We know the thought of replacing your ducted air conditioning system can be daunting, but as the seasons change in Australia, it’s essential to have a reliable ducted AC system that meets your needs.
When it comes to air conditioning in Sydney, you want your system to deliver, no matter if it’s 40 degrees outside or dropping close to the minuses. That’s why it may be a good idea to replace your ducted AC unit if you begin to feel it’s not delivering or is outdated, but how much will this cost you?
In this Proven Air blog, we will run you through the signs that your AC system needs replacing, the difference between repairing and replacing a system, the average costs involved in replacing a system, how long this type of job will take, and common mistakes to avoid when it comes to replacing your AC unit.
Signs It’s Time To Replace A Ducted Air Conditioning Unit
If you begin to hear your air conditioning unit make strange noises that just don’t sit right with you, or if you find that it no longer adequately heats or cools your space, then you may want to consider repairing it or replacing the unit in its entirety.
But how do you know when it’s more appropriate to replace a unit or merely repair it?
How old is your ducted AC system?
The average lifespan of a ducted air conditioning unit is between 10 and 15 years. If issues have begun to arise and your system is nearing the end of its lifespan, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to replace it rather than continue repairing it as problems arise.
Is your ducted AC system energy inefficient?
As your system ages, it will become less efficient. This is normal and part of the unit’s lifespan. If you consistently notice higher energy bills, it may mean your air conditioner is struggling to keep up. Before you decide to replace your unit, clean the vents or replace the filters to see if it makes a difference. While it may be a higher upfront cost, replacing our AC unit with a newer, more energy-efficient model will often save you significant money in the long run.
Are you experiencing inconsistent cooling or heating?
If you consistently notice that your AC system is no longer performing as well as it used to, it could indicate a failing system. You can always repair the system, but if the problem persists or worsens, a full replacement will probably be necessary.
Does your AC unit make unusual noises or emit unpleasant odours?
All air conditioning units, for the most part, will have some sort of noise to showcase they’re running, but if you begin to hear louder noises that you haven’t heard before, then it should be looked into immediately. Alongside this, if your system begins to emit a foreign smell, you need to have it investigated, as it could be a dangerous sign, such as a fire hazard or mould build-up.
Does your AC unit consistently leak refrigerant?
If you have an older ducted AC system, you may notice it requires regular refrigerant top-ups. This could indicate a more serious issue that’s difficult to repair, so it may be time for a replacement.
Is your system running on outdated technology?
We know change is hard, but if you are using a system that lacks modern features and functionality, you could be costing yourself more than you need to. New ducted AC units have features such as smart connectivity and advanced energy-saving capabilities. These features not only save you dollars, but also improve control, efficiency and convenience.
Repair vs Replacing A Ducted Air Conditioning Unit
Below is a helpful table that outlines when to repair or replace your ducted air conditioning unit.
| Factor | Repairing | Replacing |
| Cost | Typically, lower initial cost, especially if it is only a minor issue | Higher upfront costs due to the purchase of a new unit and the need for installation |
| AC Unit Age | If your unit is under 10 years old, then repairing the system is a good idea, especially if the issue is minor | If your unit is over 10 years old or edging towards the end of its lifespan, then replacement is a good option |
| Repair Frequency | Suitable for occasional repairs with no major breakdowns | Replacement is recommended when repairs are becoming expensive and more frequent |
| Warranty | You may have warranty coverage for certain parts of your system, which can reduce repair costs | New AC units in Australia come with a manufacturer’s warranty, which brings peace of mind overall |
| Long-Term Investment | Repairs can extend the lifespan of an existing unit, but may not be cost-effective in the long-term | While a higher upfront initial cost. A new AC unit will often be more cost-effective in the long-run due to better performance and lower energy bills |
| Breakdown Severity | Best for minor issues such as a faulty thermostat, compressor or capacitor | If your system is consistently failing or is beyond a simple repair, then a replacement is necessary |
| Energy Efficiency | Older systems will often be inefficient even after a repair, leading to higher bills and running costs | Modern AC units are more energy-efficient due to the latest technology and often have lower operating costs |
| 50% Rule | If the repair job works out to be more than half the cost of a new unit, it is a smart decision to just replace it | If replacing a system is 50% the price of a repair job, then you should replace the system |
How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Ducted Air Conditioning Unit In Australia?
There isn’t a simple flat fee for a ducted air conditioning unit. It all comes down to the space you’re servicing, the type of system you choose, and how complex the installation process will be. Depending on the residence and whether it’s a home or business, you will see a variety of different totals.
So what’s the difference between the types of residences in Australia?
Option 1: A Small Home
For a small home in Australia, which generally means two to three bedrooms, you can expect to pay between $6,000 and $10,000 for full supply and installation of a ducted air conditioning system.
Option 2: A Medium Home
For a medium-sized home in Australia with 3 to 5 bedrooms, the total will be around $10,000 to $15,000.
Option 3: A Large Home
A large home in Australia with 4 to 6+ bedrooms typically costs between $15,000 and $20,000 or more.
Option 4: A Business
The cost of ducted air conditioning for a business also ranges depending on its size and scale. On the low end, a smaller commercial space may cost around $15,000, while a large commercial space or a multi-storey premises could cost over $100,000. There is a lot of factors that determine the final cost.
What Factors Influence The Cost Of Ducted Air Conditioning Installation?
There is a variety in Australia that affects your final bill for installing a ducted air conditioning system.
- The Size & Layout Of Your Residence: As we have already established, the size of the space where you are installing the AC is a major factor in the price. A larger home or commercial space will require more ductwork, more vents, and a more powerful system. The more complex your layout is, the greater your price will be.
