What’s the best way to keep your living room cool and comfortable without skyrocketing your energy bills? With so many air conditioning options available—split systems, portable units, central air—it can be overwhelming to figure out which one is right for your space.
The best AC unit for your living room depends on several factors, including room size, energy efficiency, noise levels, and installation requirements. Choosing the wrong one could mean high electricity costs or inadequate cooling.
In this guide, you’ll learn the different types of air conditioners and help you determine which option is best for your home.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an AC Unit
Before choosing an air conditioner for your living room, it’s important to consider several key factors. The right unit should not only cool effectively but also be energy-efficient, quiet, and suitable for your space. Here’s what to keep in mind:
1. Room Size and Cooling Capacity
The size of your living room plays a big role in determining the right AC unit. Air conditioners in Australia are measured in kilowatts (kW)—the higher the kW rating, the more cooling power the unit has. Choosing an underpowered unit means ineffective cooling, while an overpowered one could lead to unnecessary energy costs.
Here’s a rough guide to kW requirements based on room size:
- Up to 20m² – 2.5 kW (ideal for small rooms)
- 20–40m² – 3.5–5 kW
- 40–60m² – 5–7 kW
- Over 60m² – 7+ kW (may require a split system or ducted air conditioning)
2. Energy Efficiency and Running Costs
An air conditioner’s energy efficiency directly affects your electricity bill. Look for units with a high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating or an Energy Star certification, as these models consume less power while delivering optimal cooling.
Additionally, inverter technology in modern AC units helps regulate temperature more efficiently, leading to lower electricity costs compared to traditional fixed-speed models.
3. Noise Levels
Your living room is a place to relax, so a noisy AC unit can be a major disruption. Here’s a general noise level guide:
- Below 40 dB – Very quiet (ideal for living rooms)
- 40–50 dB – Moderate noise, similar to a refrigerator
- 50+ dB – Can be distracting, especially in quiet environments
Split-system and ductless mini-split units tend to be quieter than portable or window ACs, making them a great choice for living rooms where noise matters.
4. Installation Requirements and Space Constraints
Not all air conditioners are easy to install. Consider the available space and whether you’re renting or own your home:
- Split systems and mini-splits require professional installation but offer a permanent, efficient solution.
- Portable and window ACs are easier to install and ideal for renters.
- Central air conditioning is best for larger homes but requires ductwork.
Now that you know what to consider, let’s dive into the different types of air conditioning units and see which one fits your living room best.
What are the Types of Air Conditioning Units for Living Rooms?
Now that you know what factors to consider, let’s explore the different types of air conditioning units available. Each type has its pros and cons, depending on your space, budget, and cooling needs.
1. Split-System Air Conditioners
Best for: Medium to large living rooms, permanent installations
A split-system air conditioner consists of an indoor unit mounted on a wall and an outdoor compressor unit. These are one of the most common choices for Australian homes due to their efficiency and quiet operation.
Pros:
- Highly energy-efficient, especially inverter models
- Quiet operation (indoor unit produces minimal noise)
- Effective cooling for various room sizes
- Sleek design that blends with interiors
Cons:
- Requires professional installation
- Higher upfront cost than portable or window ACs
2. Ductless Mini-Split Systems
Best for: Homes without existing ductwork, modern renovations
Ductless mini-splits are similar to standard split systems but can have multiple indoor units connected to one outdoor unit. They are ideal for zoning different areas of the home.
Pros:
- Allows for multi-room cooling without ductwork
- Energy-efficient, especially in larger spaces
- More flexible placement options compared to standard split systems
Cons:
- Higher initial cost than single split-system ACs
- Requires professional installation
3. Portable Air Conditioners
Best for: Renters, small rooms, temporary cooling solutions
Portable AC units are standalone systems that can be moved around as needed. They usually vent warm air through a window.
Pros:
- No permanent installation required
- Can be moved between rooms
- Lower upfront cost
Cons:
- Less energy-efficient than split or ducted systems
- Can be noisy
- Requires a window or vent for proper operation
4. Window Air Conditioners
Best for: Small to medium-sized living rooms, budget-friendly cooling
Window AC units are installed directly in a window or wall opening, making them a compact cooling option.
Pros:
- Lower initial cost than split systems
- Easy to install (some DIY installation possible)
- Doesn’t take up floor space
Cons:
- Noisier than split systems
- May block natural light from a window
- Less energy-efficient than modern alternatives
5. Central Air Conditioning (Ducted Systems)
Which Air Conditioning Unit is Best for Your Living Room?
Best for: Large homes, whole-house cooling
Ducted air conditioning systems cool an entire home using a network of ducts. They are the most comprehensive cooling solution but require significant installation work.
Pros:
- Provides even cooling throughout the house
- Aesthetic appeal (no visible indoor units)
- Can be combined with heating systems
Cons:
- High upfront and installation costs
- Requires ductwork (not suitable for all homes)
- More expensive to run than targeted cooling solutions
Now that you have an understanding of the different types of AC units, the next section will help you determine which one best fits your needs based on cost, energy efficiency, and long-term benefits.
Now that you know the different types of air conditioning units, how do you choose the best one for your living room? The right option depends on your budget, energy efficiency needs, and how long you plan to use it.
1. Matching the Right Unit to Your Needs
- If you need a permanent, energy-efficient solution → Go for a split-system air conditioner. It’s quiet, cost-effective in the long run, and offers excellent cooling.
- If you want whole-house cooling → A ducted system is best, but it requires higher upfront costs and installation.
- If you’re renting or need a temporary solution → A portable or window air conditioner is a better option. These are easy to set up and move around.
If your home doesn’t have ductwork but you want zoned cooling → A ductless mini-split system is a great alternative to central air conditioning.
2. Cost vs. Long-Term Savings
While portable and window units are cheaper upfront, they tend to be less efficient and can cost more in electricity bills over time. On the other hand, split-system and ducted ACs may require a higher initial investment but provide better energy efficiency and lower long-term running costs.
Here’s a rough cost breakdown, however to find out more on AC costs, see our blog here that goes into further details.
| Type | Upfront Cost ($AUD) | Running Cost (Annual Estimate) |
| Portable AC | $500 – $1,500 | Higher due to lower efficiency |
| Window AC | $400 – $1,500 | Moderate, depends on insulation |
| Split-System AC | $1,500 – $3,500 | Lower due to inverter technology |
| Ductless Mini-Split | $2,000 – $5,000 | Lower, great for zoned cooling |
| Ducted System | $5,000 – $15,000+ | Higher due to whole-home cooling |
3. Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact
If you want to reduce your electricity bill and environmental footprint, look for:
Energy Star-rated models – These use less power while delivering efficient cooling.
Inverter technology – Adjusts cooling power based on room temperature, reducing energy consumption.
Zoned cooling options – Ductless mini-splits and some ducted systems let you cool specific areas, saving energy.
For more information on energy savings, see our recent blog here.
Making the Best Choice for Comfort & Efficiency
Choosing the right air conditioner for your living room depends on your budget, space, and cooling needs.
- Best for small budgets & rentals: Portable or window ACs
- Best for energy efficiency & long-term savings: Split-system ACs
- Best for large homes & whole-house cooling: Ducted air conditioning
- Best for homes without ducts: Ductless mini-split systems
No matter which unit you choose, always consider energy efficiency, installation requirements, and running costs to ensure you get the best value for your money. Investing in the right AC now can save you money in the long run while keeping your living space comfortable all year round.
If you’re still unsure about which air conditioner is right for your home, Chilko AIR can help! Contact us for expert advice and professional installation tailored to your needs.
