- Ultimate Guide -
Split System Air Conditioning Cost
Split system air conditioning pricing varies based on system size, brand and installation. This guide helps you understand the key cost factors and what you can expect to pay.
Your Comprehensive Split System Air Conditioning Cost Guide
Split system air conditioners are perfect for cooling smaller homes, single rooms, apartments, and offices. With an outdoor unit and a wall-mounted indoor component inside your space, you can be comfortable in whatever room you occupy.
A split system air conditioner is a popular and increasing-demand home appliance addition in Australia.
But what does it cost?
Split system air conditioning costs, including system and installation, typically range from around $1,500 to $5,500, with most installations falling between $2,000 and $3,500.
Costs vary depending on the system size, brand and installation requirements, with smaller units for bedrooms or study areas at the lower end and larger systems for living or open-plan spaces costing more.
In this guide, we will provide all the information you need to decide whether it is worth adding this high demand amenity to your home, covering installation and running costs along with a detailed overview.
Table of Contents
Note: All split system air conditioning prices in this guide are based on our experience and research at the time of writing. Prices may vary over time and can be influenced by a range of factors, so they should be used as a general guide only.
Why Consider a Split System Air Conditioner?
A split system air conditioner is a cooling solution consisting of indoor and outdoor components. Together they provide your home with temperature control without sacrificing any interior space.
Ducted air conditioning might be the go-to for home and business climate control, but split wall-mounted units have many benefits. From cost savings to their user-friendly design, these systems offer a variety of advantages worth considering.
Split-system air conditioning systems provide a range of benefits to homes and businesses, including:
Easy Installation
Offering both affordability and convenience, split-system air conditioners offer a simple solution to cooling indoor spaces. Installing a split system in less time than other systems require, the unit necessitates only copper tubing and cabling for setup - working without ducts and it seamlessly blends into your room with little effort needed for installation.
Split system air conditioners provide a modern and efficient cooling solution for your home. Their outdoor units are conveniently designed to fit flush against the wall of your house — meaning you won't have to worry about unsightly compressors spoiling its aesthetic appeal.
Forget about windows. You can install this cooling solution anywhere in your home or property. Mount it on the wall for a discreet setup and enjoy effortless climate control wherever you desire. Forget bulky, unsightly ducts — split system air conditioners offer a streamlined solution with space-saving benefits, fitting neatly into narrow spaces and working effectively in any room.
Low-Cost Solution
Investing in a wall-mounted split system air conditioning unit is an easy and economical way to effective temperature control without breaking the bank. By setting it right, you can save on costs while reducing energy consumption for maximum efficiency. This makes it a practical long-term solution for keeping your home comfortable year-round.
Split-system air conditioners provide a fuss-free cooling solution for renters or property owners. Its low-maintenance design allows users to replace the split system filter each month — some can even be washed and reused! With their clean, compact look, split systems are an ideal way to keep your space cool with minimal effort.
Runs Quietly
Discover a quieter, more efficient way to stay cool with split system air conditioning units. These sleek machines provide low-noise comfort for sleeping and working. Forget bulky motors and loud clunking noises. Split system units maintain a steady temperature without disruption, and with a built-in timer, you can easily control comfort as needed.
With these advantages, it’s easy to see why split system air conditioning remains one of the most popular choices for Australian homes.
How Much is Split System Air Conditioning?
Are you looking for a way to beat the heat in Perth? Installing an air conditioner could be your ticket to cool comfort—but how much will it set you back?
Split System Air Conditioning Cost by Room Size
Split system air conditioners are a flexible and cost-effective option, with pricing varying based on the unit size and the space being cooled or heated. Larger rooms typically require higher-capacity systems, which can increase the overall cost.
Split system air conditioning units, including installation, typically range from around $1,500 to $5,500, depending on the brand, system size, property layout and installation complexity.
To give you a clearer idea of fully installed costs, the estimates below are based on common room sizes and typical usage:
(Up to ~20m² | 2.0–2.5kW)
Approx. $1,500 to $2,500 installed
(20–40m² | 3.0–5.0kW)
Approx. $2,000 to $3,500 installed
(40m²+ | 5.0–7.0kW+)
Approx. $3,000 to $5,500+ installed
While room size is a useful guide, factors like sunlight, insulation, ceiling height and layout can all influence the ideal system size. That’s why it’s important to speak with an air conditioning expert who can recommend the right system to suit your home and budget. If you need advice, feel free to contact our team.
