What Is a Split System Air Conditioner? Everything You Need to Know

Split System Air Conditioners: Efficient Cooling and Heating Solutions

Whether you're sweating through a summer scorcher or trying to take the edge off a humid afternoon, a split system air conditioner can be your best friend. But what exactly is it, how does it work, and is it right for your home or office?

At Aquila Electrical, we know our way around all kinds of air conditioning systems. This guide will walk you through the essentials of split system air conditioners: what they are, how they work, their pros and cons, and whether they’re the right fit for your space.

What Is a Split System Air Conditioner?

A split system air conditioner is one of the most common and efficient types of air conditioning units found in Australian homes and small businesses. As the name suggests, it's made up of two main parts:

• Indoor unit – usually mounted on a wall inside your room. This part blows out cool (or warm) air.
• Outdoor unit – sits outside your house and contains the compressor and condenser. It handles most of the heavy lifting

These two units are connected by pipes that carry refrigerant, allowing heat to be transferred from one place to another.

How Does It Work?

Let’s break it down into simple steps:

1. You set your desired temperature on the remote.
2. The indoor unit pulls in warm air from the room.
3. Refrigerant in the system absorbs the heat and carries it to the outdoor unit.
4. The outdoor unit releases the heat into the outside air.
5. Cool air is blown back into the room.

It’s a closed-loop system, meaning the refrigerant keeps circulating to provide consistent temperature control.

Some split systems also come with reverse cycle technology, which means they can provide heating during winter too.

Key Benefits of a Split System Air Conditioner

Why do so many Australian households choose split systems? Here are the top advantages:

1. Energy Efficiency

Great for cooling or heating one room or open-plan area.

Modern inverter models adjust power use based on the room’s temperature, saving electricity over time.

2. Quiet Operation

The noisy compressor sits outside, so the indoor unit is quiet enough to use in bedrooms and living areas.

3. Easy Installation

No ductwork required.

Quicker and cheaper to install than ducted systems.

4. Individual Room Control

Install different units in different rooms and control each one independently.

5. Improved Air Quality

Built-in filters can remove dust, pollen, and other particles from the air.

Ideal Locations for a Split System

A split system is best suited for:

• Bedrooms
• Living rooms
• Small offices
• Granny flats
• Open-plan spaces

If you’re cooling more than 3–4 rooms or a large multi-level home, a ducted air conditioning system might be more suitable.

Types of Split System Air Conditioners

There’s more than one kind of split system. Here’s a quick overview:

1. Single-Split System

One indoor unit connected to one outdoor unit.

Perfect for single rooms or studio apartments.

2. Multi-Split System

Multiple indoor units (up to 5) connected to one outdoor unit.

Ideal for small homes or when outdoor space is limited.

Reverse Cycle vs. Cooling-Only

Most split systems in Australia are reverse cycle, meaning they can cool in summer and heat in winter. They're very efficient compared to electric heaters.

Cooling-only units are cheaper up front but offer less value if you also need heating in colder months.

Things to Consider Before Buying

Before investing in a split system air conditioning installation, think about the following:

Room Size

The bigger the room, the more powerful the unit you’ll need. An underpowered system will struggle and overwork itself.

Tip: A qualified electrician can help calculate the right unit size for your space.

Insulation

Good insulation reduces the load on your system and improves efficiency.

Location of Units

Both indoor and outdoor unit placement matters. The indoor unit should be high on a wall with good air circulation. The outdoor unit should be in a shaded area, with enough space around it for ventilation.

Electrical Requirements

Professional installation by a licensed electrician ensures the unit runs safely and efficiently. At Aquila Electrical, we handle both supply and install.

Maintenance Tips

Like any appliance, a split system needs regular care to run at its best. Here’s how you can keep yours in top shape:

Clean filters every 2–3 months (or more often if you have pets or allergies).

Wipe down vents with a damp cloth to remove dust.

Schedule professional servicing once a year to check refrigerant levels and electrical components.

Clear leaves and debris from around the outdoor unit.

Regular maintenance not only improves performance but extends the lifespan of your system.

Common Myths About Split System Air Conditioners

Myth 1: They’re expensive to run.

Reality: New inverter models are surprisingly energy-efficient, especially when cooling one area.

Myth 2: You can install one yourself.

Reality: Installing a split system requires proper tools, electrical work, and licensed trade qualifications. DIY installation is not only risky as it is it’s illegal in many parts of Australia.

Myth 3: Bigger is better.

Reality: Oversized units may cool quickly but cycle on and off too often, wasting energy and reducing lifespan.

Why Choose Aquila Electrical for Installation?

At Aquila Electrical, we’ve been helping families and businesses across Australia stay comfortable for over 25+ years. Here’s why our customers trust us:

• Licensed and experienced electricians
• Honest advice on the best brands and unit sizes
• Fast and clean installation
• Local support and follow-up service

We take the time to understand your space and provide cooling solutions that work for your lifestyle and budget.

Final Thoughts

A split system air conditioner is a smart, flexible, and efficient way to keep your space comfortable year-round. Whether you’re upgrading your current system or installing one for the first time, choosing the right unit and the right team to install it, makes all the difference.

If you’re ready to explore your options, or you need help deciding what size or model is right for your home, get in touch with Aquila Electrical today. We’re here to make it simple.

📞 Call us on 0488 551 630

‍📍 Based in Hove, SA 5048