Air Conditioner Installation Cost Guide

Air conditioner installation cost can vary significantly, ranging from $600 to $30,000, depending on several factors. For instance, split system installation cost typically ranges from $600 to $5,500, while ducted air conditioning installation can range from $5,000 to $30,000. 

When considering a new air conditioner for your home or office, it’s essential to select one that suits both your personal needs and budget. This guide will cover:

• Air conditioner installation cost and what factors influence the price

• What air conditioning installers typically charge

• The different types of air conditioning systems, including split system installation cost

• How to maintain your air conditioning system

• Tips to save money on running your air conditioner in the summer months, and more.

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How much does aircon installation cost?

How much does it cost to install air conditioning? Air conditioner installation cost can vary widely, ranging from as low as $600 to as much as $30,000. For example, split system installation cost typically falls between $600 and $5,500, making it an economical option for many homeowners. On the other hand, if you’re opting for ducted air conditioning installation, you can expect the total cost to start around $6,000 and increase depending on system complexity and installation factors.

The total air conditioning installation cost will depend on the type of system you choose, the size of the space, and other considerations like brand and installation difficulty. For those on a budget, portable or window air conditioners may be a more affordable choice, although these units have limitations and are typically not suited for larger spaces.

Let’s explore the different types of air conditioning systems and what you can expect to pay for both the unit and installation.

Aircon Installation Cost by Type:

When choosing the right air conditioning system for your home, consider the options that best suit your needs. Think about whether a split system or ducted system would be more appropriate for your home’s size and layout.

Now, let’s explore the differences between these two popular types of systems.

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How much does it cost to install a split system air conditioner in Australia?

Split systems are the most popular choice for air con installation. The reason many people opt for a split system installation is that they’re more affordable than ducted air conditioning, while also being energy-efficient and quiet.

You can choose to have a freestanding or wall-mounted system installed in your home. A split system is capable of cooling or heating a room quickly and effectively. These systems come with an indoor and outdoor unit, which requires the expertise of a licensed professional for installation.

Split system installation cost

The split system installation cost typically ranges from $600 to $5,500. It’s important to know the unit’s kilowatt capacity, as it will affect both the installation cost and the ongoing operational costs. If you’re getting an air conditioner for a smaller living space, it’s advisable to opt for a unit with a lower kilowatt capacity to save on energy use.

Recommended brands include Fujitsu, Rinnai, Panasonic, and Mitsubishi. Below is a price list for the units themselves (excluding installation):

To ensure you get the best deal and installation service, it’s recommended to request at least three quotes from licensed professionals.

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Cost to install ducted air conditioning

Ducted air conditioning is an ideal choice if you want to cool your entire home, rather than just a single room. As a result, ducted air conditioning installation tends to be more expensive than other systems, both in terms of unit costs and running expenses. These systems integrate discreetly into your home through the ceiling, floor, or wall cavities, offering a sleek, non-bulky solution.

One of the key advantages of ducted systems is the ability to control temperatures in different rooms, or even switch off the cooling in certain spaces. This flexibility makes ducted air conditioning an excellent choice for larger homes with diverse cooling needs.

Ducted aircon installation cost

The cost to install ducted air conditioning varies depending on the size of the system and your home. Unit prices alone can range between $5,000 and $10,000, though more affordable units are available. With installation included, ducted air conditioning installation costs generally fall between $12,000 and $16,000.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay based on the size of your home:

To make an informed decision and ensure the best fit for your home, it’s wise to consult with professionals and seek their advice before moving forward with your ducted air conditioning installation.

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Air conditioning installation costs: Installer fees

Once you’ve chosen the type of air conditioning system for your home, it’s time to hire a professional for the installation. But how much do air conditioning installers charge per hour?

Most air conditioning installers or electricians typically charge between $70 and $100 per hour. However, for more complex installations, such as commercial units, the cost may increase to $75 to $140 per hour.

The overall air conditioner installation cost will depend on several factors, including the complexity of the installation and the number of hours required to complete the job.

Factors that affect air conditioning installation costs

When considering air conditioning installation cost, it’s crucial to understand that several factors determine how long the installation will take, which directly impacts the labour cost.

These factors include:

• The size, type, and brand of the air conditioning unit you’ve chosen

• The number of units to be installed

• The amount of refrigeration piping and cabling required

• The location of the units and how easy they are to access

• Whether a meter board upgrade is necessary

Understanding these variables will help you better estimate the overall cost of your air conditioning installation.

