
From climate control to sneeze-free air, tips to feel comfortable and breathe easy at home.
When it comes to keeping the temperature just right at home, split system air conditioners are the go-to choice for millions of homes across Australia. With most air con units having both heating and cooling functions, they can be a smart choice for year-round comfort.

A split system air conditioner gets its name from its two-part design: an indoor unit (typically wall-mounted) that blows cool or warm air into your room, and an outdoor unit that handles the refrigeration work. Nearly all split systems are reverse cycle, meaning they have both cooling capacity during hot summer days and heating capacity in the winter months, which can save you from doubling up on heaters and fans.
Why choose a split system over other air conditioning options? Compared to ducted systems, they're more cost-effective and easier to install without major home modifications. Unlike portable air conditioners that occupy valuable floor space, split systems are generally wall-mounted (though one model on this list is floor-mounted). And unlike window units that block natural light and views, split systems keep your windows intact while delivering superior performance and quiet operation.
Model | Cooling Capacity (kW) | Heating Capacity (kW) | Energy Star Rating - Cooling/Heating Average | Price (RRP*) |
2.5 | 3.2 | 5/3 | $$ ($2,069) | |
3.5 | 4.0 | 5/2.5 | $ ($1,353) | |
7.0 | 8.2 | 3.5/2 | $$ ($2,258) | |
2.65 | 3.45 | 6/3 | $ ($1,449) | |
3.5 | 4.4 | 5.5/3 | $ ($1,649) | |
3.5 | 3.7 | 4.5/3 | $$ ($2,389) | |
7.3 | 8.3 | 3.5/3 | $$ ($2,749) | |
9.1 | 10.4 | 4/2 | $$$ ($3,999) | |
4.2 | 5.2 | 4/2.5 | $$$ ($3,359) | |
8.0 | 8.4 | 2.5/2.5 | $$$ ($3,145) |
*Price according to RRP November 2025. Appliances Online sells products at below RRP when possible: click the link for each air conditioner to see current price.
Brand: Westinghouse dominates this list with four models, followed by Rinnai and Fujitsu with three models each. All three brands offer strong warranty coverage and energy-saving inverter technology across their ranges.
Cooling capacity: The most common cooling capacity among these models is 3.5kW (appearing in three units), ideal for medium-sized living areas. This is followed by 7-9kW models suited to larger open plan areas, and 2.5-2.7kW units perfect for bedrooms or other enclosed small rooms. As a guide, every 1kW of cooling power can comfortably cool about 10 square metres of space in a well-insulated room.
Before buying an air conditioner, measure the room size in square metres to ensure you don’t get a bigger or smaller one than you need.
Heating capacity: Heating output typically exceeds cooling capacity, with most models delivering between 3.2kW and 8.4kW. The highest heating capacity belongs to the Westinghouse 9.1kW model (#8) at 10.4kW, making it suitable for large living areas.
Energy Star rating: For cooling, the average energy ratings range from 2.5 to 6 stars, with the Westinghouse 2.7kW (#4) having an impressive 6 Energy Stars. Heating ratings span from 2 to 3 stars average across models, reflecting typical industry performance standards.
Keep in mind that star ratings compare energy efficiency between units of the same capacity -larger systems will still use more power overall than smaller ones, even with higher star ratings.
Design: All units are have a standard white finish. Nine models are traditional wall mounted designs, while one standout - the Fujitsu Floor Console (#9) - offers a floor mounted alternative for spaces where wall installation isn't practical.
Dimensions: The nine wall mounted indoor units range in height from 270mm to 370mm, width from 830mm to 1196mm, and depth from 222mm to 279mm. The floor console (#9) has different proportions at (H)600 x (W)740 x (D)200mm.
Warranty: Westinghouse and Fujitsu provide 5-year manufacturer warranties, while Rinnai provides extra peace of mind by offering extended 7-year coverage on all its models.
Smart features: Wi-Fi connectivity appears in seven of the ten models, enabling remote control via smartphone apps. Fujitsu's Lifestyle Next models include advanced features like geofencing and AI filter reminders, while Rinnai and Westinghouse units offer voice control compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant for smart home integration.
Noise levels: All units have reasonable noise levels during standard operation, with indoor sound levels ranging from 38dB to 50dB, and the outdoor component’s spanning 46dB to 63dB. Quieter models like the smaller capacity Westinghouse 2.7kW (#4), with 38dB volume indoors, are ideal for bedrooms.
DRED-enabled: Several of these air conditioners are equipped with DRED (Demand Response Enabling Device). This feature allows energy providers in some parts of Australia to slightly reduce the amount of power being used to run the air con unit to help reduce overall power consumption at critical peak load times.
Price: Three models fall into the budget-friendly price range (under $1,700), four sit in the mid-range category ($1,700-$2,750), and three occupy the higher tier ($2,750-$3,999). Higher prices generally reflect greater cooling capacity, advanced smart features, and extended warranty periods. More expensive reverse cycle split systems are available, but these price brackets are in relation to this list of ten popular models.
NOTE: The prices shown are according to Recommended Retail Price (RRP), but Appliances Online sells split system reverse cycle air conditioners at below RRP when possible, so just click the link for each model to see Appliances Online's price.

The Fujitsu Lifestyle Next series 2.5kW model features anywAiR Wi-Fi technology II for smartphone control via the myanywAiR Next app. Intelligent features include geofencing that activates the unit as you approach home, personalised scheduling, and AI-driven filter maintenance reminders.
The R32 refrigerant and Apple-Catechin filter enhance indoor air quality, while Climate React automatically adjusts settings based on room temperature thresholds. With its sleek matte finish and energy-saving inverter technology, it’s a good example of aircon innovation. Also available in 3.5kW, 5kW, 6kW, 7.1kW, 8.5kW and 9.5kW models.
Cooling capacity: 2.5 kW
Heating capacity: 3.2 kW
Energy Star rating - Cooling average: 5 stars
Energy Star rating - Heating average: 3 stars
Dimensions: H 270mm, W 834mm, D 222mm
Warranty: 5 years
Price: $$$ (RRP $2,069) See Appliances Online price and full specs

Like its 2.5kW sibling (model #1), this 3.5kW Fujitsu Lifestyle Next features anywAiR Wi-Fi technology II, geofencing, personalised scheduling, AI filter reminders, and Climate React automation through the myanywAiR Next app. Both models also share the R32 refrigerant, Apple-Catechin filter for improved indoor air quality, and sleek matte design.
This mid-capacity version delivers 40% more cooling power at 3.5kW and 3.7kW heating capacity, making it suitable for using in slightly larger single rooms. The comprehensive smart climate control system and 5-year warranty remain consistent across the Lifestyle Next range. Also available in 2.5kW, 5kW, 6kW, 7.1kW, 8.5kW and 9.5kW models.
Cooling capacity: 3.5 kW
Heating capacity: 4.0 kW
Energy Star rating - Cooling average: 5 stars
Energy Star rating - Heating average: 2.5 stars
Dimensions: H 316mm, W 940mm, D 224mm
Warranty: 7 years
Price: $$$ (RRP $1,353) See Appliances Online price and full specs

Sharing the same smart features as its 3.5kW stablemate (#2, above), including Wi-fi control, Fresh Function self-cleaning, and DRED capability, this 7.0kW Rinnai delivers significantly more power for larger living areas up to 35-47m². The higher cooling capacity makes it ideal for open plan areas, while maintaining the same inverter technology for energy-saving operation.
Voice control compatibility, Turbo Mode, and intelligent Sleep Mode feature across both models, with this larger unit providing 8.2kW heating capacity - double that of the smaller version - for year round comfort. Also available in 2.6kW, 3.5kW (see #2 above), 5.2kW and 8.0kW models.
Cooling capacity: 7.0 kW
Heating capacity: 8.2 kW
Energy Star rating - Cooling average: 3.5 stars
Energy Star rating - Heating average: 2 stars
Dimensions: H 330mm, W 1132mm, D 232mm
Warranty: 7 years
Price: $$$ (RRP $2,258) See Appliances Online price and full specs

