AIR CONDITIONING ELECTRICAL
Split System Electrical
Dedicated electrical circuits, power supply, and isolation switching for split system air conditioners. We handle the electrical side of the installation so your air conditioning unit has the correct power supply, circuit protection, and compliance.
Split System Electrical Services
Every split system air conditioner needs a dedicated electrical circuit. This is not optional. Running a split system from a shared circuit risks overloading, tripping breakers, and potential fire hazards. We install the circuit, isolator, and power connection to meet manufacturer specifications and AS/NZS 3000.
Dedicated Circuit Installation
We run a dedicated cable from the switchboard to the outdoor unit location with the correct cable size for the unit’s maximum demand. The circuit gets its own dedicated circuit breaker and RCD protection. For larger units (typically above 7kW), a 32-amp circuit with heavier cable is required.
Isolator Switch Installation
Wiring rules require an isolating switch within sight of and within one metre of the outdoor unit. We install a weatherproof isolator adjacent to the condensing unit, allowing the air conditioning technician to safely disconnect the power for servicing without going back to the switchboard.
Multi-Split Systems
Multi-split systems run multiple indoor units from a single outdoor compressor. The electrical requirements are higher because the outdoor unit draws more current when all indoor units are operating simultaneously. We size the circuit for the total maximum demand and ensure the switchboard has capacity for the additional load.
Three-Phase Units
Large ducted systems and commercial split systems often require three-phase power. If your property does not have three-phase supply, we can arrange the upgrade through the network distributor. We then install the three-phase circuit from the switchboard to the unit with the correct protection and isolation.
Getting a split system installed? Book the electrical work first so the circuit is ready when the air conditioning installer arrives.
Common Scenarios
New Installation
New split system going in where no circuit exists. We run the cable, install the isolator, fit the circuit breaker, and leave the circuit ready for the AC installer. The electrical work is typically done a day or more before the air conditioning installation.
Replacement
Replacing an old unit with a new one may require upgrading the circuit if the new unit has a higher electrical demand. We check the existing cable size and breaker rating against the new unit’s specifications and upgrade where necessary.
Relocation
Moving the outdoor unit to a different location means rerouting or extending the electrical supply. We extend the circuit to the new position, relocate the isolator switch, and verify the cable size is still adequate for the longer run.
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Electrician in Abbotsford, Melbourne – Carlin Co Electrical
Split System FAQs
Does a split system need its own circuit?
Yes. Every split system air conditioner must have a dedicated circuit from the switchboard. This is a requirement of the wiring rules and is specified by every major air conditioning manufacturer. Sharing a circuit with other appliances creates overload risk.
Can my existing switchboard handle another circuit?
It depends on the switchboard. We check for available circuit breaker positions, the main switch rating, and the total load on the supply. If the switchboard is full or undersized, a switchboard upgrade may be needed before the split system circuit can be added.
What size circuit does a split system need?
Standard wall-hung split systems up to about 7kW typically require a 20-amp circuit with 4mm cable. Larger units and ducted systems may need a 32-amp circuit with 6mm cable. We size the circuit based on the specific unit’s maximum rated current and the cable run length.
Do I book the electrician or the AC installer first?
Book the electrician first. The dedicated circuit, isolator, and power point need to be in place before the air conditioning installer can connect the unit. We can usually have the circuit ready within a day or two of your booking.
Split System Electrical Across Melbourne
We install split system circuits across all Melbourne suburbs. See also our switchboard upgrades, three-phase power, and ceiling fan installation services.