Whether you’re renovating your home or building your dream home, or maybe you’ve just bought an older property and need to replace the old air conditioning system, choosing the right solution can make a huge difference in your comfort levels and energy bills. There are many options out there, but ducted air conditioning is a popular choice, offering the flexibility to cool multiple rooms from a single remote control. However, like any investment, it’s important to do your research before making a decision.
One of the biggest factors to consider is how much it will cost, both initially and in the long run. Although a ducted air conditioning system may be more expensive upfront than a split system, the upfront costs are often offset by the long-term savings in running costs. It’s also a wise idea to look for an installer who provides transparent quotes, with breakdowns of the price of both the equipment and installation costs. This will help you better compare quotes and find the best value for your money.
When selecting a ducted air conditioning company to quote on your project, ask for references from past clients and follow up with those references. This can provide insights into the installer’s work ethic and performance, enabling you to make an informed decision. Also, be sure to ask for detailed quotes that include both the cost of the equipment and any installation costs as well as additional services such as ductwork cleaning.
The key to a ducted air conditioning system’s efficiency is its central unit, which houses the compressor and cooling coils. These components are designed to cool the air with the least amount of energy possible, through a cycle of compression, condensation, expansion and evaporation of refrigerant. The cooled air is then delivered to each room in the home via a network of ducts that run throughout the house. Each room has vents or return air grilles to allow conditioned air to be drawn back into the central unit.
In addition to optimising the operation of your ducted air conditioning system, there are several other strategies you can implement to reduce your energy consumption. For example, in summer, setting your thermostat between 24degC and 26degC is recommended for optimal cooling with minimal energy consumption. A temperature one degree higher will increase your electricity bill by around 10%, so it’s important not to overcool.
Regular maintenance is another important step in ensuring your ducted air conditioning system operates at peak efficiency. Cleaning the filters, ducts and vents regularly will help to reduce dust build-up and improve airflow. In addition, scheduling regular servicing by a qualified ducted air conditioning professional will reduce the risk of breakdowns and keep your system working at peak performance. This will reduce the stress on your system and ensure that it uses less energy to perform its job, leading to lower energy bills. Ideally, your system should be serviced annually or twice a year.