Hiring an air con installer: what to ask, what to avoid
Two air con installation quotes for the “same” job often aren't the same job at all — the gap is usually scope: what's included, what's billed as an extra, and what you confirmed before you booked. Here's how to tell a fair deal from an expensive one, grounded in real pricing data.
The one that catches most people out
Cheapest unit = cheapest running costs
Cheap units often have poor energy ratings. A $500 saving on install can cost $300/year more in power.
Questions to ask an air con installer
Most overcharging hides in the scope, not the headline price. These pin it down before you commit.
- 1
Does your quote include electrical circuit upgrade, or is that extra?
If it's extra, expect around $300–800.
- 2
Is extended piping part of the price, or charged separately?
- 3
Will I be charged extra for platform/cage?
- 4
Is strata fees included, or an add-on?
- 5
Can you put the full scope and the final price in writing before any work starts?
Scope disputes are the single most common complaint. A written list is what protects you.
- 6
Is GST included in the price you have quoted?
A sole trader under $75k turnover can legally leave GST off, which makes a quote look about 10% cheaper than a registered business for the same work.
Three checks that take five minutes
Check the licence
For licensed trades, ask for the licence number and confirm it on your state's fair-trading or licensing site before you book. Unlicensed work can void your insurance.
Confirm they're insured
Public liability cover protects you if something gets damaged on the job. If an operator can't confirm it, that's a red flag.
Insist on a written quote
A fair quote itemises the scope, names what's excluded, and states whether GST is included. Verbal quotes are where disputes start.
Other mistakes worth avoiding
Not checking strata rules first
In units, you often need body corporate approval. Some buildings restrict condenser locations.
What's usually included, and what costs extra
Usually included
- ✓Supply and install unit
- ✓Basic electrical connection
- ✓Mounting brackets
- ✓Piping (up to 3m)
- ✓Commissioning and testing
Usually charged extra
- +Electrical circuit upgrade · $300–800
- +Extended piping
- +Platform/cage
- +Strata fees
- +Removal of old unit
What pushes the price up: unit type (ducted 3x more than split), electrical upgrades needed, multi-storey access, strata approvals, piping length, brand of unit.
Aircon Installation questions, answered
How long does installation take?+
Do I need an electrician too?+
Can I install in a unit?+
Already have a quote?
Check it against real air con installation prices in 30 seconds, then walk in knowing exactly what to ask.