What are the key parts of a ducted air conditioning system?

  • Air conditioner repairs in Brisbane

There are many types of air conditioning systems, such as multi split systems, single split systems, window/wall air conditioners, and portable air conditioning units.

Ducted air conditioning systems are a type of HVAC system that can be designed and adapted according to your home, budget, and particular cooling requirements.

If you are unsure about the right air conditioning system for your home, then it’s best to speak to an air conditioning expert about the benefits of each type before you decide.

Get in touch with Tri-Tech’s mobile tech team today – we’d love to help. Call (07) 3394 0222 or fill out this form.

What are ducted air conditioning systems?

Ducted air conditioning systems are designed to keep your entire home, office, or commercial space comfortable by distributing cool air through a network of ducts. These ducts are usually hidden within the ceiling, walls, or under the floor, keeping the system out of sight and preserving the aesthetics of your space.

Instead of using separate units in each room like split systems, ducted systems rely on a single central indoor unit that controls both the temperature and airflow across multiple zones. It’s an efficient and unobtrusive way to cool large areas.

What are the key functions of a ducted system?

Ducted systems go beyond just cooling. Many modern systems offer zoning capabilities, allowing you to independently control the temperature in different areas of your property. This means you can keep the living room cool during the day and the bedrooms cooler at night—saving energy and improving comfort.

Air is delivered through subtle vents installed in the ceiling, wall, or floor, offering a minimal and clean look. Since the main unit is tucked away, ducted systems also tend to operate more quietly, making them ideal for homes, offices, and businesses where noise and appearance matter.

What are the basic components of an air conditioning system?

Understanding the main parts of your ducted aircon system is key to knowing how it works and why regular servicing is so important. Here’s a breakdown of the essential components in a typical ducted air conditioning system:

installation in Brisbane, give our team a call on (07) 3394 0222.

Outdoor compressor unit

Both split and ducted air conditioning have an outdoor air compressor. This compressor is connected to the internal unit via condensate drain lines and a power cable.

The purpose of an outdoor air compressor is to pump refrigerant into the ductwork via a motorised system that creates energy.

Outdoor compressors also collect heat from your home and evaporate it.

Ductwork

Ductwork refers to the network of large, flexible pipes that distribute cool air to different rooms through vents. The size and layout of your ductwork depend on the power of your system, the building’s size, and the layout of each space—for example, schools often need wider ducts for large spaces like halls.
Over time, ducts can become damaged or worn. Common issues include:

  • Ducts pulling away from walls, causing air leaks
  • Dust build-up that reduces airflow and efficiency

These problems can seriously impact your system’s performance. To learn more about what to watch out for, check out our guide on 5 common ducted air conditioning problems.

That’s why we recommend having your system inspected and serviced annually. Noticing reduced airflow or uneven cooling? Contact us for ducted air conditioning repairs in Brisbane on (07) 3394 0222.

Filters

Every type of air conditioner, including ducted, split, portable, and window units, uses filters to trap dust, allergens, and other particles.

Ducted systems have multiple filters, including:

  • In the indoor unit
  • At each vent or return grille
  • And often in the outdoor compressor

Most filters are removable and can be cleaned or replaced easily, but it’s always best to check your user manual. Daikin and Mitsubishi systems, for instance, have different filter designs and cleaning instructions. Aim to clean your filters every season to keep the system running efficiently.

Indoor unit

The indoor unit is the heart of the ducted system. It connects to the ducts and distributes cooled air to each room. This unit is typically controlled via a wall-mounted panel or remote, allowing you to adjust the temperature and fan speed across the entire property.

Zone dampers

Modern ducted systems often include zoning, which allows you to set different temperatures in different rooms. This is achieved using zone dampers, small mechanical valves near each vent that open or close to control airflow.

Zoning is perfect for families or workplaces with varied comfort needs, and it helps improve energy efficiency by only cooling the rooms you’re using.

If you want the benefits of ducted air conditioning but also value individual room control, ask us about zoned ducted air conditioning systems.

Aircon in Brisbane

Can you install ducted air conditioning yourself?

Air conditioning installation is not a DIY job. It requires a licensed and experienced technician to ensure everything is installed safely, efficiently, and in line with Australian standards.

At Tri-Tech, our mobile tech team specialises in ducted air conditioning installation, replacement, and repairs. We work with all major brands including Daikin and Mitsubishi, so no matter what system you have (or want), we’ve got you covered.

Looking for air conditioning service or  repair? We’re ready to help.

Call us on (07) 3394 0222 or fill out our contact form for a free quote today.

2025-08-02T18:33:03+10:0026 August 2021|Repair, Service, Systems|

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