The Complete Guide to Air Conditioner Installation
Buying the perfect air conditioner is only half the equation—proper installation is equally important for safety, efficiency, and long-term performance. In Australia, air conditioning installation is regulated, and cutting corners can void warranties, create safety hazards, and result in poor performance. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about getting your air conditioner professionally installed.
Legal Requirements in Australia
Before discussing installation details, it's crucial to understand Australian regulations around air conditioning installation.
Who Can Legally Install Air Conditioners?
In Australia, split system and ducted air conditioning installation requires licensed professionals:
- Refrigerant handling: Must be performed by someone holding an Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) licence
- Electrical work: Must be performed by a licensed electrician
- Many installers hold both: Combined HVAC/electrical licences are common
It is illegal for unlicensed individuals to install split systems or handle refrigerants in Australia. Penalties can exceed $10,000. DIY installation also voids manufacturer warranties and creates serious safety risks.
Permits and Approvals
Depending on your location and property type, you may need:
- Strata approval: Required for apartments and townhouses in strata schemes
- Council approval: Sometimes required for external units in heritage areas or street-facing installations
- Building permits: Usually not required for standard residential installations, but check local requirements
- Electrical certificate: A Certificate of Compliance should be provided for electrical work
Choosing an Installer
The quality of installation dramatically affects performance, efficiency, and reliability. Here's how to choose a reputable installer.
Verifying Credentials
- Ask for their ARC licence number and verify it at arctick.org
- Request their electrical licence number and verify with your state's licensing authority
- Check for public liability insurance (minimum $5-10 million recommended)
- Look for manufacturer accreditation (Daikin specialists, Mitsubishi Diamond Dealers, etc.)
Getting Quotes
Always get multiple quotes (at least three) and compare:
- What's included: Installation, electrical work, brackets, pipe covers, warranty registration
- What's extra: Additional pipe runs, electrical upgrades, disposal of old units
- Warranty: Both manufacturer warranty and installer workmanship warranty
- Timeline: When can they complete the work?
- Beware quotes significantly lower than others—may indicate unlicensed work or shortcuts
- Ensure all quotes include the same scope of work
- Ask about payment terms—avoid large upfront payments
- Get everything in writing before work commences
Installation Cost Expectations
Understanding typical costs helps you budget appropriately and identify unrealistic quotes.
Split System Installation
- Basic back-to-back installation: $400-600 (indoor and outdoor unit on same wall)
- Standard installation: $500-800 (includes reasonable pipe run and electrical)
- Complex installation: $800-1,500+ (long pipe runs, difficult access, electrical upgrades)
Ducted System Installation
- New home (during construction): $2,000-4,000
- Existing home retrofit: $3,000-6,000+
- Factors affecting cost: Number of zones, duct complexity, roof access, electrical upgrades
Additional Costs to Consider
- Electrical upgrades (new circuit): $150-400
- Extended pipe runs: $50-100 per metre
- Pipe covers: $30-80 per metre
- Old unit removal: $100-200
- Strata application fees: Varies by building
Optimal Placement Considerations
Where your air conditioner is installed significantly impacts its performance and your comfort.
Indoor Unit Placement
For split systems, indoor unit location affects airflow and efficiency:
- Height: Should be at least 2m from the floor for proper air circulation
- Clearance: Need 15cm above and 10cm on sides for airflow
- Avoid: Directly above beds, near heat sources, behind doors or curtains
- Consider: The room's longest wall for better air distribution
- Accessibility: Filter cleaning should be easy
Outdoor Unit Placement
The outdoor condenser needs careful positioning:
- Clearance: Minimum 50cm on sides and front for airflow
- Ventilation: Not enclosed or blocked by vegetation
- Shade: Shaded locations improve efficiency (but don't restrict airflow)
- Drainage: Water can drain safely away
- Noise: Consider neighbours and bedrooms
- Access: Technicians need to reach it for servicing
- Distance: Closer to the indoor unit is more efficient (shorter pipe run)
Discuss placement options with your installer before they arrive. A good installer will survey your space and recommend optimal positions, explaining trade-offs between different options.
What Happens During Installation
Understanding the installation process helps you prepare and know what to expect.
Split System Installation (Typical Process)
- Site assessment: Confirming placement, pipe routing, and electrical requirements
- Mounting bracket installation: Securing the indoor unit mounting plate to the wall
- Drilling: Creating the hole through the wall for pipes and cables
- Outdoor unit setup: Installing brackets or pad for the condenser unit
- Pipe connection: Running refrigerant pipes between indoor and outdoor units
- Electrical work: Running power, connecting isolator switch
- Vacuum and pressure test: Removing moisture and checking for leaks
- Refrigerant release: Opening valves to allow refrigerant into the system
- Testing: Running the system to verify correct operation
- Finishing: Sealing holes, installing pipe covers, cleaning up
A standard split system installation takes 2-4 hours for experienced installers.
Ducted System Installation
Ducted installations are more complex and typically take 1-3 days:
- Installing the main indoor unit in roof space
- Running ductwork to each room
- Installing ceiling vents and return air grilles
- Connecting and testing zone dampers
- Setting up the outdoor unit
- Electrical connections
- Commissioning and balancing airflow
Preparing for Installation Day
A little preparation ensures a smooth installation:
- Clear furniture from around the installation areas
- Ensure clear access to roof space if required
- Move vehicles if outdoor access is needed
- Notify neighbours if outdoor unit will be near boundaries
- Secure pets away from work areas
- Have someone available to make decisions if issues arise
- Ensure power is available for testing
After Installation: What to Check
Before the installer leaves, verify:
- Operation test: Watch the system run in both cooling and heating modes
- Remote programming: Understand basic operation and settings
- Filter access: Know how to clean filters yourself
- Documentation: Receive warranty registration, user manual, compliance certificates
- Workmanship: Check that holes are sealed, work is neat, and site is clean
- Isolator switch: Know where it is in case of emergency
Red Flags During Installation
Watch out for these warning signs of poor installation practices:
- Installer can't produce licence numbers when asked
- Skipping the vacuum/pressure test process
- Rushing through the job in under an hour
- Not sealing the wall hole properly
- Outdoor unit placed with inadequate clearance
- No compliance certificate provided
- Refusing to demonstrate the system working
Quality installation is an investment in reliable, efficient air conditioning for years to come. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, poor installation creates problems that far exceed any initial savings. Take time to find a reputable installer, and you'll enjoy trouble-free comfort from your new air conditioning system.
Ready to start shopping for your unit? Browse our product comparison tool to find the right air conditioner for your needs.