What To Expect During A Split System Installation

If you’ve decided it’s time to install a split system air conditioner in your home or business, you’re probably wondering: What happens next? Getting the right cooling and heating solution is more than just picking a unit—it’s about making sure it’s installed correctly, safely, and efficiently. Knowing what to expect during installation helps you prepare your space, minimise disruptions, and enjoy your new system as soon as possible.

Here’s a detailed walkthrough of the split system installation process, with insights into how professional services ensure everything goes smoothly.

Professional installation follows a structured process designed to deliver the best results. Before installation day, you’ll undergo an assessment phase to evaluate your space and cooling needs.

The core steps include:



• Consultation & system selection: Experts assess your room sizes, usage patterns, and layout to recommend the right system size.
• Indoor & outdoor unit placement: Deciding where the system components will go for optimal performance.
• Running pipework & wiring: Connecting indoor and outdoor units with minimal disruption to your space.
• Testing & calibration: Once installed, the system is tested to ensure it operates efficiently.

Preparing your space before the installers arrive is essential to helping them work efficiently and avoid delays. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring the installation runs smoothly.

Here’s what you can do:

• Clear access: Move furniture or items that block the wall where the indoor unit will be mounted.
• Ensure outdoor access: Clear the area where the outdoor condenser will sit, and ensure there’s a clear path to get equipment in and out.
• Secure pets: Keep pets in a safe area away from the work zones to avoid interruptions or safety hazards.
• Check power points: Ensure the electrical panel is accessible if the installers need to shut off or adjust power during setup.



These simple steps ensure the installation team can focus on installing your system efficiently.

Even with good preparation, installers sometimes encounter challenges unique to your property. Experienced professionals come equipped to handle these on-site issues with minimal fuss.

Some common challenges include:

• Difficult access points: Tight spaces or awkward wall configurations might require creative mounting solutions.
• Older building constraints: Outdated electrical systems or structural concerns may need upgrades or reinforcements.
• Unpredictable weather: Wind, rain, or extreme heat can delay outdoor work, but teams adjust their schedule or setup as needed.
• Hidden obstructions: Discovering pipes or cables behind walls during drilling can require minor rerouting or adjustments.

Hiring a seasoned aircon installation team in Wollongong means you benefit from their problem-solving experience, ensuring challenges don’t derail your installation.

Your installer will conduct a site inspection before installation. This step is critical in ensuring the job is planned accurately and completed efficiently.

During the inspection, you can expect the following:



• Room measurements & heat load assessment: To ensure the right system capacity is selected.
• Wall strength & mounting suitability checks: Ensuring walls can safely support the unit.
• Pipe routing evaluation: Identifying the shortest, neatest, and least invasive paths for pipes and wiring.
• Electrical system review: Checking your current setup to confirm it can handle the new system’s load.

Installing a split system air conditioner isn’t just about connecting units; it involves strict safety and compliance checks. Professional installers follow Australian standards and use best practices to protect your property and investment.

Key safety and compliance measures include:

• Licensed & certified work: Only qualified technicians handle electrical and refrigerant tasks.
• Correct electrical connections: Ensuring proper voltage, circuit protection, and grounding.
• Refrigerant safety: Managing refrigerant with precision to avoid leaks and environmental harm.
• Adhering to building codes: Following local unit placement, drainage, and noise levels requirements.



These precautions give you peace of mind that your system is installed safely, legally, and in a way that maintains the manufacturer’s warranty.

It’s not just about where the units fit — placement directly affects system efficiency, noise levels, and long-term performance. Professional advice ensures your unit works optimally.

Why placement matters:



• Maximising airflow: Indoor units should be positioned for even distribution of cooled or heated air.
• Minimising noise: Outdoor units are placed away from windows or neighbour-facing walls to reduce disturbance.
• Protecting the equipment: Outdoor condensers are shielded from direct sun, falling debris, or flooding risks.
• Ease of maintenance: Units are positioned where technicians can easily access them for future servicing.

One of the most common questions homeowners and business owners ask is, “How long will the installation take?” While each site is unique, most installations are completed within a day.

Here’s a general breakdown:

• Small residential system: Typically 3–6 hours, depending on site access and wall type.
• Larger or multi-head systems: May require 6–10 hours or a second visit.
• Commercial installations: Larger projects could span one or two days, especially if multiple units or custom setups are involved.
• Electrical upgrade requirements: If your property needs additional electrical work, this may add time but ensures long-term reliability.



Professional installers aim to balance speed and quality, completing your project efficiently without cutting corners.

Once installation is complete, the final step is the handover, which ensures that you’re confident using and maintaining your new system.

Post-installation steps include:



• System testing: Checking airflow, cooling/heating performance, and control settings.
• Electrical & refrigerant checks: Verifying safe connections, pressure levels, and no leaks.
• User demonstration: Showing you how to use the remote, change settings, and adjust the timer.
• Maintenance tips: Advising on filter cleaning, scheduled services, and warranty conditions.
• Providing documentation: Supplying you with manuals, warranties, and contact details for future support.
  

We at Airdale Services are here to help you bring reliable, efficient climate control to your home or business. Explore our split system air conditioning services in Wollongong. Ready to get started? Get in touch via our contact page or give us a call to book a consultation or installation.

We look forward to helping you create a comfortable, energy-efficient space, all year round!