For decades, gas heating has been the go-to choice for Victorian homes. But across Melbourne and regional Victoria, a major shift is underway. More homeowners are choosing reverse cycle air conditioning over traditional gas heaters — and it’s not just a trend, it’s a smarter, future-focused decision.
Rising gas prices, changing government policies, energy efficiency goals, and improved technology are all driving this transition. In this blog, we explain why reverse cycle air conditioning is rapidly replacing gas heating in Victoria, and why now may be the best time to make the switch.
1. Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning Heats More Efficiently Than Gas
One of the biggest reasons reverse cycle air conditioning is overtaking gas heating is efficiency.
Reverse cycle systems don’t “generate” heat the way gas heaters do. Instead, they transfer heat from the outside air into your home, even on cold winter days. This process uses far less energy.
Efficiency comparison:
- Gas ducted heating: ~70–90% efficiency
- Reverse cycle air conditioning: Up to 300–500% efficiency
This means for every unit of electricity used, a reverse cycle system can deliver up to five units of heat — something gas heating simply cannot match.
For Victorian households focused on lowering energy use and emissions, reverse cycle is the clear winner.
2. Lower Running Costs for Victorian Homes
Gas prices in Victoria have increased significantly over the past few years, while electricity pricing has become more flexible — especially for homes with solar.
When installed correctly, reverse cycle air conditioning often costs less to run than gas heating, particularly in:
- Well-insulated homes
- Homes with rooftop solar
- Properties using modern, high-star-rated systems
Unlike gas systems, reverse cycle units allow zone-by-zone heating, meaning you only heat the rooms you’re using — a major advantage for families and larger homes.
3. Heating and Cooling in One System
Gas heating only does one job: heating.
Reverse cycle air conditioning does both heating and cooling, making it a year-round solution for Victoria’s unpredictable climate.
Instead of:
- Gas heater for winter
- Evaporative or split system for summer
You get one efficient system that handles:
- Cold winter mornings
- Hot summer afternoons
- Everything in between
For homeowners upgrading or renovating, this simplifies maintenance, installation, and long-term costs.
4. Victoria Is Moving Away from Gas
Victoria’s long-term energy strategy is focused on electrification — moving homes away from fossil fuels and toward efficient electric alternatives.
Key policy signals include:
- Strong incentives under the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program
- Increased rebates for efficient electric heating
- Clear direction toward all-electric new homes
- Growing restrictions and costs associated with gas infrastructure
While existing gas heaters can still be used, many homeowners are choosing to upgrade early rather than face:
- Rising gas connection costs
- Expensive repairs on aging gas systems
- Reduced rebate availability in the future
Reverse cycle air conditioning aligns perfectly with where Victoria’s energy future is heading.
5. Government Rebates Make Switching More Affordable
One of the biggest drivers behind the shift is government support.
Eligible Victorian households can access VEU rebates when replacing older or inefficient heating systems with energy-efficient reverse cycle air conditioning.
These rebates can significantly reduce upfront costs, making modern systems far more affordable than many homeowners expect.
At Greentastic Pty Ltd, we:
- Assess your eligibility
- Handle the rebate process
- Apply discounts upfront where applicable
This removes confusion and ensures you receive the maximum benefit available.
6. Better Indoor Air Quality & Safety
Gas heaters burn fuel inside your home. While modern systems are safer than older models, they still:
- Produce combustion by-products
- Require flues and ventilation
- Carry carbon monoxide risks if poorly maintained
Reverse cycle air conditioning:
- Produces no combustion gases
- Improves indoor air quality
- Is safer for families, children, and elderly residents
For many Victorian households, especially those with asthma or allergies, this is a major deciding factor.
7. Ideal for Solar-Powered Homes
Victoria has one of the highest rates of rooftop solar adoption in Australia. Reverse cycle air conditioning works exceptionally well with solar systems.
When combined with solar:
- Daytime heating costs can be dramatically reduced
- Cooling during heatwaves becomes far more affordable
- Homes move closer to true energy independence
Gas heating, on the other hand, cannot benefit from solar energy at all.
8. Modern Comfort & Smart Technology
Today’s reverse cycle systems are quieter, smarter, and more comfortable than ever before.
Modern features include:
- Precise temperature control
- Smart thermostats and app control
- Zoned heating for better comfort
- Quiet indoor and outdoor operation
This level of control and efficiency is one reason many Victorians upgrading from gas say they would never go back.
9. A Future-Proof Investment for Victorian Homes
Replacing gas heating with reverse cycle air conditioning is not just about today’s savings — it’s about future-proofing your home.
Benefits include:
- Reduced reliance on fossil fuels
- Lower long-term energy costs
- Higher property appeal and value
- Compliance with future energy standards
As buyers increasingly look for energy-efficient, all-electric homes, this upgrade adds real market value.
Why More Victorians Are Choosing Greentastic
At Greentastic Pty Ltd, we specialise in:
- Reverse cycle air conditioning installation
- Gas-to-electric upgrades
- VEU rebate-eligible solutions
- Honest advice tailored to Victorian homes
We don’t just install systems — we help homeowners choose the right solution for their home, lifestyle, and budget.
Thinking About Replacing Your Gas Heating?
If your gas heater is:
- Over 10 years old
- Expensive to run
- Struggling to heat your home evenly
It may be the perfect time to switch to reverse cycle air conditioning.
👉 Contact Greentastic Pty Ltd today for a free assessment and find out how much you could save with an energy-efficient upgrade.
Leave A Comment