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A bulky air conditioner in the room takes up space and can often be an eyesore that disturbs the streamlined look of your home interiors.
Fortunately, a central unit or a ducted air conditioning system offers a more sophisticated and aesthetically-pleasing option, among other advantages. Unlike ductless systems, such as window units and wall-hung splits, which cool a single room, a ducted system maintains the desired temperature throughout the entire home.
However, it’s not all good news; ducted systems come with higher initial costs of installation unless your property is already equipped with a duct network. In addition, you may be faced with high repair and maintenance costs in case of improper installation, leaks, and other mishaps.
Needless to say, it is crucial to know the basics about this air conditioning system before investing in one. That being said, let’s begin with the basics.
From two-bedroom houses to vast multi-storey complexes, you have probably visited at least one building with ducted air-con or central air conditioning. More often than not, the cooled air distributed throughout the area will be gentle and even. And although the cooling sensation is effective and evident, you will barely hear any noise of machines at work.
Indeed, the seemingly noiseless operation of ducted air conditioners is achieved as the noise-making working parts are located away from the indoor vents that blow out cooled air. Generally, the outdoor unit is relegated to the ceiling cavity or outside the building and pumps out cool air that travels through a system of ducts.
These ducts are equipped with vents and outlets strategically placed throughout the whole home or building. However, a ducted system is accompanied by convenient zone control systems that allow you to shut off cooling in parts of the house or altogether. Here, you will also find temperature control buttons that allow the flexibility to set a stable temperature throughout the area or customise it according to different rooms.
That said, most ducted units feature reverse cycle technology, which means it doubles as a heating and cooling system – all at once. In fact, ducted air conditioning is widely popular in humid regions as it helps control humidity, thus eliminating the need for dehumidifiers. On that note, a ducted system is a type of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) system.
Depending on the ducting material used in the network of ducts, there are two types of ducted cooling systems:
Rigid ducting consists of a fixed structure that runs across the ceiling of a building or home. Considering how rigid ducts are designed to be permanent, they are made from durable materials, such as metal. Furthermore, you may pick between sheet metal, fibreboard, and fibreglass for the ductwork.
On that note, most homeowners prefer fibreglass material as it reduces the noise of the air conditioner and is more adept at trapping mould and allergens. However, fibreglass ducted air conditioning systems are equally tricky to clean and come with a hefty installation and running cost.
Although budgeting and ducted air conditioning hardly ever go hand-in-hand, flexible ductwork provides a slightly less expensive option. These ducts are made of insulated plastic and a wide metal framework, featuring wide tube-like structures.
Due to the use of flexible materials, these ducted systems tend to bend and kink, which may interrupt the airflow in the area. And since it is not a fixed structure, you may run into some durability issues down the line.
As mentioned earlier, ducted air conditioners are almost noiseless, especially when compared to split air conditioning systems or other indoor units. Not to mention how opting for proper ductwork can reduce the noise even further.
Modern ducted air conditioning systems are now equipped with a wide range of sophisticated features compatible with a smart home. For instance, you can connect the system with the home Wi-Fi and control the fully automated cooling system with your smartphone.
Nevertheless, you can easily manage and control a ducted air conditioner, pre-setting and pre-timing it to a comfortable temperature with the touch of a button on the thermostat. Also, a system featuring reverse cycle technology does away with the need to invest in a separate heating system.
Although the running cost with ducted air conditioners is comparatively more expensive than split systems, you can utilise several features for greater energy efficiency. First off, most ducted air conditioners are equipped with zonal climate control, which allows you to shut off cooling in unoccupied areas of the house.
At the same time, it may be a more cost-effective option if you need to install several split system air conditioning units in multiple rooms. Apart from separate installation charges, you can also expect to be billed for the maintenance and servicing of each unit. So, instead of investing in different units for the master bedroom, living space, and other rooms, a single ducted AC system may prove to be cheaper in the long run.
Anyhow, all homeowners in Australia must make sure that the ducted air conditioning system in their homes comply with Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS). Moreover, you can maximise energy savings by utilising inverter technology. On that note, inverter systems increase performance and lead to 30 to 50% less energy consumption than older systems.
An indoor unit, like wall-mounted splits or a window unit, is undeniably bulkier than the subtle vents of a ducted air conditioning system. With the less-aesthetically pleasing parts hidden from view, homeowners can use the freed-up space to arrange their home decor. Moreover, the sleek vents can be painted and designed to suit the home interiors.
Although ducted systems are becoming more commonplace today, they are still a marker of luxurious living. And considering all the benefits one offers, it goes without saying that ducted air conditioning can give your home an edge with potential buyers.
A ducted AC system is expensive to install, especially if you add it to a built structure that must be redesigned to make space for the ducts.
Once installed, ducted air conditioning systems require regular upkeep to maintain efficiency and prevent mould growth. On that note, excessive mould growth can affect the quality of the conditioned air and spread allergens. As a rule of thumb, you must hire a professional every five years to clean the vents and ducts.
Ducted air cons are investments that don’t come cheap. And while fitting a ducted system into your home is expensive, improper installation can lead to even more financial strain.
Fortunately, we at Same Day Trades offer our expert services at the best prices in your area. Apart from installations, we specialise in replacements, servicing, cleaning, repairs – you name it.
And don’t worry if you’re on a tight budget. Our trained professionals will guide you through our pricing policy and help you choose the best option. Rest assured, the investment will be well worth the time, money, and energy.
So, contact us today and get your own ducted air conditioning system for a sleek, sophisticated, and smart home.
Published: 5 February, 2022
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