📌 What is a Ducted AC Unit?
A ducted air conditioning unit is a hidden installation air conditioning system that operates on a one-to-one model, meaning one outdoor unit is connected to one indoor unit, and cold air is distributed to different rooms through air ducts. It offers a sleek, concealed look similar to central air conditioning, but is more affordable compared to multi-split central air conditioning systems. This makes it a great choice for residential homes and small to medium commercial spaces.
🔹 Ducted AC vs. Other Air Conditioning Types
| Type | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Wall-mounted AC | Affordable, easy to install, but occupies wall space and provides uneven cooling | Small rooms, individual spaces |
| Standing (Cabinet) AC | High airflow, good for large spaces, but takes up floor space | Living rooms, conference rooms |
| Ducted AC | Hidden installation, even airflow, mid-range price | Homes, apartments, offices, stores |
| Multi-split Central AC | Multiple indoor units connected to one outdoor unit, high-end comfort but expensive | Large homes, office buildings, commercial spaces |
✅ Advantages of a Ducted AC System
1️⃣ Cost-effective with High Value for Money
- Compared to multi-split central AC systems, ducted units are 30%-50% cheaper, making them a budget-friendly alternative.
- It includes both supply and return air outlets, ensuring better airflow circulation and temperature balance than traditional cabinet units.
2️⃣ Space-saving, Hidden Installation
- The indoor unit is concealed within the ceiling, saving about 1㎡ of space compared to a standing cabinet unit.
- It seamlessly integrates with interior design, avoiding the visual impact of a wall-mounted AC.
3️⃣ Even Cooling for Greater Comfort
- Uniform temperature distribution, avoiding the discomfort of direct cold air.
- 360° airflow, ensuring a balanced room temperature without hot or cold spots.
4️⃣ Flexible Installation with Partial Ceiling Design
- Different rooms can have different air distribution methods for optimal cooling:
- Living Room → Side supply & side return air
- Bedroom → Hidden installation above a wardrobe
- Study Room → Installed in the hallway ceiling, reducing noise
⚠️ Disadvantages of a Ducted AC System
1️⃣ Higher Noise Levels
- Larger ducted units with higher airflow and pressure can generate some noise.
- Solution: Choose low-noise models and optimize duct layout to reduce airflow speed.
2️⃣ Requires Multiple Outdoor Units
- Since ducted AC systems use a one-to-one configuration, installing units for multiple rooms requires several outdoor units, which may take up significant balcony or wall space.
- Solution: Plan outdoor unit placement carefully, using stacked installations or concealed areas.
3️⃣ Ceiling Height Considerations
- Requires partial ceiling installation, which may cause a crowded feeling in rooms with low ceilings (<2.6m).
- Solution: Opt for ultra-thin ducted units or use localized ceiling design to minimize space loss.
📌 Installation Methods for Ducted AC Systems
Ducted AC units typically use one of three airflow configurations:
1️⃣ Side supply with bottom return → Suitable for rooms with low ceilings, allowing partial ceiling installation.
2️⃣ Bottom supply with bottom return → Best for spaces with thicker ceilings, offering enhanced airflow.
3️⃣ Side supply with side return → Ideal for large living spaces, providing more consistent temperature control.
🛠️ Recommended Installation for Different Rooms
| Room Type | Installation Method | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Living Room | Side supply & side return | Balanced airflow, uniform cooling |
| Bedroom | Hidden above wardrobe | Saves space, reduces noise |
| Study Room | Installed in hallway ceiling | Space-saving, quiet operation |
🎯 Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Ducted AC
✅ 1. Budget
- Ducted AC systems are 30%-50% cheaper than multi-split central AC, but more expensive than wall-mounted units.
- Ideal for homeowners seeking both affordability and aesthetics.
✅ 2. Ceiling Height
- Recommended ceiling height ≥2.6m, as lower ceilings may feel cramped after installation.
✅ 3. Outdoor Unit Placement
- If installing multiple ducted units, ensure sufficient space for outdoor units.
- If space is limited, a multi-split system might be a better option.
✅ 4. Noise Level Preferences
- Living rooms can use standard models with higher airflow.
- Bedrooms and study rooms should have low-noise units to ensure a quiet environment.
🔍 Who Should Choose a Ducted AC System?
✅ Best for:
- Homeowners looking for aesthetic, concealed installation without the high cost of a multi-split central AC.
- Apartments with ≥2.6m ceiling height, where partial ceiling modifications are feasible.
- Those who want uniform cooling without the direct airflow discomfort of wall-mounted ACs.
❌ Not ideal for:
- Homes with low ceilings (<2.5m), where the installation may feel too restrictive.
- Buildings without enough space for multiple outdoor units (a multi-split AC would be better).
- People highly sensitive to noise, as ducted AC units generate more sound than wall-mounted units.
🏆 Conclusion
A ducted central air conditioning unit is a cost-effective and aesthetic solution for homeowners who want hidden installation without the high price of multi-split central ACs. Compared to wall-mounted or standing ACs, it provides better air circulation and comfort, while remaining cheaper and easier to install than full-fledged multi-split systems.
✅ Key Considerations When Choosing a Ducted AC:
🔹 Budget → 30%-50% cheaper than multi-split central AC.
🔹 Ceiling Height → Should be ≥2.6m for best experience.
🔹 Outdoor Units → One-to-one setup requires space for multiple units.
🔹 Noise Levels → Choose low-noise models for bedrooms & quiet areas.
📢 Thinking about installing a ducted AC system? ! 😊