Ducted air conditioning is a premium solution for year-round comfort, designed to cool and heat your entire home. Unlike split systems that target one or two rooms, ducted systems use concealed ductwork to deliver consistent comfort throughout every space.
But when it comes to planning for a new installation, the biggest question homeowners ask is simple: how much does ducted air conditioning cost? The answer depends on several factors, including the size, layout, and features of your home.
Below, we break down typical ducted air conditioning prices, the key variables that affect them, and what you can expect in terms of running costs and long-term savings.
Thinking about installing ducted air conditioning for your home? Get a free quote from Ozcon Air Solutions today and find out exactly what suits your home and budget
When looking at ducted air conditioning cost, it helps to break it into three main areas:
This includes the indoor and outdoor units, ductwork, vents, and the central control panel. The size and brand of the system make a big difference in price.
For example, premium brands like Daikin ducted systems often cost more upfront but deliver higher energy efficiency and longer lifespans.
The type of system also matters: a reverse cycle ducted unit that both heats and cools will be more expensive than a cool-only option.
Professional installation covers the labour and materials required to fit the system into your home. This involves placing the indoor and outdoor units, running insulated ductwork through the roof or under the floor, installing supply vents, and connecting electrical wiring.
Installation costs can rise if your home has limited roof space, requires structural adjustments, or if additional electrical upgrades are needed.
It’s also worth noting that ducted air conditioning can actually be more expensive in new builds because the job often requires multiple site visits — from rough-in during construction to final fit-off once the home is finished.
While a ducted air conditioning system costs more upfront than a split system, it can actually be more economical in the long term. Zoning allows you to cool or heat only the rooms you’re using, reducing wasted energy.
Inverter technology also helps keep running costs down by adjusting power output to match demand. Over time, these features can make ducted systems a cost-effective solution for larger homes.
Here’s a clear breakdown of what homeowners can expect to pay when they choose Ozcon Air Solutions — one of the most affordable ducted air conditioning installers in the market.
These price ranges are based on Ozcon’s own installation averages. The actual cost for your home will depend on factors like the unit brand, system size, roof space, and your comfort preferences.
For an accurate price, request a free tailored quote from our team today.
Key Factors That Affect Ducted Air Conditioning Cost
Several variables influence the final cost of ducted air conditioning in your home:
Larger homes need higher-capacity units and more ductwork. A two-bedroom apartment may only need a 7 kW system, while a six-bedroom double-storey home could require 15–20 kW.
Adding zoning and smart controllers gives you the ability to turn your air conditioning system on in some rooms and off in others. While this can add $500–$3,500 to the total cost, it reduces long-term running costs.
Tight or complex roof layouts can increase installation costs. Installers may need to adjust trusses or use additional ducting, which adds labour time and materials.
Premium brands like Daikin ducted air conditioning are known for efficiency, smart features, and reliability — but come at a higher upfront cost. Entry-level systems are cheaper but may be less energy efficient.
Installing ducted air conditioning in a new build may seem simpler because the ceilings and walls are open, but it often ends up being more expensive. That’s because the work is completed in stages, with multiple site visits required during different phases of the construction process.
By contrast, a retrofit installation in an existing home is usually done in one go. While it can be more complex due to roof access and existing structures, the job is typically completed in fewer visits, which can help balance overall labour costs.
Installation is a major part of ducted air conditioning pricing. A typical install includes:
Additional costs may apply if your home needs:
Because ducted air conditioning is a complex system, it’s critical that installation is done by licensed professionals. Choosing the cheapest installer can lead to higher running costs, inefficiency, or system breakdowns later.
One of the main reasons homeowners choose ducted air conditioning is efficiency. While upfront costs are higher, modern inverter systems and zoning features make them cost-effective to run.
Running costs will also vary depending on your energy provider and electricity tariff. Pairing ducted air conditioning with solar panels can also offset electricity use, creating even greater savings.
Still unsure whether you need a split or ducted system for your home or business? Ask our experts in air conditioning in Sydney!
Despite the higher upfront investment, ducted systems offer benefits that split systems can’t match:
For many homeowners, the comfort, convenience, and savings that ducted air conditioning offers outweigh the initial cost.
Installing new or replacing your ducted air conditioning is a significant investment, but one that pays off in comfort and long-term efficiency. Costs vary based on home size, zoning options, and installation complexity, which is why a custom quote is essential.
At Ozcon Air Solutions, we specialise in ducted air conditioning installation and work with leading brands like Daikin to deliver reliable, energy-efficient systems tailored to your home.
Contact our friendly team today on 1300 341 694 or request a free quote online to discover the exact cost of a new ducted system for your home.