This compact Westinghouse model leads the range in energy efficiency with an impressive 6-star cooling average rating, making it cost-effective for small rooms and bedrooms. Sleep Mode automatically adjusts temperature and fan speeds for peaceful rest, while the innovative FollowMe feature uses your remote control's location to optimise comfort where you are (so if you’re sitting at a desk working, it can aim the cooling or heating at you).
HEPA 13 and Cold Catalyst filters improve air quality, complemented by a self-clean function for effortless maintenance. App connectivity via the +Home platform enables smartphone control, and DC inverter technology ensures efficient operation with whisper-quiet 38dB indoor noise levels. Also available in 3.6kW, 5.1kW, 7.3kW and 9.1kW models.
Cooling capacity: 2.65 kW
Heating capacity: 3.45 kW
Energy Star rating - Cooling average: 6 stars
Energy Star rating - Heating average: 3 stars
Dimensions: H 297mm, W 855mm, D 231mm
Warranty: 5 years
Price: $$$ (RRP $1,449) See Appliances Online price and full specs

Building on the features of its 2.7kW stablemate (model #4), including Sleep Mode, FollowMe temperature tracking, HEPA 13 filters, self-clean function, and +Home app connectivity, this 3.6kW model provides increased cooling and heating capacity for medium-sized living areas. Both models share DC inverter technology, Turbo Mode for rapid temperature adjustment, and 3D airflow for comprehensive air circulation.
While maintaining the same 5-star cooling average rating and high-performance functions, this larger unit delivers 3.5kW cooling and 4.4kW heating - approximately 30% more power for bigger spaces. Also available in 2.7kW, 5.1kW, 7.3kW and 9.1kW models.
Cooling capacity: 3.5 kW
Heating capacity: 4.4 kW
Energy Star rating - Cooling average: 5.5 stars
Energy Star rating - Heating average: 3 stars
Dimensions: H 319mm, W 1023mm, D 245mm
Warranty: 5 years
Price: $$$ (RRP $1,649) See Appliances Online price and full specs

Like its 2.5kW sibling (model #1), this 3.5kW Fujitsu Lifestyle Next features anywAiR Wi-Fi technology II, geofencing, personalised scheduling, AI filter reminders, and Climate React automation through the myanywAiR Next app. Both models also share the R32 refrigerant, Apple-Catechin filter for improved indoor air quality, and sleek matte design.
This mid-capacity version delivers 40% more cooling power at 3.5kW and 3.7kW heating capacity, making it suitable for using in slightly larger single rooms. The comprehensive smart climate control system and 5-year warranty remain consistent across the Lifestyle Next range. Also available in 2.5kW, 5kW, 6kW, 7.1kW, 8.5kW and 9.5kW models.
Cooling capacity: 3.5 kW
Heating capacity: 3.7 kW
Energy Star rating - Cooling average: 4.5 stars
Energy Star rating - Heating average: 3 stars
Dimensions: H 270mm, W 834mm, D 222mm
Warranty: 5 years
Price: $$$ (RRP $2,389) See Appliances Online price and full specs

Maintaining the full suite of Westinghouse features found in the 2.7kW and 3.6kW models (#4 and #5) - including Sleep Mode, FollowMe, HEPA 13 filters, self-clean function, Turbo Mode, and +Home app connectivity - this 7.3kW unit delivers substantially higher cooling capacity for larger open plan areas.
The DC inverter technology and 3D airflow remain consistent, while the increased power makes it suitable for substantial living areas requiring robust climate control. With 8.3kW heating capacity, this model provides year-round comfort in bigger spaces while maintaining the same 5-year warranty and user-friendly remote control functions. Also available in 2.7kW, 3.6kW, 5.1kW and 9.1kW models.
Cooling capacity: 7.3 kW
Heating capacity: 8.3 kW
Energy Star rating - Cooling average: 3.5 stars
Energy Star rating - Heating average: 3 stars
Dimensions: H 370mm, W 1196mm, D 279mm
Warranty: 5 years
Price: $$$ (RRP $2,749) See Appliances Online price and full specs

