New Install vs Retrofit
Compare the cost and approach of installing a ducted vacuum system in a new build versus retrofitting an existing home — using Hills Home Living (budget new-build option) and Ducted Vacuum Systems Australia (retrofit specialists) as reference points.
Winner
Hills Home Living
Best overall option once average cost, coverage, and specialist expertise are weighed together.
Average Gap
$430
Difference in average pricing across overlapping service types.
Market Range
$130 – $7,200
The full low-to-high range across both options.
Hills Home Living
Adelaide, SA (National) · Est. 1945
From
$130
Average
$2,233
Coverage
10 areas
Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners wanting an affordable, reliable ducted vacuum system from a well-known Australian brand — best suited to standard-size homes with moderate pipe run lengths.
Ducted Vacuum Systems Australia
Sydney, NSW · Est. 2005
From
$150
Average
$2,663
Coverage
8 areas
Best for: Eastern seaboard homeowners wanting brand-independent advice, competitive pricing and ongoing service support for ducted vacuum installation and maintenance.
Side-by-Side Price Comparison
Compare overlapping service types directly so the right price anchor is clear before you request quotes.
| Service | Hills Home Living | Ducted Vacuum Systems Australia | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-Inlet New Install | $4800 | $5500 | -$700 |
| 3-Inlet New Install | $3000 | $3700 | -$700 |
| Power Unit Replacement | $950 | $1250 | -$300 |
| Annual Service | $180 | $200 | -$20 |
Pros & Cons
Hills Home Living
WinnerPros
- ✓Most affordable brand option for a complete ducted vacuum system — ideal for budget-conscious homeowners
- ✓Wide national availability through hardware retailers and installer networks with easy parts sourcing
- ✓Well-known Australian brand with straightforward product range that simplifies the selection process
Cons
- ✗Entry-level motors have shorter expected life (8–12 years) compared to premium brands (15–20 years)
- ✗Less suction power on longer pipe runs — may not suit large homes or multi-storey properties with long pipe networks
Ducted Vacuum Systems Australia
Pros
- ✓Brand-independent advice — carries multiple brands and recommends based on your property and budget rather than pushing a single brand
- ✓Competitive retrofit pricing with strong experience retrofitting Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane homes
- ✓Comprehensive annual service programs with scheduled reminders and priority booking for service customers
Cons
- ✗Eastern seaboard only — no coverage in Perth, Adelaide or Tasmania
- ✗Wait times can extend to 2–3 weeks during peak renovation season (spring and autumn)
Bottom Line
Verdict
New-build installation with Hills Home Living offers the most affordable entry point — rough-in during construction with walls open saves 30–50% compared to retrofitting a finished home. Ducted Vacuum Systems Australia specialises in retrofit work and delivers competitive pricing for the more complex task of routing pipes through finished walls and ceilings. For new builds on a budget, Hills provides excellent value. For existing homes where retrofit is the only option, DVSA delivers the experience and pricing to make the investment worthwhile.
Choose Hills Home Living for new-build installations where budget is a priority — their affordable systems suit standard homes and the installation cost is minimised by open wall access. Choose Ducted Vacuum Systems Australia for retrofit installations in existing homes where brand-independent advice, competitive retrofit pricing and ongoing service support matter.
Comparison FAQ
Hills Home Living is cheaper on average in this comparison, but the right answer depends on your specific requirements including home size, number of inlets, brand preference and whether you need a new installation or service/repair work.
Power unit quality and expected motor life, the number of inlets and total pipe run length, whether the installation is new build or retrofit, hose system type (standard vs hide-a-hose), and whether the quote includes the hose kit or just the installed system. Always confirm what is and is not included before comparing.
Choose Hills Home Living for new-build installations where budget is a priority — their affordable systems suit standard homes and the installation cost is minimised by open wall access. Choose Ducted Vacuum Systems Australia for retrofit installations in existing homes where brand-independent advice, competitive retrofit pricing and ongoing service support matter.