#### Contents 1. [What is split system air conditioning?](#what-is-split-system-air-conditioning-2) 2. [What are the advantages and disadvantages of a split system air conditioner?](#what-are-the-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-a-split-system-air-conditioner-2) 3. [What to consider when choosing a split system air conditioner](#what-to-consider-when-choosing-a-split-system-air-conditioner-2) 4. [How much does a split system air con cost?](#how-much-does-a-split-system-air-con-cost-2) ![A split system air conditioner in a lounge room.](https://cdn.productreview.com.au/resize/featured-category-picture/3ed9efa5-4e12-42a4-b904-d8a89c88ce29) ## What is split system air conditioning? A split system air conditioner is split into two parts: a wall-mounted indoor unit in the room you’re cooling, and an outdoor unit that contains the compressor box. Warm air from inside is transferred outside and replaced with refreshingly cool air via a pipe that contains refrigerant gas. ## What are the advantages and disadvantages of a split system air conditioner? There are plenty of benefits, which is probably what helps make split system aircons the most popular type of air conditioner sold in Australia. We’ve listed some pros and cons of split system air conditioners for you to consider below. Tend to be more efficient than the alternative air conditioners. Quieter than most other air cons. Tend to be more powerful than other air conditioning systems. Lower running costs. Suitable for cooling medium and large rooms (particularly in instances where a [**portable air conditioner**](https://www.productreview.com.au/c/portable-air-conditioners) would be insufficient). Can often cool multiple rooms (though not the whole house as a [**ducted air conditioner**](https://www.productreview.com.au/c/ducted-air-conditioners) would). Often have features like inverter technology, air purification and Wi-Fi connectivity. Incur extra cost as they need to be installed into your home by a licensed technician (however, they’re cheaper to install than ducted systems). Because they have to be installed into your home, they may not be suitable for renters. The outdoor compressor unit can be noisy, particularly if not maintained correctly. ## What to consider when choosing a split system air conditioner ### Do you need heating too? Perhaps the most attractive selling point of split AC systems is that many models are also [**reverse cycle air conditioners**](https://www.productreview.com.au/c/split-system-air-conditioners?567f01e1-3dee-426f-bab9-fdcbead9fa1c=true). This means that they can heat a room as well as cool it – giving you the ultimate 2-in-1 deal for an air conditioner that’s valid in its cooling and heating abilities all year round. ### Size Check the height, depth and width of your indoor unit and see whether these measurements are suitable for where in your home you want to position the air conditioner. You should also do this for the outdoor unit. ### Your room size The power output you need will largely depend on the size of your room and windows, ceiling height, insulation, how much sunlight the room gets and more. Below is a rough guide for the cooling capacity (in kW) you need for your room size. Keep in mind that the required heating capacity is slightly higher than the required cooling capacity. | Room size | Capacity | | --------- |----------| | Small (up to 20m²) | 2 - 2.5kW | | Medium (20 - 40m²) | 2.5 - 5kW | | Large (40 - 60m²) | 4 - 6 kW | | Extra large (over 60m²) | 5 - 9kW | ### Energy efficiency Check the energy rating of models you’re comparing; check both the cooling energy rating as well as the heating energy rating if you’re getting a reverse cycle split system air conditioner. The more stars, the better the unit is for the environment and the less it should cost to run. The Energy Rating Label is regulated by the Australian government, and can help you compare the energy efficiency and running costs of the models you’re comparing. ![Two examples of Energy Rating Labels.](https://cdn.productreview.com.au/resize/article-image/38add1e8-0eca-5da7-96de-de2ef55d35dc?width=826) *Image source: www.energyrating.gov.au* Remember that the biggest expense of an air conditioner is its running costs, so it’s a good idea to opt for an energy efficient model, both for your wallet and for the environment. ### Functions Split system air conditioners often have a range of functions to choose from for different types of heating and cooling. Many will offer different fan speeds, as well as some or all of the following: - **Sleep Mode:** A feature that adjusts the temperature in increments to a level that’s suitable for sleeping, both so that the air conditioner reduces its power and so it's quieter while you’re asleep. - **Eco Mode:** This reduces power consumption, either by reducing the cooling or heating output or by detecting if no one is in the room and then reducing power. - **Fan only:** If you just want a nice breeze, then this option blows air without heating or cooling. ### Features: - [**Remote control:**](https://www.productreview.com.au/c/split-system-air-conditioners?e22b3f23-fe39-444c-b6a4-4630df5adfa3%5B0%5D=6527a396-e011-4d02-8e57-0b16d729edbf) This lets you easily control the power, settings and temperature on your air con from the comfort of the couch. - [**On/off timer:**](https://www.productreview.com.au/c/split-system-air-conditioners?e22b3f23-fe39-444c-b6a4-4630df5adfa3%5B0%5D=00da6a80-28af-425f-b290-49720fdcfecd) This