Choosing a heating-cooling system for your home is a big deal. It’s a balancing act between your needs and your budget. So, how do you decide which option is best for your property? Let’s look into the pros and cons of different electric systems and what type of home each one was designed for – to help you find the ideal system for you.
Why switch to an electric heating-cooling system?
Electric systems have become one of the more preferred solutions for homeowners looking to replace outdated gas alternatives. There are a good few reasons for this:
Energy Efficiency – Electric ducted heating systems use advanced technologies to heat and cool homes more efficiently, which means lower utility costs at the end of the month.
Rebates – In addition to energy efficiency savings, homeowners can benefit from government rebates and incentives that reduce the upfront installation cost of the system.
Versatility – Electric systems provide both heating and cooling, making them a year-round solution for homes no matter what the weather looks like outside.
Eco-Friendliness – Transitioning to an electric system will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lowering your system’s impact on the environment.
Choosing the right electric system for you
Electric heating-cooling systems come in two main configurations – split systems and ducted split systems. The choice between the two depends on factors like the size of your property, your budget, and your specific needs. Next, we’ll take a closer look at each of them, to help you find the right option.
Split Systems
A split system consists of two main components: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. These systems are ideal for heating and cooling individual rooms or smaller spaces.
What are the benefits?
- Split systems allow you to control the temperature in specific zones or areas, making them ideal for smaller homes or apartments.
- They’re more affordable to buy and install compared to ducted systems.
- By heating or cooling only the areas in use, split systems can reduce energy waste.
- Split systems are relatively easy to install, often requiring minimal disruption to your day.
These systems are perfect for –
- Single rooms or smaller properties.
- Homeowners on a tighter budget.
- People looking for a quick and straightforward heating-cooling solution.
Ducted Split Systems
Electric ducted heating and cooling split systems consist of a central unit connected to a network of ducts that distribute air throughout your entire property. These systems are perfect for larger homes or for those seeking a seamless, whole-house solution.
What are the benefits?
- Electric ducted heating and cooling split systems maintain consistent temperatures across multiple rooms.
- Since the ducts are concealed in walls or ceilings, these systems offer a sleek, unobtrusive appearance.
- Advanced ducted systems allow you to create zones, so you can adjust temperatures in different parts of the house independently.
- Centralised units are usually quieter than multiple split systems.
These systems are perfect for –
- Larger properties or multi-story homes.
- Homeowners looking for a single, long-term solution.
- Those who value the aesthetics of their home and don’t want their system to encroach on it.
What to consider when choosing a system
The right choice for your home depends on several different things. Use the points below to guide you towards the ideal system for your home. Consider:
Your property’s size
- For small to medium-sized homes or apartments, split systems are often sufficient to provide efficient heating and cooling.
- For larger properties, electric ducted heating and cooling split systems are more practical, offering whole-house coverage without the need for multiple units.
Your budget
- Split systems are generally more affordable upfront and are an excellent option for those with a limited budget.
- While ducted systems require a higher initial investment, they can add value to your home and provide greater long-term comfort.
Installation
- Split systems are easier and quicker to install, making them ideal for existing properties.
- Electric ducted heating and cooling split systems may require significant modifications, particularly in older homes, so the installation process may be better suited for new homes or for those who are committed to a whole-house system installation.
Energy efficiency
- Both systems are energy-efficient, but ducted systems with zoning capabilities can provide additional savings for larger homes by allowing you to focus heating or cooling on specific areas.
Your long-term plans
- If you plan to stay in your home for many years, a ducted system’s higher initial cost may be worth the investment.
- For shorter-term solutions, split systems are more cost-effective and flexible.
Making the switch even more affordable
Switching to an electric split or ducted split system is an even more sustainable and cost-effective choice, thanks to government rebates. These programs encourage energy-efficient solutions and help reduce reliance on fossil fuels, making upgrades more accessible. The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program offers Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs), which represent reductions in greenhouse gases based on the system you buy. Each certificate equals one tonne of CO2-e saved and can be traded for discounts on appliance installations, including heating and cooling systems. In fact, homeowners can save up to $7,800 by purchasing and installing a split system.
To be eligible for a government rebate, you need to:
- Be an owner-occupier of an existing property.
- Have a combined household taxable income below $210,000.
- Own a property valued under $3 million.
All systems go
Choosing between a split and a ducted split heating-cooling system ultimately comes down to your home’s size, your budget, and your long-term goals. Keep referring back to this article to ensure that you make the most informed decision possible. Finding the ideal system doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when you have an expert partner to help you. The team at Heat Cool Service Group has years of experience in systems of all kinds. Get in touch with us to guide you through which system is right for your home, as well as professional installation, government rebate submissions on your behalf and world-class customer service at every point.
