Nifty Air Brisbane

Aircon FAQs

Straight answers on installs, servicing, pricing and who we are.

Installs

Should I get ducted or split systems?

It mostly comes down to how many rooms you want cooled. For one or two rooms, split systems are cheaper and quicker to put in. For the whole house, ducted is neater: one outdoor unit, vents in the ceiling, and zones so you only run the rooms you're using. We'll talk you through it when we quote.

Do you do ducted as well as split systems?

Yes, both. We design and install ducted systems, put in split systems, and replace or upgrade old units.

What size aircon do I need?

It's not just the size of the room. Ceiling height, insulation, windows and which way the house faces all matter, and Brisbane's western sun makes a big difference. Too small and it never keeps up, too big and it wastes power. For ducted we work out the load room by room before we pick the unit.

How many zones do I need with ducted?

It depends on how you live in the house. Most homes at least split the living areas from the bedrooms so you can run them separately. We work out the zoning with you when we design the system, and we use smart zone controllers with room sensors.

Will ducted fit in my house?

Ducted needs enough roof space for the indoor unit and the ductwork. Most Brisbane homes are fine, but low-pitch roofs or tight ceilings can be harder. We check the roof space before we quote.

What brands do you install?

We install the main brands, including Daikin, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Fujitsu, Samsung and Hisense.

How long does an install take?

A split system is usually done in a day. A typical ducted install is about 1 day on site. On new builds it's done in stages (rough-in, cut-out, then fit-off and commissioning) to fit in with the builder.

Do I need a new power circuit?

Often, yes. Bigger units, and most ducted systems, need their own circuit from the switchboard. We check this at the quote and include the electrical work so there are no surprises. Larger ducted systems can need 3 phase power, which we'll ask about.

What warranty do I get?

You get 12 months workmanship warranty from us, plus the manufacturer's warranty on the unit, which is usually 5 years.

Do you work with builders on new homes?

Yes. We do ducted design and installs for builders on new builds and renovations, working from the plans.

Servicing & repairs

How often should I get my aircon serviced?

For most homes, once a year, ideally before summer. If it runs a lot, or you've got pets or a dusty spot, more often. A clean keeps it running cheaper and stops mould building up.

How long does a service take?

A split system deep clean usually takes around an hour for the first unit, plus a bit longer for each extra one. A ducted service usually takes around an hour, depending on the system and what we find on the day.

My aircon smells or isn't cooling. Can you fix it?

Yes. We do fault finding and repairs on all types. Bad smells are usually a dirty coil or mould, and we can deep clean and treat it.

Will a service lower my power bill?

A dirty filter or coil makes the system work harder, so keeping it clean helps it run efficiently. Setting it to around 24 to 25 degrees in summer and only cooling the rooms you're using makes the biggest difference.

Do you do work for real estate agents and insurance?

Yes. We look after rental breakdowns and servicing for agents, and do insurance repairs and reports.

How often should I service my air conditioner?

We recommend a service at least once a year, or every six months if it runs most days or you have pets or allergies. Regular servicing keeps it running efficiently, lowers power bills and helps it last longer. Get in touch to book your service.

Why is my aircon not cooling?

The most common causes are dirty filters, low refrigerant gas or a fault with the outdoor unit or its sensors. Check the filters are clean and the remote is on cool mode first. If it's still not cooling, give us a call and we'll diagnose and fix it.

Why is my aircon leaking water?

Water leaks usually come from a blocked drain line, a dirty coil or the unit not being level. Turn the system off to avoid water damage and call us. A service or drain clean normally sorts it quickly.

Pricing & payment

What are your prices?
  • Service call and repairs: $240 + GST ($264 inc GST) covers the first hour, and we aim to diagnose the system in that time. After that it's $140 + GST ($154 inc GST) per hour, charged in 30-minute steps.
  • Split system service: $240 + GST ($264 inc GST) for the first unit, then $70 + GST ($77 inc GST) for each extra split.
  • Split system deep clean: $240 + GST ($264 inc GST) for the first system, $100 + GST ($110 inc GST) each for systems 2 to 4, and $80 + GST ($88 inc GST) each from the 5th system.
  • Ducted system service: $240 + GST ($264 inc GST) for the first system, then $110 + GST ($121 inc GST) for a second system on the same site.
  • Re-gas: R32 is $180 + GST ($198 inc GST) per kg and R410A is $150 + GST ($165 inc GST) per kg, based on the gas charge on the unit's name plate.
  • Installs: free quotes, as every home is different.
Do you charge for quotes?

No, quotes are free.

How much does a service cost?

Split system deep clean: $240 + GST for the first unit, $100 + GST each for units 2 to 4, and $80 + GST each after that. Ducted service: $240 + GST for the first system, $110 + GST for a second system on the same site.

How much for a repair or callout?

Repairs and fault finding are charged by the hour: $240 + GST for the first hour, then $140 + GST for each hour after, in 30-minute blocks. Parts and gas are extra.

How much does a new install cost?

Here's a rough guide for supply and install. It depends on the house (pipe runs, access, electrical, roof space and so on). All prices include GST. Give us a call for a free quote with an exact price.

  • Split system 2 to 5kW: $1,950 to $2,800
  • Split system 6 to 10kW: $3,000 to $5,800
  • Ducted 5 to 10kW: $8,000 to $13,500
  • Ducted 12.5 to 16kW: $12,500 to $18,000
  • Ducted 18 to 25kW: $18,000 to $25,000
How do I pay?

For new installs at home, we ask for a 50% deposit when you accept the quote. Once it's paid we lock in your gear and an install date. You can pay by bank transfer (no fee) or card (card fee applies). Invoices are due within 7 days.

Do you offer finance or payment plans?

No, we don't offer finance. It's a 50% deposit when you accept the quote and the balance when the job's done.

Are there any government rebates for aircon in Queensland?

Not at the moment. The old Queensland Climate Smart rebate has closed, and Energex's PeakSmart scheme is closed to new people. Concession card holders may get help with power bills through their electricity retailer, but that isn't a rebate on the aircon itself.

About us

What areas do you cover?

Brisbane and surrounding suburbs, north and south side.

Are you licensed?

Yes. QBCC licence 1219160, ARC authorisation (ARCtick) AU44554, and QLD electrical licence 164866.

What are your hours?

Monday to Friday 6am to 5pm, and Saturday 8am to 12pm.

Still got a question?

Call us on 0427 227 562 or book a free quote.

Call 0427 227 562Book a free quote

Contact Nifty Air today.

Phone: 0427 227 562

Email: niftyair@gmail.com

Service area: Brisbane & surrounding suburbs

Free quotes · Mon–Fri 6am–5pm, Sat 8am–12pm