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9 Split Air Conditioner Questions Answered

Split air conditioners are the most common type of home cooling installed today. They are quiet, don't require major structural changes to your home, can be very efficient and are cost effective to purchase, install and run. Split air conditioners can cause confusion among people researching what type of air conditioner would be best for them - today we answer 9 common questions about split air conditioners.

Why should I buy a split air conditioner?

Split air conditioners are far quieter than wall or window models, as the compressor is located outside, separate to the cooling unit. In the upper end of room sizes they are also more efficient than all in one systems, as the size of the compressor doesn’t limit the size of the unit itself. Split air conditioners aren't as bulky as window/wall units, and can be installed with only very small holes cut in your wall (for the pipe work) , as opposed to enormous blocks!

Can I cool separate areas of my house to different temperatures with a split air conditioner?

If you install a multi- split air conditioner, you can. These run several outlets to a single compressor unit outside, allowing you to cool different areas of your house to different degrees. The units don't cost as much to buy and install as ducted air conditioning systems, but are definitely more expensive than a single split air conditioner. Alternatively you can install additional systems into separate areas to achieve the same goal. If you don’t mind having additional outdoor units then this may be worth considering.

How many outlets can I have running on one compressor?

Two is ideal although you can run as many as eight - the more units you have running from a multi-split air conditioner the less cooling power you'll get at each.

Are split systems for cooling only?

No, reverse cycle air conditioners can operate on heating also.

Can my split air conditioner be an inverter style?

It certainly can. The split air conditioner setup refers to the way the cooling components are packaged together, while inverter technology is more a feature of the motor system. Split air conditioners can be constant speed (compressor) or inverters, which are more efficient in very hot climates when run for a long time at part load. (the compressor slows down in an inverter air conditioner when the target temperature is reached therefore operating at part load and reducing the running costs)

What should I be aware of when using a split air conditioner?

You'll need to check the filters regularly to see if they need cleaning - if your filters are dirty you'll get less cooling capacity for the same amount of power input, and you may also end up with frost buildup on the cooling coils.

Should I cover the outdoor part of my split air conditioner in winter?

Never. If you have a reverse cycle model that you're using as a heater, it should definitely not be covered - this could cause major damage. If the unit is a cooling-only system that isn't being used during winter you don't need to cover the unit - all modern split air conditioners are completely weatherproof.

Do I need to replace both components of a split air conditioner at the same time?

It's a good idea to replace the entire split system at the same time. Replacing only one part of the system can put extra load on the remaining part and make it fail faster ... and it costs more to buy two separate split air conditioner parts than a complete system!

Can I plant shrubs and flowers around the outdoor part of my unit?

You can, although it's advised that you leave at least two feet between the unit and the outer reaches of any plants. They could damage your split air conditioner if they block air flow, or if leaves and debris gets sucked into the unit.