Ultimate Comparison Guide: Split System Heating vs. Ducted Heating

Choosing a new heating system can be a challenge because there are so many systems out there. Whatever you get, you are likely to have it for several years so you may regret any mistakes for a long time.

Apart from choosing a quality system that works well and cost-effectively, the main choice is between a split system and a ducted system. These have some similarities but also significant differences, which are explained next.

Differences and Features of Split and Ducted Systems

A split system is intended to heat one room within a property or, at most, those that are adjoining. A ducted system, on the other hand, is designed to cover a whole building. It does this by having a central unit connected to ducts that run through the property. Both types can be reverse cycle systems, which means they’re used as ducted air conditioning in Melbourne.

Split systems are suitable for small properties because the area they can cover is determined by the positioning of the internal evaporative heat exchanger, which is connected to a separate condensing heat exchanger that is normally located on an external wall. Large properties with multiple rooms may need several split units located throughout the building.

Gas Ducted systems are more often used in larger properties because only a single unit is needed and will deliver cooled or warmed air throughout the property via ducts that lead to vents in various rooms. These systems necessitate a more complex heating and split system installation in Melbourne because of the need for ducting but are much more adaptable, with a single controller that enables different temperatures to be set in various rooms. They’re also more aesthetically pleasing than spilt systems because only the controller and vents are visible, with the ducts and heating/cooling unit hidden from sight.

Individual split systems are much cheaper than ducted ones because they’re fully stand-alone units that just need to be positioned correctly and plugged in. Ducted systems, however, need to be physically installed with everything concealed in roof, floor and wall spaces. They are, however, a much more permanent feature that will generally last longer. In larger properties, the need for multiple split system units will quickly cause the cost to multiply to the point where a ducted system is the only feasible option.

Choosing the Most Suitable System

Although ducted systems are generally more expensive to buy and run than split systems, they are much more flexible and give whole home comfort all year round. They also tend to have a longer life and, because the ducting is a permanent feature once installed, you only have to replace the heating/cooling units and controllers after many years of use so future renewals are much cheaper.

We can, after an assessment of your property and needs, recommend the type of system that’s best for you. That will be the one that’s the correct mix of size and output to give you a comfortable environment at the best cost. And since all our systems are top quality products, are installed correctly and are maintained regularly and properly, you’ll retain the same level of comfort and cost-effectiveness for years to come.