Keeping your family cool and comfortable during summer can be challenging when you don’t have reliable air conditioning. Box air conditioners are functional at best, while ceiling fans can only do so much in extreme heat.
It’s time to forget about moody partners and troublesome kids that act up when the weather gets warm. You need an air conditioning solution that’s going to keep everyone stress-free and relaxed. With a brand new split system air conditioner you will all be in the best possible mood.
We know that pricing can often be a concern when it comes to purchasing big budget items. Upfront expenses are off-putting when you’re also juggling school fees and mortgages. That’s why it’s best to know exactly what you’re getting into.
To help you make the best possible decision, we’re taking a look at one of the most affordable air conditioner types on the market – split systems. There’s flexibility and versatility no matter your budget. And by the time you’re finished reading this, you will know just how much it costs to install split system air conditioning.
Split System Price Range and Factors
The exact cost of a split AC unit will depend on several factors. The brand name, size, capacity and special features will all influence the purchase price.
However, it’s easy to get a ballpark figure online. Major retailers like Harvey Norman and The Good Guys have split systems for sale between $649-$3999. If you take out the outliers at the high and low end, most split systems sit around the $1000-$1500 range.
For newcomers to the air conditioning market, the most important thing is that you always look at more than just the price alone. For example, the cheaper options may be affordable, but some offer cooling only. At the bare minimum you should invest in a reverse cycle split system with heating and cooling.
Brand Name Influence
In terms of brands, you’ll find all leading manufacturers have models at various price points. Therefore, you could purchase a Mitsubishi split system for under $800, or spend $3999 for their top offering. That means if you do have a preferred brand name it will be easy to find an option.
Brand names like Daikin or Rinnai typically have a higher price tag attached to their products than a smaller manufacturer like Kelvinator. Typically this also relates to the unit’s energy star rating. Higher rated systems will be pricier as they are more energy efficient. It does mean you spend less over time as it’s going to use less electricity.
Size and Output
Additionally, the amount you spend will depend on what size split system you need. Air conditioner capacity is measured in kilowatts (kW) with higher capacity units more expensive. It’s not a hard-and-fast rule, though; for example, there are times where a 2.5kW system can cost roughly the same as a 5kW unit from a competing brand.
Special Features
Advanced features such as combined heating and cooling, inverter technology and wi-fi connectivity also influence split AC prices. Look for affordable options that are also economical.
An inverter split system is a must-have as it regulates performance far more consistently than non-inverter counterparts. With no stop-start operation your ongoing running costs will be lower.
Other options such as wi-fi or smart home compatibility also allow for quick savings. You can control your split system’s performance from your smartphone, meaning you don’t have to leave it on all day long just to return home to a cool space.
Beneficial features like this are a good reason to consider spending a few hundred dollars more upfront. You will save throughout the duration of your split system’s lifespan.
Split System Air Conditioner Installation Cost
Much like your initial purchase, the cost of installing a new split system will vary. This is due to individual hourly prices/fixed prices charged by installers and also unique home factors.
Standard installation prices based on hourly rate typically sit between $60-$120 per hour of work. This is a job that typically takes several hours, so expect your total minimum cost to be $250. In reality, averages sit closer to $600 for basic installation.
Time and Labour
When you take into account all time and labour, split AC installation prices will increase. For example, if you have multiple units installed as part of a multi-head split system, installation costs will rise considerably.
More work means additional labour, and potentially more air conditioning technicians on site. And with many installations taking up to a day or two, prices often rise to around $1000 or more on bigger jobs.
Additional hurdles that can lead to additional charges include:
- Multi-storey installation
- Roof access and scissor lift hire
- Non-standard installation of additional cabling and piping
- Multiple technicians on-site
- Electrical upgrades/services
- Removal of rubbish and old air conditioning units
These charges often vary depending on the installer. Therefore, it’s best to be upfront and clear about your circumstances so the installer can provide the most accurate split system estimate.
Supply and Installation v Customer Supplied
If your technician also transports and supplies the split air conditioner, expect to pay a delivery fee. Alternatively, you may choose to purchase your own and then hire an installer.
Ultimately it may come down to convenience rather than installation price. For example, most retailers, brand outlets and residential air conditioning companies will supply and install, saving you the legwork.
If you do feel that your choice is limited by a third-party installer, or tradesperson, call them first to ask if they will install a customer supplied unit. Some companies will not install a customer supplied air conditioner as any mishandling or tampering may void manufacturer or installer warranties if something does go wrong.
In Conclusion
So, when you put this all together, just how much should you expect to pay for split system installation? For both purchase and installation, set aside at least $1600. The addition of multi-heads, and the influence of more complex installation needs, could easily see the price rise up to around $4000 or more.
As there is quite a lot of variance, always shop around for quotes. Whether you’re after the installation of one split system or several in a multi-head split, you deserve the best price possible.
