As Victoria continues to phase out gas heating under the Gas Substitution Roadmap, more Melbourne homeowners are looking to switch to electric ducted heating systems. These systems offer both heating and cooling, lower energy bills when paired with solar, and reduced carbon emissions.
But is your home actually suitable for electric ducted heating?
Before you book an installer, here’s what to consider when assessing whether your property is ready for a modern, energy-efficient system.
Do You Have Sufficient Roof Space?
Electric ducted systems typically require space in the ceiling cavity for the indoor unit and ducting.
Check:
- Is your ceiling cavity tall enough (minimum ~600mm recommended)?
- Is there room to install and access the indoor fan coil unit?
- Are there any obstructions (low-pitched roof, water tanks, etc.)?
No ceiling space? You might still qualify for a bulkhead ducted system, which hides ducts in a dropped ceiling or custom-built bulkhead.
Is Your Existing Ductwork Reusable?
If you’re upgrading from a gas ducted system, your installer will assess whether your existing ducts are compatible with electric reverse cycle airflow.
They will check:
- Duct condition (any sagging, leaks, or crushed areas)
- Duct insulation quality
- Airflow requirements (reverse cycle systems often need larger ducts)
In many cases, it’s recommended to replace older ductwork entirely to ensure energy efficiency and balanced airflow.
What Condition is Your Switchboard In?
Electric ducted systems may draw more power than older gas heaters. If your switchboard is outdated, you may need:
- A switchboard upgrade to meet current safety standards
- Installation of a dedicated circuit for the system
Homes built before the 1990s often require electrical upgrades. This is a good opportunity to modernise your electricals for safety and compliance.
Are There Other Gas Appliances in the Home?
If you’re still using gas for cooking or hot water, you’re not yet fully off-gas. However, electric ducted heating can be the first step in electrifying your home.
Over time, you can switch to:
- Induction cooktops
- Electric or heat pump hot water systems
This staged approach lets you reduce gas dependence gradually, accessing rebates at each stage.
Are You Planning Solar (or Already Have It)?
Electric ducted heating systems are incredibly efficient on their own, but solar boosts the benefits.
If you already have rooftop solar, your system can heat or cool the home during the day using your own electricity. With a smart controller or timer, you can maximise solar usage and reduce grid reliance.
No solar yet? This is a great time to plan both upgrades together and take advantage of Solar Victoria rebates.
Do You Need Zoning?
Zoning allows you to heat or cool specific areas of the home, such as:
- Day vs night zones
- Occupied vs unused rooms
- Upstairs vs downstairs
Modern electric ducted systems support smart zoning with temperature sensors and app control. Ask your installer about zoning options to reduce running costs and improve comfort.
Are You Eligible for Government Rebates?
Victorian households may be eligible for both ducted and split system rebates when replacing a gas heating system with electric reverse cycle.
To qualify:
- The old gas unit must be decommissioned
- The new system must meet energy efficiency criteria
- Installation must be done by a registered provider
Speak to an HVAC installer who is an accredited participant in the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) or Solar Victoria programs.
Is Your Home Double Glazed or Insulated?
Even the best electric system won’t perform optimally if your home loses heat easily.
Check that your home has:
- Ceiling insulation
- Sealed windows and doors
- Double glazing or heavy curtains
Making small efficiency improvements can reduce the size of the system you need and improve comfort all year round.
Are You Renovating or Building?
If you’re planning a renovation or new build, this is the best time to install electric ducted heating.
You can:
- Design ceiling cavities or bulkheads to suit ductwork
- Combine heating and cooling in one system
- Avoid costly retrofitting or patching after finishes are complete
Speak to your builder early about HVAC integration.
Conclusion: Get a Professional Assessment
Electric ducted heating is a smart, energy-efficient choice for Melbourne homeowners, particularly as the state moves away from gas reliance. However, successful installation depends on more than just the system itself.
Factors like ceiling space, ducting condition, switchboard capacity, and insulation all play a role in ensuring your system performs efficiently and safely. Taking the time to evaluate your home’s readiness can help you avoid costly surprises and make the most of your investment.
