How Much is Air Conditioning Installation in Australia?Cost Guide for 2025

Introduction

Installing an air conditioning system is one of the best investments for comfort, energy efficiency, and home value. But how much does air conditioning installation cost? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of AC system, installation complexity, and location-based pricing.

In this guide, we’ll break down the costs of air conditioning installation, covering everything from split system air conditioners to ducted cooling solutions. Whether you’re in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, or Perth, this guide will help you make an informed decision and compare prices effectively.

Factors Affecting Air Conditioning Installation Costs

1. Type of Air Conditioning System

The biggest factor influencing installation costs is the type of air conditioning system you choose. Below are the most common options:

Split System Air Conditioners

A split system air conditioner is the most popular choice for Australian homes due to its affordability and ease of installation. These systems include an indoor unit and an outdoor compressor.

- Cost of split system air conditioner installation: $600 – $3,500 (depending on size and brand)

- Popular brands: Mitsubishi, Daikin, Fujitsu, LG, Rinnai

- Best suited for: Individual rooms or small apartments

Ducted Air Conditioning Systems

Ducted air conditioning provides whole-house cooling by distributing air through a network of ducts. These systems are more expensive but offer seamless climate control.

- Ducted air conditioning installation cost: $5,000 – $15,000+

- Best suited for: Large homes, offices, or multi-room cooling solutions

- Brands available: ActronAir, Mitsubishi Electric, Samsung, Panasonic

Multi-Head Split System Air Conditioners

This system allows multiple indoor units to connect to a single outdoor unit, providing zoned cooling for different rooms.

- Multi-head air conditioning installation cost: $2,500 – $7,500

- Best suited for: Homes requiring multiple cooling zones without a full ducted system

Portable and Window Air Conditioners

These are budget-friendly alternatives but have limited cooling capacity.

- Installation costs: Minimal ($0–$250 for a window-mounted unit)

- Best suited for: Small rooms, rental properties, or temporary cooling solutions

2. Air Conditioner Size & Capacity (kW Rating)

Choosing the right air conditioner size is crucial for efficiency. Undersized units will struggle to cool the space, while oversized systems will increase energy costs.

Room Size (m²)	Recommended kW Rating	Estimated Cost (Unit + Installation)
10 – 20m²	2.5 – 3.5kW	$1,200 – $2,500
20 – 40m²	3.5 – 5kW	$1,500 – $3,500
40 – 60m²	5 – 7kW	$2,500 – $4,500
60m²+	7 – 10kW+	$3,500 – $6,000+

How to calculate the right aircon size:

- For bedrooms or small offices: 2.5 – 3.5kW

- For living rooms or open-plan areas: 5 – 7kW

- For large homes or multi-room cooling: 7 – 10kW+

3. Installation Complexity & Labour Costs

The installation cost varies based on the difficulty of the job. A simple back-to-back installation (where the indoor and outdoor units are mounted on the same wall) is cheaper than a complex installation involving multiple floors, long piping runs, or ductwork modifications.

Common installation costs in major cities:

Location	Average Installation Cost
Sydney	$600 – $5,000+
Melbourne	$650 – $5,500+
Brisbane	$550 – $5,200+
Perth	$600 – $5,000+
Adelaide	$580 – $4,800+

4. Additional Costs to Consider

- Electrical upgrades: If your home requires additional power points or circuit upgrades, expect to pay $150 – $1,000.

- Wall brackets or stands: Installing an outdoor unit on brackets or a roof stand can add $100 – $300.

- Insulation and ductwork modifications: Ducting costs can range from $500 – $3,000.

- Removal of old AC unit: Disposal fees for old air conditioning units range from $50 – $200.

- Smart thermostats & zoning systems: Adding a smart thermostat can cost an extra $200 – $800.

How to Save Money on Air Conditioning Installation

1. Get multiple AC installation quotes – Compare prices from at least three installers to get the best deal.

1. Choose an energy-efficient unit – High-efficiency models with inverter technology will save money on running costs.

1. Install during off-peak seasons – Winter is usually a cheaper time to install air conditioning.

1. Look for rebates & promotions – Some energy providers offer incentives for upgrading to energy-efficient models.

1. Bundle supply & installation – Buying a unit and installation together from an air conditioning contractor can reduce overall costs.

FAQs About Air Conditioning Installation

1. How to clean an aircon filter?

To clean your aircon filter:

- Turn off the unit and remove the front panel.

- Take out the filter and vacuum it or rinse it under running water.

- Let it dry completely before reinstalling.

2. What size aircon do I need?

The size depends on room dimensions, insulation, and climate. A 2.5kW system is ideal for small rooms, while a 7kW system suits large living spaces.

3. Why is my aircon dripping water?

Common reasons include:

- Blocked drain line – Needs cleaning.

- Dirty filters – Reduces airflow and causes condensation buildup.

- Low refrigerant levels – Requires professional servicing.

4. How much to regas a car aircon?

Car air conditioning regas costs range from $120 – $300, depending on the vehicle type and gas used.

5. How much does ducted air conditioning cost?

The price varies based on the house size and system type:

- Small homes (2-3 bedrooms): $5,000 – $9,000

- Medium homes (4-5 bedrooms): $8,000 – $12,000

- Large homes (6+ bedrooms): $12,000 – $15,000+

Conclusion: Get the Best Air Conditioning Installation at the Right Price

Whether you need a split system in Brisbane, ducted air conditioning in Melbourne, or an air conditioner installer in Sydney, understanding costs upfront can help you plan your budget effectively.

For the best price, always compare AC installation quotes, choose an energy-efficient system, and schedule installation during off-peak months.

Need a quote for air conditioning installation? Contact a local aircon fitter near you and stay cool all year round!