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Replace Gas Ducted Heating with Ducted Electric (updated for 2025)
The shift from gas to electric heating is gaining momentum as homeowners seek more sustainable and cost-effective solutions for their heating and cooling needs. As energy efficiency becomes a top priority, replacing gas-ducted heating with electric systems has become a compelling option. This transition not only helps reduce carbon footprints but also offers long-term savings and improved comfort for households. A major roadblock for Victorians has been the high reliance on ducted heating. Now, a new electric heat pump system that slots into the same space as the gas unit and uses the existing ducted vents has been introduced into the market.
The Braemar Dominator Series™. Read on to see the benefits of making the switch from gas to electric heating and the features of the Braemar Dominator Series™.
Gas vs Electric Ducted Heating – What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Gas Ducted Heating | Electric Ducted Heating (Reverse Cycle / Heat Pump) |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Source | Natural Gas | Electricity (increasingly from renewables) |
| Efficiency | 70–85% (older systems lower) | 300–400% (heat pump technology) |
| Running Costs | Rising gas prices | Lower bills, especially with solar |
| Cooling Function | Heating only | Heating and cooling in one system |
| Emissions | Higher carbon footprint | Zero on-site emissions |
| Rebates | Limited or none | Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU), Solar rebates, electrification incentives |
Electric ducted systems, particularly reverse cycle heat pumps, generate 3 – 4 times more energy than they consume. That means for every 1kW of electricity, you could get up to 4kW of heating or cooling.
Rebates & Incentives in Victoria
The Victorian Government continues to support the transition to all-electric homes. As of 2025, households may be eligible for:
- Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) rebates on efficient electric systems.
- Solar Victoria rebates when combining ducted electric heating with rooftop solar.
- Federal Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), which reduce upfront costs.
Checking your eligibility could save you $$$ on installation. We take care of working out the rebates available to you and take care of the paperwork, too. So don’t worry if you can’t figure out the STC rebates or any og the others – we know it back the front and will get you the biggest rebate available to you.
The Shift from Gas to Electric Heating
The transition from gas to electric heating is growing as homeowners seek more sustainable and cost-effective solutions. Melbourne homeowners are increasingly moving away from gas heating as energy costs rise and government policies shift toward electrification. From January 2024, Victoria banned gas connections in all new homes, and the trend is continuing with more rebates and incentives for households making the switch.
If you currently have gas ducted heating, now is the ideal time to explore ducted electric heating options. Not only is electric heating cleaner and more efficient, but modern systems such as reverse cycle ducted units and advanced models like the Dominator Series can also integrate with your existing cooling setup.
Switching to electric ensures you’re future-proofing your home, lowering energy costs, and reducing carbon emissions. Electric heating systems have several advantages over their gas counterparts. They produce zero emissions when used in homes, converting electricity directly into heat without releasing harmful pollutants. This makes electric heating a cleaner option compared to fossil fuels. Additionally, electric systems are generally safer, as they eliminate the risks associated with gas appliances, such as carbon monoxide release and open flames.
Environmental Considerations
The environmental impact of gas extraction and transportation has become a significant concern. Natural gas extraction, particularly through fracking, can have negative effects on groundwater and contribute to methane leakage, a potent greenhouse gas. The transportation of natural gas through pipelines also carries environmental risks, with an estimated 2 to 2.5% of gas leaking into the environment during transport.
In contrast, electricity can be produced from renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower. As the world moves towards more renewable electricity generation, homes with electric heating will be able to take advantage of cleaner energy sources. Some major electricity suppliers now offer tariffs that use 100% renewable electricity.
Energy Efficiency Comparison
Electric heating systems, particularly heat pumps, have proven to be highly energy-efficient. These systems don’t generate heat directly using an electric element but instead use heat pump technology to extract heat from the outside air. This makes them the most efficient form of electric heating available.
For most Victorians, electric reverse cycle split systems are the most energy-efficient and lowest-cost heating option, generating the lowest greenhouse emissions. The Victorian government estimates that households can save up to $1,000 off their annual energy bills by switching to electric heating, or $2,200 if they have solar installed. This significant cost saving, combined with the environmental benefits, makes the shift from gas to electric heating an attractive option for many homeowners.
