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Evaporative to Ducted Air Conditioning Replacement

Upgrade your system with Ford & Doonan.

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OVER 40 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

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FINANCE OPTIONS AVAILABLE

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WHY PERTH HOMEOWNERS ARE UPGRADING FROM EVAPORATIVE TO REVERSE CYCLE DUCTED AIR CONDITIONING

Many Perth homes still rely on old evaporative systems, but when humidity rises, doors must stay open, and rooms never really cool down, it quickly becomes frustrating. Dust, pollen, inconsistent airflow and ageing rooftop units only add to the discomfort.

That’s why so many WA families are upgrading to ducted reverse-cycle. With over 40 years of experience, Ford & Doonan delivers reliable, year-round comfort that evap simply can’t match. Modern ducted systems offer powerful cooling, cosy heating, smart zoning, and app control, all while using far less energy than older, inefficient units.

If your evap is struggling to keep up, a new ducted system is the upgrade that finally makes every room feel the way it should.

Can I Upgrade From An Evaporative To Refrigerated Ducted Air Conditioner?

Yes, you can. This is what we call an evaporative changeover. Changing over from evaporative to reverse cycle refrigerated ducted air conditioning is a simple task that is often completed in 1 day.

Evaporative air conditioning is a simple way of allowing outside air to flow into your home via ducting.

Where it differs from refrigerated ducted air conditioning is that evaporative only supplies slightly conditioned outside air. Whereas, refrigerated air conditioners allow for this air to be conditioned through the refrigeration cycle so that is provides year-round comfort.

Upgrade My Old Ducted Air Conditioner To A Modern Refrigerated Reverse Cycle Ducted Air Conditioner

How Much Does It Cost To Change From Evaporative To Reverse Cycle Ducted Air Conditioner?

The cost of converting your air conditioning from an evaporative to a reverse cycle ducted air conditioner varies depending on the size of the home and the scope of works involved. Unlike a simple split system swap, a ducted changeover requires assessment of access to the existing indoor and outdoor units, system capacity requirements, electrical supply, zoning layout and whether the property is single or double storey.

Additional factors such as roof space access, ductwork replacement, controller upgrades and switchboard compliance can also influence final pricing.

Because every home is different, we provide tailored quotations based on an on-site assessment to ensure the system is correctly sized and installed to current standards.

A Ducted Air Conditioning Replacement Cost

Can I Re-use My Outlets When Changing From Evaporative Air Conditioning System To My New Reverse Cycle Ducted System?

In most cases, existing evaporative outlets and their positions are not reused when upgrading to reverse cycle ducted air conditioning.

Evaporative outlets are typically larger in diameter and positioned near doorways to promote airflow through open windows and doors. Reverse cycle systems operate differently, requiring strategically placed outlets closer to heat load areas, such as windows, to ensure balanced cooling and heating throughout the home.

For this reason, new outlets are generally installed in updated positions during an evaporative to ducted changeover to optimise airflow performance and overall system efficiency.

Three adults indoors look up at a ceiling air vent as the man on the right points toward it while holding a brochure.

Do I Need New Ducting When Replacing Evaporative With Reverse Cycle?

When upgrading from evaporative air conditioning to a reverse cycle ducted system, the existing ducting cannot be reused. While both systems use ceiling ducts, they are designed very differently.

Reverse cycle systems operate under higher static pressure and require specifically sized, insulated ductwork to ensure correct airflow and efficient performance.

Evaporative ducting is typically larger in diameter and lightly insulated, as it relies on low-pressure airflow from outside air.

Re-use My Ducting From My Current Air Conditioning System To My New Refrigerated Ducted System

What Is The Ford & Doonan Difference?

A ducted air conditioning replacement is only as good as the way it’s installed. At Ford & Doonan, we prioritise long-term reliability, system performance and protection of your home.

We operate a dedicated in-house service department, providing after-sales support long after installation is complete. Our ducted systems are installed with twin 20mm PVC drain lines to reduce the risk of overflow during cooling operation, and all ductwork is properly suspended using firerated 75mm strapping to maintain optimal airflow and prevent sagging over time.

The indoor fan coil unit is mounted on threaded rod and positioned above an aluminium drip tray (where space permits), sitting on vibration-reducing feet to minimise operational noise and significantly reduce the risk of ceiling damage from water leaks.

Maintenance worker with clipboard inspecting a ceiling vent in a bright living room.
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Kellie Wake, CANNING VALE

The customer service was wonderful – the team was incredibly responsive, friendly, and they patiently walked me through all the options.
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Anne Thompson, OSBORNE PARK

The old evaporative airconditioner was removed and the new reverse cycle air-conditioner installed with minimal interruption to the household and with all rubbish removed and, in less time, than they scheduled for. They even got replacement tyles for the roof where the old airconditioner was previously. The tradesmen were all polite and no one was grumpy - and this was all done the week before Christmas. - Yay - I would have no hesitation in recommending this company. Thankyou.
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Frank Boitano, BELMONT

If you are looking for a new AC unit in Perth or to replace that aging evaporative dinosaur these are the people to deal with. Forget the rest or the promises others make these guys deliver and on time! From start to finish top shelf service and quality workmanship at an affordable price. Highly recommended.

EVAPORATIVE VS REVERSE CYCLE DUCTED AIR CONDITIONING

Unlike evaporative air conditioning, our reverse cycle ducted air conditioning provides both heating and cooling, making it the perfect choice for West Australian climates.

FEATURES
EVAPORATIVE
REVERSE CYCLE DUCTED

Ability To Cool Multiple Rooms

Adjustable Temperature

Cooling And Heating Functionality

Removes Moisture And Cools During Humid Conditions

Room By Room Air Volume Control With Temperatures Sensors

Filtered Supply Air To Reduce Dust, Pollen And Contaminates

Use our easy cost calculator to get a personalised estimate for your home. For flexible finance through Zip Pay and Handy Pay, simply enquire with your local Ford & Doonan store – we have 12 conveniently located across Western Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions