Air Conditioning in Sydney
49/3 Hornsey street, Rozelle, NSW, 2039, Australia
Air Conditioning installation cost in Sydney – how much to install any type of an AC
26
June

By Victor /

We Get Your Problem Solved

Don't compromise on your home's comfort.
Invest in new split or ducted system installation and enjoy the benefits of consistent temperature control. Call now!

Installing air conditioning in your Sydney home or office can cost anywhere from $600 for a portable unit up to $20,000 or more for a large commercial system. However, for a typical sized home, expect to pay $2,500 to $5,000 for a new air conditioner depending on the type and complexity.

A small window or portable AC for one room starts around $600-800 including labor. A good quality split system for a living room or bedroom will be $1,200 to $1,800 installed. For whole home ducted air conditioning, budget $4,000 to $7,000 installed.

Complex installs like multi-story homes or commercial spaces cost more due to extended ductwork and labor. Also consider potential electrical upgrades which can add $2,000 or more. Always get multiple quotes as prices vary between brands and AC companies.

The lowest cost option is installing ductwork and AC during new construction rather than retrofitting. Overall, work with qualified technicians to select the correctly sized system and compressors for your space. This saves money long-term through optimized energy efficiency.

Split System Air Conditioning Installation Cost in Sydney

Room Size Room Examples Capacity (kW) Approximate Price (Unit) Installation Cost Total Cost (Unit + Installation)
Small, single-storey home Bedroom, Small Kitchen or Study 2 – 3 kW $550 – $2,850 $700 – $800 $1,250 – $3,650
Medium, single-storey home Bedroom or small lounge area 3 – 5 kW $750 – $3,000 $700 – $1,000 $1,450 – $4,000
Large, multi-storey home Large bedroom, mid-sized lounge 4 – 7 kW $1,200 – $4,500 $800 – $1,000 $2,000 – $5,500

Split System Air Conditioning Cost by Brand in Sydney

Brand 2-3 kW (Unit Cost) 3-5 kW (Unit Cost) 4-7 kW (Unit Cost)
Mitsubishi ~$1,550 ~$1,850 ~$2,700
Fujitsu ~$1,099 ~$1,399 ~$1,799
Hitachi ~$850 ~$1,410 ~$1,755
Bonaire ~$820 ~$1,420 ~$2,190
Panasonic ~$850 ~$1,499 ~$1,899
Samsung ~$1,100 ~$1,299 ~$1,499
LG ~$940 ~$1,050 ~$1,273
Kelvinator ~$765 ~$1,044 ~$1,493

Running Costs of Split System Air Conditioning

Capacity (kW) 1 Hour ($) 8 Hours ($)
2.5 kW ~$0.21 ~$1.75
3 kW ~$0.26 ~$2.10
4 kW ~$0.35 ~$2.80
4.5 kW ~$0.39 ~$3.10
5 kW ~$0.43 ~$3.50
7 kW ~$0.61 ~$4.90
9 kW ~$0.78 ~$6.30

Split System Air Conditioning Service Cost

Service Type Cost (Including GST)
Standard Domestic Service $350

Additional Considerations

Update 2024

Air conditioning installation costs in Sydney have increased moderately since this article was published in mid-2023. As of March 2024, homeowners can expect to pay between 5-10% more on average for the installation of new air conditioning systems.

For example, a good quality split system for a living room or bedroom now ranges from $1,300 to $2,000 installed. Ducted air conditioning for an entire home has also seen a small price increase, now costing between $4,200 and $7,500 on average. High electricity prices across Australia along with rising labor and material costs are contributing factors to the increase.

While prices are up slightly, proper sizing during installation is as critical as ever for long term savings on energy bills. Working with qualified technicians to select an appropriately sized unit based on room dimensions and climate control needs remains the best way find a system that runs efficiently. Consider getting multiple installation quotes, as pricing can still vary significantly between brands and AC installation companies in the Sydney area.

Table of Content

How much does it cost to install an air conditioner?
What affects an air conditioner installation cost?
Air Conditioner installation cost in Sydney for different brands
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Ducted air conditioning
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Split System?
Evaporative Air Conditioning
How to choose the best air conditioner?
FAQ

 

How much does it cost to install an air conditioner?

The cost to install air conditioning in an average-sized house typically ranges between $600 and $5,000 or more, but may also reach $9,000 to $20,000 for larger homes.

If you are interested in installing an air conditioner but do not know how much you will have to pay for the system itself and its installation, we approximate calculations. You can get a more accurate assessment of the situation by contacting our specialists directly. The technologist will perform the necessary measurements and estimates on the spot. Together you can choose the optimal climate control system.

The cost of air conditioning installation can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including the size of the system, the type of system, the complexity of the installation, and the location of the property.

Here are some of the main factors that can impact the cost of air conditioning installation:

  1. Size of the system: The size of the air conditioning system is an important factor in determining the cost of installation. Larger systems will typically cost more to install than smaller ones.

  2. Type of system: The type of air conditioning system you choose can also affect the cost of installation. Split systems, which have separate indoor and outdoor units, may be more expensive to install than window or portable units.

  3. Complexity of the installation: The complexity of the installation can also impact the cost. For example, installing an air conditioning system in a home with multiple floors or in a commercial building with large open spaces may be more complex and therefore more expensive than installing a system in a smaller, single-story home.

  4. Location of the property: The location of the property can also impact the cost of installation. Air conditioning systems may cost more to install in certain regions due to factors such as labor costs, availability of materials, and local regulations.

To get a more accurate estimate of the cost of air conditioning installation, it is best to contact a local HVAC professional and discuss your specific needs and budget. They can provide you with a detailed quote based on the factors listed above.

What affects an air conditioner installation cost  in 2023?

In addition to the things listed above, there are a few other ones that are considered when determining the final price. These are listed below.

Type

The first thing you’ll want to consider is the type of unit you’re looking for. Not only are there wall-mounted options, but you can also choose floor-mounted, ceiling-mounted, and even portable units. It’ll depend on what your specific needs are, but it shouldn’t be hard to choose with so many different options available.

Size

Another consideration is the size of the room or rooms you’ll be cooling. Smaller rooms require smaller units, while larger ones will need a little more power to be efficiently regulated. In addition, the more units you need, the higher the overall cost will be.

Required Ducting & Materials

Houses that already have existing ducting and materials that are in good condition will have a lower overall cost because most of these items can be reused. The real costs come in when ducting needs replaced or repaired and other items need to be ordered.

Electrical Infrastructure

The final thing that goes into the overall cost is how your electrical infrastructure is set up. Most of the time, the existing infrastructure doesn’t need any work and can be hooked right up, but some cases may require our professionals to make upgrades to the main circuit board and add things like safety switches. This information won’t be known until one of our techs does a thorough inspection.

How to choose the best air conditioner?

When choosing the best air conditioner, you should consider the size of the space you need to cool, the energy efficiency ratings of the unit, the type of filter it uses to clean the air, the noise level, and the installation requirements. You should also consider whether or not you need a ducted or split system. Additionally, look for a unit with a good warranty and make sure it is certified by a trusted brand.

Some of the things that you’ll want to think about when choosing the best system are talked about below.

Capacity

The first thing you’ll want to consider is the capacity of the unit. The most important thing is that you get a unit that can efficiently cool or heat your home at any given time. Our professionals can help you figure out what kind of capacity you actually need.

Room Size

Another consideration is the size and locations of the rooms you’ll be cooling. Larger rooms that will require larger units are going to cost more than a smaller room with a smaller unit. Our professionals can recommend the best size for the rooms you’ll be cooling down.

Desired Type

With so many different types and models available, it can be difficult to choose the best one. First, consider if there’s a specific brand you want or whether you’ll be happy with any brand. Next, you’ll want to think about the kind you want, such as wall-mounted or portable. After figuring these things out, we can show you what we have available.

Budget

Finally, consider what your budget is and figure out if it’s flexible or fixed. Once you know how much you can spend, you’ll be able to narrow down your choices. We try and work with all budgets and we’re just a quick phone call away!

The cheapest way is to install ducted air conditioning during the construction phase. If you plan the places where the outdoor and indoor units will be placed and the air ducts, the construction contractor can develop a house plan with these features in mind.

If the house is already ready, it is inconvenient to place the outdoor unit or to pass air ducts through the ceiling. Therefore, the installation of the system in the finished house will cost more—the price rises in proportion to the complexity of construction work. If you need to dismantle the old equipment, this will also lead to an increase in the final account.

Read this complete guide if you have any issue with your unit Air conditioners troubleshooting

It is imperative to make technical calculations after a specialist visits your office or home. By phone or e-mail, you can get only a preliminary consultation. The cost is influenced by factors that non-professionals seem insignificant:

  • Space under the roof and in the attic;
  • The size of the rooms and their number (those where air conditioners will be installed);
  • Isolation of rooms;
  • Which side of the room window.

Air Conditioner installation cost in Sydney for different brands

The cost of air conditioner installation will depend on the type of system you choose, the size of the unit, the complexity of the installation, and any additional features you may want. It will also depend on the labour costs of the installation team, as well as any additional materials or tools required.

Air conditioner brand

Price Guide

Olimpia C4.1Kw – Portable Split Cycle

$749

Fujitsu C2.5Kw – Reverse Split Cycle

$899

Fujitsu C3.5Kw – Reverse Split Cycle

$1089

Mitsubishi C8.0Kw – Reverse Split Cycle

$2399

If you do not consider the uniqueness of each house, you can focus on average prices to plan your budget:

  1. For a two-story house with three bedrooms, in which you can install an air duct only on the top floor, installing a 7.1-kilowatt system will be from 6900 to 8500 dollars.
  2. In the same situation, but with four bedrooms, it is worth counting on the amount from 7800 to 9500 dollars to install a 10-kilowatt system.
  3. In a two-story house where air conditioners are needed on all floors, you will have to use transitions between levels. The sizes of the blocks should also be larger so that there is enough power for the lower floor. Such a system will cost the owner from 11,000 to 12,900 dollars. Its power should be in the range of 14 to 16 kilowatts (for three or four bedrooms upstairs and several rooms below).
  4. In a one-story house with four bedrooms and several additional rooms, you will need a system with a capacity of 14 to 16 kilowatts and a cost of about 10,400 – 11,900 dollars.

To install the air conditioner under the floor, more expensive (compared to the plastic ceiling), aluminum grilles are required. Therefore, the system will cost about $ 1,000 more.

Split system air conditioner service type

Price Guide

2.5kw – 3.5kw inverter split system

$600

5kw – 6kw inverter split system

$650

7kw – 8kw inverter split system

$700

9kw – 9.9kw inverter split system

$750

Now, when you have an idea about the cost of air conditioning installation it is time to decide which type of an Aircon you would actually want.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Ducted air conditioning

The total for a ducted air conditioning installation cost includes installation labour rates and a ducted air conditioner (e.g. split, reverse cycle, or inverter unit) which averages around $4,000 to $7,000.

Ducted air conditioning consists of an internal and external compressor. They are quite massive blocks. Therefore, they are recommended to be located on the back or side of the house. So the technique will not interfere with the neighbors and degrade the overall architectural composition.
The indoor unit can also be placed in the roof space. To distribute chilled air throughout the house, we use air ducts. They are laid through the roof and walls. The entire system is hidden from view, and only ventilation openings remain visible. This model is ideal for creating a comfortable climate in large or multi-story buildings.

In this article we went far and beyond reviewing all models od ducted AC.

Air Conditioners Review – Customers Guide

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Split System Air Conditioner in Australia?

Split system air conditioner installation cost is a summary of the installation labour rates (roughly $70 to $90 per hour depending on your location) and the price of an AC split unit, which may range from $600 to $2,600 depending on its capacity and brand.

Split system aircon can consist of one outdoor unit and up to eight indoor units. Air cooling or heating takes place in the central outdoor compressor. Internal fan coils are hung on the walls in the rooms. The pump already cooled air in and draw warm out of the room. Each wall unit can be controlled separately by adjusting the airflow, temperature, air ionization.

Evaporative Air Conditioning

The principle of operation of this technique is the same as that of ducted air conditioners. The critical difference is the method of air cooling by evaporation. The warm air from the room the air conditioner draws in, drives through the wet plates, while cooling in parallel. Then the cold stream is pushed back into the room. Evaporation technology does not make the air as severe as with a ducted air conditioner or split system. People felt the flow of air as a cool natural wind. At the same time, air humidity remains higher, which favorably affects the skin.

We recommend reading.

Daikin Wiki

How to choose the best air conditioner?

