Upgrading your home’s air conditioning system is a significant decision that can greatly improve your comfort and reduce energy costs. As Australian summers grow hotter and energy prices remain high, choosing the right upgraded system is more important than ever.
At Hogan Hot Water and Air Conditioning, we help homeowners navigate these choices every day. In this article, we share key factors you should consider to make sure your new air conditioner delivers optimal performance, efficiency, and value.
Energy Efficiency and Running Costs
One of the main reasons to upgrade an air conditioner is to benefit from modern energy-efficient technology. Newer systems use advanced compressors and refrigerants to cool your home using less electricity.
When comparing models, pay attention to the energy rating label – in Australia, air conditioners carry star ratings for efficiency in cooling (blue stars) and heating (red stars if it’s a reverse cycle unit). The more stars, the more efficient the system is.
Choosing a high-efficiency model can significantly lower your power bills over time, helping offset the initial purchase price. Efficient units also tend to be more environmentally friendly by using less electricity and refrigerants with lower environmental impact.
By investing in an air conditioner with a high star rating and inverter technology (which adjusts the compressor speed continuously), you’ll enjoy effective cooling while minimising running costs.
Proper Size and Capacity for Your Home
Selecting the right size air conditioning system is crucial. A unit that is too small for your space will struggle to cool on hot days, running continuously and using lots of energy without reaching a comfortable temperature. On the other hand, a unit that is too large will cool the area quickly and then shut off, leading to uneven cooling and poor humidity control.
To get sizing right, consider the floor area of the rooms you want to cool, your ceiling height, the number and orientation of windows, and how well insulated the home is. Australia’s climate varies by region, so homeowners in tropical Queensland might need a more powerful system per square metre than those in milder coastal areas.
It’s wise to have a professional perform a load calculation or assessment of your home’s cooling needs. Our team at Hogan Hot Water and Air Conditioning often assists customers by measuring their space and factoring in local climate conditions to recommend an appropriately sized unit.
Getting the capacity right ensures your new air con will maintain comfort on the hottest days without wasting energy.
Choosing the Right Type of System
Upgrading your air conditioning system is a chance to choose a setup that best suits your current needs and home layout. There are several types of air conditioning systems common in Australian homes, each with its considerations.
- Split System Air Conditioners – These are ideal for cooling one room or open-plan area. They consist of an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. If you currently have a single room unit or a window AC, upgrading to a split system can provide quieter and more efficient cooling for that space.
- Multi-Split Systems – If you want to cool multiple rooms without installing a large ducted network, a multi-split might be the answer. One outdoor compressor can connect to several indoor units in different rooms. This allows individual room control and is useful when different family members have different cooling preferences.
- Ducted Whole-Home Systems – A ducted reverse cycle air conditioning system can cool (and heat, if reverse cycle) your entire home through a network of ducts and vents. If you are upgrading from multiple separate units or your old ducted system is failing, a new ducted system can provide even comfort throughout the house.
However, installation is more involved – existing ductwork may need checking or replacing, and you’ll need space for an indoor fan coil unit (typically in the roof space).
Consider what type your current home can accommodate and what your lifestyle needs are. For example, if you only need air conditioning in a couple of bedrooms and the living area, multiple split units might be more cost-effective than a full ducted system.
On the other hand, if you desire whole-home cooling and seamless integration, investing in a ducted system could be worthwhile. Also think about whether you need a cooling-only unit or a reverse cycle system that provides heating in winter.
Many Australian homeowners opt for reverse cycle air conditioners to serve as both summer air conditioning and an efficient winter heater in one system.
Modern Features and Technology
Air conditioning technology has advanced a lot in recent years. When upgrading, look for new features that can enhance comfort and convenience.
- Inverter Technology – Most new systems have inverter-driven compressors, which means the unit can vary its cooling output smoothly. This leads to more stable temperatures and quieter operation compared to older fixed-speed models. It also saves energy because the compressor doesn’t constantly turn on and off; instead it maintains the desired temperature by ramping up or down.
- Smart Controls – Many modern air conditioners offer smart thermostats or Wi-Fi connectivity. This allows you to control the system via a smartphone app or even voice control. You can adjust settings remotely, set schedules, and monitor energy usage.