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What size air conditioner is best for my home?

When deciding on an air conditioning system for your home, you’ll need the right air conditioner size to effectively cool the space.

In a typical Australian climate, your air conditioner will require approximately 120 to 150 watts of power per square metre of floor space. To determine the right size, simply multiply the floor area by the kilowatts needed. For example, a 5kW air conditioner can cool a room size ranging from 30m² to 51m² comfortably.

Several factors influence the air conditioning size needed for your home:

• Whether your home is single-level or multi-storey

• The number of windows

• The ceiling height

• Your climate

• The insulation rating of your walls and ceiling

For larger homes with plenty of windows and high ceilings, you will need a unit with higher kilowatts to ensure efficient cooling. In some cases, multiple units may be necessary for various rooms, which can increase the overall air conditioning installation cost.

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How much does it cost to run a split system air conditioner per hour?

At this stage, you might be wondering about air conditioning running costs and how to keep your energy bills under control.

The average reverse cycle air conditioner costs between 50 cents and $2 or more per hour to run for cooling, depending on the size of the area being cooled. A mid-sized room may cost around 50 cents to $1.25 per hour, while larger spaces could range from $1.25 to $2 per hour. The actual running cost will vary based on the brand, energy efficiency, and kilowatt capacity of your unit.

Tips to Reduce Air Conditioning Costs

Once your air conditioning system is installed, there are several simple steps you can take to reduce air con running costs:

• Close doors to rooms that aren’t being cooled to prevent hot air from entering and to reduce the space being cooled.

• Keep curtains or blinds drawn during the day to block out the sun’s heat.

• Use fans to help circulate cool air more efficiently.

• Avoid setting your thermostat to a temperature much lower than necessary.

Additionally, you can further reduce air conditioning costs by installing solar panels on your home. Most people use their aircon during the hottest parts of the day, which is when solar energy can be most effectively harnessed to power your system.

By incorporating these strategies, you can enjoy the comfort of air conditioning while keeping your energy bills manageable.

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How much does an air conditioner service cost?

Regular servicing is essential to keep your air conditioning system running efficiently and to prevent costly repairs or replacements. The cost of servicing an air conditioner varies depending on the type of unit, the extent of maintenance required, and your location.

On average, you can expect to pay:

• Standard air conditioner service: $80 to $150
• Comprehensive service including deep cleaning and refrigerant check: $150 to $300
• Ducted air conditioning service: $300 to $550

Factors that influence the cost of an aircon service include the size and type of the system, accessibility, and whether any repairs or additional cleaning are required.

Maintaining your air conditioning system

Before summer arrives, it’s essential to ensure your air conditioning system is in top condition to handle increased use. Regular maintenance helps extend the lifespan of your unit, improves efficiency, and prevents costly air conditioner repairs or replacements.

Neglecting maintenance can lead to higher aircon running costs due to reduced efficiency and potential system breakdowns. To keep your unit performing at its best, follow these key maintenance steps:

• Schedule professional servicing – A licensed technician should inspect your air conditioning system annually, ideally before summer. This includes cleaning piping, detecting and repairing leaks, and recalibrating refrigeration settings.

• Clean filters monthly – Dust and grime can clog indoor unit filters, making your aircon work harder and increasing energy consumption. Remove the filters and vacuum them regularly to maintain efficiency.

• Check for leaks and blockages – Inspect drainage pipes and outdoor units for any signs of obstruction or damage. Addressing minor issues early can prevent costly repairs.

A well-maintained air conditioner will not only run more efficiently but also save you money on air conditioning costs over time.

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Get quotes from local air conditioner installers

Still wondering how much does air conditioner installation cost? The best way to get an accurate estimate is to compare quotes from professional, licensed air conditioning installers in your area.

To ensure you’re getting the best deal, follow these steps:

• Request at least three quotes from different installers to compare pricing and services.

• Check for licensed and experienced professionals to guarantee quality workmanship.

• Read customer reviews and ratings to find a reliable installer.

Using online directories like Yellow Pages, you can easily compare quotes and reviews from local tradesmen, helping you make an informed decision when installing your air conditioner.

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* All costs and prices quoted were sourced at the time this article was written and should only be used as an estimate.