Is There an Electric Replacement for Gas Ducted Heating?

If you are considering an electric replacement for gas ducted heating, you are not alone. As gas prices rise across Victoria and with growing awareness of the environmental issues surrounding the use of fossil fuels, Melbourne homeowners are increasingly converting to electric heating.

Ducted reverse cycle air conditioning is the most popular replacement for gas ducted heating. Providing heating during winter and cooling during summer, they offer a versatile year-round climate control solution.

Switching from a traditional gas heating system to electric has advantages, including lower operating costs, improved energy efficiency, a reduced carbon footprint, and better alignment with renewable energy sources like solar panels. Replacing your gas ducted heating with an electric alternative is a practical solution for your home and a step towards sustainable living.

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    Why are homeowners moving away from gas ducted heating?

    Although widely used for many years in Victoria, gas ducted heating relies on burning natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which are non-renewable resources. These systems are associated with several challenges:

    • Rising energy bills due to increasing gas prices.
    • Higher carbon emissions, which contribute to climate change.
    • Ongoing safety concerns include potential gas leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning from poorly maintained systems.
    • Electric systems with heat pump technology are more efficient than gas.

    Modern home heating systems offer all the benefits of traditional gas heating without the environmental and financial impacts. They are designed to reduce energy consumption, improve thermal comfort, and integrate seamlessly with renewable energy sources, such as rooftop solar power.

    What is ducted reverse cycle air conditioning?

    Ducted reverse cycle air conditioning is the leading electric alternative to gas ducted heating. This advanced technology uses a refrigerant and heat pump to efficiently produce warm air during cold seasons and cool air during the hotter months.

    It is a highly efficient, reliable, and environmentally friendly option for whole-home heating and cooling in Melbourne. Unlike older gas ducted heaters, reverse cycle systems allow precise temperature control, even distribution of air through a network of ducts, and the ability to zone different living areas.

    The ducted reverse cycle system comprises two components: an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit functions as a heat pump, extracting heat energy from the outside air, even in cold temperatures. The indoor unit circulates air through ducts into individual rooms, maintaining consistent indoor air quality and climate. 

    This combination of technologies ensures exceptional thermal performance and makes the system much cheaper to run than gas-ducted heaters.

    Can you use the same ductwork when switching to electric heating?

    In most cases, existing ductwork from a gas ducted heating unit cannot be reused when switching to ducted reverse cycle air conditioning. This is because the insulation, durability, and design of ducts for gas heating are not always suitable for handling the refrigerated cooling and heating capabilities of reverse cycle systems.

    Many older homes in Melbourne have ductwork that is worn out or damaged over time, resulting in energy losses. Aging ducts may have collapsed, delaminated, or have insufficient insulation levels, making an upgrade to modern ductwork essential for ensuring the efficiency of your modern electric ducted heating.

    If your gas ducted heating is equipped with an add-on cooling function, there is a chance the ductwork can be repurposed. During either the quoting or installation phase (depending on access), our qualified technicians will conduct a detailed assessment of your current ducts and determine whether they meet the requirements for an electric ducted heating and cooling system.

    Can you convert gas ducted heating to electric without replacing the ducted system?

    In some rare cases, certain systems do allow this type of conversion. For example, if you have a Brivis gas ducted heating system paired with a Brivis add-on cooler (rather than an evaporative cooler), you may be able to upgrade the cooling unit while retaining your gas heating. 

    This allows you to switch between gas and electric heating depending on your preferences or the energy costs. However, in most cases, a complete system replacement is recommended to maximise the efficiency and benefits.

    Daikin heavily promote they are the only brand approved by the Australian Asthma and Allergy Foundation. This applies to their split system air conditioners which have built in air purifiers and deodorising filters. Their ducted air conditioning products do not yet have this functionality.

    What does the installation process involve?

    The process of converting from gas to electric involves several steps:

    1. Removal of the old gas heater: The existing gas heater is disconnected, and associated components, such as gas connections and ductwork, are decommissioned as necessary.
    2. Installation of the new electric system: The ducted reverse cycle air conditioning system, including indoor and outdoor units, is professionally installed.
    3. New ductwork (if needed): The newly installed ducts are insulated and correctly sized to handle heating and cooling.
    4. Customisation: The system is configured for the needs of your home, with zone capabilities for individual room control.
    5. Testing and commissioning: We thoroughly test your new electric heating and cooling system and show you how to use it.

    What are the benefits of ducted refrigerated air conditioning?

    Ducted refrigerated air conditioning has several features and advantages, making it the best option for electric heating and cooling in Melbourne.

    Energy Efficiency

    Using heat pump and vapour-compression refrigeration technology, these systems require less energy than traditional gas systems.

    Improved comfort

    Modern technology evenly distributes air, can be zones to heat or cool specific areas of your home, and built in thermostats keep stable temperatures.

    Renewable energy integration

    Electric heating works seamlessly with solar power, allowing homeowners to reduce operational costs further and achieve sustainable energy use.

    Dual functionality

    With reverse cycle air con, you do not need separate units for summer and winter climates, reducing maintenance needs and the long-term investment.

    Environmental benefits

    Eliminate reliance on gas, reduce carbon monoxide, carbon emissions, and help lower your carbon footprint.

    What about upfront and running costs?

    Ducted reverse cycle air conditioning systems often have higher upfront installation costs compared to gas ducted systems or split systems. This is primarily due to the complexity of the installation process and the need for new ductwork in many cases. 

