With Malaysia’s year-round warm and humid weather, having an efficient cooling system is essential for a comfortable living environment. 

Choosing between a centralised air conditioning system and a split unit can significantly impact your energy use, installation costs, and daily living experience. 

Not sure which one’s right for you? Let’s break down the pros, cons, and what to consider before making your pick.

Key Takeaways

  • A centralised aircond system cools the entire home through hidden ducts and vents, offering consistent temperature control.
  • Split units cool individual rooms with separate indoor and outdoor units, making them ideal for targeted cooling with adjusted air distribution and humidity control.
  • Centralised systems suit whole-house cooling, while split units are more flexible and cost-effective for room-by-room use.
  • Use inverter models, set efficient temperatures, maintain your units, and insulate your home to lower electricity costs.
  • Consider room size, system type, energy efficiency, brand, and a reliable installer like Chance for the best results.
  • Daikin, Acson, Mitsubishi Electric, and Panasonic are among Malaysia’s most trusted centralised aircond brands.

How Centralised Air Conditioning Works?

Central AC uses one main system to cool your entire home or building. The cool air is sent through hidden ducts and comes out from vents in each room, keeping the temperature even throughout the space.

You can control everything from one central thermostat, making it simple to adjust the temperature for the whole house.

This system is great for larger homes or places with many rooms, especially if you want a clean, tidy look without multiple aircond units on the walls. While the setup takes more planning and can cost more upfront, it provides powerful, quiet, and consistent cooling—perfect for those who want long-term comfort across the whole home.

How Split Air Conditioning Works?

Split air conditioning works using two connected units—one inside the room and the other outside the building. The indoor unit blows cool air directly into the room, while the outdoor unit helps release the heat from your home. Each room you want to cool, based on your comfort mode, will need its own set of these units.

This setup is a popular choice for apartments, condos, and smaller homes because it’s easier to install and doesn’t require any ductwork. It’s also energy-efficient since you can choose to cool only the rooms you’re using.

However, if you plan to install it in multiple rooms, the number of indoor units might affect the overall look of your space.

Want to know if a split unit air conditioner is the right fit for your home? Explore our full guide to learn how it works, its benefits, and tips for choosing the best one for your space.

Centralised Air Conditioner vs Split Unit: Which Should You Choose?

Deciding on the right air conditioning setup can greatly impact your comfort, energy consumption, and long-term costs. A centralised air conditioning system and a split unit offer different advantages, depending on your home layout and cooling needs.

Here’s a breakdown of their key differences to help you make the best choice:

Aspect Centralised Air Conditioner Split Unit Air Conditioner
Cooling Capacity Cools the entire home evenly through a ducted system. Cools individual rooms without ductless systems; best for targeted or selective cooling.
Installation Cost Higher upfront cost due to ductwork and planning. Lower initial cost per unit, but adds up if used in multiple rooms.
Maintenance Requires professional servicing and duct cleaning. Easier to maintain, but takes more effort if several units are installed.
Appearance Discreet with hidden ducts and vents, clean aesthetic. Indoor units are visible on walls and may affect interior design.
Energy Efficiency Efficient for whole-house cooling if used regularly. More energy-saving for occasional or room-specific use.

5 Smart Ways to Reduce Your Aircond Electricity Bill in Malaysia

Split and central air conditioners are a major contributor to your monthly electricity bill, especially in Malaysia’s warm climate.

With a few smart habits and simple upgrades, you can enjoy cool air while keeping your electricity costs under control. Try these practical tips to save more effectively:

1. Choose an Inverter Model

Inverter air conditioners, like Daikin’s, automatically adjust the cooling power based on room temperature. This reduces energy wastage and helps maintain a steady, comfortable climate efficiently.

2. Use Timers and Eco Mode

Set a timer so your aircond doesn’t run longer than needed, especially at night. Eco mode helps balance cooling and energy use for a more efficient performance.

3. Clean and Maintain Your Aircond Regularly

Dirty filters and clogged components make your unit work harder, using more power. Clean your filters monthly and schedule professional servicing to keep your system running smoothly.

4. Improve Insulation

Make sure doors and windows are properly sealed. Good insulation prevents cool air from escaping and reduces the strain on your aircond.