- How Many Zones Are At Play?: So how much coverage do you want? Because this will play a big factor in your final cost. Is it your living room, kitchen, or bedrooms? Or all of them? The more zones, the higher the cost; that is the price you pay for full at-home climate control.
- The Brand of AC System: Just like every product, there are budget and premium ranges of AC units. You need to decide what makes the most sense for you and what your priorities are. Brands such as Mitsubishi, Fujitsu and Daikin all carry elevated price tags but elite performance.
- How Difficult Is The Installation?: What is your layout like? Is it full of cramped spaces? And hard-to-reach nooks? A complex space means a complex installation and a higher final cost.
- Where Do You Live?: Air conditioning installations in Sydney or another metropolitan area are often cheaper than those in rural areas because parts are more readily available and more expensive to ship to remote regions.
Can You Reuse Existing Ductwork When Replacing A Ducted System?
Yes, in theory, you can reuse existing ductwork in a residence when replacing a ducted system. However, the existing ductwork must still be in good condition, properly insulated, and the right size to complement the new unit.
Reusing ducts is a great way to save on both installation times and overall cost.
Whether your existing ductwork is appropriate and reusable can be confirmed by one of our Proven Air specialists during a home assessment.
Choosing The Right Replacement Ducted Air Conditioning Unit
There are three main types of air conditioning systems people choose in Australia, each serving a different purpose. The three are split systems, multi-split systems, and, as our blog discusses, ducted air conditioning systems.
A ducted air conditioning system is the best choice for those seeking a whole-house solution, providing comfort in every space and a uniform temperature throughout the residence/business.
The main considerations you’ll want to make when choosing your replacement ducted air conditioning unit include:
- The size of your home or business: You can determine what system works best for your space through a professional load calculation.
- Finding the right capacity: Air conditioners are rated in kilowatts (kW) for cooling and heating. Each type of residence, depending on the size, will need a certain kW capacity. For example, a small house may need only a unit producing 7 to 10 kW, while a large commercial space may require 18 kW or more.
- The unit’s energy efficiency rating: While it will cost more upfront, choosing a unit with a higher efficiency rating (look for the stars) will save you money on your bills over time. A new unit is always more efficient than an older AC model.
- Consider zoning options: Zoning allows you to control different parts of your residence independently. This flexibility allows for customised control and energy savings by only cooling/heating rooms that are actually in use.
- Pick the right brand: It is always recommended to consult a professional regarding brand choice. Look for brands known for their reliability, parts availability, and solid warranty structures. Mitsubishi, Daikin, LG, Panasonic, and Fujitsu are all highly-rated brands in Australia.
- Pick a reputable installer: Such as the team at Proven Air, for your AC replacement and installation needs. When researching installers, ensure they are licensed for HVAC in your state, have experience with ducted systems, are prepared to do a proper load calculation, and are transparent upfront about costs.
How Long Does It Take To Replace A Ducted Air Conditioning Unit?
If you are replacing only the indoor and outdoor units, this is often completed in a single visit. However, if you are replacing most of the system, including ductwork, zoning, etc., this can take up to several days to complete.
Three main factors influence the timeframe of replacing a ducted air conditioning system:
- Removal of the old system
- The installation of the new unit
- Required ductwork
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Replacing A Ducted Air Conditioning Unit
There are several mistakes Australians make when replacing their ducted air conditioning unit, especially if they try to do the work themselves instead of letting a professional handle the swap.
Mistake #1 – Choosing the wrong-sized unit
If you pick an air conditioning unit that is too small or too large for a space, you will have a bad time. This mistake will result in overall inefficiency, annoyance, higher bills, and overall discomfort. It’s always essential to have a professional perform a load calculation to determine the right unit for your home.
Mistake #2 – Reusing ductwork when it isn’t suitable
We know that saving money is at the forefront of your mind, but reusing damaged, poorly sealed, or inadequately insulated ducts is not a good idea. Not only can this reduce airflow, but it can also make the system less efficient, meaning you aren’t getting your money’s worth.
Mistake #3 – Not consulting a professional
We know we may sound biased as a team of Sydney air conditioning specialists, but we really do mean it when we say it isn’t a good idea to install your ducted air conditioning yourself. Without a professional, you can improperly fit the unit, experience frequent leaks, and end up with a system that doesn’t function as efficiently as it should. Always hire a professional who specialises in HVAC systems; you’ll be happy you did.
Mistake #4 – Ignoring regular maintenance for your AC unit
If you do not follow your system’s maintenance guidelines and instead neglect the new system, you are actively reducing its lifespan by years. Always remember to schedule an annual inspection of your ducted air conditioning so it can be properly cleaned, its refrigerant checked, and air filters replaced if necessary. Maintenance helps you get the most out of your unit and keeps the system running efficiently.
Mistake #5 – Not considering your zoning requirements
Installing a ducted unit or system without considering zoning can result in uneven heating and cooling and higher overall energy consumption, especially in large or multi-level spaces. Talk to a professional about zoning control if you have multiple rooms that need heating or cooling.
Why Choose Proven Air For Your Ducted Air Conditioning?
Now that you are well informed about ducted air conditioning units, it’s time to decide whether or not you’re ready to make the jump with Proven Air. You can also read more about ducted air conditioning systems on our website.
We are a family-owned and operated business located in Sydney. With a true passion for the industry, our expert team provides the best in service across all of Sydney. With the most up-to-date, energy-efficient products on the market, we provide professional, ongoing maintenance for all our clients.
Feel the Proven Air difference today and get in touch with a team member at 1300 776 247, or book online.
