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Air conditioning · 5 min read

What to expect from a split system air conditioning installation

Published 15 April 2026

Planning an air conditioning installation in Logan, Brisbane or the Gold Coast? Here's what a proper install involves, how long it takes, and the questions worth asking beforehand.

A split system installation done properly looks effortless. One that's been rushed looks exactly how you'd expect — exposed cables, condensate draining to the wrong place, and a unit that underperforms because it was sized wrong.

What a proper install involves

  • Correct sizing for the room — undersized units run continuously, oversized units short-cycle
  • Indoor unit mounted level, in the right position for airflow distribution
  • Refrigeration lines run as short and straight as possible, properly insulated
  • Condensate drain to an appropriate point — not just dripping down a wall
  • Dedicated electrical sub-circuit and isolator installed correctly
  • Full commissioning against the manufacturer's specification

How long does it take?

A standard back-to-back install (indoor and outdoor on the same wall) is typically a 3–4 hour job. A more complex run — through a ceiling space, across a storey, or into a hard-to-access outdoor area — takes longer. We confirm the time on site before starting, so you know what the day looks like.

ARC licensing — why it matters

Refrigerant must be handled by someone with an ARC (Australian Refrigeration Council) licence. We hold ARC Licence L179309, which means the full install — refrigeration and electrical — is handled under one ticket. No subcontractors, no second visit.

Ask your installer for their ARC licence number before they start. Any reputable installer will provide it without hesitation.

Questions to ask before booking

  • What size unit is recommended for this room and why?
  • Where will the outdoor unit go — is there clearance and airflow?
  • How will the refrigeration line be routed and what does the finish look like?
  • Is a dedicated circuit or switchboard upgrade required?
  • What's included in the compliance certificate?

Need a licensed electrician to check it properly?

Send a few details or call directly. We'll tell you what needs a licensed electrician, what can wait, and what the next step should be.