It’s going to be a long HOT summer from all reports and it’s fast approaching. That’s why there’s no better time to start thinking about upgrading your home’s air conditioning. As the festive season draws near, the last thing you want is to be sweating through the Christmas lunch or tossing and turning at night because your home is too hot. Relax on your holidays and get ahead of the rush.

Split system air conditioners are an excellent air conditioning solution, providing instant comfort for every budget—from affordable models to high-end systems packed with advanced features.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for when purchasing a split system air conditioner, and what you can expect at every price point.

Why Choose a Split System Air Conditioner?

A split system is a type of air conditioning that consists of two main parts: an indoor unit (which distributes the cool or warm air) and an outdoor unit (which houses the compressor and other components). Unlike bulky window units or central air systems, split systems are compact, efficient, and quiet. They can be installed in almost any room of your home, making them perfect for apartments, homes, or spaces that need a little extra cooling.

Not only do they cool your home during the scorching summer heat, but can also reverse to provide heating during the cooler months. This flexibility makes them a smart investment for year-round comfort.

What to Look For When Buying a Split System Air Conditioner

Before jumping into any purchase, there are a few key things you’ll want to consider to make sure you get the best value for your money.

1. Cooling Capacity (kW Rating)

The first thing you need to check when buying a split system is its cooling capacity. This is measured in kilowatts (kW) and tells you how much area the air conditioner can effectively cool. Generally, you’ll need about 1 kW of cooling power for every 10-15 square metres of space.

Small Rooms (up to 15m²): Look for a system with around 2.0-2.5 kW.

Medium Rooms (15-25m²): A unit with 2.5-3.5 kW should suffice.

Large Rooms (25m²+): For bigger spaces, look for a system with 4.0 kW or more.

For larger open living spaces such as open living, kitchen and dining spaces as commonly found in Australia, a 5kw-7kw system is usually recommended.

Speaking to the experts at Climatise will allow you to find the right size you need for your living space. Having the right size is important, like a car, we don’ want it to stop and start but rather cruise down the freeway.

2. Energy Efficiency (Star Ratings)

Energy efficiency is a crucial factor to consider, especially with long, hot summers and rising electricity prices. Air conditioners are typically rated with energy stars, and the higher the star rating, the more energy-efficient the system is.

Look for units with at least a 4-star rating, though premium models may offer 5 stars or even more. An energy-efficient unit may cost more upfront, but the savings on your electricity bill over time can make up for it.

You will find that larger kw units have lower star ratings to lower kw units, so make sure you’re comparing units with the same heating/cooling output. Generally speaking, higher efficiency is also usually a sign of the quality of parts used to create the product.

3. Noise Levels

Nobody wants a loud air conditioner disrupting their summer sleep or Christmas celebrations. While all air conditioners make some noise, the noise level is an important consideration, especially if you plan to place the indoor unit in a bedroom or living area.

Check the decibel (dB) rating of the unit. Quiet models generally operate between 20-40 dB—the lower the number, the quieter the unit.

4. Features and Controls

Air conditioners have come a long way in terms of features, so look out for the following when choosing the right unit for your needs:

Remote Control/Wi-Fi Connectivity: Many modern units now come with remote controls, and some even allow you to control the unit through a smartphone app or smart home system. This is especially handy if you like to adjust the temperature before you even walk in the door. Some brands may not come standard with Wi-Fi built in but will have a Wi-Fi adaptor that can be purchased with the unit.

Sleep Mode: A feature that adjusts the temperature gradually while you sleep, ensuring comfort throughout the night without wasting energy.

Self-Cleaning Functions: Some high-end systems have filters that automatically clean themselves, improving air quality and reducing the need for manual maintenance.

Air Purification: Many units come with filters to improve air quality by capturing dust, allergens, and even bacteria—great for those who suffer from asthma or allergies. Panasonic for example have a fantastic Nano-X Air Purification which is unique to their systems and performs Air Purification from the air it pushes out (enquire to learn more on this).

5. Installation and After-Sales Support

Ensure you choose a reputable supplier that offers professional installation, as improper installation can reduce the unit’s efficiency. Also, check if they offer after-sales support and warranties to ensure peace of mind.

All Split System installs require a level of plumbing and electrical work done with the wiring to be taken back to your main switch board. All installers then need to provide a compliance certificate to the customer providing you with peace of mind and a warranty of workmanship.

What to Expect at Every Budget

Whether you’re on a tight budget or willing to splurge, there are split system air conditioners for every price range. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect at different price points.

Entry-Level (Under $1000)

For those looking for a basic, no-frills air conditioner, entry-level split systems provide good value. These units are ideal for smaller rooms or apartments where you don’t need a lot of bells and whistles.

What You Get: A solid air conditioner with standard cooling/heating functionality, basic remote control, and simple operation.

Key Features: Energy-efficient models may offer 3-4 star ratings. Expect minimal extras like Wi-Fi or air purifiers, but still great for maintaining a comfortable temperature.

Best For: Smaller spaces, budget-conscious buyers, or anyone who needs reliable cooling without extras.

Mid-Range ($1000-$2000)

Mid-range models are ideal for those who want a bit more performance and extra features but don’t need the premium extras of the high-end units. These models are typically more energy-efficient, quieter, and come with some advanced functionalities.

What You Get: A more efficient compressor, better noise control, and added features such as Wi-Fi connectivity or energy-saving modes. Some models come with improved filtration or enhanced cooling power for larger rooms.

Key Features: 4-5 star energy ratings, Wi-Fi, quiet operation, and possible add-ons like a self-cleaning filter.

Best For: Families, larger rooms, or anyone who wants more features and energy savings without breaking the bank.

High-End ($2000 and Above)

If you’re looking for the ultimate in comfort, efficiency, and style, high-end split system air conditioners are the way to go. These units often come with all the bells and whistles and can provide significant long-term savings due to their advanced technology and energy efficiency.

What You Get: Top-tier features like advanced air purifiers, intelligent Wi-Fi controls, inverter technology, and exceptional energy efficiency (5+ stars). Expect whisper-quiet operation, sleek designs, and superior durability.

Key Features: Inverter technology, multi-stage air filtration, smart home integration, and ultra-efficient cooling/heating for large or open-plan homes.

Best For: Large homes, tech-savvy individuals, or anyone who wants a highly efficient, long-lasting investment that will save on energy costs in the long run.

Don’t Wait Until the Heat Hits!

As the Australian summer approaches, now is the perfect time to purchase a split system air conditioner. With a wide range of options available at every price point, there’s a system that suits your needs and budget. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option to get through the heat or a high-tech model with all the latest features, there’s something for everyone.

We recommend Mitsubishi Electric, Panasonic, Daikin, Fujitsu, LG, Bonaire, and Rinnai as reputable brands with good to great products.

This Christmas, gift yourself or your loved ones the gift of comfort, and make your home a cool, relaxing oasis in the midst of the summer heat.