Top 5 Cooling Options for Your New Home: From Cheapest to Most Expensive

2nd September 2024

Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Sustainability & Energy Efficiency Smart Home & Tech

This article explores the top five cooling options for new homes, ranked from the most affordable to the most expensive. It provides cost estimates, pros and cons, and key considerations to help home buyers choose the best cooling solution.

Top 5 Cooling Options for Your New Home: From Cheapest to Most Expensive

Choosing the right cooling system for your new home can significantly impact your comfort and energy costs. In this guide, we’ll explore five cooling options, ranked from the most affordable to the most expensive, to help you make an informed decision.

1. Ceiling Fans (Most Affordable)

Ceiling fans are the most cost-effective cooling solution. While they don’t actively cool the air, they improve airflow and help regulate temperature.

• Cost: $150 - $300 per fan (including installation)
• Pros:

• • Low energy consumption

  • Can be combined with other cooling options for better efficiency

  • Affordable installation

• Cons:

• • Doesn’t lower room temperature, only improves air circulation

  • Less effective on extremely hot days

2. Evaporative Cooling

Evaporative cooling systems use water and airflow to reduce indoor temperatures. They are particularly effective in dry climates but can struggle in humid conditions.

• Cost: $4,000 - $8,000
• Pros:

• • Energy efficient

  • Cools the entire home via ducted vents

  • Lower running costs compared to refrigerated cooling

• Cons:

• • Less effective in humid weather

  • Requires windows to be open for optimal airflow

  • Large ducts may not be suitable for double-story homes

3. Split System Air Conditioning

Split system air conditioners provide targeted cooling for specific rooms, making them a versatile option.

• Cost: $1,500 - $3,500 per unit (size dependent)
• Pros:

• • Effective cooling for individual rooms

  • Can also function as a heater (reverse cycle option)

  • Energy-efficient, especially when used strategically

• Cons:

• • Multiple units may be required for whole-home cooling

  • Can become costly if several units are needed

4. Ducted Refrigerated Bolt-On Cooling

This system integrates with an existing ducted heating unit to provide whole-home cooling.

• Cost: $15,000+ (excluding heating unit upgrade)
• Pros:

• • Uses existing ductwork

  • Cools the entire home effectively

  • More cost-effective than a full reverse-cycle system

• Cons:

• • Requires compatible heating system

  • Higher running costs compared to evaporative cooling

5. Reverse Cycle Ducted Refrigerated Cooling (Most Expensive)

This all-in-one system provides both heating and cooling, making it a premium choice for modern homes.

• Cost: $15,000 - $30,000+ (but will reduce as more all-electric homes comes to into play)
• Pros:

• • Provides year-round climate control

  • Ideal for all-electric homes

  • More precise temperature control

• Cons:

• • Higher initial cost

  • May require three-phase power upgrade

  • Increased running costs compared to other options

Key Takeaways

• Ceiling fans are the cheapest option but don’t actively cool the air.
• Evaporative cooling is cost-effective but struggles in humid climates.
• Split systems are flexible and energy-efficient for targeted cooling.
• Ducted refrigerated bolt-on cooling works with existing heating systems but requires compatibility.
• Reverse cycle ducted cooling is the most comprehensive solution but comes at a premium price.

Glossary of Terms

• Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning: A system that provides both heating and cooling.
• Evaporative Cooling: A cooling system that uses water and air movement to reduce temperatures.
• Ducted System: A central system that distributes air through ducts to different rooms.
• Three-Phase Power: A higher-capacity electrical system needed for larger air conditioning units.

FAQ

Q: Is evaporative cooling better than refrigerated air conditioning? A: It depends on your climate. Evaporative cooling works well in dry climates but is less effective in humid areas. Refrigerated air conditioning provides consistent cooling regardless of humidity.

Q: Can I install cooling later if I’m on a tight budget? A: Yes, you can start with ceiling fans and add split systems or ducted cooling later.

Q: What’s the best cooling option for an all-electric home? A: Reverse cycle ducted cooling is ideal for all-electric homes as it provides both heating and cooling.

Listen to the Full Episode

For a detailed discussion on each option, listen to our full episode: Top 5 Cooling Options – Cheapest to Most Expensive.

About the Home Building Hub Podcast

The Home Building Hub podcast, hosted by industry experts Colin Bischof and Darren Brennan, is Australia’s premier resource for new home buyers. With weekly episodes featuring special guests, the podcast provides objective, high-quality insights into the home building process—completely free and without sales pitches. From understanding financing options to navigating the complexities of building a new home, each episode is packed with actionable advice and tips.

Explore more episodes at www.homebuildinghub.com.au and join our growing community of informed home buyers.

Disclaimer

Whilst we’re all about providing value to you, this article should not be considered legal or financial advice. It contains general information only and is based on the content discussed during the podcast episode. This information is relevant to the episode’s release date and may not be applicable at the time of reading. Always seek independent professional advice tailored to your personal situation before making any legal or financial decisions.