The main thing is that the air conditioner is energy-saving. Built-in inverter technology allows you to accelerate the motor to the maximum speed at the beginning of work. The room cools quickly (or heats up). Then, the number of revolutions per minute decreases to the minimum level, sufficient to maintain the specified settings. This technology can reduce energy costs by 30-50%.

What you need to know before installing the air conditioner?

ABC Air employees use many factors in their calculations. This allows you to take into account all the needs of the client, as well as select equipment of optimal power. At a personal visit, the specialist determines:

  • We find the best place on the roof or back wall of the house to accommodate the outdoor unit. In homes with flat roofs or in apartment buildings (where there is no access to the foundation), split, and multi-split systems are usually used. For a channel air conditioner, in this case, there is not enough space.
  • If you plan to heat the house in the winter, then it is better to install an inverter model of climatic equipment immediately.
  • The layout of the house and the number of floors significantly affects the complexity of installation. It is also necessary to calculate the length and configuration of the ducts. If it is not possible to place between floors, it is also worth taking a closer look at split systems.

Key Takeaways

  • Expect to pay $600-$20,000+ to install air conditioning in Sydney homes or offices depending on size and type of system.
  • Average cost for a home is $2,500-$5,000 for a split system or ducted air conditioner installed.
  • Window or portable ACs for one room start around $600-800 installed.
  • Whole home ducted systems typically cost $4,000-$7,000 installed.
  • More complex installs like multi-story homes cost more due to extra labor and materials.
  • Consider potential electrical upgrades which can add $2,000+ to the total.
  • Get multiple quotes as prices vary between AC brands and installation companies.
  • Cheapest option is installing ducts and AC during new construction rather than retrofitting.
  • Work with qualified technicians to select correctly sized systems for optimized efficiency.
  • Proper sizing and installation saves money in the long run through energy efficiency.


FAQ

How do I know if my AC needs to be replaced or repaired?

If your AC starts acting differently than normal and gives you problems, give us a call and set up an appointment for one of our professionals to come out and thoroughly inspect your unit.

How do I know what size AC I need?

We can help you figure this out based on the size and number of rooms you’ll be cooling.

How do I know what brand I should get?

All of the brands we offer are high-quality brands that produce fantastic units. You’ll want to consider your budget and other needs before deciding on a specific brand.

What if I have more questions?

If you have more questions, just call or visit our business! We’d be happy to help and we’ll try to find a suitable answer for any question you may have.

How much does it cost to install a split system air conditioner in Australia?

The cost to install a split system air conditioner in residential homes in Australia ranges from approximately $960 to $4,140. This price variation is due to factors such as the capacity of the split system, the size of the unit, and the complexity of the installation​​.

How much does it cost to install ducted evaporative cooling in Australia?

The purchase and installation of a ducted evaporative system in Australia could cost anywhere from approximately $2,500 to over $6,000. The final cost depends on the size of the unit and the configuration of your home​​.

How much does it cost to replace ducted air conditioning?

On average, the cost to replace a ducted air conditioner in Australia is around $3,550​​.

Do you need air conditioning in Sydney?

Yes, air conditioning is typically needed in Sydney. For about 6 to 9 months of the year, air conditioning is required to cool a house or apartment. For another 2-3 months, the air conditioning unit can be used for heating, which eliminates the need for a separate cooling and heating unit​​.

    Do you need help with a service?

    Fill out the form and our team will contact you!