5. Set the Right Temperature

Setting your aircond between 24°C and 26°C is not only comfortable but also energy-efficient. Avoid setting it too low, which uses more power without much added benefit.

Following these simple tips lets you stay cool and comfortable while keeping your electricity bill in check.

Looking to cut costs without compromising on comfort? Discover the best centralised aircon brands and how to choose a cheap aircond in Malaysia that helps you save on upfront and long-term electricity bills.

What to Know Before Buying an Aircond?

The right central air conditioning system can save you money, increase comfort, and prevent future maintenance headaches.

Take a quick look at the table below to help you decide what’s worth considering before getting your aircond.

Factor Details
Room Size & Layout Match the horsepower (HP) or BTU to your room size to avoid under- or over-cooling.
Type of Aircon System A centralised aircond system is ideal for larger homes; split units are better for individual rooms or targeted cooling.
Energy Efficiency Go for inverter models and high energy ratings to reduce electricity usage in the long run.
Brand & Warranty Choose trusted brands like aircond Daikin, Hisense, and Midea that offer strong warranty support and proven durability.
Installation Provider Ensure proper setup with a certified aircon specialist like CHANCE, who also offers aircond installation and maintenance services.


Not all airconds are built the same—discover what makes the best air conditioner in Malaysia
stand out, and find the right commercial air conditioner for your space.

Get Professional Aircond Installation and Maintenance with CHANCE

A good aircond is only as effective as its installation. That’s why working with an experienced provider makes all the difference. CHANCE ensures centralised air conditioner and split unit air conditioner are fitted correctly for best performance.

As an authorised dealer of Daikin aircond in Malaysia, we provide expert advice on choosing the right system, along with professional installation and full after-sales support. Our trained technicians take care of everything—from wiring and mounting to safety testing—so you can enjoy worry-free comfort from day one.

Precious Audrey
We have always been using Chance Air-Condo sales & services since I purchased Daikin Air con units frm them for many years. I’m really very PLEASED & HAPPY with their services. Workers are well trained, well mannered & efficient. 👏👏👏
Joseph Liu
I initiated an enquiry with Mr. Spencer, who was very friendly and responsive. He provided clear and patient answers to all my questions. Ms. Qing Wei from the operations team followed up well by coordinating the scheduling for the copper piping, indoor air conditioning unit, and compressor installation. The installation took place over two visits: the first for the copper piping, before I proceeded with the plaster ceiling, and the second for the indoor and compressor units. I must also mention that the installation teams were highly professional, leaving the worksite clean and neat. Many thanks to Spencer and his team!


To keep your aircond running efficiently over time, CHANCE also provides a reliable split unit and central air conditioning repair service
. This includes filter cleaning, system checks, and troubleshooting, helping you avoid costly breakdowns and maintain cooling performance year-round.

Not sure if you need a new unit or just a quick fix? Learn more about why your aircond is not cold before deciding on installation or scheduling maintenance.

Top Centralised Aircond Brands in Malaysia to Consider for Your Next Installation

Planning to install a centralised air conditioning system? Each brand is based on performance, energy savings, and long-term reliability.

Below is a quick overview of the most trusted centralised aircond brands available in Malaysia:

Brand Key Features Best For
Daikin Advanced inverter tech, quiet performance, strong after-sales support Homes and commercial buildings
Acson Budget-friendly, reliable performance, local support (subsidiary of Daikin) Cost-effective home solutions
Mitsubishi Electric Smart features, energy-efficient, consistent cooling even in humid weather Long-term users who prioritise durability
Panasonic Eco-friendly air conditioner system, nanoe™ air purification, energy-saving designs Users who value clean air and green technology


These brands are trusted by Malaysian homeowners and businesses alike for their proven performance, service quality, and AC system longevity.

Conclusion

Finding the right air conditioning system is all about understanding your space and how you use it. A centralised aircond system works best for larger homes or offices where consistent cooling is needed throughout, while split units are great for cooling specific rooms and saving on energy costs.

Before making a purchase, key factors like room size, energy efficiency, installation quality, and long-term maintenance are worth considering. With trusted brands like Daikin and reliable support from providers like CHANCE, you can enjoy a cooling solution that suits your comfort and budget.

Looking for expert advice or a complete split unit and central air installation package? Contact CHANCE at your nearest outlet today for professional service and lasting results.