    However, these costs are offset over time through significantly lower operational costs, making electric systems cheaper to run in the long term. With solar panels installed, your electric system can be practically free during the day.

    Additionally, Victoria’s Energy Upgrades (VEU) program offers rebates and incentives to homeowners upgrading to energy-efficient solutions, reducing the initial installation cost. You will save money over the system’s lifespan while reducing your dependence on non-renewable resources.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Switching to electric ducted heating significantly reduces your home’s environmental impact. Gas appliances such as ducted gas heaters rely on natural gas, a fossil fuel that releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. In contrast, electric systems, particularly those powered by renewable energy sources like solar systems, produce no direct emissions and help lower your carbon footprint. Transitioning to electrical energy supports sustainability and contributes to efforts to combat climate change.

    Complete our contact form on this page or phone our office on (03) 9330 0277 to obtain a free quote. We are conveniently located in Airport West and service all surrounding Melbourne suburbs. 

    Yes, regular maintenance is required to ensure optimal efficiency and lifespan of electric reverse cycle air conditioning. They generally require less frequent servicing than gas appliances like ducted gas heaters, as they do not involve combustion or flue systems. Regular maintenance ensures your system operates safely and maintains consistent indoor temperatures across all zones.

    Yes, reverse cycle air conditioning systems are an ideal upgrade from evaporative cooling. Unlike evaporative coolers, which struggle to perform on humid days and offer limited temperature control, reverse cycle systems provide reliable cooling solutions with precise thermostat control and heating functions for year-round comfort. They are also quieter and more efficient than traditional evaporative cooling systems.

    Reverse cycle ducted air conditioning is popular as it provides energy-efficient heating and cooling to various rooms via a single central unit. Using an advanced heat exchanger to deliver precise temperature control and zoning capabilities, it is suitable for homes of all sizes and layouts. The ability to integrate with solar systems further enhances its appeal among environmentally conscious homeowners.

    For Melbourne’s climate, reverse-cycle and hydronic heating systems are among the best central heating options. Reverse-cycle systems suit homes requiring heating and cooling year-round, while hydronic systems provide radiant heat, particularly in homes prioritising quiet, efficient winter heating. Both systems support zoning and customisation to meet varying household needs.

    The Victorian government provides rebates under the Victorian Energy Upgrades program to encourage households and businesses to install energy-efficient appliances, including reverse-cycle heating and cooling systems. This incentive helps offset the installation costs of moving from non-renewable gas appliances to environmentally friendly options.

    Thermostat control allows you to set and maintain indoor temperatures for maximum comfort with minimal energy consumption. Smart thermostats automatically adjust settings based on the time of day or occupancy, making your system more efficient and reducing operational costs.

    Ducted gas heating relies on the combustion of gas to heat air, which is then distributed through a series of ducts to various rooms in the home. Reverse cycle ducted heating uses a heat pump and a heat exchanger to provide heating and cooling via the same system. Reverse cycle systems are typically more energy-efficient, produce less carbon dioxide, and offer the added benefit of cooling modes for year-round temperature control.

    For new builds, ducted reverse cycle systems are a popular choice because they provide both heating and cooling solutions in one compact unit. Multi-split systems are another excellent option for homes requiring targeted zoning capabilities for various rooms.

    The cost of installing a new system depends on the size of your home, the complexity of the ductwork required, and whether it is a roof space installation. While reverse cycle ducted heating systems may have higher upfront costs than traditional gas central heating systems, they offer significant savings through reduced running costs and increased energy efficiency over time. We offer interest free financing to help with paying for your new heating unit over time.

    Yes, reverse cycle ducted air systems can be designed to suit homes with limited roof space. Modern systems use more compact central units and may require custom solutions like underfloor duct installation or bulkhead installation. Some components can be externally mounted. We’ll let you know the best approach for your property when we attend your home to provide a no-obligation quote.

    Yes, multi-split systems are an electric alternative that can be a great choice for homeowners who do not need a ducted system. These systems connect multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit, providing targeted heating and cooling to specific zones or rooms. They offer flexibility and are particularly beneficial in homes where installing a central ducted system is not feasible.

    Yes, zoning capabilities in a central heating system allow you to heat or cool specific areas of your home rather than the entire house, reducing unnecessary energy consumption. Zoning is beneficial for homes with larger footprints or those with multiple living areas. Electric systems with advanced thermostat control ensure consistent indoor temperature in only the currently used zones.

    Electric heating systems help improve indoor air quality compared to gas systems by eliminating the by-products of combustion, such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides. These systems also do not rely on flues for ventilation, reducing the risk of air contamination, and they distribute clean air throughout the home, supporting a healthier living environment. Talk to us about Panasonic ducted air conditioning installation which has built in air purification to reduce airborne bacteria and viruses.

    Cooling modes are powered with refrigeration, where the hot air passes through a heat exchanger, the refrigerant removes the heat and cools the air. The heat that is extracted is released outdoors, the cool air remains in the home.

    Should you switch from gas to electric heating?

    The shift from gas ducted heating to electric heating systems is a practical and sustainable solution for Melbourne homeowners. With the availability of advanced systems like ducted reverse cycle air conditioning, you achieve year-round comfort and lower operational costs, reduce your carbon footprint, and contribute to the fight against climate change.

    If you are considering replacing your gas heating system, the technical and financial benefits of going electric make it a viable alternative for most households. Whether renovating, building a new home, or upgrading an older property, electric heating offers a reliable and sustainable solution for your heating and cooling needs. 

    Contact ExtrordinAir today for a free quote, expert advice, and book your installation. 

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