Split System Air Conditioning Installation

What’s a split system?

A split system has two parts. An indoor unit sits high on the wall and blows the air, and an outdoor unit holds the compressor. The two are joined by refrigerant pipes and power through a small hole in the wall. They cool and heat, they’re quiet, and modern inverter units are cheap to run compared to older systems.

Getting the size right

The most common mistake we see is the wrong size unit. Too small and it runs flat out all day and still can’t keep up. Too big and it switches on and off constantly, wastes power and leaves the room feeling clammy. As a rough guide:

• Small bedroom or study (up to 15m²): about 2.5kW
• Standard bedroom or home office (15 to 25m²): 2.5 to 3.5kW
• Large bedroom or small lounge (25 to 35m²): 3.5 to 5kW
• Living room (35 to 50m²): 5 to 6kW
• Open-plan living (50 to 70m²): 6 to 8kW

Ceiling height, insulation and afternoon sun all change the numbers, which is why we measure up before we quote. Our air conditioning size guide has more detail.

What’s included in a split system install

• A site visit to measure the room and pick the right size
• Placement of the indoor and outdoor units for best airflow and least noise
• Standard back-to-back installs and longer pipe runs
• Neat pipe covers on the outside wall
• Electrical connection by a licensed electrician
• Testing, commissioning and a walk-through of the remote and settings
• Old unit removed and disposed of if you’re replacing one

Installs for coastal homes

Near the water, salt air is the biggest enemy of an outdoor unit. For homes around Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, Fingal Bay and the rest of Port Stephens we look at how exposed the outdoor unit will be, and whether a coastal-protected model or anti-corrosion coating is worth it. A bit of planning here adds years to the system.

Single split or multi-head?

One split system per room is the go-to for one or two rooms. For three or more rooms, a multi-head system runs several indoor units off one outdoor unit, which saves wall space outside. For whole-home coverage, ducted air conditioning can be the better option. Our guide on split system vs ducted walks through it, and we’ll give you an honest recommendation either way.

Brands we install

Daikin, Mitsubishi Electric, Panasonic, Rinnai, ActronAir, Temperzone and other major brands. We’ll recommend what suits your home and budget, not just what’s on the shelf.

Why Bay Breeze Air

• Local, based in Nelson Bay, and covering Newcastle and Maitland
• Licensed (Lic No 372056C) and ARCtick authorised (AU62649)
• Warranty on all new air conditioning installs
• Free quotes

Split system installation FAQs

How long does a split system install take?

A standard back-to-back install usually takes around half a day. Longer pipe runs, two-storey homes or tricky access can take longer. We’ll give you a time when we quote.

How much does split system installation cost?

It depends on the unit size and brand, how far apart the indoor and outdoor units are, and access. A simple back-to-back install costs a lot less than a long run up to a second storey. We give free quotes so you know the full price upfront.

Do I need an electrician as well?

No. We look after the electrical connection as part of the install.

Can you install a unit I’ve already bought?

Talk to us first. We can usually install it, but we’ll want to check the size suits the room and it’s the right model for where it’s going.

Do you service split systems after installing them?

Yes. See our split system servicing and cleaning page for what’s included and how often to book.

Get a free split system quote. Call 02 4067 7799 or 0411 877 352.