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When to install a Multi Split System Air Conditioner

Multi head split system air conditioner outdoor units
Slimline outlet for Multi head split system air conditioner
Large slimline grill for Multi split system
Indoor head for Multi head split system air con

Your most commonly asked questions about…

Multi Head Split System Air Conditioners

Is it better to install 1 multi head or multiple single split systems?

Should I install a multi split system or a ducted reverse cycle air conditioner?

Enquiries

How do Multi Head Split Systems work?

Multi Head Split Systems work the same as other wall-hung Split Systems with 1 major difference; they use the same outdoor compressor unit.

The indoor units can be:

  • Regular wall mounted split system heads
  • Slimline units which are hidden in bulkheads, so the only thing you see is a sleek horizontal grille
  • Ceiling cassettes which disperse the air multiple directions
  • Floor console (think space heater but an aircon)

You can also mix and match. Our above photos show one of our townhouse installs which had 8 indoor units of various styles connected to 2 outdoor units.

The outdoor units will run multiple indoor units. What size unit depends on how many KW you need inside.

For example, if 2 rooms need 2.5kw air cons and 1 room needs a 5kw, that’s 2.5 x 2 + 5 = 10kw. So you will need an outdoor unit which can handle at least 10kw.

Different brands and models can handle different KW and number of heads connected.

This usually ranges from 3-5 heads ranging from 7.5-12kw.

What is the best application for them?

We generally install Multi Split System air conditioners in dwellings where the is no roof space for a ducted system, such as townhouses, units and ground floors of double story houses.

The reason being is cost.

Twin or 3 head multi split system cost less than a ducted system, but once you are looking at 4 or more heads, the cost is the same as installing a ducted reverse cycle system. Except with the ducted system, you will have 7 or more outlets.

1 Multi Split vs more than 1 Split System

Multi Split System

Pros

Saves on space required for outdoor units
Only 1 outdoor unit requires servicing & repairs
It can be cheaper than installing multiple single split systems

Cons

If your outdoor unit breaks down, all of your indoor units are affected
Extra piping is required to connect the units

Single Split System

Pros

Flexible positioning throughout the house
If one breaks down it doesn’t affect others
To spread out cost, you can install them over a period of time

Cons

Multiple outdoor units require servicing & repairs
Can be more expensive if installing more than 1

Multi Split vs Ducted Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning

Multi Split System

Pros

Great for townhouses & units
Good option if only a couple of rooms require air conditioning

Cons

Extra piping is required to connect the units

Ducted Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning

Pros

Better whole-house option
Can add Zoning

Cons

Can be more expensive if extra features are added on

Government rebates

Currently Government rebates are available for switching from gas to electric. To qualify you must either:

  • Remove a gas space heater and replace it with split system, or
  • Remove gas ducted heating and replace it with ducted reverse cycle air conditioning.

Need more information? Visit our product pages:

Martin Heating & Cooling service, repair, replace and install Heating, Cooling and Air Conditioning systems in Geelong & Melbourne’s West.

As experts in our field, we can help you decide which system is best for your house and budget.

Quotes - Geelong & Melbourne's West

Give our friendly team a call on 1300 146 525 or use our online enquiry form.

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