Step-by-Step Guide to Installing an Air Conditioning System in Ringwood

Thinking about installing an air conditioning system in your Ringwood home? Whether you’re considering a DIY project or planning to call in professionals, understanding how the process works can help you make smarter decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

From choosing the right system to following local Victorian regulations, this guide walks you through every major step of air conditioning installation so your home stays cool, efficient, and comfortable all summer long.

H2 Understanding Your Air Conditioning Needs

H3 Choosing the Right Size

Selecting the correct unit size is crucial. An undersized air conditioner will run continuously without reaching the desired temperature, while an oversized one cycles on and off too often, wasting energy and failing to properly dehumidify.

As a general rule, you’ll need around 120–150 watts of cooling power per square metre for a standard 2.4m ceiling. For example, a 20m² bedroom may need a 2.5–3kW unit, while a 50m² living room could require 6–7.5kW.

Professional installers use detailed load calculations that consider factors like insulation, window size, orientation, and ceiling height. Getting this assessment done properly ensures long-term comfort and efficiency.

H3 Types of Air Conditioning Systems

• Split Systems: The most common choice for Ringwood homes. Ideal for single rooms or open spaces, combining indoor and outdoor units for quiet and efficient cooling.

• Multi-Split Systems: Connect multiple indoor units to one outdoor condenser perfect for multi-room cooling without cluttering outdoor space.

• Ducted Systems: Provide whole-home comfort through concealed vents, but need more ceiling space and a higher initial investment.

• Portable Units: Easy to move and require no installation but are less efficient and noisier.

H3 Energy Efficiency and Ratings

Australia’s Energy Star Rating helps you compare models easily — more stars mean higher efficiency. Check both the EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) and COP (Coefficient of Performance) for balanced performance in cooling and heating.

Modern inverter units adjust output automatically, often reducing power use by 30–40%. Features like programmable timers, eco modes, and smart home connectivity also improve efficiency.

H2 Pre-Installation Planning

H3 DIY vs Professional Installation

In Australia, air conditioners must be installed by licensed professionals — particularly for electrical work and refrigerant handling, which require an ARCTick licence. While you can prepare the site or mount brackets yourself, the main installation must be done by qualified experts.

DIY installation might save a few hundred dollars upfront, but it risks voiding warranties, breaching regulations, and even causing safety hazards. Professional installers ensure compliance, provide insurance cover, and guarantee their work.

H3 Council Permits and Local Regulations

Most residential split systems in Ringwood fall under exempt development, meaning no council permit is needed. However:

• Outdoor units must be at least 1 metre from property boundaries.

• Noise levels must meet local council limits.

• Body corporate approval is required for units in shared properties.

If your home has a heritage overlay, additional permits might be necessary to maintain street aesthetics.

H3 Choosing the Best Location

The indoor unit should be mounted high on a wall where air can circulate freely — ideally blowing across the room’s longest span. Avoid corners, direct sunlight, or heat sources.

The outdoor condenser needs good airflow and easy access for maintenance. Install it in a shaded area if possible, away from bedrooms and tight corners. Keep at least 300mm clearance around the unit and plan for minimal pipe length to reduce energy loss.

H2 Step-by-Step Installation Process

H3 Step 1: Preparing the Area

Clear furniture and use drop sheets to protect floors. Mark the indoor unit position using the supplied template, ensuring it’s level. Drill a slightly downward-sloping hole (65–75mm) for the pipework to prevent water buildup.

Outside, clear vegetation and level the surface for the condenser. Use a concrete slab or wall brackets with rubber mounts to reduce vibration and noise.

H3 Step 2: Mounting the Indoor Unit

Secure the wall bracket and hang the unit firmly. Feed refrigerant lines, drainage, and electrical cables through the wall opening carefully, avoiding kinks or insulation damage.

Ensure the drain hose has a continuous downward slope to allow proper condensation flow.

H3 Step 3: Installing the Outdoor Unit

Place the condenser securely on its base, ensuring it’s level. Connect refrigerant lines following manufacturer torque settings and insulate all exposed pipes. Protect insulation with UV-resistant tape to prevent weather damage.

H3 Step 4: Electrical and Refrigerant Connections

A licensed electrician will handle all electrical work, including installing a dedicated circuit and isolation switch. After connections are complete, they’ll issue a Certificate of Electrical Safety important for warranty and insurance purposes.

Next, the installer vacuum-tests the system to remove air and moisture before releasing the refrigerant. Proper pressure testing ensures there are no leaks and the system runs efficiently.

H3 Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect Sizing: Oversized units cause uneven cooling and higher costs; undersized units overwork and wear out early. Always rely on professional load calculations.

2. Poor Drainage: Incorrect slope or drain location can cause water leaks or wall damage. The drain should lead to a proper outdoor outlet, not sewer pipes.

3. Uninsulated Pipework: Unprotected pipes lose efficiency and may sweat or corrode. Use quality insulation with proper sealing and UV protection.

H3 Getting Reliable Quotes

Request 3–5 quotes from licensed Ringwood installers. Compare inclusions like electrical work, wall brackets, and warranties. Check ARCTick registration, public liability insurance, and customer reviews before finalising.

H3 Testing and Commissioning

When installation is complete, the system undergoes commissioning checks:

• Measuring air temperature differences (usually 15–20°C between intake and output).

• Checking refrigerant pressure, voltage, and amp draw.

• Testing all operating modes.

Your installer should provide a commissioning report, which serves as proof of correct setup for future maintenance or warranty claims.

Run your AC for at least 2–3 hours during the first use to stabilise performance and confirm consistent airflow. Some mild odours at first are normal as manufacturing residues burn off.

H2 Maintenance and Care

H3 Regular Maintenance

Clean or vacuum filters every 2–3 months, especially in summer. Keep outdoor units free from leaves and debris. Schedule professional servicing once a year — ideally before summer to check refrigerant levels, clean coils, and ensure safe operation.

H3 When to Call a Technician

Call for service if you notice:

• Water leaks or ice buildup

• Reduced cooling performance

• Strange noises or smells

• Circuit breaker trips

Ignoring these signs can lead to major damage or safety risks.

H3 Conclusion

Installing an air conditioning system in your Ringwood home involves more than just mounting a unit on the wall. From selecting the right system and complying with local regulations to ensuring professional installation, every step impacts performance, efficiency, and safety.

While professional installation might cost more upfront, it guarantees compliance with Australian standards, protects your warranty, and ensures your system runs efficiently for years.

By understanding the process and working with experienced local installers, you’ll enjoy reliable, cost-effective cooling through even the hottest Victorian summers.

H3 Visit Us

Templestowe Heating And Cooling

2-4 Templestowe Rd, Bulleen VIC 3105, Australia

+61398522335

www.ttvheatingandcooling.com.au