Straight answers about aircon installation

For planning, a straightforward back-to-back split-unit installation often falls around R2,500–R6,500 excluding the unit. A typical residential unit plus standard installation may total roughly R8,000–R25,000. Capacity, pipe length, wall type, electrical work, height and access can move the price, so use a written site-specific quote rather than treating any range as a guarantee.

A straightforward single split-unit installation is commonly completed in about four to eight hours. A long pipe run, difficult wall, work at height, electrical-board changes or multiple indoor units can extend the job. The installer should explain the route, likely duration and any disruption after the site assessment.

The 3-minute rule means waiting roughly three minutes before restarting an aircon after it has been switched off or lost power. The pause lets refrigerant pressures equalise and protects the compressor from a hard restart. Many modern units enforce this delay automatically, so a short wait before the unit starts is usually normal.

The “20 rule” is a rule of thumb that an air conditioner should not be expected to cool more than about 20°F—roughly 10–11°C—below the outdoor temperature. It is not a hard technical limit. Insulation, humidity, solar gain, unit sizing and the building all affect the achievable indoor temperature and energy use.

Confirm that the person doing refrigerant work is SAQCC Gas registered, ask who will handle the electrical connection, request a written scope and price, and confirm that a valid Electrical Certificate of Compliance will be issued after installation. Keep the quote, registration details and CoC with your property records.

Size depends on room volume, insulation, window area, sun direction, roof exposure, occupancy and heat-producing equipment—not floor area alone. An undersized unit may run continuously; an oversized unit can cycle poorly and control humidity less effectively. Ask for a heat-load assessment before choosing BTU capacity.

Usually not well if doors, passages or different sun loads separate the rooms. A large open-plan zone may suit one correctly positioned unit, but bedrooms normally need independent zones. Multi-split or ducted systems can serve several rooms; the best choice depends on control, ceiling space, budget and how rooms are occupied.

Clean accessible filters as the manufacturer recommends and arrange professional servicing based on use, dust, coastal exposure and the equipment warranty. A lightly used home unit may need less attention than a busy office or coastal holiday property. Reduced airflow, odours, leaks, noise or weaker performance justify an earlier inspection.