Why install a Multi Split System Air Conditioner
We have answered your most frequently asked questions about Multi Split System Air Conditioners, including…
- How do they work?
- When would you install one?
- Multi-Split VS ducted reverse cycle air conditioner
- 1 Multi-Split VS multiple split systems
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.
When would you install one?
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.
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.
Multi Split vs Ducted Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning
Multi Split System
PROS
- Great for townhouses and apartments which don’t have roof cavities
- Good option if only a couple of rooms need air conditioning
- Independent temperature control in each room
CONS
- Can be more expensive if you need 4 or more rooms air conditioned
- Hard to access locations can add extra materials and labour
Ducted Reverse Cycle System
PROS
- Best whole-house option
- Can add Zoning to save on running costs
- Central control of system
- Unobtrusive vents in ceiling
CONS
- Some features which come with Split Systems such as room temperature sensors are extra with some ducted systems
Multi Split vs multiple single Split Systems
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 system
CONS
- If your outdoor unit breaks down, all of your indoor units are affected
Single Split System
PROS
- Flexible positioning throughout the house
- If one breaks down, it doesn’t affect the others
- The spread out costs, you can install them over a period of time
CONS
- Multiple outdoor units require servicing and repairs
- Can be more expensive if installing more than 1
Need more information?
Visit our product pages:
- Split System Air Conditioners
- Multi-Split System Air Conditioners
- Ducted Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners
Martin Heating & Cooling service, repair, replace and air conditioning system. As experts in our field, we can help you decide which system is best for your house and budget. Get in touch if you have any questions or need a quote.
