
Central Air Conditioning for Adelaide Homes
Published on : May 26th, 2023

Table of Contents
Central air conditioning is a very popular choice among homeowners in Adelaide.
Benefits include high efficiency and the ability to cool or heat a home via one central system.
In the early years of air conditioning, most air conditioners came in the form of wall or window units. But with new innovations, ducted air conditioning has become a viable option for all.
Central Air Conditioning
Central air conditioning distributes conditioned air via a network of ducts and vents throughout a home. It takes a very minimalist design as all the ducts are hidden out of sight, usually in roof spaces and floor joist. Only the vents are visible and these are flushed against the ceiling or cornices.
Hence, central air conditioning is non-obtrusive and easy to integrate with your home’s interior decor.
Central Air Conditioning vs Split Systems
Split system or wall splits have a compressor powering multiple indoor units. You will need to install a unit in each room for complete coverage. And although wall units have become quite aesthetically pleasing, they are still an obvious addition to any space.
However, central air conditioning still works better if you prefer a more minimalist design for your home.
Central Air Conditioning – The Benefits
So, how does central air conditioning compare with split systems, in terms of features and benefits? Let’s take a look at a few of its benefits.
Central Air Conditioning – Better For Larger Homes Or Complicated Floor Plans
Central air conditioning is a versatile option for larger homes, especially multi-storey dwellings with complicated floor plans. Since it uses ducts and vents, the indoor compressor can be neatly tucked away in the roof or back of the house. Air is easily distributed through a network of ducts.
The ducting allows a central air conditioner to reach most spaces in a home, and it can cover every room easily. Split system air conditioners are harder to implement for such homes. A wall unit will need to be installed into each room and may be cost-prohibitive in larger homes.
In addition, one compressor usually supports only a limited number of wall units. So for larger homes, or multi-storey layouts, you may need to put in 2 or more compressors. This significantly increases the upfront costs of installing air conditioning.
For this reason, most homeowners choose central air conditioning if they have larger homes or unique floorplans. It’s just easier to cover all the spaces with central air conditioning.
Central Air Conditioning – All In One Systems That Do It All
Central air conditioning is either refrigerated or evaporative. Refrigerated air conditioners use a chemical refrigerant to cool air while evaporative air conditioners use evaporation to cool air. The air produced by refrigerated air conditioners is cold and crisp. Meanwhile, the air produced by evaporative air conditioners is cool and fresh, like a sea breeze.
However, there is an increasing preference for Evaporative systems. Especially for families with members who have respiratory sensitivities or ailments. Evaporative air conditioning produces air that is more natural, fresh and easier to breathe.
Most refrigerated central air conditioning systems now come with a reverse cycle function. This means that it can produce both hot and cold air. Revere cycle air conditioners keep your home cold in summer and warm in winter. A versatile choice for year round comfort.
Central Air Conditioning – Reverse Cycle or Evaporative
So how does one choose between a ducted reverse cycle or evaporative air conditioning? Here are a few considerations for your decision making.
Running Costs
While ducted reverse cycle air conditioners offer both hot and cold air, the running costs are generally higher than evaporative cooling. Although the upfront costs may be quite similar, the long term savings from an evaporative system could be substantial.
Separate Heating
Evaporative air conditioners only offer cooling. Hence, if you are going for evaporative, you will need to install separate heating for your home. You could go for a ducted gas heating system, or wall furnaces or wood heaters. The upfront cost of having to install both an evaporative air conditioner and a separate heating system may come to the same amount as installing reverse cycle ducted air conditioning.
However, the much lower running costs of an evaporative system, and the generally lower cost of gas, still makes the evaporative/gas heating alternative a viable one.
Central Air Conditioning – A Good Option
Generally speaking, central air conditioning is still an excellent option for a home. It’s easy to install when you are building a new home and maintenance is quite manageable. If you have a larger home, then central air conditioning is a good choice.
Speak with one of our expert installers today to get their professional advice on what may work best for you.
Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.
Recent Posts
