Appliances for a Unit vs a House: What's Different and Why It Matters
Buying appliances for a unit is a genuinely different exercise from buying for a house. Space constraints, strata rules, noise considerations, and shared infrastructure all play a role. Understanding these differences upfront will save you time, money, and frustration.
Key Differences to Understand
1. Size and Space
Units are typically smaller than houses. That means compact appliances are often the right call:
- Fridges: A 300–400L fridge suits most units; a 600L side-by-side may not physically fit or may overwhelm the kitchen
- Washing machines: Some units have narrow laundry spaces. Measure your cavity first. 45cm compact machines exist for very tight spaces
- Dishwashers: A slimline 45cm dishwasher works well in smaller kitchens
2. Strata Rules for Air Conditioning
Installing a split system in a unit is not always as straightforward as in a house. You may need:
- Strata committee approval for external unit placement
- Specific requirements for how pipes are run through walls
- Approval from the building owner if the building is not strata-titled
Always check with your body corporate or strata manager before purchasing. That said, most modern apartment buildings have conduit for split system installation built in.
3. Portable vs Fixed Air Conditioning
If strata rules are restrictive, a portable air conditioner is a viable option for a unit. They require no installation, just a window or vent for the exhaust hose. The trade-off is lower efficiency and higher noise.
4. Noise
In a unit, you're closer to neighbours. Consider:
- Washing machines: Front loaders generally vibrate less and run quieter than top loaders. Look for machines with anti-vibration technology
- Dishwashers: Models under 44dB are considered quiet — worth checking the spec sheet
- Air conditioners: Inverter models are quieter at low load than non-inverter units
5. Dryers in Units
Units without outdoor drying space create a need for dryers that houses might not feel as strongly. Heat pump dryers are ideal for units because they don't require external venting — they condense moisture into a tank you empty. Condenser dryers work similarly. Vented dryers require an external vent and are rarely practical in a unit.
6. Energy Efficiency Matters More in a Unit
Units often have higher electricity costs proportionally. Choosing appliances with high energy star ratings pays dividends, particularly for items running constantly like fridges and air conditioners.
Quick Unit Appliance Checklist
- Fridge: 280–400L, check dimensions for your kitchen cavity
- Washing machine: 6–7kg, check laundry space — compact 45cm if needed
- Dryer: Heat pump or condenser (no external vent required)
- Dishwasher: 60cm standard or 45cm slimline
- Air conditioner: 2.5kW for a bedroom, 3.5–4.5kW for open plan living, reverse cycle
Visit Oceania Appliances for Advice
At our Wetherill Park showroom, we regularly help unit owners choose the right appliances for their space. We'll ask the right questions, suggest the right size, and arrange free delivery and installation across Sydney.
Oceania Appliances
2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park NSW 2164
Phone: 0481 243 211
Open 7 days, 10am – 8pm