Multi Split System Air Conditioners vs Ducted Systems

Choosing between a multi room heat pump and a ducted heat pump system depends on your home layout, lifestyle and comfort preferences. Both options provide efficient year-round heating and cooling, but they differ in how they distribute air, how they look in your home and how they can be controlled.

A multi system connects several indoor units to one outdoor unit, allowing you to control the temperature in  individual rooms independently. In comparison, a ducted system uses concealed ceiling or floor ducts to distribute air evenly throughout the entire home.

This guide explains how each system works, compares their benefits and differences, and helps you decide the best option for your home.

Is There a Difference Between a Ducted and Multi Split System?

Understanding the differences between the two systems and how each operates is essential before comparing performance and features.

What is ducted air conditioning?

A ducted heat pump / air conditioning system is suitable for homes with plenty of ceiling or roof space, perfect for new builds or renovations. Ducted systems heat or cool the home using discreet grilles in the ceiling. Conditioned air is circulated via a network of ducts in your ceiling or floor cavity, with outlets in as many rooms as you wish. The indoor unit is concealed in the roof, ensuring quiet operation.

How multi split system air conditioners work

A multi system is a flexible solution for homes or spaces where installing ductwork is not practical. A single compact outdoor unit can connect to as many as five indoor units, allowing you to either heat or cool multiple rooms separately. Indoor unit temperatures can be controlled independently of one another, however, the system operates in one mode at a time – either heating or cooling – across all connected units. Offering you personalised comfort with varied temperatures in different areas. 

Multi systems are also ideal for homes with multiple living zones, double-storey layouts or limited roof or floor cavity space. They provide efficient performance and energy savings without the need for extensive ducting.

Fujitsu offers a range of multi system r32 heat pumps / air conditioners that are reliable and have a low impact on the environment. The Airstage VRF system is a better choice for larger or more complex buildings, offering scalable heating and cooling with more advanced control options.

Multi System Air Conditioners vs Ducted Systems: Key Differences

When comparing the pros and cons of ducted air conditioning against multi systems, the main differences lie in how they operate, their design, available features and what type of homes they best suit.

Ducted systems provide centralised control and a discreet, seamless design, which is ideal for larger homes. In contrast, multi systems offer flexible comfort with individual room control and simpler installation.

The following outlines how each system works in everyday use, how they look in your home, the technology behind them and which option best matches your home layout and lifestyle.

Operation

While both ducted and multi systems are designed to efficiently distribute comfort throughout your home, they operate differently.

A ducted heat pump / air conditioning system can heat or cool several rooms from a single central unit. Optional zone controller can help manage airflow into different rooms or zones to maintain your home comfort while using less energy. For example, you can turn zones on or off, running the system in the living areas during the day and switching to the bedrooms at night. 

A multi system offers flexibility when you need independent control in multiple rooms. Each indoor unit is connected to a single outdoor unit and can be operated separately using individual remotes. You can adjust temperatures or set timers in each room, allowing personalised comfort for different preferences and times of day.

Both systems can be equipped with programmable timers, advanced controllers and smart home connectivity for easy operation. Whether you prefer central control or individual room settings, each system gives you convenient ways to manage comfort and energy efficiency throughout your home.

Design and aesthetic

Ducted and multi systems can both add to the look of your home or complement it in different ways. 

A ducted air conditioner provides a sleek, unobtrusive finish with no visible indoor units. The main components are hidden within the ceiling or floor cavity, and only discreet vents or grilles are visible in each room. The result is a clean, modern look that doesn’t intrude on any interior style.

A multi system provides more options in terms of how the units will look in your home. Indoor units can be wall mounted, ceiling cassettes or floor consoles (depending on which model you choose) that complement your décor. They can either blend into the background or become a subtle design feature within the room.

Both systems provide stylish options to suit different layouts and preferences, allowing you to balance comfort, performance and visual appeal.

Features and functionality

A Fujitsu General ducted heat pump / air conditioning system offers exceptional flexibility and energy efficiency through its inverter technology, programmable timers and economy mode. All of this is operated using a simple, intuitive LCD back-lit controller for personalised comfort at the touch of a button. For those adding smart technology to their homes, the optional Fujitsu General anywAiR technology ducted controller provides Wi-Fi control for a select range of Fujitsu ducted systems. Settings can be adjusted via a wall-mounted touchpad as well as the anywAiR app, which is compatible with selected smartphone and tablet devices. This new technology enables users to control their ducted heating and cooling remotely, anytime, anywhere. 

A multi system offers energy-saving operation by giving you independent control over each indoor unit. You can set the temperature, fan speed, or even a timer for specific rooms, helping you reduce energy consumption in unused rooms. Plus, with the optional anywAiR technology Wi-Fi adaptor II, you can control your system from anywhere using your smart device – adding convenience and flexibility to your comfort.

Fujitsu General’s R32 multi system units can be operated seamlessly via an optional large backlit LCD central controller to manage indoor comfort individually or simultaneously, just like a ducted system.

Home setting

The best choice home air conditioning system can also depend on the size and layout of your home.

Multi systems are ideal for homes that have a few rooms that need to be cooled or heated. While they can be less effective for larger homes, they can cost less to install and maintain than a ducted option. They can also provide a more efficient and centralised solution than having a single room air conditioner installed in each room.

Ducted systems are ideal for larger  homes with multiple rooms. While installation and maintenance costs can be higher, they deliver efficient whole-home heating and cooling and offer convenient centralised control. Our experienced team can also explain the different types of ducted air conditioning available, helping you choose the most suitable for your home layout.

How to Get Started

Choosing between a multi split system air conditioner vs ducted system depends on multiple factors. Consider the size and construction of your home, the rooms you plan to heat or cool, your power supply, your budget and personal comfort preferences to find the best solution for your home.

We’re here to help you choose the right air conditioning system for year-round comfort and efficiency.

If you would like to learn more about our heat pump / air conditioning systems, contact Fujitsu General Assist on 04 568 8761 to speak with a member of our friendly customer service team or find an accredited Fujitsu General stockist through our Find a Stockist page.