{"id":94798,"date":"2025-12-15T10:13:27","date_gmt":"2025-12-15T00:43:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.solarquotes.com.au\/blog\/?p=94798"},"modified":"2026-02-27T13:15:33","modified_gmt":"2026-02-27T03:45:33","slug":"air-conditioning-evaporative-rcac-mb","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.solarquotes.com.au\/blog\/air-conditioning-evaporative-rcac-mb\/","title":{"rendered":"Evaporative Cooling Vs. Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"An<\/p>\n

Like many home improvements, the type of air-conditioning that may be best suited for your house will depend on a number of factors, including if you have solar panels. See the pros and cons of the two main technologies, and other points to consider.<\/p>\n

There are all sorts of approaches to home air conditioning<\/a>; such as whole-house central ducted<\/a>, split, multi-split, window and portable systems. The technology behind these systems is usually either evaporative or reverse cycle.<\/p>\n

What’s The Best Air-Conditioning Choice If You Have Solar?<\/h2>\n

For homes with sufficiently sized solar power systems, a reverse cycle air conditioner system is likely the better choice. It will provide year-round comfort and efficient energy use as it offers both heating and cooling, is highly efficient when powered by solar energy, and works effectively in all climates.<\/p>\n

But read on …<\/p>\n

Evaporative And Reverse Cycle Aircon Summary<\/h2>\n

First, we’ll kick off with a brief side-by-side summary comparing a ducted evaporative with a split or ducted reverse cycle system for home use, followed by further information.<\/p>\n

\n
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
<\/th>\n\u00a0Evaporative<\/th>\nReverse Cycle<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Best for:<\/b><\/td>\nWarm, dry regions<\/td>\nAll regions<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Requirements<\/b><\/td>\nWindows\/doors left open<\/td>\nWindows\/doors closed<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Heating & Cooling<\/b><\/td>\nNo<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Temperature control<\/b><\/td>\nLimited<\/td>\nPrecise<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cost inc. installation<\/b><\/td>\n$3,000 – $6,000 (4BR)<\/td>\n$5,000 – $18,000+ (4BR)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Power use<\/b><\/td>\nElectricity sipper<\/td>\nElectricity sucker (comparatively)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Water use<\/b><\/td>\n15+ litres an hour<\/td>\n0 litres<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Maintenance<\/b><\/td>\nAnnual service ($250 – $350)<\/td>\nAnnual service ($250 – $350)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Service life<\/b><\/td>\n15+ years<\/td>\n15+ years<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

More Info: Evaporative Cooling<\/h2>\n

Evaporative air conditioning draws warm air from outside (in the case of a ducted system), passes it over water-soaked pads, cools the air through evaporation and then directs that cooler air into the home.<\/p>\n

Evaporative coolers can be purchased as free-standing portable units, window, wall mounted or ducted systems.<\/p>\n

\"A

Ducted evaporative air conditioning – rooftop unit.<\/p><\/div>\n

Best For:<\/h3>\n

Evaporative air conditioning is best for dry, warm climates. As relative humidity increases, their efficiency decreases. They are practically useless in very humid environments; adding more moisture to already humid air and increasing discomfort.<\/p>\n

In humid situations, the only real relief is through using the fan setting, where the water pump is disengaged. You’re more likely to see evaporative coolers in use in Canberra, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth.<\/p>\n

Cost:<\/h3>\n

The total installation cost for a ducted evaporative air conditioner in a 4-bedroom home typically ranges from $3,000 to $6,000 or more, depending on factors such as system complexity, brand, your home’s layout, and the number of outlets required.<\/p>\n

Requirements:<\/h3>\n

You’ll need to leave a sufficient number of windows or doors partially open to allow airflow, otherwise humidity will quickly build up inside. While on the plus side, this brings fresh air inside your house, it can also mean being exposed to increased noise levels from outside; which can be particularly problematic at night.<\/p>\n

Main Benefits Of Evaporative Cooling:<\/h3>\n