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Air conditioners chill the air with the use of refrigerants. The refrigerants contain hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which contribute significantly to global warming by depleting the earth’s ozone layer.

As a result, an air conditioner may only be installed by a qualified air conditioning expert or electrician. The Australian Refrigeration Council issues licences to technicians who have received proper training and certification to handle refrigerants.

A split system air conditioner can be installed by a competent electrician. Multi-split and ducted systems, on the other hand, require installation by a licenced air conditioning professional.

At Ian Hughes Air Conditioning Services, our experts are ARC and QBCC licenced. We are ready to install, repair, and service a wide variety of air conditioner brands and models. Additionally, our knowledge and experience enable us to establish the most efficient location for the unit. 

• Affordable
• One stop shop for air conditioning installation, repairs and servicing needs
• Experienced industry specialists
• On-time service guaranteed
• Upfront, fixed prices
• Honest and reliable service
• All jobs completed to the highest standards

Ducted air conditioners keep you cool by using a network of ducts. A central point is established by installing an internal fan coil in the roof cavity of your premises. All of the ductwork required for your home or office originates from this central location, allowing you to cool or heat a single room or a series of rooms based on your needs; this is referred to as zoning. Thermostats installed on the wall or via remote control (or both) determine how each area is to be managed.

Now one of the most popular types of air conditioning systems used in homes, a split system is ‘split’ into two units: one that’s inside, and one that’s outside. Relatively easy to install (as no ductwork is required), these systems are known for being quiet and energy efficient.

A split system air conditioner operates by circulating refrigerant gas through the cooling circuit of the machine. The gas cools and vaporises as it passes through the condenser. The liquid refrigerant is then poured into the evaporator, where it expands and reverts to a gas state. The temperature of the gas rapidly decreases as it expands. The gas is subsequently returned to the condenser to complete the cycle.

The device draws air from the room and directs it over the evaporator coils, which chill the air. The cooled air is recirculated throughout the space. The air continues to flow until the thermostat-set temperature is reached. Once the required temperature is reached, the machine automatically shuts off.

Choosing the right size air conditioner is extremely important to maximise performance and minimise running costs. Air conditioners that are too big will use more energy, while air conditioners that are too small will not cool the room sufficiently. 

The four biggest things that impact the size of the split system you need include:

1. Room size
2. Insulation
3. Location 
4. Orientation

Room size

Floor space and total volume of the room are one of the most important factors in determining the size of the air conditioner you will need. Rooms with higher ceilings will require more energy to cool.

Generally speaking, the following applies:

A 10m2 to 20m2 room will need a 2.6kW unit 

A 20m2 to 30m2 room will need a 3.5kW unit 

A 30m2 to 45m2 room will need a 5-6kW unit 

A 45m2 to 65m2 room will need a 7-8kW unit

However, it’s always a good idea to seek expert advice before making a decision. 

Insulation

Ceiling insulation is one of the biggest factors in making your home thermally efficient. High quality insulation will help retain the cold air, helping your air conditioner run more efficiently and cost-effectively. 

Location

Australia’s climate is so diverse. If you live in Darwin, you will need a much more powerful air conditioner compared to Hobart.

While we don’t get freezing cold or boiling hot temperatures here in Newcastle, we recommend reverse cycle split system air conditioners to provide you with ultimate comfort all year round. 

Orientation

Which way does the room face? A large north or west-facing window can let in a lot of heat in summer, whereas a shaded, south-facing window will be a lot cooler.