How to Install a Split System Air Conditioner: 8 Steps For Central Coast Homeowners

Nothing takes the edge off a muggy summer’s day like the cool, clean comfort of efficient A/C — but installing your air con the right way makes all the difference.

A/C installation is not just about placing a unit on the wall. Safe setup, proper placement, and smart positioning can impact how well your system cools your home, how much you pay in running costs, and how long your unit lasts.

This guide walks through everything needed for a proper installation: choosing a suitable location, understanding electrical requirements, mounting both indoor and outdoor units, connecting the pipework, and commissioning the system. 

From essential prep to final checks, here’s what it takes to get your split system up and running — the right way.

Split system air conditioners have become one of the most practical and versatile cooling solutions for households in warm, humid regions like the Central Coast.

Comprising two main components, the system includes an indoor unit that delivers cool air and an outdoor unit responsible for expelling heat. This separation helps reduce indoor noise levels while improving overall energy performance.

Unlike bulky ducted systems, split units require minimal structural changes and are ideal for cooling individual rooms. Homeowners appreciate their sleek design, quiet operation, and relatively low running costs.

Many models now include inverter technology, allowing the system to adjust its power output based on room temperature, leading to smoother performance and improved energy savings over time.

For households dealing with rising energy bills or unpredictable summer heat, a well-installed split system offers both comfort and control.

Environmental Impact of Installation

Most split systems use hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants, which, if leaked, contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. To minimise risk, installation should be handled by a licensed technician trained in proper refrigerant handling and disposal.

Energy consumption is another consideration. Although modern inverter systems are highly efficient, their long-term effect on household energy use depends on how well the unit is sized and positioned.

Overpowered or poorly located units may cycle on and off too frequently, leading to unnecessary power usage. Choosing energy-efficient models with good star ratings and ensuring regular maintenance can help reduce environmental load significantly.

Permits and Local Requirements

While split system air conditioners are relatively straightforward to install, certain installations may require compliance with local council regulations.

In most residential scenarios, council approval is not needed, especially if the unit is installed within the boundary of a freestanding home and not visible from the street.

However, for strata properties, townhouses, or heritage-listed dwellings, permission from the body corporate or local planning authority may be essential.

Additionally, the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) mandates that anyone handling refrigerants must hold a current refrigerant handling licence. This ensures safe and legal installation, aligned with national environmental laws.

Failing to comply not only risks fines but also voids product warranties in many cases.

Assessing Your Property’s Layout

Not every home cools the same. Brick exteriors, ceiling heights, insulation levels, and window exposure all influence how effectively a split system will operate. Start by identifying the room or area that needs cooling.

Open-plan living spaces may demand higher-capacity units, while bedrooms or studies benefit from quieter, lower-output models. Consider how often the space is used and at what times of day — peak heat hours can vary from room to room depending on orientation.

Also, take note of structural limitations. Wall space, ceiling fixtures, and access to the external walls for the outdoor unit all play a role in determining where the unit can go.

Choosing the Right Capacity

Air conditioners aren’t one-size-fits-all. System capacity — measured in kilowatts (kW) — needs to match the space for efficient operation.

Too small, and the unit will struggle to maintain temperature; too large, and it will waste energy while cycling unnecessarily.

How to Calculate Cooling Needs:

• Room Size: Multiply room length by width to get square metres.
• Ceiling Height: Taller ceilings require more cooling power.
• Insulation & Glazing: Poor insulation or large glass windows mean greater demand.
• Occupancy: More people = more heat.

As a general guide, a well-insulated 25m² room typically requires a 2.5kW system.

Tools and Resources Required

Safe and compliant installation requires general and specialised equipment.

Basic Tools:

• Spirit level for accurate mounting
• Drill with masonry bits
• Stud finder to locate safe anchor points
• Tape measure and a pencil for precise marking

Specialist Tools:

• Vacuum pump and gauge manifold (for evacuating refrigerant lines)
• Flaring tool (to prepare copper pipe ends)
• Pipe bender and cutter
• Torque wrench (to avoid over tightening connections)

Main Components of a Split System

At its core, a split system comprises an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, and the piping that connects them. Each piece plays a specific role in maintaining efficient and consistent cooling.

Indoor Unit

Mounted on an internal wall, this unit contains the evaporator coil, blower fan, and air filters. Its job is to absorb warm air, cool it, and then circulate it back into the room.

Modern models often include smart features like motion sensors, timers, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Outdoor Unit

Installed outside the property, this component houses the compressor, condenser coil, and fan. Responsible for expelling heat from indoors, it also compresses the refrigerant before it cycles back to the evaporator.

Units with inverter technology adjust speed to maintain temperature steadily — a key feature for energy savings.

Interconnecting Pipework

Copper pipes link both units and carry refrigerant throughout the system. Insulation wraps around the pipes to prevent energy loss and condensation. PVC trunking or conduit may be used to house the pipework neatly against walls.

