Introduction to Ducted Heating Systems

According to figures released by Energy Victoria, Victorians spend a third of their energy bill on heating. Whether you’re renovating an existing home or investing in a new build, choosing the right heating system is crucial. While gas systems have been popular in the past, ducted reverse cycle electric systems offer numerous advantages that make them the clear winner today.

This guide will help you understand why reverse cycle ducted electric systems are the best choice, considering their energy consumption, costs, greenhouse gas emissions, and overall benefits for your lifestyle.

Understanding Ducted Heating

Why Avoid Gas Ducted Heating?

Gas ducted heating systems draw air from inside the home, heat it in a gas furnace, and then distribute it through ducts to various rooms. While they can heat quickly, there are significant drawbacks:

• High Operational Costs: Gas ducted heating systems are more expensive to operate due to the cost of natural gas and the electricity used for air circulation fans.
• Environmental Impact: Burning natural gas releases significant greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change.
• Separate Cooling System Required: Gas systems only provide heating, requiring a separate cooling system for summer, adding to the overall cost and complexity.

Why Choose Reverse Cycle Electric Systems?

Reverse cycle electric systems provide whole-house heating and cooling through one set of ducts. They use heat pump technology to extract heat from the outside air, making them highly efficient and environmentally friendly.

• Energy Efficiency: Reverse cycle systems are incredibly efficient because they transfer heat rather than generating it, leading to lower energy bills.
• Environmentally Friendly: Electric systems reduce carbon emissions, especially when paired with renewable energy sources like solar panels.
• Dual Functionality: Provide both heating and cooling, eliminating the need for a separate air conditioning system.
• Zoning Capabilities: Allow for precise temperature control in different areas of your home, enhancing comfort and reducing energy use.

Efficiency and Energy Consumption

Gas-Ducted Heating

Gas-ducted systems come with energy labels that help compare different options. Higher star ratings indicate better efficiency. Investing in higher-rated systems can lead to long-term savings. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning air filters and servicing the gas furnace, ensures optimal efficiency.

Reverse Cycle Electric Systems

Since April 2020, new ducted reverse cycle air conditioners with a cooling capacity under 30kW require a Zoned Energy Rating. High ratings ensure these systems are highly efficient. Electric systems offer two types of compressors: standard and variable-speed (inverter). Inverter compressors are quieter, more efficient, and adjust speed based on the room’s temperature.

Installation Costs

Installation costs for ducted systems depend on several factors, including the number of outlets, system size, and brand.

• Gas Ducted Heating: Typically costs between $3,000 and $7,000.
• Reverse Cycle Electric Systems: Typically costs between $6,000 and $12,000. While the initial cost may be higher than gas systems, the long-term savings and environmental benefits make it a worthwhile investment.

Running Costs and Carbon Footprint

Running Costs

Electric systems offer significant savings over time:

• Small House (100m²):
  • Electric (1-star): $1,258 annually
• Large House (220m²):
  • Electric (1-star): $2,768 annually

Carbon Footprint

Electric systems have a much lower environmental impact:

• Small Home (100m²):
  • Electric (1-star): 18.6 tonnes of GHG emissions over ten years
• Large Home (220m²):
  • Electric (1-star): 41.0 tonnes of GHG emissions over ten years

Australian Energy Upgrades : Your Heating and Cooling Specialists

As masters of heating and cooling solutions, Australian Energy Upgrades offers sales, installation, warranty and are seasoned experts in offering Victorian Energy Upgrades incentives. We provide generous guarantees and supply only the best brands. Whether you need ducted electric systems, multi-split, or systems complementing your solar panels, we are your best supplier and installer.

Contact us today at 1300 996 917 to get started with your new system that meets all your heating and cooling needs.