Upgrading to a smart-controlled system means you can come home to a cool house without leaving the unit running all day, and integrate cooling into your smart home routine.
- Zoning – If you choose a ducted system, consider adding zoning capability. Zoning lets you divide the house into sections (zones) that can be cooled independently. This way, you can cool only the areas you are using and avoid wasting energy on empty rooms.
For instance, you might have separate zones for the living area and bedrooms, so you can turn the bedrooms’ cooling off during the day and focus on living spaces, then vice versa at night.
- Advanced Air Filtration – New air conditioners often come with improved air filters or even air purification features. Some systems include filters that capture fine dust, pollen, and other allergens, which is great if anyone in your family has allergies or asthma.
Others might have built-in ionisers or UV filters to reduce bacteria and mould spores. When upgrading, check the filter type and maintenance requirements – a good filtration system will improve your indoor air quality along with cooling the air.
- Quiet Operation – If your old unit was loud, you’ll be pleased to find that newer models emphasise low noise levels. Look for the decibel (dBA) rating of both indoor and outdoor units.
This is especially important if the unit will be near bedrooms or if you live in a densely populated area where noisy outdoor compressors could disturb neighbours. Many high-quality split systems run very quietly indoors, and their outdoor units are engineered to minimise vibrations and noise.
All these modern features can make a big difference in your day-to-day satisfaction with the air conditioner. At Hogan, we encourage homeowners to think about which features matter most to them – whether it’s the convenience of smart controls or the health benefits of better filtration – and choose a model that ticks those boxes.
Installation Quality and Ductwork
Even the best air conditioning unit will underperform if it’s not installed correctly. Upgrading your system isn’t just about the metal box on the wall or outside your home; how it’s installed and integrated matters a great deal.
Always use licensed and experienced technicians for the installation of a new air conditioner. Professional installers will ensure the refrigerant is charged correctly, the wiring is safe, and the unit is positioned for optimal airflow. Poor installation can lead to issues like refrigerant leaks, inefficient cooling, or even safety hazards.
If you are replacing an existing system, ask the installer to inspect the condition of any associated infrastructure.
- Ductwork – For ducted systems, the ducts themselves should be checked for leaks, damage, or inadequate insulation. Upgrading the AC but leaving old leaky ducts in place can result in cool air escaping into the roof cavity or walls, wasting energy.
It might be worthwhile to repair or replace sections of ductwork during the upgrade to ensure the new system operates at peak efficiency.
- Electrical System – Newer, more powerful air cons may require an electrical circuit upgrade or different wiring. A professional will assess your switchboard and wiring to make sure it can handle the new unit safely.
This is especially relevant if you’re upgrading to a larger capacity system or installing additional units.
- Thermostat and Controls – When upgrading, don’t overlook the control system. If your old unit had a basic thermostat, upgrading to a modern programmable or smart thermostat will help you get the best performance and efficiency from the new AC.
Ensure the installer includes any new control panels or Wi-Fi modules in the setup and shows you how to use them.
By paying attention to installation quality and related components, you’ll avoid common pitfalls that can undermine your investment.
At Hogan Hot Water and Air Conditioning, our technicians take pride in doing a thorough job – from securing the outdoor unit on a solid base to double-checking that every duct connection is sealed tight. A quality installation sets your new system up for a long, efficient life.
Budget and Long-Term Costs
Upgrading an air conditioning system is an investment, so naturally budget is a key factor. When planning your upgrade, consider both the initial costs and the long-term costs.
- Upfront Price and Installation – The price of air conditioning units can vary widely depending on capacity, type, and brand. Split system units for a single room are usually the least expensive option, whereas a large ducted system covering an entire home will cost more (especially when factoring in ducting and installation labour).
Get a detailed quote that includes the unit itself and the installation work. Sometimes upgrades require extra work like removing old equipment or modifying parts of your home (for instance, carpentry to fit a new vent or patch a hole from an old unit), so ensure everything is accounted for in the quote.
- Operating Costs – A cheaper unit upfront might cost more to run if it’s less efficient. Think about your electricity bills over the coming years. High-efficiency models often have a higher purchase price but will save you money each summer on power usage.
