Air Conditioning Buying Guides & Tips

Air conditioning is a significant purchase, and the price for the same system varies a lot between installers. These air conditioning buying guides cover what to look for, what to ask, and what things actually cost. For the efficiency of any model, the Australian Government’s Energy Rating site lists every registered air conditioner.

Start here

How to choose an air conditioner The seven factors that decide which system suits your home
Which type of air conditioner suits my home? The quick guide: find your system type in two minutes
What size air conditioner do I need? Capacity matters more than brand

What it costs

How much does air conditioning cost? Indicative installed prices for every system type
How much does it cost to run an air conditioner? How to work out running costs from the energy label
Rebates and discounts in your state What is available, and why most are a discount in your quote rather than a rebate you claim
How to reduce running costs and emissions Eight things that actually make a difference

Choosing a system

Choosing a reliable, energy efficient air conditioner How to read the Zoned Energy Rating Label
Portable vs fitted air conditioner Why portables cost more to run
Reverse cycle vs heater Why reverse cycle is usually the cheapest way to heat

Choosing an installer

How to choose a reliable installer Licence checks, quote red flags and warranty questions
Questions to ask your installer A printable list to take through every quote
Why professional installation matters What the law requires, and why it protects you
Checklist of things to consider Everything to settle before you accept a quote, as tick boxes

After installation

How to maintain your system What you can do yourself, and what needs a technician

Reference

Glossary of air conditioning terms Plain English definitions, plus links to independent resources