How Long Does it Take to Install a Split System?
How long does split system installation take? For most standard single-unit installs in a Perth home, you can expect the job to take around 2 to 4 hours.
That usually applies to a straightforward wall-mounted split system where the indoor and outdoor units are close together, access is clear, and no major extras are needed. Some installs are faster. Others can take longer if there is a longer pipe run, difficult access, a two-storey layout, brickwork to drill through, or an old unit to remove first.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the usual split system installation time, what can affect the job, and what to expect when Wayne and Glen arrive on installation day.
The Simple Answer: How Long a Standard Install Takes
A standard split system air conditioner installation usually takes 2 to 4 hours for one unit.
In many Perth homes, this is enough time for the installer to mount the indoor unit, install the outdoor unit, run the pipework, complete the required connections, test the system and clean up before leaving.
A typical example would be a single-storey brick home where the indoor unit is installed on an external wall, with the outdoor condenser positioned nearby on the other side. This is often called a back-to-back installation. Because the pipework is shorter and the access is simpler, it is generally one of the quicker installation types.
For a standard job, Wayne and Glen can often have the system installed within half a day, which means less disruption to your home, workday or routine.
However, not every installation is the same. The best way to know exactly how long your job will take is to get a site-specific quote. You can view Air-Cond Installs WA’s split system installation pricing or explore the available installation options before booking.
What Affects How Long Your Installation Takes?
While 2 to 4 hours is a good guide, your actual split system installation time depends on the layout of your home and what is involved in the job.
Number of Units Being Installed
Installing one split system is usually a half-day job. Installing two, three or more units will naturally take longer.
For example, if you are fitting out multiple bedrooms, a living area and a study, each unit needs its own indoor placement, outdoor unit location, pipework and testing. A multi-room install may take most of the day, or in some cases, need to be staged across more than one visit.
Length of the Pipe Run
The pipe run is the distance between the indoor unit and outdoor unit.
A short pipe run is usually quicker because the indoor and outdoor units are close together. A longer pipe run takes more time because the installer needs to run refrigerant pipework, drainage and cabling across a greater distance.
Longer runs can also need more planning to keep everything neat, compliant and practical for future servicing.
Wall Type
The type of wall can also affect how long it takes to install an air conditioner in a Perth home.
Stud walls are often quicker to work with. Brick walls can take longer because the installer may need to core drill through the brickwork to run the pipes and cables neatly.
Many Perth homes are double brick, so this is a common part of local split system installation. It is not unusual, but it can add time compared with a lighter wall structure.
Two-Storey Homes
Two-storey homes can take longer, especially if the indoor unit is upstairs and the outdoor unit needs to be installed at ground level.
The installer may need to allow extra time for ladders, safe access, longer pipe runs and careful positioning. In some cases, the outdoor unit may need to be placed on brackets or in a specific location to suit the home’s layout.
Outdoor Unit Access
The outdoor unit needs to be installed somewhere safe, stable and serviceable.
A simple ground-level position with clear access is usually faster. A tight side passage, roof area, raised platform or awkward corner can make the job take longer.
Good installers will not just choose the fastest spot. They will look for a position that works properly, allows airflow, keeps noise in mind and gives future technicians enough room to service the unit.
Removing an Old Unit
If you are replacing an existing air conditioner, removal can add time to the job.
The old system may need to be safely disconnected, removed from the wall, taken off brackets or pads, and disposed of. There may also be old pipework, drainage or wall penetrations to assess before the new unit is installed.
In some cases, parts of the previous setup can be reused. In other cases, it is better to start fresh so the new system is installed properly.
What Happens During a Split System Installation?
Knowing what happens on the day can make the process feel much less stressful. A split system installation is usually straightforward when the site has been properly assessed.
First, Wayne and Glen will arrive and confirm the installation location with you. They will check where the indoor unit is going, where the outdoor unit will sit, and how the pipework and drainage will run.
Next, the indoor wall bracket is installed. This bracket holds the indoor head unit securely in place. The position matters because the unit needs to distribute air properly across the room, while also sitting neatly and safely on the wall.
The next step is creating the wall penetration for the pipework, drain and cabling. In many Perth homes, this may involve drilling through brick.
Once that is done, the indoor unit can be mounted and the pipework can be run through to the outdoor unit location. The outdoor condenser is then positioned on a stable base or brackets, depending on the installation type.
After the indoor and outdoor units are connected, the system is tested and commissioned. This includes checking operation, temperature performance, drainage and general function.
Before leaving, the team will run through the basics with you, including how to use the system and any key things to know about care and maintenance.
Do You Need to Be Home?
Yes, someone should usually be home for the installation.
You do not need to stand around and watch the whole job, but the installers will need access to the inside and outside areas of your home. They may also need to confirm the final unit position, ask a question about access, or get sign-off once the system is running.
If you work from home, you can usually keep working while the installation is happening. There will be some noise during drilling and installation, but for a standard job, disruption is usually limited.
The main thing is to make sure someone is available at the start and end of the job, and contactable during the install if any decisions need to be made.
How to Make Sure Your Install Goes Smoothly
A little preparation can help your split system installation run more smoothly on the day.
Before the installers arrive, clear access to the indoor wall where the unit will be installed. Move furniture, artwork, shelving or anything else that may be in the way.
It also helps to clear the outdoor area where the condenser will go. If the outdoor unit is going down the side of the house, make sure bins, bikes, tools or garden items are moved beforehand.
Try to have a good idea of where you want the indoor unit placed, but stay open to advice. The best position is not always the most obvious one. A professional installer will consider airflow, drainage, pipe runs, service access and how the system will perform in the room.
If you are replacing an old unit, let the team know beforehand. That way, removal can be factored into the quote and expected timeframe.
Finally, make sure someone is home and available to approve the final position before work begins.
Get a Clear Timeframe Before Installation Day
For most standard Perth homes, a split system installation takes around 2 to 4 hours. More complex jobs can take longer, especially when there are multiple units, long pipe runs, difficult access, two-storey layouts or old systems to remove.
At Air-Cond Installs WA, Wayne and Glen provide clear advice before installation day, so you know what to expect and can plan your day properly.
To get a site-specific timeframe and quote, visit our contact page and tell us a bit about your home, the room you want cooled, and the type of split system installation you need.