Look for an optimal balance between purchase price and efficiency that fits your budget. The energy star ratings mentioned earlier will guide you on expected running cost differences.
- Maintenance and Servicing – All air conditioners benefit from regular maintenance, such as cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, and servicing moving parts. When choosing a new system, consider the maintenance requirements and costs.
For example, a ducted system with many vents might require professional duct cleaning every few years, and multi-split systems have multiple filters to keep clean. Some brands offer fixed-price service plans or extended warranties that include maintenance.
Budget a bit each year for professional servicing – this will keep the system running efficiently and catch any issues early. It’s much cheaper to maintain regularly than to pay for a major repair due to neglect.
- Incentives and Rebates – Australian federal and state programs sometimes offer incentives for upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, including air conditioners. Depending on your location, you might be eligible for a rebate or an upfront discount when installing a high-efficiency system or a Peak Smart air conditioner (in parts of Queensland) that helps reduce grid strain.
It’s worth researching if New South Wales, Victoria, or your state has an energy upgrade program or rebate scheme. While this shouldn’t dictate your entire decision, a rebate can effectively lower the cost of a more efficient unit, making the upgrade more affordable.
By considering all these financial aspects, you can plan for an air conditioning upgrade that meets your needs without straining your wallet. Remember that a quality air conditioner will serve you for 10 to 15 years or more, so it’s a long-term investment in your home’s comfort and value.
Many of our clients at Hogan find that spending a bit more upfront for a reputable brand and professional installation pays off with fewer headaches and lower costs over the system’s lifespan.
Maintenance and Warranty Considerations
As you select a new air conditioning system, keep an eye on the warranty terms and what’s required to keep that warranty valid. Most manufacturers provide a warranty (commonly around 5 years in Australia for reputable brands) on new air conditioners, which can cover parts and sometimes labour if something goes wrong.
A longer or more comprehensive warranty can give you peace of mind, but make sure you understand the conditions.
Often, the warranty will require that the unit is installed by a licensed professional and that you perform regular maintenance (for instance, yearly servicing by a qualified technician). Skipping maintenance could void your warranty, leaving you on the hook for repair costs.
In practical terms, once your new AC is up and running, plan for simple maintenance tasks like cleaning or replacing filters every few months. This is usually a quick DIY job and helps the system breathe easier and run efficiently. Additionally, schedule a professional check-up perhaps once a year or every two years.
During a service, a technician will clean the coils, check refrigerant pressure, ensure all electrical connections are sound, and verify that the system is operating at peak efficiency. This not only keeps your warranty intact but also extends the life of the unit and sustains its performance.
Upgrading also means you might be retiring an old unit that you were used to. New systems can be quite different in how they operate or need care – for example, some high-efficiency units might produce more condensate (water) which needs proper drainage, or they might have outdoor units that need clear space around them for airflow.
Make sure your installer explains any new maintenance steps you should know about. At Hogan Hot Water and Air Conditioning, we always take the time to walk homeowners through how to care for their new system and what to watch out for.
A little bit of attention will ensure your upgraded air conditioner runs smoothly for many years to come.
Hogan Hot Water & Air Conditioning Advice
Upgrading your air conditioning system can feel overwhelming with all the options available, but it ultimately comes down to ensuring your home is comfortable, efficient, and ready for Australia’s weather extremes.
Our advice is to start with a clear idea of your needs – cooling area, budget, and any must-have features – and then consult with trusted professionals to find the best match.
Every home is different, and an expert eye can save you from costly mistakes like an underpowered unit or an inefficient setup.
At Hogan Hot Water and Air Conditioning, we believe in putting long-term comfort and reliability first. That means choosing the right size system, prioritising energy efficiency, and insisting on quality installation.
Don’t be swayed by just the cheapest price; consider the total value you’re getting. A well-chosen air conditioner, installed correctly, will pay dividends in comfort and lower bills.
If you’re considering an upgrade, take the time to weigh these key factors. And remember, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Our team at Hogan Hot Water and Air Conditioning is here to offer honest, direct advice and professional service.
With the right guidance, upgrading your air conditioning system can be smooth and rewarding – resulting in a cooler, happier home for you and your family for years to come.