7 Things a Builder Should Know When Installing A/C

Although ducted air conditioning may just seem like another form of keeping cool, there is a lot more to it than that. Here are seven things a builder needs to know when installing ducted air conditioning.

1. The difference between ducted and split systems

Ducted air conditioning is a whole house solution which keeps your clients comfortable all year round. A single ducted system will air condition most if not all rooms in the house. With modern technologies available, each room can be individually controlled as desired. By contrast, split systems are small singular systems which are designed to service one room or a small open space.

2. How ducted air conditioning will be beneficial to you and your clients

Ducted air conditioning will simultaneously improve the property and sale value of the home. This luxury investment will immediately improve your client’s lifestyle and comfort levels within their home or business. Ducted A/C is also the most aesthetic option available where the unit is installed into the roof cavity; grilles are discreetly mounted in the ceiling and sleek wall controls installed onto the wall. This offers a seamless integration with home style.

3. What ‘reverse cycle’ means

Reverse-cycle ultimately means that the refrigeration cycle can be reversed in your air conditioner. Therefore you have total climate comfort with the convenience of cool or warm air, perfect for keeping your clients comfortable through both summer and winter. It is also the most efficient way of keeping a house comfortable, despite natural weather conditions, as it provides warmth and cooling from one system. This avoids having multiple single cooling or warming elements throughout the house.

4. What power requirements are needed?

Single or three-phase power refers to the power supply coming into your property by way of underground or overhead power from the street. Most houses would generally have single-phase power. Three-phase power is typically used in commercial/industrial situations and large homes with multiple large electric appliances drawing larger currents. If your property is large and requiring more electricity, three-phase power would be installed to balance the power load. A heat load report is carried out to determine the minimum capacity required for the air conditioning to run efficiently.

5. Can you install ducted cooling only?

No. Cooling-only ducted air conditioning systems are no longer manufactured. All systems are now reverse cycle meaning you can cool and heat your house from the same system. It is more cost effective to install a reverse cycle unit because for a little extra expense the house can warm and cool from one system. By contrast with a cooling only system you would have to install warming systems in addition to the cooling system.

6. Is there any price difference between outlet styles?

Yes. There are several outlets to choose from when getting ducted air conditioning installed. These are square, round, four-way, side blow, bar grill and linear. Square, round and four-way are the most commonly used outlets, generally made from polypropylene and are reasonably priced. Side blow, bar grill and linear outlets are a slightly more expensive option. Reason being because:

• They are custom made to suit the style of the home
• Made from aluminium and painted white

7. What stages is ducted air conditioning installed during construction?

Ducted air conditioning is installed in two stages, rough-in and fit-off.

1. Rough in– this is carried out once external walls, internal framing and roof is installed. At this stage the indoor unit, all ducting, zoning, refrigeration and electrical interconnect are installed.
2. Fit off– this is complete when the house is fully built. At this stage all outlets, controllers and outdoor unit is installed and the system is commissioned.

 Understanding the seven points explained above will make you a step ahead when enquiring about ducted air conditioning for your clients. You will be able to make knowledgeable purchasing decisions ensuring you have the best solution at a perfect price. Please don’t hesitate to take one step further and give our friendly team a call on 07 3395 7633 or alternatively click the button below to get in contact with us.