Additional Components

• Mounting brackets or a concrete slab (for securing the outdoor unit)
• Electrical cabling and circuit breakers (ensuring a safe power supply)
• Drain hose (removing condensation from the indoor unit)

Recommended Brands for Reliability and Performance

While many brands operate across Australia, some consistently rank higher for durability, support, and value:

• Mitsubishi Electric – Known for quiet operation and long-term reliability. Excellent support across the Central Coast.
• Daikin – Premium performance with excellent energy ratings and allergy-friendly filtration systems.
• Fujitsu – Offers a balance between price and reliability; often recommended for residential applications.
• Panasonic – Smart features like voice control and AI-powered temperature control make this a top pick for tech-savvy homes.
• Samsung – Affordable options with compact designs for smaller rooms.

Step 1: Choose the Installation Site

Start with the indoor unit. Select a wall that allows airflow across the entire room and isn’t blocked by furniture, curtains, or shelves. Avoid placing it near heat sources like ovens or direct sunlight, which can distort temperature readings.

The outdoor unit needs a level, well-ventilated area, ideally sheltered from extreme weather and away from bedrooms to minimise noise disturbance.

Call a Pro If: Structural walls are involved, or if you’re unsure about electrical interference — mistakes here can be costly and dangerous.

Step 2: Install the Indoor Unit Mounting Plate

Using a spirit level, mark the mounting bracket’s position on the wall. Drill holes, insert wall plugs, and screw the bracket securely. Make sure it’s perfectly horizontal — any tilt can cause drainage problems or water leaks inside the home.

Best Practice: Leave a gap of at least 15 cm above and around the unit for adequate airflow.

Step 3: Drill the Wall Hole

Create a 60-80 mm hole through the wall for piping, ensuring a slight downward slope to the exterior. This helps with drainage and avoids water pooling inside the line.

Warning: Wear protective goggles and gloves while drilling through brick or concrete. Use a core drill with care.

Call a Pro If: Drilling through thick concrete, structural walls, or multi-storey buildings.

Step 4: Mount the Indoor Unit

Feed the refrigerant pipes, drain hose, and electrical cables through the wall hole. Carefully lift and hook the indoor unit onto the mounting plate. Double-check it sits flush without strain on any connections.

Tip: Don’t bend copper pipes too sharply — use a pipe bender for smooth, rounded curves.

Step 5: Secure the Outdoor Unit

Place the outdoor unit on a stable platform — either a concrete slab or anti-vibration brackets on an external wall. Position it away from flammable materials and with at least 30 cm clearance on all sides for ventilation.

Best Practice: Use anti-vibration pads under the unit to reduce operating noise.

Step 6: Connect Piping and Wiring

Join the refrigerant lines to their respective ports on both units. Tighten connections using a torque wrench to manufacturer specs. Connect the electrical wires according to the labelled terminals and verify with a multimeter.

Route the drain hose downward to avoid backflow.

Call a Pro If: You’re unfamiliar with handling live circuits or don’t have an ARC refrigerant handling licence.

Step 7: Vacuum and Pressure Test the System

Use a vacuum pump to evacuate air and moisture from the refrigerant lines — an essential step before releasing refrigerant. This helps prevent future breakdowns or corrosion. Pressure test connections to ensure there are no leaks.

Call a Pro If: You lack the correct tools or experience to safely work with pressurised refrigerants.

Step 8: Finalise Connections and Commission the System

Once testing passes, release the refrigerant valves, secure all panels, and reconnect power. Power up the unit and run it in cooling mode. Check for vibrations, air output, temperature control, and drainage.

Program any remote settings and confirm noise levels stay within acceptable limits.

Tip: Let the unit run for at least 15–20 minutes while checking all zones to ensure performance aligns with expectations.

Note: Complex installations (multi-storey, long pipe runs, or hard-to-access sites) may incur additional labour or equipment hire fees.

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Installing a split system air conditioner isn’t just about cooling a room — it’s about making a long-term investment in comfort, energy savings, and property value.

Throughout this guide, we’ve covered the essentials every homeowner should understand before beginning the process.

Key takeaways:

• Split systems are efficient, quiet, and ideal for targeted room cooling, especially on the Central Coast.
• Environmental and legal factors matter. Always check for permits, and use ARC-licensed installers to stay compliant.
• Every home is different. Assess room size, insulation, and layout before choosing a system.
• Component quality plays a major role in performance. Stick with trusted brands and certified parts.
• The installation process requires specific tools, safety steps, and technical know-how — some tasks are best left to professionals.
• Costs vary based on complexity, but planning ahead and sourcing wisely can keep expenses manageable.
• Rebates and incentives may apply for energy-conscious upgrades or low-income households — it pays to check eligibility.

Ready to enjoy the comfort, control, and confidence that comes with a properly installed split system? Whether you’re cooling one room or upgrading your entire home, expert guidance makes all the difference.

Contact the Warren Ward Refrigeration team for personalised advice tailored to your space, budget, and lifestyle.

With five locations, fully licensed technicians, and a proud reputation built over four decades, we’re always nearby — and always ready to help.

Contact Warren Ward Refrigeration today for expert advice, transparent pricing, and fast, friendly service.