Service Information Summary
- Average Installation Time: 5-10 days complete installation
- Typical Cost Range: KES 200,000 – 600,000+ (equipment and installation)
- System Components: Central unit, extensive ductwork, multiple vents, zone controls
- Ideal For: Large homes, villas, commercial buildings, multi-floor properties
- Ceiling Requirements: False ceilings or attic space for duct routing
- Post-Installation Service: 2-year comprehensive warranty standard
Ducted air conditioning systems offer Nairobi’s luxury properties the ultimate in climate control, providing whole-building cooling through concealed ductwork with only discreet vents visible in each room. This comprehensive system requires significant planning and expert installation but delivers unmatched comfort and aesthetics.
The design phase involves detailed architectural analysis, with HVAC engineers creating custom duct layouts suited to Nairobi’s building styles. Load calculations account for Kenya’s climate, room orientations, window sizes, and occupancy patterns. Engineers plan duct routes through ceiling voids, attic spaces, or purpose-built chases, minimizing efficiency losses while respecting structural constraints.
Ductwork fabrication and installation represents the major portion of the project. Installers construct or install pre-fabricated galvanized steel or flexible ducts, carefully sizing each branch for proper airflow. In Nairobi’s modern villas, ducts typically run through false ceilings, with main trunks (30-50cm diameter) feeding smaller branches (15-25cm) to individual rooms.
The central air handling unit, containing evaporator coils and blowers, installs in a ceiling space, basement, or dedicated mechanical room. This equipment is substantial, often requiring reinforced ceiling supports or dedicated floor mounting. Positioning considers service accessibility and noise transmission to living areas.
Supply vents in each room require precise positioning for optimal air distribution. Installers cut neat openings in ceilings or walls, installing decorative grilles that blend with interior design. Return air vents, equally important for system balance, are strategically placed to ensure proper air circulation. Many Nairobi installations incorporate multiple return vents for improved performance.
The outdoor condensing unit, positioned on the roof or ground level, connects to the indoor air handler via refrigerant lines. Installation must account for Nairobi’s occasional strong winds, particularly for rooftop installations, ensuring secure mounting and weather protection.
Zoning systems allow different temperature settings for various building areas, controlled via multiple thermostats or a central smart system. Installers wire zone dampers within the ductwork, enabling individual room control while using a single central system. This feature is particularly valuable in Nairobi’s multi-story homes where upper floors typically require more cooling.
System balancing involves extensive testing and adjustment. Technicians measure airflow at each vent, adjust dampers for even distribution, and verify temperature consistency throughout the building. This process can take several days in large installations, ensuring every room achieves specified conditions.
Ducted systems represent the premium choice for Nairobi’s luxury residential market, offering silent operation, superior air filtration, and invisible integration with architecture. Professional installation by experienced HVAC specialists is essential, as system performance depends critically on proper design, ductwork installation, and commissioning. The investment delivers decades of reliable, comfortable climate control for Kenya’s most demanding properties.
