Average Air Conditioning Installation Costs by System Type
Here’s a breakdown of the average costs to install air conditioning in Australia, based on the most common systems available. These prices include both the equipment and standard installation by a licensed technician.
Prices may vary based on brand, capacity (kW), access, and electrical needs. Multi-level homes and heritage properties often require custom quotes.
What Factors Affect Installation Cost?
Not all air conditioning installations are the same and that’s exactly why prices can vary so much. Here’s a breakdown of the most common factors that influence the final cost of installing air conditioning in Australia:
🍃Type and Size of System
- A split system for a small room is much cheaper than a ducted system for a large home.
- Higher-capacity systems (like 7kW or more) require more powerful units, thicker piping, and sometimes electrical upgrades.
🍃Property Size and Layout
- The larger or more complex your home, the longer the installation takes.
- Multi-level properties, homes with limited roof or wall access, or solid brick walls may increase labour time and cost.
🍃 Electrical Requirements
- Some older homes may need switchboard upgrades or additional circuits to support the new system.
- Adding a separate power supply or circuit breaker will increase the cost.
🍃Installation Complexity
- Will the unit be mounted on an internal or external wall?
- Does it require concrete pads, wall brackets, roof penetration, or ducting?
- Are there multiple indoor units (for multi-split systems)?
All of these details affect the labour and materials needed
🍃 📍Your Location
- Installation in metro areas like Sydney or Melbourne tends to be cheaper due to higher competition.
- In regional or remote areas, transport and limited availability of qualified installers may increase costs.
Tip
Always ask for a detailed quote that includes both labour and materials, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
What’s Included in a Standard Air Conditioning Installation?
When you receive a quote for air conditioning installation, it’s important to know exactly what’s included and what’s not. While each installer may offer slightly different packages, most standard installations will cover the following:
✔️Included in a Standard Installation:
- Mounting the indoor and outdoor units (on wall brackets, ground slab, or roof as required)
- Pipework and refrigerant line connection between units (usually up to 3 metres included)
- Electrical wiring to a nearby power source or switchboard
- Wall penetration and sealing for pipe access
- System testing and commissioning to ensure proper operation
- Basic remote or control setup, including temperature programming
- Cleanup and removal of packaging materials
⚠️ May Be Extra (Not always included):
- Additional piping (beyond standard length)
- Switchboard or circuit upgrades
- Wall brackets or custom roof mounts
- Concrete pad for outdoor unit
- Multi-storey work or roof access
- Wi-Fi controller setup or smart integration
- Travel or parking fees (in some metro areas)
Tip
When comparing quotes, make sure each one clearly specifies what is and isn’t included so you’re not caught off guard on installation day.
Tips to Reduce Air Conditioning Installation Costs
Air conditioning is a smart investment but that doesn’t mean you have to overpay. With the right planning and a few strategic decisions, you can significantly lower your installation costs without sacrificing comfort or performance.
Here are some proven tips to help you save:
🛠️ Compare Multiple Quotes: Always get at least 2–3 quotes from licensed installers. This gives you a clear idea of what’s fair in your are and can help you negotiate better terms.
🗓️ Install in Off-Peak Seasons: Installation is typically more expensive in summer and early autumn, when demand is high.
Booking in winter or spring can save you both time and money.
💰Look for Rebates and Government Incentives: Depending on your state or territory, you may qualify for:
- Energy-efficient system rebates
- Low-income household incentives
- Environmental upgrades support programs
Check resources like the Victorian Energy Upgrades Program (VEU) or NSW Energy Savings Scheme (ESS).
🏘️ Choose the right size, not the biggest: Oversizing your unit doesn’t mean better cooling it means wasted electricity and higher upfront cost.
Let a professional assess your space to choose the ideal kW rating for your needs.
Is It Worth It? Long-Term Value of Installing Air Conditioning
The upfront cost of air conditioning can feel like a big decision but in most cases, it’s one of the best long-term investments you can make in your home or property.
🪴Increases Property Value
- Modern air conditioning is no longer a luxury it’s an expectation.
- Homes with well-installed, energy-efficient systems are more appealing to buyers and renters.
🪴Year-Round Comfort
- With reverse-cycle systems, you re not just cooling your heating too.
- That means one system provides comfort in both summer and winter, with lower running costs than traditional heaters.
🪴Reduces Energy Bills (with the Right System)
- Installing a high-efficiency inverter split system or a zoned ducted system can reduce your power usage over time.
- With smart usage and regular maintenance, these systems pay for themselves in 3-5 years through energy savings.
🪴Low Maintenance and Long Lifespan
- Modern air conditioners require minimal upkeep.
- With basic maintenance (like filter cleaning and annual checks), most systems last 10-15 years or more.
🪴Environmental Efficiency
Choosing an energy-efficient model with a good Energy Star Rating reduces your environmental footprint and helps you contribute to a more sustainable Australia
Ready to Install Air Conditioning? Get a Transparent Quote with Glower
Installing air conditioning doesn’t have to be confusing or unpredictable. At Glower, we make it easy by offering:
- Honest, upfront pricing
- Free, no-obligation consultations
- Experienced, licensed technicians
- Advice on rebates and energy-efficient systems
