Ducted air conditioning is one of the most efficient systems for keeping your home or business cool during the hotter months. Unlike split systems or portable units that only cool a single room, ducted systems deliver even temperature control throughout a property. Here, we’ll look at how ducted air conditioning works, its benefits, and the different types of systems available on the market today.
What Is Ducted Air Conditioning?
Ducted air conditioning has two main units: an indoor unit, typically hidden in the roof cavity or underfloor, and an outdoor unit that handles the refrigeration cycle. The system works by cooling or heating the air and distributing it through a network of ducts to every room on your property.
Delivering conditioned air through discreet vents that blend seamlessly into any space, it’s the go-to option for larger homes or offices, offering efficiency, effortless control, and consistent performance.
Key Components of a Ducted Air Conditioning System
Ducted systems are made up of several components that work together to provide consistent temperature control, including:
- Central Unit (Compressor and Condenser): Positioned outside, the central unit cools the air by compressing refrigerant gas and releasing heat.
- Evaporator Coil: Installed inside the central unit, the evaporator coil cools the air before it is circulated through the ducts.
- Air Ducts: Installed throughout the property to deliver conditioned air to each room.
- Vents or Grilles: Outlets in each room through which the conditioned air flows in.
- Thermostat: Used to monitor and control temperature, either centrally or via individual controls in each room.
How Ducted Air Conditioning Works
Ducted air conditioning works by circulating air through a network of ducts to absorb heat, cooling it before distributing the chilled air throughout your property.
- Air Intake and Filtration
Warm air is drawn from your home through the ducts and passed through filters in the air handling unit to remove dust, pollen, and impurities. - Cooling and Dehumidification
The filtered air flows over the evaporator coil inside the indoor unit. The refrigerant absorbs the heat, cooling the air and removing moisture, which reduces humidity. The cooled air is then distributed through the ducts. - Compressor and Condenser
The refrigerant, now gas, moves to the compressor in the outdoor unit, where it’s pressurised into a high-temperature gas. This gas then passes through the condenser, where it cools and condenses into a liquid. The liquid refrigerant is depressurised through an expansion valve before returning to the evaporator to repeat the cycle. - Air Distribution Through Ducts
The cooled air travels through ducts hidden in the walls, ceiling, or floor and is released through vents or grilles, ensuring balanced airflow across each room. - Temperature Control and Adjustments
The thermostat regulates the desired temperature and provides control. Many systems feature zoning capabilities, allowing temperature control in different areas of the home for better energy efficiency.
Recycling and Repeating the Cycle
The system continuously circulates and refreshes the air, ensuring it stays clean, cool, and well-balanced. Ducted air conditioning helps maintain a consistent temperature, keeping your home comfortable throughout the day or whenever you need it.
Types of Ducted Air Conditioning Systems
Ducted air conditioning systems come in various types to suit different property sizes, layouts, and cooling needs. Here are some of the most common options:
- Standard Ducted System: Ideal for homes and commercial spaces with ample ceiling height, this system provides efficient cooling and heating throughout the property.
- Bulkhead Ducted System: Perfect for areas with limited ceiling space, bulkhead ducted systems are installed in the bulkhead above the ceiling. This type is commonly used in multi-story buildings and apartments where a traditional ducted system may not be feasible.
- Multi-Zone Ducted System: Multi-zone systems allow homeowners and businesses to divide their property into separate zones, each controlled independently. Ideal for larger properties, this system pairs comfort with greater flexibility.
- Inverter Ducted Air Conditioning: Uses a variable-speed compressor, which adjusts its speed to match exact cooling or heating requirements, which can minimise energy use and reduce operating costs.
- Reverse Cycle Ducted Systems: Ideal for regions with fluctuating temperatures, reverse cycle systems work by offering cooling and heating in one package. This system can cool your home during the hot summer months and then reverse its operation to heat your home in the winter.
Conclusion
Ducted air conditioning provides optimal indoor comfort, combining efficiency, ease of use, and a sleek design that integrates seamlessly into any residential or commercial space. Whether you’re cooling a spacious home or multiple rooms in an office, ducted systems are versatile, powerful, and adaptable to many property layouts. With proper maintenance, they provide lasting comfort and reliable performance for years to come.
Ready to Upgrade to Ducted Air Conditioning?
At Southern Aircon & Refrigeration, we specialise in the design, installation, and maintenance of ducted air conditioning systems for homes and businesses across the South Coast, Canberra, and the Southern Tablelands. With almost a decade of local expertise, we’re the go-to choice for year-round comfort—contact us today!