Ducted vs Split Systems: Which Consumes More Energy?

As the weather heats up, staying cool indoors becomes a top priority. Air conditioning is a common solution for keeping homes comfortable, but it's important to consider the energy consumption and cost associated with running these systems. 

Two of the most popular air conditioning options are ducted systems and split systems. Both can effectively cool a space, but they vary significantly in energy usage, cost, and functionality. So, which system uses more energy? Brisbane air conditioning experts BG Electrical and Air Con explain the details below to help you make an informed decision.

Energy Consumption of Split System Air Conditioning

Split-system air conditioners are generally known for their lower energy consumption compared to ducted systems. These units are popular for cooling individual rooms or smaller spaces, as they are compact, affordable, and easy to install in most areas of the home.

The energy consumption of a split system varies based on several factors, such as:

• The unit's age and efficiency rating
• The brand and model
• The size of the area being cooled

Most modern split systems typically use between 2kW and 6kW of energy. For example, running a single 2-2.5kW split system in a small room could consume around 180kWh of energy per year.

While the cost of running one split system may seem relatively low, consider the following:

• Cooling multiple rooms will require more units, increasing energy consumption.
• Running three split systems could triple your energy usage.
• Cooling an entire home with multiple split units could lead to significantly higher energy costs, making it a less efficient option for larger spaces.

Energy Consumption of Ducted Air Conditioning

Ducted air conditioning offers a different approach by cooling the entire home or larger spaces with a single system. These systems are designed to distribute cool air through a series of ducts connected to each room, providing comprehensive cooling at the touch of a button. 

Many modern ducted systems also come with zoning controls, allowing you to direct the cool air to specific areas and avoid wasting energy on unused spaces. However, ducted systems are more powerful, typically requiring between 7kW and 24kW to operate, depending on the size of the home or space. 

This higher power requirement means that ducted air conditioners consume more energy than split systems. On average, a ducted system may cost about three times as much to run per hour compared to a single split system. 

Running a ducted system for a couple of hours each day during the summer can lead to substantial energy bills. However, zoning features can help mitigate this by limiting cooling to only the areas you need, reducing overall energy consumption.

Which System is the Better Option?

The choice between ducted and split systems depends on various factors, including:

1. The size of the space you want to cool
2. Your daily energy usage habits
3. Your budget for both installation and ongoing energy costs

When to choose split systems:

• If you're cooling a single room or small area, split systems are more energy-efficient and cost-effective.
• Split systems focus on cooling specific areas, keeping energy bills low.

When to choose ducted systems:

• If you need to cool a large home or multiple rooms simultaneously, ducted systems provide a more comprehensive solution.
• Zoning capabilities allow for more efficient cooling, as you can control which areas receive cooling.

For homes with diverse cooling needs, a combination of both systems might be a viable option. For example:

• Use a ducted system to cool common areas.
• Install split systems in bedrooms or smaller rooms that don't require as much cooling throughout the day.

How to Reduce Your Energy Bills

Cooling systems account for a significant portion of energy consumption in most households, especially during the hotter months. Whether you choose a ducted or split system, regular maintenance is essential to keep your air conditioner running efficiently and reduce your energy bills. 

Air conditioners are complex machines with filters, drains, and heat exchangers that can become clogged or dirty over time, forcing the system to work harder and use more energy.

To ensure your air conditioner is operating at peak efficiency, schedule an annual service that includes:

• Cleaning or replacing air filters
• Cleaning the condenser
• Clearing blocked drains
• Checking the refrigerant levels
• Inspecting and testing all motors and components

These maintenance tasks can significantly improve the performance of your air conditioner, leading to lower energy consumption and cost savings. Additionally, ensuring that your home is properly insulated and sealing any gaps in doors or windows can also help reduce the load on your cooling system, making it more energy-efficient.

Regular Maintenance is the Key!

When it comes to energy consumption, split-system air conditioners are usually the more efficient option for cooling smaller spaces or individual rooms. However, ducted systems offer the advantage of cooling an entire home or large areas, with zoning technology allowing for better energy control. 

The best choice for you depends on your home’s size, how many rooms you want to cool, and your overall budget.

No matter which system you opt for, regular maintenance and mindful usage will help ensure that your air conditioner runs efficiently and keeps your energy bills under control.