A Complete Guide for Melbourne Homes Air conditioner symbols are small icons shown on your remote control or indoor unit display. These symbols act...
Energy Rating Comparison: Split System vs Ducted Air Conditioning in Melbourne
Choosing the right air conditioner for your Melbourne home is no longer just about comfortโitโs about energy efficiency, long-term savings, and choosing a system that performs well in Victoriaโs unpredictable weather.
At Melbourne Aircon Specialist, we install high-efficiency split and ducted air conditioning systems and support customers with rebate guidance through our trusted partners. This blog compares the energy ratings of both systems so you can make a confident decision. Energy Rating Comparison: Split System Ducted Air Conditioning
1. Understanding Energy Ratings
Energy ratings are displayed as star labels on air conditioners and are based on two major performance metrics:
| Energy Metric | Meaning | Impact on Homeowners |
|---|---|---|
| EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) | Measures cooling efficiency | Higher EER = lower cooling costs |
| COP (Coefficient of Performance) | Measures heating efficiency | Higher COP = cheaper heating |
| Star Rating System | Overall efficiency score | More stars = better long-term savings |
Higher energy ratings mean the unit uses less electricity to deliver the same outputโsaving money every month.
Split System Energy Rating Breakdown
Split systems generally offer higher star ratings than ducted units.
Typical Split System Efficiency Table
| Feature | Performance Level |
|---|---|
| Star Rating | โญโญโญโญ to โญโญโญโญโญโญ (4โ6 stars common) |
| EER (Cooling Efficiency) | High |
| COP (Heating Efficiency) | High |
| Power Consumption | Low |
| Suitable For | Bedrooms, living rooms, apartments, small homes |
| Installation Cost | Lower |
| Running Cost | Lower |
Split systems are the most energy-efficient choice for targeted comfort.
Ducted System Energy Rating Breakdown
Ducted systems cool and heat the entire home, which naturally means more energy consumption.
Typical Ducted System Efficiency Table
| Feature | Performance Level |
|---|---|
| Star Rating | โญโญโญ to โญโญโญโญ (3โ5 stars common) |
| EER (Cooling Efficiency) | Moderate |
| COP (Heating Efficiency) | Moderate |
| Power Consumption | Higher |
| Suitable For | Full-home heating & cooling |
| Installation Cost | Higher |
| Running Cost | ModerateโHigh (unless zoned) |
Zoning upgrades can significantly improve energy efficiency by heating/cooling only the areas you use.
Direct Comparison: Split System vs Ducted System
Energy Rating Comparison Table
| Category | Split System | Ducted System |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Efficiency (Stars) | โญโญโญโญโโญโญโญโญโญ (High) | โญโญโญโโญโญโญโญ (Moderate) |
| EER (Cooling Efficiency) | Higher | Moderate |
| COP (Heating Efficiency) | Higher | Moderate |
| Energy Loss | Minimal | Loss through ducts |
| Running Costs | Lower | Higher |
| Coverage | Single room or multiple units | Whole-house |
| Zoning Needed? | No | Yes, to improve efficiency |
| Installation Cost | Affordable | Higher investment |
| Best For | Small homes, apartments, selective cooling | Large homes, premium comfort |
Which System Is More Energy-Efficient for Melbourne?
Choose a Split System if you want:
- Higher energy ratings
- Lower electricity bills
- Affordable installation
- Cooling only where needed
Choose a Ducted System if you want:
- Whole-home climate comfort
- Clean ceiling vents and hidden equipment
- Better performance with zoning
- A premium installation for larger homes
Both work extremely well when installed correctlyโbut the split system clearly wins in energy efficiency.
How Melbourne Aircon Specialist Helps You Save
As Melbourneโs trusted installation experts, we provide:
- Proper sizing and system recommendation
- Clear comparisons of efficiency, running cost & performance
- Professional installation of split & ducted systems
- Guidance on VEU rebates through our partner network
- Clean, fast, compliant installations
Our goal is to help you choose the most energy-efficient solution for your property.
Ready to Upgrade? Talk to Melbourne Aircon Specialist Today
Whether youโre choosing a high-efficiency split system or a premium ducted solution, we offer honest advice and reliable installation.
๐ 1300 001 690
๐ฉ info@melbourneairconspecialist.com.au
๐ www.melbourneairconspecialist.com.au
Melbourne Aircon Specialist โ Energy-Efficient Comfort, Installed Right. Energy Rating Comparison: Split System Ducted Air Conditioning





