This is one of the most common questions we get asked on a measure-and-quote, and the honest answer is "it depends on your home" but there are some clear patterns that make the decision easier.
Split systems: the short version
A split system is one indoor unit and one outdoor unit, cooling and heating a specific area often a living room, main bedroom, or open-plan zone. You can install multiple split systems around a house (a "multi-head" setup) to cover more rooms without ducting.
Ducted systems: the short version
Ducted air conditioning uses a single, larger outdoor unit connected to ducting run through the ceiling, delivering conditioned air to every room through vents. It's controlled from one central point and can zone different areas on and off.
Upfront cost
Split systems are almost always cheaper to install, especially for one or two rooms. Ducted systems cost significantly more because of the ceiling space, ducting, and larger capacity unit required even before you factor in bigger homes needing bigger systems.
Running cost
Split systems tend to be cheaper to run day-to-day because you're only conditioning the room you're in. Ducted systems are more efficient at conditioning a whole house at once, but if you're only using one or two rooms most of the time, you're paying to condition empty rooms unless you've zoned it carefully.
What your home's layout tells you
- Older weatherboard or brick veneer with limited roof space split systems are usually more practical to install without major structural work.
- Open-plan living with defined zones (bedrooms separate from living areas) a couple of split systems can cover this efficiently.
- Larger homes, new builds, or full renovations ducted systems make more sense when you're already opening up the ceiling and want a fully integrated, invisible solution.
- Renting or planning to sell soon split systems are a lower-risk investment with a clearer return.
Our honest take
For the vast majority of Ballarat homes we work on, a well-placed split system or multi-head setup does the job better value, faster install (often same-day), and you're only paying to condition the space you're actually using. Ducted really earns its keep on bigger renovation projects or new builds where the ceiling's already open. Either way, a free on-site measure and quote will tell you exactly what's realistic for your home.
Need this sorted properly?
We're happy to talk it through over the phone or come out for a free, no-obligation quote across Ballarat and surrounds.