The flagship of the Westinghouse range, this 9.1kW model shares all the intelligent features of the smaller variants (#4, #5 and #7), including Sleep Mode, FollowMe technology, HEPA 13 and Cold Catalyst filters, self-clean function, and +Home app connectivity. What sets this high-performance unit apart is its exceptional 10.4kW heating capacity - the highest on this list - making it ideal for large open plan areas requiring powerful climate control.
DC inverter technology, Turbo Mode, 3D airflow, and the same 5-year warranty apply, with dimensions matching the 7.3kW model. Also available in 2.7kW, 3.6kW, 5.1kW, 7.3kW models.
Cooling capacity: 9.1 kW
Heating capacity: 10.4 kW
Energy Star rating - Cooling average: 4 stars
Energy Star rating - Heating average: 2 stars
Dimensions: H 370mm, W 1196mm, D 279mm
Warranty: 5 years
Price: $$$ (RRP $3,999) See Appliances Online price and full specs

Unlike the nine wall-mounted models on this list, this Fujitsu floor console offers a slim, elegant alternative for spaces where wall installation isn't feasible. With 4.2kW cooling and 5.2kW heating capacity, it suits medium to large rooms. Advanced All DC technology reduces power consumption, while the Apple-Catechin filter and long-life ion deodorisation filter maintain air quality.
Features include automatic louvre adjustment, Blue Fin heat exchanger for corrosion resistance, V-PAM inverter technology, Economy Mode, Powerful Mode, and Super Quiet operation at 44dB. Multiple timer options (on/off, program, weekly, sleep) and automatic restart after power interruptions provide flexible, reliable climate control. Also available in 2.5kW and 3.5kW models.
Cooling capacity: 4.2 kW
Heating capacity: 5.2 kW
Energy Star rating - Cooling average: 4 stars
Energy Star rating - Heating average: 2.5 stars
Dimensions: H 600mm, W 740mm, D 200mm
Warranty: 5 years
Price: $$$ (RRP $3,359) See Appliances Online price and full specs

Rounding out the T Series range, this 8.0kW Rinnai shares all the features of its 3.5kW and 7.0kW stablemates (#2 and #3), including built-in Wi-Fi control, voice control compatibility, Fresh Function self-cleaning, DRED capability, and inverter technology. Designed for rooms up to 40-54m², this powerful unit delivers 8.0kW cooling and 8.4kW heating capacity - ideal for substantial open plan areas.
The same Turbo Mode, intelligent Sleep Mode, 3D airflow, and timer functions apply, with Rinnai's extended 7-year warranty providing long-term confidence. Remote control via the Rinnai app ensures convenient smartphone operation for this high-capacity reverse cycle air conditioning system. Also available in 2.6kW, 3.5kW, 5.2kW and 7.0kW models.
Cooling capacity: 8.0 kW
Heating capacity: 8.4 kW
Energy Star rating - Cooling average: 2.5 stars
Energy Star rating - Heating average: 2.5 stars
Dimensions: H 330mm, W 1132mm, D 232mm
Warranty: 7 years
Price: $$$ (RRP $3,145) See Appliances Online price and full specs

Appliances Online has a huge selection of air conditioners, from split system to portable and window - from the leading brands listed above as well as Mitsubishi Electric, Samsung, Panasonic, Haier, Toshiba and more. And with our legendary FREE delivery we can usually get orders to 95% of Australians by the next day (Mon-Fri) if they’re in stock.
We even offer paid Same Day Delivery in metro Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane for in-stock items ordered by 12pm weekdays. Check out our full range of air conditioners, air purification and cooling systems, and if you need a few more tips on choosing the best system for your home, check out our Air Conditioner Buying Guide, call our friendly team 24/7 on 1300 000 500 or message us via the chat icon at the bottom of your screen.

Oli is Appliances Online's editor and blogger, with almost two decades of lifestyle-related writing and editing to his name. With a mission to help you buy better and live smarter, his brand loyalty will forever belong to the appliance manufacturer that develops a self-emptying dishwasher.