The benefits of reverse cycle air conditioning in the Queensland climate
Queensland's weather is dynamic and can be extreme. In summer, heat and humidity are often accompanied by storms and rain.
Keeping a home cool in the summer and warm in the milder winter months is a must for year-round interior comfort.
Reverse-cycle air conditioners are a popular choice for many Queenslanders due to their versatility. They can both heat and cool your home, so you can use them year-round.
Reverse cycling air conditioning can also reduce energy use, saving you money on electricity.
Here at Plantation Homes, we live the Queensland lifestyle too, so we understand the importance of reverse-cycle air conditioning for keeping our homes at a pleasant temperature 365 days a year.
Here's why choosing reverse cycle air conditioning for your new home is a great idea.
What is a reverse cycle air conditioner?
A reverse cycle air conditioner is an electrical climate-control system that provides both heating as well as refrigerated cooling. They work differently from regular air conditioners which can cool but not heat.
How does a reverse-cycle air conditioner work?
Reverse cycle air conditioners use a refrigerant, a special liquid that can absorb and release heat. A reversing valve switches the direction the refrigerant flows, depending on whether you want to heat or cool the home.
When it's hot, the air conditioner uses the refrigerant to absorb heat from the inside air and release it outside. This leaves the air in your room cooler.
When it's cold outside, the valve switches the direction of the flow. The refrigerant absorbs heat from outside air and releases it into the room, heating the space.
Different types of air conditioners
Split system air conditioners
Split system air conditioners are the most popular type of reverse-cycle air conditioner. These have two separate units connected by refrigerant piping and electrical wiring.
An indoor unit typically mounted on a wall blows air into the space while an outdoor unit contains the air compressor.
Multi split system air conditioners
Similar to the split system but with one outdoor unit connected to multiple indoor units. This is useful if you want to cool or heat several rooms at once.
Ducted air conditioners
Ducted air conditioning can cool or heat an entire house or building. A ducted system has a central unit connected to a series of ducts that distribute the air for a consistent temperature.
Ducted systems can also be more energy-efficient than split systems, as they can be zoned to only supply cool air or heat to certain areas of the home.
Portable air conditioners
These are freestanding air conditioning units that can be moved from one room to another. They can use a lot of power but are convenient if you need to cool or heat a small space.
Window or wall-mounted air conditioners
These are single air conditioner units that are mounted on a wall or in a window. They're relatively cheap and easy to install but not as powerful as other types of air conditioners.
The difference between reverse cycle systems and evaporative or refrigerated cooling systems
While a reverse cycle system can heat and cool, evaporative or refrigerated cooling systems only offer a cooling mode.
Evaporative cooling draws warm air from outside and passes it over a wet filter, causing the water to evaporate and cool the air. The cooled air is blown into the room.
Refrigerated cooling uses a compressor and refrigerant. It absorbs heat from inside the room and releases it outside, leaving the room cooler.
The benefits of reverse cycle air conditioning for Queensland homes
If you need an air conditioning unit that can heat and cool for year-round comfort, you can't go past a reverse-cycle air conditioning system.
Reverse cycle air conditioning systems offer several benefits for Queensland homes.
Perfect for the Queensland climate
Queensland's climate can be extremely hot and humid in the summer. Reverse cycle air conditioning creates a pleasant reprieve from the soaring heat and stifling outdoor air.
Saves energy
Reverse cycle air conditioning systems don't use as much energy as other options, so you'll spend less on electricity costs.
Lower cost
Reverse cycle air conditioners are often cheaper than buying separate cooling and heating systems. By having a single system, you can save money on installation and maintenance, especially during a new home build.
Temperature control
You have complete control over the temperature of your home with reverse cycle air conditioning. You can change it to suit your preferences or let it run automatically. Many smart home systems can now be controlled with your phone.
Improved air quality
Reverse cycle air conditioning systems can help improve indoor air quality. They filter out dust, pollen and other pollutants. This is important in areas with high humidity, where homes can get lots of mould and mildew.
What to consider when choosing a reverse cycle air conditioner
Here's what you'll need to think about to choose the right air conditioner.
The size of your home
Your air conditioner should be powerful enough to cool or heat your space effectively and reach your desired temperature.
The energy efficiency rating of the air conditioner
Check the number of energy stars - more stars means more efficient operation and lower energy consumption.
The noise level
Some air conditioners can be quite noisy, which can be annoying if you're trying to sleep or watch TV.
Added features
Some air conditioners come with extra features like remote control, air purification, smart home features and programmable settings.
The installation process
Some air conditioners are easier to install than others and some may require professional installation.
Home size and number of storeys
For a single-storey home, split system reverse cycle air conditioning may be a good option, as it can be installed in a single room or multiple rooms, depending on your needs.
For a double-storey home, ducted reverse cycle air conditioning may be a better option, as it can cool or heat the entire house, including both levels.
If you're using solar panels to power reverse cycle air conditioning, you'll need a system large enough to run all the air conditioners in your home.
Should you include reverse cycle air conditioning in your new build?
Building a new home is the perfect time to install reverse cycle air conditioning. Here's why.
- It’s more cost-effective: installing reverse cycle air conditioning or split cycle air conditioning when you build can be cheaper than installing it later.
- More design control: You can see where your split system air conditioner will go and can change the location to suit the layout of your home.
- Start saving on running costs straight away: Adding air conditioning during your new home build will reduce energy consumption and deliver more efficient heating and cooling as soon as you move in.
Build an all-electric solar home with Plantation Homes
Plantation Homes is proud to build healthier and more energy efficient homes, designed for Queensland living.
We've partnered with some world-leading brands to offer our customers Solar All Electric homes.
Our New Home consultants can help you choose the best home style based on your lifestyle and budget. They can show you how you'll save up to 75% on your energy bills by going all electric and solar powered!
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