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Need reliable air conditioning for a Melbourne property? Finding the right air conditioning system can certainly feel a little overwhelming at first. Given our famously unpredictable weather, having an efficient, reliable climate control system isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential.
Two popular whole-home cooling and heating solutions dominating the market are VRV (Variable Refrigerant Volume) systems and traditional ducted air conditioning.
Both promise comprehensive climate control, but they work very differently and suit different property types and lifestyles. So, which one is right for your property? Let’s get into the details to help you make an informed decision.
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VRV stands for Variable Refrigerant Volume, a technology developed by Daikin in the 1980s that’s revolutionising how we think about home climate control. VRV systems are incredibly popular in large commercial buildings thanks to their low energy consumption, but they’re also becoming increasingly popular in family homes thanks to solutions like Daikin’s VRV-S residential systems.
Unlike traditional systems that blast the same temperature throughout your entire home, VRV systems allow you to set each room at a variable setting. For example, one bedroom could be set at 24 degrees, while simultaneously another could be set at 27 degrees.
Here’s how it works: VRV systems use refrigerant lines to distribute cool air throughout a space, making them ductless cooling and heating systems. The key to their functionality is the ability to vary the amount of refrigerant flow to individual indoor units. This means no energy loss through ductwork and precise temperature control for every room.
Ducted air conditioning is the more traditional approach to whole-home climate control that many homeowners are familiar with. It uses a central unit to cool or heat air. This air travels through a network of ducts hidden in the ceiling or under the floor. Vents in different rooms let the conditioned air flow into the space.
The system consists of an outdoor unit that does the heavy lifting of heating or cooling, and an indoor unit (usually installed in your roof space) that distributes conditioned air through ducts to every room. The outdoor unit directs cold or hot air into the property, while the indoor unit channels it down the ducts to cool or heat every room evenly.
Modern ducted systems often include zoning capabilities, allowing you to control which areas of your home receive heating or cooling, though this still works differently from VRV’s individual room control.
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This is where VRV systems really shine.
VRV systems only use the exact amount of energy required, and there is no loss of energy through ductwork. Traditional ducted systems can lose energy as conditioned air travels through ducts, especially if those ducts aren’t perfectly sealed or insulated.
VRV systems not only help save you energy and money, but they also run at a very low volume, meaning no disruptive noise either inside or outside a property. For properties, where energy costs are a significant consideration, this efficiency can translate to substantial savings on your electricity bills.
Here’s where the systems differ most dramatically. With individual temperature control from each indoor unit, there’ll be no more fighting over the thermostat with VRV systems. Each room essentially has its own climate control system.
Ducted systems, while they can be zoned, typically control larger areas rather than individual rooms. This can be limiting if you have family members with different temperature preferences or rooms that get more sun exposure than others.
Both systems can be installed in existing properties, but they require different approaches. VRV systems use refrigerant lines rather than large ducts, which can make installation easier in some properties. You’ll only need one outdoor unit, and it’s small enough that it won’t affect the look of your facade.
Ducted systems require more extensive ductwork installation, which can be challenging in older homes with limited roof space or difficult access. However, once installed, only subtle ceiling vents are visible, preserving your home’s aesthetics.
VRV systems offer incredible flexibility. You can install up to 14 different indoor units for residential homes, with several different styles available for every room of the home. Need a wall-mounted unit in the bedroom, a ceiling cassette in the living room, and a floor console in the study? No problem.
With a VRV/VRF system, the combinations are endless due to the increased capacity of the system. You can even simultaneously deliver cooling to one part of a building, and heating in another—perfect for changeable weather.
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Let’s talk numbers, because this is often the deciding factor for many homeowners.
Ducted systems generally have lower upfront costs for straightforward installations. Ducted air conditioning can cost anywhere from less than $9,000 to $20,000 to install in a home, depending on the size and number of zones being fitted. For a small property, you might be looking at the lower end of this range.
VRV systems typically require a higher initial investment. A home that is ducted with five bulkheads would be quoted in the range of $25,000 for a VRV system. However, while VRV systems are a bigger investment than other options, the beauty is the versatility and control you have over each room.
This is where VRV systems can potentially pay for themselves over time. Multi-split reverse cycle air conditioners stand out with lower annual costs compared to ducted refrigerative systems. The energy efficiency of VRV systems means lower electricity bills, which is particularly important given Melbourne’s energy costs.
Both systems may be eligible for Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) rebates. All Victorian households and businesses are eligible to apply for discounts, which can help offset the initial installation costs for either system.
For apartments or smaller homes, the choice becomes more nuanced. Split systems are better for smaller homes, units, or individual rooms where you only need to air condition specific spaces. A VRV system might be overkill for a small property, while a smaller ducted system could be perfect.
For substantial properties, both systems have their merits. Ducted systems are better for large homes or homes with multiple rooms that need cooling or heating at the same time. However, VRV/VRF systems are required for much larger applications when you need more sophisticated control.
The city’s beautiful period homes present unique challenges. VRV systems might be easier to install without compromising the heritage features, as they require less extensive ductwork. However, ducted systems can be completely hidden, which might be preferable for heritage considerations.
If you’re building new, both systems can be easily integrated during construction. For retrofitting existing properties, VRV systems often have an advantage due to their simpler installation requirements and smaller refrigerant lines compared to large ducts.
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Our city’s variable climate is a crucial factor in this decision. For the interchangeable climate, ducted reverse cycle systems are regarded as being one of the most energy-efficient cooling systems to run, given that they absorb heat rather than create it.
However, VRV systems excel in Melbourne’s conditions because of their ability to provide heating and cooling simultaneously in different areas. On those spring days when the north-facing living room is warming up while the south-facing bedrooms remain cool, a VRV system can handle both needs efficiently.
Both systems require regular maintenance to perform optimally. Both types of systems need regular servicing to keep them running well. Split systems are easier and cheaper to service. A basic service costs around $200 per unit. Ducted systems usually cost more to service because they are larger and more complex. A service costs about $400.
VRV systems, with their multiple indoor units, may require more comprehensive maintenance schedules, but their individual components can often be serviced without affecting the entire system.
Before deciding between VRV and ducted air conditioning for your property, consider these questions:
How do you use your space?
If different family members prefer different temperatures, or if you only use certain rooms at specific times, VRV’s individual control might be worth the investment.
What’s your property layout?
Open-plan homes might benefit from ducted systems’ even air distribution, while multi-story properties with distinct zones might suit VRV better.
What’s your budget—both upfront and ongoing?
While VRV systems cost more initially, their energy efficiency might save money long-term.
How important is flexibility?
If you might change how you use rooms or add extensions, VRV’s scalability is valuable.
What are your noise preferences?
VRV systems typically operate more quietly than ducted systems.
Remember, the “best” system is the one that matches your specific property, lifestyle, and budget. The complexity of both systems means professional assessment is crucial. What works perfectly for your neighbour might not suit your needs.
Choosing between VRV and ducted air conditioning is a significant decision that will impact your comfort and energy bills for years to come. At Absolute Airflow, we understand Melbourne’s unique challenges and have helped countless homeowners find their perfect climate control solution.
Our expert team can assess your property, discuss your specific needs, and provide honest advice on whether VRV or ducted air conditioning will serve you best. We offer free consultations and can walk you through the pros and cons of each system for your particular situation.
Contact us today to schedule your free assessment!
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