How Ducted Reverse Cycle Systems Work

Ducted reverse cycle air conditioners deliver year-round comfort by efficiently moving heat rather than creating it. In summer, they pull warm indoor air through the system, cool it via a refrigerant, and circulate the chilled air back into your home. In winter, they reverse the process—extracting heat from outside air and transferring it indoors.

Components of a Ducted Reverse Cycle System

• Indoor Unit: Contains the fan and evaporator coil that manage the air distribution inside.
• Outdoor Unit: Houses the compressor and condenser to handle heat exchange.
• Ducting: Insulated channels that deliver air across different rooms.
• Air Vents/Diffusers: Outlets that disperse the treated air into your home.
• Zoning Control: Lets you manage airflow to different areas independently for optimal comfort and efficiency.
• Thermostat: Monitors temperature and controls the system accordingly

Benefits of Ducted Air Conditioning

• Whole-home coverage: Maintains a consistent temperature throughout the house.
• Energy efficiency: Transfers heat instead of generating it, reducing energy use.
• Zoning: Save energy by only heating or cooling rooms in use.
• Quiet performance: With the main unit located outside, indoor noise is minimal.
• Dual-mode: One system provides both heating and cooling.

Ducted vs Gas Heating – Which Is Better?

While gas ducted systems are heating-only and often cheaper to install upfront, ducted reverse cycle systems offer both heating and cooling with lower long-term energy costs—especially when powered by solar. They're also more sustainable and require less frequent servicing than gas systems.

Government Rebates in Victoria

Learn more about available rebates and discounts for energy-efficient heating and cooling systems through the Victorian Energy Upgrades program.

What Size Ducted System Do I Need?

System size depends on several factors like room size, insulation, and ceiling height. As a rule of thumb, allow 1.1 to 1.4kW of heating per 10m². We also recommend zoning for greater control and efficiency, and ensuring ducting is correctly sized and well-insulated. Always consult with a licensed installer to determine the best system for your home.

Read the Heating and Cooling System Sizing Guide (PDF) to learn how to choose the right system size for your home.