Updated on: January 13, 2025
A heater is a necessity to deal with chilly Australian winters. However, Australians often have to deal with the dilemma of choosing between ducted heating and a split system. Undoubtedly, these two are the most efficient heating systems available on the market, but in the game of ducted heating vs split system, what you should choose is the real question.
Ducted Heating vs Split System
Before diving into details, let’s get things straight with the basic function of both heating systems.
A split system comprises two units – a wall-mounted indoor unit connected with an outdoor compressor via cables. In split systems, the heat pump operates in reverse function to blow warm air across the room.
On the other hand, ducted heating systems are either fueled by natural gas or LPG. A gas ducted heating system features an external furnace that heats up the cool air and pumps the hot air back via vents or ducts.
How Do Split Systems Work?
Split systems use a refrigeration mechanism. The refrigerant gas is pressurized into the unit’s compressor, passes through several ducts or tubes, and later converts into a liquid state.
The liquid refrigerant then passes through the expansion joint and converts into a gaseous form. Due to rapid expansion, the gas releases heat, and the temperature drops significantly. It is a continuous cyclic process in which the gas flows back to the condenser.
The indoor unit of the split system passes the drawn air over the evaporator coils to cool down the air. The blower blows back the cold air into the room until it reaches the desired temperature.
The system shuts off automatically once it reaches the set temperature. For heating, the heat pump runs in reverse to blow back warm air around the house.
Discover everything you need to know about split systems, from installation to maintenance. Click here to learn more!
How Do Ducted Heating Systems Work?
Ducted heating systems offer a centralized heating solution. Powered by either LPG or natural gas, ducted systems are either installed outside the house or within the roof space.
The central ducted heating system is connected via a series of ducts that end in outlets in rooms that heat up. The fan draws in the air and the heaters powered by natural gas heat it. Insulated ducts pass the air to reduce the loss of heat.
The duct outlets then pass the heated air through a return air grille for the process to repeat.
Want to dive deeper into the benefits of ducted heating systems? Click here to explore our comprehensive guide!
Pros And Cons of Ducted Heating Systems
To avoid ducted heating vs split system confusion, let’s first go through the pros and cons of ducted heating systems.
Pros of Ducted Heating System
- Has Easier Installation
Since split systems do not require ductwork like that of ducted heating systems, they have easy installation. A split aircon comprises an indoor and outdoor unit that installation experts can easily mount to walls and connect to the compressor via cables or tubes.
- Saves Energy
As compared to ducted heating systems, split systems consume less energy. Ducted systems have ductwork that leads to loss of cool air. As a result, the system compensates for the lost air and consumes more electricity than usual. Unlike central conditioning, split systems cool specific areas of your house, leading to lower energy consumption.
- Has Easy Maintenance
Split air conditioners have easy and minimal maintenance since they do not have ductwork. Unlike complex duct cleaning, a professional service provider only checks the split system and cleans the air filters.
Cons of Ducted Heating System
- Poses a RIsk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
There is a chance of carbon monoxide leakage if the system has not been serviced for a long time or is faulty. Carbon monoxide is poisonous and can be a reason for silent death due to its odorless and colorless nature. Therefore, regular servicing of ducted heaters is necessary.
- Has Higher Installation Costs
Installing a ducted heater is complex and requires technical knowledge due to intensive ductwork. Therefore, installation costs can be expensive.
Pros and Cons of Split Systems
While ducted heaters have their own benefits and drawbacks, the same is the case with split systems. Let’s go through them.
Pros of Split System Air Conditioners
- Has Easier Installation
Since split systems do not require ductwork like that of ducted heating systems, they have easy installation. A split aircon comprises an indoor and outdoor unit that installation experts can easily mount to walls and connect to the compressor via cables or tubes.
- Saves Energy
As compared to ducted heating systems, split systems consume less energy. Ducted systems have ductwork that leads to loss of cool air. As a result, the system compensates for the lost air and consumes more electricity than usual. Unlike central conditioning, split systems cool specific areas of your house, leading to lower energy consumption.
- Has Easy Maintenance
Split air conditioners have easy and minimal maintenance since they do not have ductwork. Unlike complex duct cleaning, a professional service provider only checks the split system and cleans the air filters.
Cons of Split System Air Conditioner
- Not Suitable for Small Outdoor Spaces
Since split systems come with an outdoor unit, houses with small balconies or limited outdoor space cannot buy one.
- Has Noisy Compressor
The outdoor unit can be noisy and disturb the peace of your neighbors.
Is Ducted Heating Cheaper Than a Split System?
We often get asked, “is ducted heating cheaper than a split system?” Technically, no.
Split systems are cheaper to purchase, install and maintain; the only constraint is the coverage. On the other hand, ducted heaters are cheaper because they are fueled by gas.
The Bottom Line
The bottom line is that both systems have their own pros and cons. While split systems are easier to install and save energy, ducted systems provide central heating and comfort all year round. The purchase choice depends entirely on your specific requirements, budget, and house space.
If you need more information about ducted heating or split systems, don’t hesitate to reach out to Surrey Air. Our team is here to answer your questions and help you make the best choice for your home.
Need a service? From installation to repair and maintenance, Surrey Air has you covered with expert HVAC solutions you can trust. Contact us today to get started!