lets you switch off your unit before you arrive home and switch if off at night while you’re asleep to save on electricity costs. - [**Inverter:**](https://www.productreview.com.au/c/split-system-air-conditioners?e22b3f23-fe39-444c-b6a4-4630df5adfa3%5B0%5D=abc3c64b-d983-48fd-b69d-f06b47db62a8) This energy-saving feature controls the air conditioner’s motor speed, letting the appliance change temperature without turning the motor on and off. This is thought to make your split system AC unit more efficient and more effective at maintaining a constant temperature. - [**Wi-Fi smart control:**](https://www.productreview.com.au/c/split-system-air-conditioners?e22b3f23-fe39-444c-b6a4-4630df5adfa3%5B0%5D=c0b6d366-78fd-4d05-85ab-21bf8a325a18) Wi-Fi connectivity lets you control your air conditioner using your smartphone or smart home system (such as Google Home or Amazon Alexa). - [**Dehumidifying function:**](https://www.productreview.com.au/c/split-system-air-conditioners?e22b3f23-fe39-444c-b6a4-4630df5adfa3%5B0%5D=d7c12097-4add-40ac-ae45-1c57e026e9bc) A feature that helps regulate the amount of moisture in the air, which is particularly useful if you live in a wetter climate. - [**Evaporative cooler:**](https://www.productreview.com.au/c/split-system-air-conditioners?e22b3f23-fe39-444c-b6a4-4630df5adfa3%5B0%5D=4f445f42-2dab-4822-875e-fc6de4f2effe) This blows cool, moist air throughout your home. - **HEPA filter:** If you’ve got allergies, then a HEPA filter can help ease your symptoms by capturing and eliminating bacteria, fungal spores, smoke and dust particules in the air, with some even being able to reduce or eliminate odours. - **Long reach:** Usually only a feature on more powerful air cons, this propels the hot or cool air further, helping heat or cool larger or more open-plan areas. - **Motion sensor:** This detects whether someone is in the room; if no one is detected, the unit will usually switch to an energy-saving mode. ### Noise level While most modern split system air cons are fairly quiet indoors and out, it’s worth checking the noise level of a model before you buy (both on its lowest and highest settings), as a noisy unit can disrupt your activities at home or your sleep. Reading reviews is a great way to determine the noise level of an air conditioner if you can’t test it out in person. If the noise level in decibels is listed online, then this can also give you a good idea of what to expect. For reference, the noise level of whispering is around 30 decibels, while a normal conversation is around 60 decibels. ### Cleaning and maintenance Cleaning and maintaining your air conditioner is important because it ensures it performs at its best and is as energy efficient as possible. Nor cleaning your air conditioner can lead to a myriad of problems, such as filters becoming clogged with dust and dirt, which can limit airflow and prevent your unit from being able to cool your home. Some air conditioners have an auto-clean function that cleans dirt and grime from internal components inside their head unit, meaning less cleaning for you to do. ### Installation In addition to the upfront cost of buying the unit, you’ll also have to pay for installation. Split system air conditioner installation costs can range anywhere from $400 to $800 or more. In Australia, you need a licensed technician to install your air conditioner. They can also help you work out where in the room to position it. Air conditioner installers need either a Full Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (RAC) License or a ‘splits’ license, both of which are issued by the Australian Refrigeration Council. Most of the time, an air conditioner retailer can organise installation or help you choose a professional installer. ## How much does a split system air con cost? Split system air conditioner prices vary, with more budget models starting at $700 and more premium models costing over $2500. However, the running costs are perhaps a more important point of consideration. To calculate the running costs of your appliance, check how many kilowatt hours (kWh) it’s estimated to use each year. This information can be found on the air conditioner’s rating sticker. While more energy efficient models may be more expensive to purchase, you’ll usually find that their lower running costs quickly offset this price difference. ### Warranty Get an air conditioner with a decent warranty - most brands offer at least 5-year warranties. A good warranty may save you money down the track, and is often a testament to the manufacturer’s faith in their units standing the test of time. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Article", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.productreview.com.au/c/split-system-air-conditioners" }, "headline": "Best Split System Air Conditioners", "description": "A guide to buying a split system air conditioner.", "image": "https://cdn.productreview.com.au/resize/featured-category-picture/3ed9efa5-4e12-42a4-b904-d8a89c88ce29", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Avleen Masawan" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "ProductReview.com.au", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://cdn.productreview.com.au/assets/public/og_logo_1a8a64.png" } }, "datePublished": "2020-08-18", "dateModified": "2024-03-04" }

Best ActronAir Split System Air Conditioners

ActronAir Serene Series 2

ActronAir Cascade 2 Series

ActronAir MultiElite Series 2