    Excellent
    Based on 199 reviews
    Jeremy Bird
    Jeremy Bird
    2024-09-24
    Words to describe ABC Air: Honest Professional Reliable Trustworthy Excellent communication skills Responsive Friendly Nice Easy Two things that are a huge deal: 1. Tried to fix my old system (really old system). I mean, *really tried hard*. Didn't just pretend to try, then say I need a new system. They really wanted to get my old system going for me. But it really was too old and couldn't be saved. 2. Suggested location for new condensor/outdoor unit that I hadn't thought of and didn't think was possible. It's a perfect location and that's where the new outdoor unit now is.
    Andrew Carey
    Andrew Carey
    2024-09-17
    Victor and Vitaly did a fantastic job installing our split system in a tricky location and were happy to adjust the position quite significantly (at our request) on the day. Very neat, fast and competitively priced. It's been super effective . Thank you.
    Christopher Gilbert
    Christopher Gilbert
    2024-09-09
    If you are considering the installation of air conditioning, then contact ABC air conditioning. We were very impressed with the service, attention to detail and pricing and would recommend them without reservation.
    Joshua Marsh
    Joshua Marsh
    2024-09-04
    We had ducted air-con installed in our unit and would highly recommend ABC Air. Very prompt responses to all our queries including any related to strata. They arrived on time and completed the work professionally. The end result is exactly as promised.
    Tony Brasier
    Tony Brasier
    2024-08-26
    The guys at ABC Air did an excellent job. Their quote was competitive, they were totally reliable - booked the job, arrived on time and completed the job very professionally. I would highly recommend them.
    Rayeanne Serrano
    Rayeanne Serrano
    2024-08-26
    Excellent experience with ABC Air AC installation company. Communication with Victor throughout the process was clear and prompt. They offered fair and competitive pricing for the work. Victor and Vitaly arrived on time as scheduled and completed the job efficiently. Overall, a professional and reliable service. Would recommend to others looking for quality AC installation.
    Rob Newnham
    Rob Newnham
    2024-08-11
    ABC Air just installed a ducted air-conditioning system in our St Peters terrace house. They did a great job. To start off with, Victor answered my enquiry email very quickly and came round to take a look at my house within a couple of days. He provided detailed advice after having a thorough inspection, including in the roof. I recall that other companies wanted to charge, just for coming over and quoting, but ABC didn't. Victor provided a couple of different recommendations (ducted and split systems). We chose ducted and arranged an install date. On that date Victor and his colleague came over at 8am and got started. They were extremely friendly and polite. They got on well with our dog too! There was a hitch with our rafters but they found a quick solution for that. The guys worked til 6:30pm to get everything done and explained how it all worked. We were really impressed by ABC's marvellous professionalism and friendliness. Initially they said they were worried that installing the ceiling vents might crack our ancient ceilings but they installed 4 vents perfectly - no cracks. They do a lot of work in older Inner West houses and that certainly seemed to show when they worked at ours. We had a great air con/heating install experience with ABC Air.
    p h
    p h
    2024-08-10
    Victor and Vitaly were excellent in every way. Punctuality, communication and professionalism all 5 star. I’m a tradesperson with many years of experience who has poured countless hours into renovating my own home to a high standard. I take very seriously selecting someone to carry out work for me. These two guys are the real deal. Their attitude and attention to detail was outstanding. I would recommend them to anyone that cares about engaging competent professionals to install their AC. Peter Balmain
    Karri Grewar
    Karri Grewar
    2024-08-06
    Victor and Vitaly were professional from the get go. Victor was efficient in his initial inspection, extremely prompt with responding to emails and my many questions (always same day) and was detailed through the final quoting stage. When installation came, they were exceptional - on time and got the whole project done in a day! This included installation of 4 indoor units (incl 1x floor mounted) and an outdoor unit, all works were done very neatly and they tidied everything up afterwards. I couldn't recommend Victor and Vitaly more highly and we're so happy to have AC!
    Kelly Lawrence
    Kelly Lawrence
    2024-08-01
    I had an exceptional experience with Victor and Vitaly and would absolutely recommend ABC Air if you're looking for skilled professionals with high integrity. As a plus, you're supporting a smaller-sized business run by kind owners. Victor and Vitaly were highly transparent, informative and reliable every step of the way. The quote was accurate and at a great rate. They arrived exactly on time, took great care while carrying out the work, and the result was brilliant. You can tell they take great care in what they do and will only carry out work to the highest standard. I'm so grateful that I went with these guys. 11/10!

    Victor

    Victoradmin

    Air Conditioning certified specialist in Sydney, Australia. Victor is a highly skilled and certified air conditioning specialist based in Sydney, Australia. With over 15 years of experience in the HVAC industry, John has become an expert in the installation, maintenance, and repair of various air conditioning systems, including split systems, ducted systems, and multi-head units. John began his journey in the HVAC field after completing a comprehensive apprenticeship program and obtaining his trade certificate. He then worked with several reputable air conditioning companies in Sydney, honing his skills and gaining valuable insights into the industry. In 2010, Victor received his Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Council (ARC) certification, further solidifying his status as a trusted professional in the field.