Ducted Refrigerated Systems

We are specialists in refrigerated ducted air conditioning (reverse cycle). These can be either a split type ducted system or a self contained "package unit". As the name implies  refrigerated air conditioners are connected to special ducting that enables air to be distributed to multiple rooms. They vary in size from 1hp (2.5kW) to 80hp (200kW).

The ducted refrigerated air conditioner is the ultimate in air conditioning providing unobtrusive, quiet climate control. These systems are completely flexible and can be customised for any application.

Importantly, they represent the best value for money when comparing the available area they can air conditioning versus the capital cost.

Performance
Refrigerated air conditioning system is "true" air conditioning. The definition of air conditioning is "the science of maintaining internal conditions regardless of the external conditions". For performance air conditioning a refrigerated system is the only choice, although it can be twice the price of evaporative cooling. A reverse cycle system is a year round system and the price is quite favourable when taking into account the need to purchase other forms of heating.

Health
Refrigerated air conditioning is a healthy choice. By controlling the humidity and temperature, the air you breathe is healthier and cleaner. Fresh air can be introduced. The Allergy Research Foundation recommends reverse cycle refrigerated air conditioning as the most effective means to create a low allergen home. Regular cleaning of the return air and fresh air filters is crucial to maintain a healthy indoor air quality. Ford and Doonan have developed a unique "Clean air pack" that be added to a system to further improve the indoor air quality of the home or office.

Maintenance
Refrigerated air conditioning is very reliable and cost effective to maintain. Depending on the application, a domestic system may only require a service once per year. The return air and fresh air filters (if installed) must be cleaned more often than the unit is serviced. Ford & Doonan recommend domestic filters be cleaned every two months and commercial filters monthly. These cleans can be done by the client or by Ford & Doonan. The actual equipment services are mostly preventative maintenance, therefore the service costs are not expensive.

Running Costs
The power consumption of a refrigerated air conditioner depends directly on the size of the equipment. As a guide only, approximately 15 cents of electricity is required for each horse power (HP) every hour. Ie 5 hp = 5x 15c = 75c per hour. This can increase or decrease dependent on the ambient conditions and set point temperatures selected on the controller.

Tips on Buying Refrigerated Systems

• Price is not the most important criterion if you want a quality system.
• Roof insulation is essential with refrigerated air conditioning, so budget for that as well.
• A poorly installed or engineered system can cost you dearly in the long run with additional running costs, service calls and a short life span.
• Over sizing a unit can be as bad as under sizing it. Too large a unit will cycle off too often and lose control of humidity whilst an under sized unit will never cycle off and never achieve the desired room temperature.
• Correct selection is important. If a ducted system is required then the duct design is of paramount importance. Ductwork, return air grille and outlets must all be matched for optimum performance.
• Ford & Doonan Air Conditioning are specialists in refrigerated air conditioning.

Take our virtual tour of what a quality Ducted system should look like >>