Split systems
Split-system air conditioning
A split system pairs a wall-mounted indoor unit with an outdoor condenser. It is the most common way to cool and heat individual rooms efficiently, and usually the quickest system to install.
When a split system suits
- You need to condition one to three specific rooms rather than the whole home.
- There is limited or no roof-space access for ductwork.
- You want independent control of each room and lower upfront cost than ducted.
- Granny flats, home offices, shop fronts and small consulting rooms.
Installation considerations
Indoor units need a wall with clear airflow, away from direct afternoon sun on the return grille. Outdoor units need ventilation, a stable mount and a sensible pipe run — longer runs reduce efficiency and add cost. We also consider condensate drainage, noise near bedrooms and neighbours, and whether the switchboard has capacity for a new circuit.
Sizing and energy efficiency
An under-sized unit runs flat out all summer; an over-sized one short-cycles and dehumidifies poorly. We size against heat load, then compare inverter models on energy rating and real-world running cost rather than headline capacity alone.
Maintenance
Clean filters every few weeks during heavy use, and book a professional service annually to clean coils, check drainage, test operation and inspect the outdoor unit — especially in coastal suburbs.
Split system servicing
A routine split system service keeps the unit running efficiently and catches small problems early. We clean or check filters, indoor coils and the fan, clear the condensate drain, inspect the outdoor unit and test heating and cooling operation. We service residential split systems and split systems in shops, offices and other light-commercial premises.
Signs a service may be due:
- Airflow is weaker than it used to be, or rooms take longer to cool or heat.
- Musty smells when the unit starts.
- Running costs have crept up.
- It has been more than a year since the last service, or the unit is in a coastal or dusty location.
Split system repairs
When a split system stops working properly we start with a fault diagnosis rather than guessing at parts. Once we know the cause we explain whether a repair makes sense, or whether the age, condition or efficiency of the system means replacement is the better option. Common problems we look at:
- Not cooling or heating correctly, or blowing room-temperature air.
- Unusual noises, rattling or vibration from the indoor or outdoor unit.
- Water leaking from the indoor unit.
- Error codes, the unit switching itself off, or poor overall performance.
How the quote process works
- Send the details through the quote form or call (08) 9527 1499 — photos of the space and any existing equipment help.
- We confirm what we need to know and arrange a site assessment where the job requires one.
- You receive a written quote listing equipment, scope, inclusions and exclusions.
- Once approved, installation is scheduled and regulated work is undertaken by appropriately licensed trades.
Regulated installation and service work is undertaken by appropriately licensed trades.
Frequently asked questions
What size air conditioner do I need?
+
Capacity depends on more than floor area. We look at room volume, ceiling height, insulation, glazing and window orientation, how many people use the space and when, and whether the room opens into other areas. A west-facing living area with large windows in Baldivis can need noticeably more capacity than a shaded room of the same size. We size from a site assessment rather than a square-metre rule of thumb.
Should I choose split or ducted air conditioning?
+
Split systems suit homes where only a few rooms need conditioning, or where there is no practical roof-space access. Ducted suits whole-of-home comfort with discreet outlets and zoning, provided there is adequate roof space and return-air positioning. Multi-split sits between the two. We explain the trade-offs in running cost, upfront cost, noise and appearance for your specific layout.
How often should a split system be serviced?
+
For most homes, once a year is sensible, ideally before summer. Units in coastal or dusty locations, or running long hours in shops and offices, can benefit from more frequent servicing. Between services, clean the filters every few weeks during heavy use.
Can you repair an existing split-system air conditioner?
+
Yes. We diagnose the fault first, then explain the repair options. If the system is old, inefficient or the repair cost is high relative to its condition, we will tell you whether replacement is the better choice.
Can you service an air conditioner you didn't install?
+
Yes. We service and repair most mainstream split, ducted and light-commercial systems regardless of who installed them. Providing the brand, model and approximate age when you book helps us arrive prepared.
Ready to talk about your project?
Send the details and photos — we'll review and come back to you with next steps.