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We have an old reverse cycle ducted aircon that seems to be on its last legs. Had it serviced & recharged last year, now it's out again - doesn't cool, and also doesn't seem to be sending air to one end of the house. It seems that the switch that shuts off this end of the house has done so permanently.
If I get a new system, am I likely to be able to use the existing ducting? Alternatively, how good are split systems at cooling separate areas, and how do the costs compare?
Chances are you can use the existing ducting.
But you may find that the new system requires different ducting to the original.
e.g. Ducting nowadays is insulated whereas it may not have been when yours was installed.
You may also find that your original ducting was under or oversized for the new Air handler.
You will probably need a new Damper Motor for turning that extra room on as well.
I would suggest that a new Air handler compressor etc will be more efficient.
Definately go for ducted over a Split system.
Better temp control, quieter.
lpg_falcon.
I have two systems, one ducted and one split, both are Daikin. The advantage of the split inverter system is that it can have up to seven heads and they can be added if you find that they are needed, it is a bit like networking computers. We had three heads initially and I wanted a bit of cooling in the garage so another was added, very flexible and easy. The inverter systems are all 240V while the ducted is 415V so that may sway the decision. We had 415V so it was not a problem. As for using the old ducting, forget it. I bet the insulation has come off it and the new stuff is heaps better in every way. I would think you won't get anyone to even contemplate it.
Thanks for that info. The ducting is insulated and appears OK. We have 415V to the existing system. I'm inclined to prefer ducted, as there is minimal wall space for a split system.