You’re probably wondering if you’re about to make an expensive mistake.
Split system? Ducted? Everyone seems to have a different opinion, and when you’re staring down thousands of dollars in installation and long-term running costs, you just want a straight answer. Which one’s actually cheaper to run?
We get it. At Chilko AIR, we’ve helped countless homeowners in the same spot. They’re trying to balance comfort with cost. The truth is, the cheaper option depends on your home, your usage, and what you’re really expecting from your air conditioning.
This blog will cut through the confusion and give you a clear, side-by-side breakdown of what each system will really cost you. Not just upfront, but month to month and year to year. Whether you’re cooling a single room or an entire house, you’ll walk away knowing exactly which one suits your home and your budget.
The Real Cost Breakdown: What You’ll Pay Now and Later
When comparing split systems to ducted air conditioning, most people focus on running costs. But the full picture includes much more like upfront installation, how your home layout affects efficiency, how flexible the system is, and what it costs to maintain over time.
Here’s a breakdown of the key differences that matter most to your wallet.
Upfront Costs: Which One Hits Your Wallet First?
Split systems are much cheaper to install, especially if you only need one or two units. Ducted air con costs more, both for the unit and for the more complex installation.
| Split System | Ducted System | |
| Typical cost | $2,000 – $3,500 (per unit, installed) | $8,000 – $15,000+ (full installation) |
| Installation | Simple, fast, lower labour cost | Complex, longer install time |
| Resale value | Less impact | May add value in modern or larger homes |
If you’re working with a tight budget, split systems are the clear winner for upfront costs. Ducted becomes more appealing if you want a whole-home solution and are willing to pay more upfront.
Running Costs: What Will It Cost You Month to Month?
Day-to-day power use can vary a lot between the two systems. It all comes down to how much of your home you’re cooling and how often.
| Split System | Ducted System | |
| Hourly cost | $0.50 – $1.00 (cooling 1–2 rooms) | $2.00 – $3.00+ (cooling entire home) |
| Efficiency | High for small areas | Efficient if zoned and used smartly |
| Energy use | Lower | Higher if cooling unused areas |
Split systems are usually cheaper to run if you’re only using one or two rooms. Ducted systems can get expensive unless you’ve invested in zoning and use it wisely.
Size of Your Home: Why Bigger Isn’t Always Better
The right system depends heavily on how big your house is and how it’s laid out. Trying to cool a large home with multiple split systems can be inefficient and clunky.
| Split System | Ducted System | |
| Best for | Small to medium homes, single rooms | Medium to large homes, multiple zones |
| Scalability | Multiple units needed for whole-home use | One central system handles it all |
| Layout fit | Great for targeted areas | Better for consistent whole-home comfort |
Conclusion: Split systems are ideal for smaller homes or when you only need cooling in one area. If your home has multiple living zones, ducted is usually more efficient overall.
Zoning, Usage & Control: Who Wins on Flexibility?
Flexibility in cooling can have a big impact on energy use and comfort. Split systems are naturally flexible, while ducted systems need zoning to match that.
| Split System | Ducted System | |
| Room-by-room control | Yes | Only with zoning installed |
| Power-saving options | Easy to cool only what you use | Requires discipline with zoning |
| User experience | Basic remote per unit | Central control panel (some smart home options) |
If flexibility is your top priority, split systems have the edge. Ducted systems can be just as flexible, but only if you pay for zoning and manage it carefully.
Long-Term Maintenance: Hidden Costs to Watch For
Ongoing maintenance is often overlooked but can make a difference over 10–15 years. Split systems are cheaper to service but may need more frequent attention.
| Split System | Ducted System | |
| Servicing | Cheaper per unit, done individually | More expensive, full system needs attention |
| Repairs | Affects one unit only | Can affect the whole home if the central unit fails |
| Lifespan | 10–15 years (per unit) | 15–20 years with good maintenance |
Split systems cost less to maintain and repair, especially if you only have one or two. Ducted systems cost more to service, but are more robust if looked after properly.
So, Which One’s Cheaper for You?
By now, you’ve seen that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The cheaper option depends on how you live, what size your home is, and how you use your air conditioning.
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide which system fits your situation better:
If You’re Cooling Just One or Two Rooms:
- Split system wins.
Lower upfront cost. Lower running cost. Simple control.
If You Have a Medium to Large Home:
- Ducted might be worth the investment, especially if you want whole-home comfort or care about property value.
- Just make sure it has zoning. Without it, you’ll waste energy cooling empty rooms.
If You Want Maximum Control:
- Split systems give you more flexibility.
Turn on only what you need, when you need it.
If You Want a Sleek, “Set and Forget” Experience:
- Ducted feels more seamless.
It’s hidden in the ceiling, runs quietly, and covers the whole home with even airflow.
If You’re Focused on Long-Term Costs:
- Split systems are cheaper to maintain and replace if something goes wrong.
- Ducted systems last longer overall, but the repair bill can be higher if the central unit fails.
Split systems are cheaper for smaller spaces and more targeted cooling.
Ducted systems cost more to install and run, but they make sense if you want full-home comfort and are prepared to manage them properly.
What to Do Before You Buy
Choosing between a split system and ducted air conditioning isn’t just about picking the cheaper option. It’s about choosing the right system for how you live.
Before you spend thousands on installation, take these steps:
- Think about how you actually use your home.
Do you really need every room cooled all the time? Or just the living room and one bedroom? - Get your home assessed properly.
A professional can look at your layout, insulation, and daily habits to help you avoid overspending. - Ask about zoning if you’re leaning towards ducted.
Without it, you’re likely to waste energy cooling empty rooms. - Don’t just go by what your neighbour did.
What works for one house could be a total money pit in another.
At Chilko AIR, we help homeowners make smart choices based on what actually works for them, not just what sounds good in theory. If you’re still unsure, get in touch for honest advice with no pressure.
Whether you’re leaning toward a split system or ducted air conditioning, Chilko AIR can help you get it right the first time. We’ll assess your home, your needs, and your budget to recommend the best setup.
Call us today or request a quote online to get expert, local advice you can trust.