Now that you have a general idea of split system costs based on room size and kW capacity, it’s time to dive a bit deeper. Next, we’ll look at how prices vary between different brands.
Split System Prices by Brand
Split system prices can vary quite a bit between brands, even for the same size unit. Some brands are known for budget-friendly options, while others position themselves as more premium with higher-end features and build quality.
Across most brands, split system air conditioners, excluding installation, generally range from around $700 to $4,500, depending on the system size and brand. Smaller units for bedrooms and compact spaces sit at the lower end, while larger systems for open-plan living areas and premium brands push prices higher. As capacity increases, the gap between budget and premium brands also becomes more noticeable.
If you're looking to buy a new air conditioner, numerous attractive brands and models are on the market. Here's an overview of some of the most popular ones—including their respective average price ranges according to size.
Hisense
Braemar
Among systems suited for small rooms, Daikin and Panasonic sit at the higher end, with prices reaching up to ~$2,000 and ~$1,900 respectively. In contrast, Hisense and Kelvinator offer the lowest entry points, starting from around ~$600–$700.
For medium-sized rooms, Daikin again stands out as one of the more premium options, with prices reaching up to ~$2,600. Meanwhile, Hisense and Kelvinator remain among the most budget-friendly, generally staying under ~$1,500.
When it comes to large rooms, Daikin and Panasonic are positioned at the top end of the market, with systems reaching approximately ~$4,000–$4,500+. On the other hand, brands like Hisense and Kelvinator offer more accessible options, with some larger systems available from around ~$1,500–$2,500.
It is worth noting that these prices are not absolute, as they can vary depending on the model, features and retailer. The table should be used as a general guide to compare brands and expected price ranges. All prices listed are for the system only and do not include installation.
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Split System Air Conditioning Installation Cost
Split system air conditioning is generally more affordable to install than ducted systems, making it a popular choice for single rooms or smaller homes. While the upfront cost is lower, installation pricing can still vary depending on the system size and how straightforward the setup is.
As a general guide, split system installation costs typically range from around $600 for smaller units up to $1,200 or more for larger systems. Basic back-to-back installs sit at the lower end, while longer pipe runs, electrical upgrades or complex layouts can increase the cost. This is in addition to the price of the system itself.
Installation is usually carried out by licensed technicians, with labour rates commonly ranging between $80 and $150+ per hour, depending on the provider and complexity of the job. This is in addition to the price of the system itself.
While these ranges provide a useful starting point, the final split system installation cost will depend on several factors specific to your home and the system being installed. From the unit size through to access and electrical requirements, each element can influence the overall installation price.
Larger systems require more power, heavier components and additional labour, which can increase installation costs.
Simple back-to-back installs are the most affordable, while longer pipe runs, multi-storey homes or installations requiring the outdoor unit to be mounted on a wall or roof can increase labour and material costs.
The distance between the indoor and outdoor units affects how much piping and electrical cabling is needed.
Electrical Requirements
Some systems may need a dedicated circuit or switchboard upgrades, adding to the overall cost.
Difficult access, double-storey homes or installations that require wall penetrations, long pipe runs or working at height can increase labour time and overall cost.
Proper condensate drainage is essential and may require additional work depending on the property layout.
So, What Does It Cost to Install a Split System Air Conditioner?
There’s no fixed price for split system installation, as costs can vary depending on the setup and how straightforward the job is. That said, most installations fall within a predictable range based on the level of work involved.
While every split system installation is different, having a general idea of typical costs can help set realistic expectations. It also makes it easier to plan your budget before getting a tailored quote.
Who Can Install a Split System Air Conditioner?
Installing a split system air conditioner involves more than simply mounting the unit. It requires correct refrigerant handling, electrical connections and system setup to ensure safe and efficient operation. For this reason, it’s recommended that split systems are installed by licensed air conditioning technicians, such as our team at Global Cool Air. While qualified electricians or plumbers may also carry out installations, they must hold the appropriate refrigerant handling licence to legally complete the work.
In Australia, refrigerant handling is regulated to protect both safety and the environment. Installers must be licensed in line with national requirements, ensuring the system operates efficiently and meets compliance standards. You can learn more about these requirements through the refrigerant handling licence guidelines set by the Australian Refrigeration Council.
With over 15 years of experience, Global Cool Air delivers reliable split system installations across Perth. We work with trusted brands and tailor each setup to suit your home, layout and budget.
To learn more about our installation services or get expert advice, feel free to get in touch with our team.
Need a Split System Quote?
