Ducted Air Conditioning: What It Is, How It Works, and What It Costs

Ducted Air Conditioning Explained: Installation, Operation, and Costs

Adelaide summers can be relentless, with temperatures soaring above 35°C. When the heat hits, there’s nothing better than walking into a home that’s perfectly cool from floor to ceiling. That’s where ducted air conditioning comes in. Unlike split systems or portable units that cool just one room at a time, a ducted air conditioning system provides a seamless solution to keep your entire house comfortable all year round.

In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about ducted air conditioning, from how it works and the different types of systems available to what you can expect to pay. You’ll also discover the key benefits that make it a smart choice for Adelaide homeowners, and how Aquila Electrical can help you select, install, and maintain the perfect system for your home.

What Is Ducted Air Conditioning?

A ducted air conditioning system is a centralized solution that distributes heated or cooled air throughout your home using a network of hidden ducts installed within your ceilings, walls, or floors to distribute air evenly. Only the discreet vents and the main control panel are visible, keeping your interiors sleek and clutter-free.

Why it works well in Adelaide homes:

Adelaide homes, especially those with open-plan layouts or multiple stories, can be challenging to heat or cool evenly. Here's why ducted air conditioning is the perfect solution:

• Provides even, consistent temperatures in every room
• Efficiently heats or cools large spaces and multiple levels.
• Allows for zoning, so each area of your home can be controlled independently
• Replaces the need for multiple split units, simplifying your system and reducing clutter

Another major advantage is year-round comfort. Many modern ducted systems are reverse-cycle, meaning they can cool your home during the hot Adelaide summer and provide efficient heating throughout the cooler winter months. This versatility makes ducted air conditioning a long-term solution for maintaining the perfect indoor climate in every season.

Types of Ducted Air Conditioning

Choosing the right type of ducted system depends on your home size, layout, and heating and cooling requirements. The main types include:

1. Reverse Cycle (Heat Pump) Systems
   • These systems can both heat and cool your home.
   • In summer, they remove heat from inside and release it outdoors. In winter, they extract heat from the outside air and bring it inside.
   • Perfect for homeowners seeking a year-round climate solution.
2. Cooling-Only Systems
   • Designed specifically to cool your home during hot months.
   • Typically, more affordable upfront, but they do not provide heating.
   • Suitable for areas with mild winters or where heating is not essential.
3. Zoned Systems
   • Allow you to control temperatures in different areas independently.
   • Perfect for larger homes, multi-level houses, or open-plan layouts.

How does ducted air conditioning work?

Ducted air conditioning works by using a central unit to heat or cool the air and then sending it through a network of hidden ducts to every room in your home. The central unit has a fan, a compressor, and coils that either cool or heat the air before it moves through the ducts. In summer, it takes the warm air from inside and moves the heat outside. In winter, a reverse-cycle system can take heat from the outside air and bring it inside to warm your home.

The system uses refrigerant to carry heat between the indoor and outdoor units. During summer, warm air passes over cold coils filled with refrigerant, which absorbs the heat. The cooled air then travels through the ducts to each room, lowering the indoor temperature. In winter, the process is reversed, with heat from the outside air being brought inside to warm your home.

Insulated ducts connect the central unit to vents in every room, so the temperature is even throughout the house. Many ducted systems also have zoning, allowing you to control the temperature in different areas separately. This makes the home more comfortable and can save energy by only heating or cooling the rooms you use.

Some ducted systems also introduce fresh outdoor air, while others recirculate indoor air through filters to remove dust and allergens, improving overall indoor air quality.

Key Components of a Ducted System

A ducted air conditioner is made up of several parts working together to deliver year-round comfort. Here’s a closer look at the main components of a Ducted system:

• Outdoor Unit (Condenser) –  Contains compressor, coil, and fan; releases or absorbs heat.
• Indoor Unit (Fan Coil) – Hidden inside the ceiling or floor; contains the evaporator coil and fan to push conditioned air through ducts.
• Ductwork – Insulated channels that carry air to and from each room.
• Ceiling Vents – Outlets that distribute air evenly and blend with your home’s interior.
• Control Panel & Zoning – Lets you set temperature, schedules, and control rooms individually.
• Air Filter – Cleans dust and allergens from circulating air.
• Refrigerant Lines – Copper pipes moving refrigerant between indoor and outdoor units.
• Condensate Drain – Removes moisture produced during cooling.

Upfront and Ongoing Costs of Ducted Air Conditioning

One of the first questions every homeowner asks about ducted air conditioning is: “How much will it cost to run?” While installation is an upfront investment, understanding the ongoing running costs is essential for planning your energy budget and maximising your system’s efficiency. Running costs vary depending on your home’s size, the system type, usage frequency, and local electricity rates.

Ducted Air Conditioning Installation Cost

The installation cost of a ducted air conditioning system depends on home size, system type, and complexity. Here’s a general guide:

• Small, single-story house (2 to 3 bedrooms): Approximately $9,000 to $11,500
• Medium, single-story house (3 to 5 bedrooms): Approximately $12,000 to $14,500
• Large, multi-story house (4 to 6 bedrooms): Approximately $15,000 to $20,000

Modern ducted systems come with features like zoning, timers, and inverter technology, which help you control which rooms are heated or cooled. Proper installation ensures the system works efficiently and lasts longer.

Ducted Air Conditioning Unit cost

Once your ducted system is installed, knowing the ongoing running costs helps you plan your energy budget effectively. The cost to operate a system depends on factors like unit size, how often you use it, and local electricity rates.

Average Annual Running Costs:

• Small unit (up to 4 kW): $300 – $450 per year
• Medium unit (4–6 kW): $400 – $550 per year
• Large unit (over 6 kW): $500 – $700 per year

Using zoning and energy-efficient features reduces electricity consumption. Regular maintenance, including filter cleaning, duct inspections, and annual servicing, keeps the system running efficiently and saves money over time.

Why Choose Aquila Electrical for Your Ducted System?

At Aquila Electrical, we specialize in providing tailored ducted air conditioning solutions for Adelaide homeowners:

• Expert guidance on system selection and sizing
• Professional installation with precision ductwork
• Smart home integration and zoning solutions
• Ongoing servicing and maintenance
• Energy-efficient strategies to lower running costs

Our team works with you to find a system that meets your comfort, needs, and budget.

Final thoughts

Ducted air conditioning offers Adelaide homeowners year-round comfort, energy efficiency, and a sleek, whole-home solution. With features like zoning and reverse-cycle heating and cooling, you can enjoy perfect temperatures in every room while keeping costs manageable.

If you’re ready to experience the difference, Aquila Electrical is here to help you from start to finish.  Our licensed technician will guide you through choosing the best system, install it with care, and keep it running smoothly with regular maintenance. Contact us today to book your free consultation and start enjoying perfect comfort in every room, all year round.

📞 Call us on 0488 551 630

‍📍 Based in Hove, SA 5048