Do I Need Professional Installation for Ducted Aircon in Australia?

When it comes to ducted aircon installation in Australia, homeowners might wonder whether they can tackle the job themselves or if they need to call in the professionals.

Ducted air conditioning systems offer outstanding climate control, efficiency, and comfort. But, when it comes to installation, there are numerous factors to consider.

For a start, it is illegal to install a ducted air conditioning system unless you have both an electrical and refrigeration license. Only professional air conditioning technicians can install a complex system like a ducted air conditioner.

In this blog post, we’ll uncover that and other reasons why hiring a professional for your ducted aircon installation is crucial and mandatory, along with the benefits of choosing a ducted air conditioning system for your home.

How Does a Ducted Air Conditioning Work?

Before discussing installation, it’s essential to understand how ducted air conditioning works. A ducted air conditioning system comprises an outdoor unit and an indoor fan coil unit located within your roof space.

The system circulates cold or warm air through ducts that lead to adjustable vents in each room of your home. This setup allows for precise temperature control and efficient air flow, resulting in enhanced comfort for you and your family.

Here are some types of ducted air conditioning systems to consider:

• Standard ducted air conditioners – These are the classic systems that most people think of when it comes to ducted air conditioning. They involve a fan coil unit and an air handling unit, working together to circulate air through ducts tucked away in your roof space.
• Reverse cycle ducted air conditioning – Reverse-cycle ducted air conditioning systems can provide both heating and cooling, making them ideal for year-round climate control. With the touch of a button, you can switch your air conditioning between cooling mode during the warmer months and heating mode throughout winter.

Additional Benefits of Ducted Air Conditioning Systems

Ducted air conditioning systems offer various advantages that make them an appealing option for homeowners in Australia.

• Zoning and customised comfort – Zone control is a feature that allows you to set specific temperatures for different rooms within your home. This functionality helps you create an ideal climate in each space without wasting energy. You can even selectively turn zones off when they’re not in use, resulting in greater energy savings.
• Quiet operation – Ducted air conditioning systems are known for their quiet operation. As the indoor unit is typically located within the roof cavity, any noise generated is minimal and barely noticeable. This makes ducted air conditioning perfect for creating a more comfortable temperature and peaceful home atmosphere.
• Aesthetically pleasing design – Most ducted air conditioning vents are inconspicuous and blend seamlessly with your home’s décor. The absence of bulky wall-mounted units means your rooms will maintain a clean, uncluttered appearance.

What Happens During a Ducted Aircon Installation?

While it’s mandatory that a professional technician carries out the installation of a ducted air conditioner, it can be beneficial for a homeowner to be familiar with the process. Understanding the installation steps can help you supervise the installation, understand the reason behind the air conditioning cost, and ensure that everything is done correctly.

Here is an outline of the typical steps involved:

1. Assessment and planning: The first step is to evaluate the specific cooling and heating requirements of your home. This involves factors such as the size of your house and its layout, the number and type of windows, insulation, and specific hot or cold spots. A professional will use this information to design the most effective ducted air conditioning system for your home, plan the best location for the indoor and outdoor units, and figure out the best routing for the ductwork.
2. Installation of the indoor unit: Following the plan, the indoor unit, usually a fan coil unit, is installed into your roof space. This is a critical step, as the placement of this unit can directly affect the efficiency of your system.
3. Installation of the outdoor unit: The outdoor unit or the condenser is next. This system component is usually placed in a discreet location outside your home that allows for optimal airflow and easy accessibility for maintenance.
4. Installation of ductwork and vents: Then comes the installation of the ductwork and vents in your home. This involves creating pathways within your ceiling or under your floors to run the insulated flexible ducting that will carry cool or warm air to each room. Vents will be fitted in the ceiling or floor, in a way that allows for the most efficient circulation of air.
5. Electrical wiring: Once the parts of the air conditioning unit are installed and the ductwork is in place, the system needs to be safely wired up. The wiring connects the indoor and outdoor units and hooks the system up to your home’s power supply. This step should be carried out by a licensed electrician to ensure safety and compliance with Australian standards.
6. Testing and commissioning: The final step involves testing and commissioning. The professional installer will run checks on the system to ensure everything is operating as it should. They will make sure there are no leaks, that the system is draining well and that the thermostat and controls are functioning properly.

So, there’s a rundown of the installation process for a ducted air conditioner system. Remember, while it’s important to know these steps, it’s still wise to let a professional handle this complex task. They have the training, experience, and tools necessary to carry out these steps safely and efficiently.

Should It Be Done by a Professional?

Well, as we’ve already stated, this job HAS to be done by a professional technician. Installing a ducted heating and cooling system is never a DIY job, so let’s get straight to the point.

Ducted air conditioning systems can be a bit complex. They come with various components like the indoor and outdoor units, and the ductwork that is hidden in the roof area. Moreover, it’s important to remember they should meet Australian standards as well.

Trying a DIY installation is not only illegal but also could lead to many other problems. The system might end up not functioning properly, using more energy than necessary, and even compromising the air quality inside your house, which is not a good outcome.

Additionally, you could risk voiding your warranty if you decide to install it on your own. With a professional doing the job, your warranty is safe, and you can rest easy, knowing your air conditioning system is in reliable hands.

The Importance of Professional Installation

To convince you even more, below are several reasons why this task is best left to experienced professionals.

1. Ensuring a proper fit and legal installation: Professional installers possess the knowledge, experience and specialised tools needed to properly fit and install your ducted system. They understand how to safely and securely position the ducted air conditioning indoor unit, outdoor unit, and ductwork. They also have expertise in optimising the system’s performance by carefully balancing the air flow throughout your home.
2. Compliance with Australian standards: Installing ducted air conditioning systems involves various electrical and mechanical components. By hiring a professional, you can be confident that your installation adheres to Australian standards and local building regulations. Experts will test the system to ensure it is functioning safely and efficiently before providing you with a compliance certificate.
3. Minimising risks and potential issues: Attempting a DIY ducted aircon installation could lead to improper setup or damage to the system, resulting in higher running costs, compromised air quality, and increased safety risks. Avoid these pitfalls by relying on professional installers who know the ins and outs of the process.
4. Warranty protection: Most ducted air conditioning systems come with a warranty, but you may risk voiding that warranty if you carry out a DIY installation. Engaging a professional installer ensures your warranty remains valid, giving you peace of mind.

Excellent Air Quality All Year-Round

Given the ducted air conditioning cost, complexity and legal ramifications involved in its installation, the importance of hiring a professional cannot be overstated. By engaging a professional installer, you’ll ensure your ducted air conditioning system performs optimally, maintains its warranty and complies with all safety and building regulations.

Investing in a professionally installed ducted air conditioning system will provide you with comfortable cold air and customised comfort all year round. For more information, don’t hesitate to contact the ducted system professionals at Metropolitan Air Conditioning.

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.