When it comes to keeping your home comfortable year-round, choosing the right air conditioning system is a big deal. And let’s face it—no one wants to spend summer sweating or winter freezing while staring at a remote they don’t understand.
So, which is better: a ducted system or a split system? That depends on your home, your budget, and how much control you want over each room.
Let’s break it down.
what is a split system?
A split system is made up of two parts: one unit inside (the head) and one unit outside. It’s designed to cool or heat a single room.
Pros:
- More affordable to install
- Energy efficient for small spaces
- Great for apartments or single rooms
- Easy to control with remote
Cons:
- Doesn’t cover the whole house
- Multiple units needed for multiple rooms
- May not look as seamless as ducted
💡Curran Tip: Split systems are perfect if you only need one or two rooms cooled or heated, like your bedroom or lounge.
what is a ducted system?
Ducted air conditioning is centralised, with one big system hidden in your roof and ducts running to each room. You control it via a wall-mounted thermostat or zone controller.
Pros:
- Heats and cools the entire home
- Clean, discreet design (just ceiling vents)
- Zoned systems let you control rooms individually
- Boosts property value and appeal
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost
- Needs ceiling space for ducting
- May cost more to run if zones aren’t used smartly
💡 Curran Tip: Ducted is great for families or those building or renovating, especially if you want a sleek look and all-round comfort.
Here is a quick comparison!

Which one's right for you?
Ask yourself:
- Do you want to cool just a couple of rooms, or the whole house?
- Are you building or renovating?
- How important is visual appeal or having hidden systems?
- Do you want control over which rooms are cooled and when?
If you’re not sure, that’s where Curran comes in. Our experienced techs will assess your home, usage, and budget, then recommend the best system for you.
need help deciding???
At Curran, we’ve installed hundreds of ducted and split systems across the Shoalhaven, Illawarra and Sutherland Shire. Whether you live in a cosy coastal cottage or a big family home, we’ll make sure you’re set up for comfort year-round.
📞 Call Curran today for a in-home consultation and quote.
Because choosing the right AC shouldn’t be a guessing game—and cold showers or stuffy rooms are so last season.