in maintaining consistent temperatures throughout the home. Modern ducted systems come with advanced features such as zoning, which allows homeowners to heat only the rooms that are in use, reducing overall energy consumption.

However, if the ducts are not properly insulated or maintained, these systems can lose efficiency over time, leading to higher energy usage.

Split systems, particularly those with inverter technology, are highly energy-efficient. Inverter technology allows the system to adjust its output based on the temperature needs, avoiding the energy spikes associated with traditional on/off systems. This continuous regulation of temperature helps to minimise energy consumption, making split systems a cost-effective choice for many households.

Climate Suitability

Australia’s diverse climate means that the suitability of heating systems can vary greatly depending on the region. Ducted heating systems are particularly effective in cooler climates, such as those found in southern states like Victoria and Tasmania. These systems provide consistent and comprehensive heating, ensuring that the entire home remains warm even during the coldest months.

In contrast, split systems are highly versatile and well-suited to regions with milder winters or areas that experience significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. They are ideal for homes in temperate zones, such as parts of New South Wales and Queensland, where the ability to switch between heating and cooling is beneficial.

Moreover, split systems offer the flexibility to heat or cool individual rooms, making them suitable for homes in regions where only occasional heating is required. This adaptability makes split systems a practical choice for many Australian households, providing comfort throughout the changing seasons without the need for a comprehensive heating network.

Comfort and Convenience

Ducted heating systems provide a high level of comfort by delivering uniform heat throughout the entire home. This ensures that all rooms maintain a consistent temperature, eliminating cold spots and creating a cosy living environment. The centralised control system allows homeowners to easily adjust the temperature, enhancing overall convenience.

Split systems, on the other hand, offer greater flexibility in terms of comfort and convenience.

With a multi-head split system, each unit can be controlled independently, allowing for personalised temperature settings in different rooms. This is particularly useful for households with varying heating preferences, as it enables each family member to customise their own space to their liking.

Additionally, both ducted heating and split systems come with modern features such as:

• Remote controls: Easy temperature adjustment from anywhere in the room.
• Programmable settings: Ability to set specific temperatures for different times of the day.
• Smart home integration: Control systems via smartphone apps.
• Energy-saving modes: Reduce running costs while maintaining comfort levels.

These features add to the ease of use, allowing homeowners to adjust the heating settings without having to leave their seats. Whether through a centralised system or individual units, both options offer convenient solutions to keep homes comfortable year-round.

Which System is Best for You?

Choosing between ducted heating and split system air conditioners ultimately depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Ducted heating offers comprehensive and consistent warmth throughout the home, making it ideal for colder climates and larger residences. Its ability to maintain even temperatures and integrate seamlessly into the home design adds to its appeal.

Split systems, however, provide versatile and cost-effective heating solutions, particularly suitable for milder climates and homes requiring flexible heating options. Their energy efficiency, ease of installation and independent room control make them a practical choice for many Australian households.

Consider your climate, budget and comfort preferences to determine the best heating solution for your home. If you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified heating and cooling specialist.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.