Split System vs Ducted: What’s Best for Geelong’s Coastal Climate?

Choosing the right heating and cooling system for your Geelong home can make a noticeable difference to comfort, running costs and long-term performance. With our coastal climate bringing humid summers, cool winters and the challenges of salt air, it’s worth weighing up whether a split system or a ducted system suits your home best.

Split systems remain a popular choice in Geelong, particularly for smaller homes, townhouses and open-plan living areas. They offer excellent energy efficiency, low running costs and the flexibility to heat or cool individual rooms. This can be ideal in our region, where humidity fluctuates and targeted cooling often feels more comfortable than cooling the whole home. Another advantage is that the outdoor units can be positioned to reduce exposure to corrosive salt air, extending the system’s lifespan when installed correctly.

Ducted systems, on the other hand, provide whole-home comfort with discreet vents and even air distribution. They’re a strong option for larger homes or for families who want consistent temperatures throughout every room. Ducted reverse-cycle systems have improved significantly in energy efficiency, making them suitable for year-round use. However, they do require more space in the ceiling or under the floor, and the ductwork can be affected by salt air over time if not maintained properly. Regular servicing is essential to ensure ducts stay clean and efficient, especially with Geelong’s coastal humidity.

Ultimately, the best system depends on your home’s layout, your budget and how you prefer to manage comfort. At The Heat Shop, we help Geelong homeowners choose systems that suit both the local environment and their long-term efficiency goals. If you’re unsure which direction to take, our team can assess your home and recommend the ideal solution. Contact us now for your free quote.