Our team will help you choose the right split system for your space and budget, with honest advice and a free, no-obligation quote.
Cost to Run a Split System Aircon – What to Expect
Split system air conditioners come in a range of sizes, and running costs will vary depending on system capacity, usage and operating conditions. The estimates below provide a general guide based on typical electricity rates in Australia (around $0.30 per kWh), helping you understand what to expect when running a system of different sizes.
Split systems are generally affordable to run, especially when compared to larger whole-home systems. Their ability to cool individual rooms means you only use energy where it’s needed, helping keep overall electricity usage lower. You can also refer to the Australian Government’s guide to appliance energy ratings and running costs for more information on how electricity usage is estimated.
While split systems have a rated input power, modern inverter models can adjust their output to maintain a consistent indoor temperature while using less energy once the desired temperature is reached.
For example, a smaller 2.5kW system may cost around $0.20–$0.25 per hour to run, while a larger 9kW unit could cost closer to $0.75–$0.80 per hour, depending on conditions.
*Based on 8 hours of daily use over 30 days at current electricity rates (~$0.30 per kWh). Actual costs may vary depending on usage and conditions.
Manufacturers have introduced engineering advancements to meet the growing demand for energy-efficient products. As a result, this focus on innovation is reflected in metrics such as the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER), which can be found on many modern air conditioning units.
For a broader understanding of how air conditioners are rated for efficiency in Australia, you can refer to the Zoned Energy Rating Label guide, which outlines how energy performance and running costs are assessed across different climates.
With energy efficiency increasingly important, modern air conditioners require an accurate way to estimate running costs. Below is a simple example of how split system running costs can be calculated.
(kW capacity ÷ EER) × electricity price (per kWh) = cost per hour
If you were to run a 2.5kW air conditioner, the cost can be estimated using an EER of 3.20:
(2.5 ÷ 3.20) × $0.30 = $0.23 per hour
Daily cost (based on 8 hours of use): $1.88
Monthly cost: $56.25
Choosing an energy-efficient air conditioner with a higher EER rating can help reduce ongoing running costs over time.
Estimate Split System Running Costs
Answer a few quick questions to estimate hourly, daily and monthly running costs for a split system air conditioner.
What size split system do you have or need?
How many hours per day do you usually run it?
What electricity rate would you like to use?
Your Estimated Running Cost
Based on a split system air conditioner and your selected electricity rate.
Split System Aircon Service Cost – What to Expect
Regular servicing helps keep your split system performing efficiently, improving air quality and reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns.
So, how much does it cost to service a split system air conditioner?
Average Split System Air Conditioning Service Costs
Standard domestic split system servicing typically starts from $180–$250 (including GST), depending on the system type and condition. More comprehensive services or heavily used units may cost more, particularly if deep cleaning or additional work is required.
Regular servicing not only helps extend the lifespan of your system but also ensures it continues to operate efficiently, reducing the risk of breakdowns and higher running costs over time.
At Global Cool Air, a ducted air conditioning service typically includes:
Learn more about our air conditioning servicing or get a free quote today to keep your split system running at its best.
Finance Options for Split System & Installation Costs
Installing a new air conditioning system or upgrading an existing one can require a significant investment. To help manage the upfront cost, there are several financing options available.
Here are four options to consider:
Buy now, pay later with flexible repayments. Interest-free options with weekly, fortnightly or monthly payments.
Flexible payment plans for larger purchases. Interest-free periods available, with short- and long-term options.
In-house or partner finance options offered by installers. Combine system and installation into one payment plan.
Use a personal loan or access funds through your home loan or redraw facility. Often suited for larger installations, with structured repayments over time.
Concerned about the cost of a new split system? Get in touch with our team to explore flexible finance options and find a solution that works for your budget.
Why Choose Global Cool Air for Split System Air Conditioning
At Global Cool Air, we help Perth homeowners choose the right split system for their space, budget and long-term comfort. From system selection to installation, we provide honest advice, transparent pricing and tailored solutions to suit your needs.
Expert Advice on Choosing the Right Split System
Our Perth-based team specialises in helping homeowners select the right split system for their space. We take into account room size, layout, insulation and usage to recommend a system that delivers efficient cooling without unnecessary running costs.
From selecting the ideal unit to professional installation, we make the entire process simple and straightforward. You’ll receive clear recommendations, transparent pricing and a solution tailored to your home and budget.
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If you’re comparing split system options or ready to get started, speak with our team for expert advice and a free, no-obligation quote.
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