Introducing the Braemar Dominator Series™
The Braemar Dominator Series™ has revolutionised the heating and cooling market with its leading-edge technology. This innovative system uses all-electric reverse cycle technology, packaged into an indoor unit that fits neatly into the ceiling space, directly replacing existing gas heater units while leaving other components intact. The Dominator Series™ is designed to be a direct replacement for any brand of ducted gas heater, including Bonaire, Brivis, Rinnai, Eco Pacific, and more.
One of the key features of the Dominator Series™ is its use of R32 refrigerant, which has a 68% lower global warming potential than R410A and requires up to 30% less charging quantity. The system also incorporates inverter technology with an EC (electronically communicated) backward curved fan, providing high static, quiet, and energy-efficient airflow.
Heating and Cooling Capabilities
The Dominator Series™ stands out as one of the most powerful single-phase reverse-cycle ducted systems on the market for heating performance. At rated conditions, it can achieve 17kW of heating, with a maximum heating output of up to 21kW. The system is designed with higher heating capacities than cooling, recognising that it’s replacing ducted gas heating, which typically has higher capacities.
The Dominator Series™ allows users to switch between different rooms in their home and control the settings in each zone via a wired wall controller and RF sensors. The system comes standard with 4 RF sensors and can be expanded to accommodate up to 8 zones.
Australian Design and Manufacturing
Seeley International, the company behind the Braemar Dominator Series™, is proudly 100% Australian-owned. The indoor unit of the Dominator Series™ has been meticulously designed by Seeley International’s engineering team and is manufactured and assembled in Albury, New South Wales. While some components, like the EC backward curved indoor fan from Germany, are imported, many are locally made.
Installation Process and Considerations
Before replacing a gas-ducted heating system with an electric alternative, it’s crucial to assess the current setup. Homeowners should consider whether replacing like-for-like is the best option, as new electric heat pump systems are more efficient and cheaper to run than gas ducted heating. To get an accurate assessment, we will come to your home for a free quote and assessment.
Retrofitting Options
When retrofitting, it’s essential to consider the existing infrastructure. The Braemar Dominator Series™ is designed to fit neatly into the ceiling space, directly replacing existing gas heater units while leaving other components intact. This makes it an ideal option for those looking to switch from gas to electric heating. Homeowners should also consider the R-value of the ductwork when installing a new system, as better insulation leads to lower heat losses and more efficient operation. We will give you advice on your options, and we aim to make it as simple as possible.
Professional Installation Requirements
Professional installation is crucial for safety and efficiency. All gas connections, piping, and installation must be carried out by a certified gas plumber like Harley Plumbing. For electric systems, it’s important to consult a professional electrician to assess the electrical system’s capacity and make any necessary upgrades. The installation of heating systems is regulated by Australian Standards, and there are minimum specifications a home must meet to be eligible for certain types of heating.
Long-term Benefits and Savings
Switching to electric heating systems can lead to significant long-term savings. These systems are highly efficient, converting all the electricity they consume into heat. For most Victorians, electric reverse-cycle split systems have proven to be the most energy-efficient and cost-effective heating option, generating the lowest greenhouse emissions. Running a reverse-cycle air conditioner for an entire year can cost less than operating an electric heater for just three months during winter. But with this new electric heat pump system to replace the gas ducted heating, the market is smashed wide open! It’s not just a binary choice of gas ducted or reverse split system.
Maintenance Advantages
Electric heating systems generally require less maintenance compared to gas heaters. They don’t involve combustion processes, eliminating the need for frequent safety checks and reducing overall maintenance costs. Regular maintenance for electric systems typically involves simple tasks like cleaning filters monthly to ensure optimal performance.
FAQs – Gas to Electric Heating Replacement
1. What makes the Dominator Series different?
The Dominator is a hybrid reverse-cycle ducted system designed as a direct replacement for gas heaters. It combines heating and cooling, while allowing you to keep your existing evaporative cooler.
2. Can I reuse my existing ductwork?
In many cases, yes. The Dominator Series is designed to connect to existing ductwork, which reduces installation costs. Our technicians assess duct condition, insulation, and zoning before confirming re-use.
3. How powerful is the heating?
Very powerful. The Dominator delivers up to 17 kW of heating capacity, with some models reaching 21 kW—making it one of the strongest single-phase reverse-cycle systems available.
4. Where is the Dominator made?
The indoor unit is proudly designed and manufactured in Australia (Albury, NSW), paired with a trusted Braemar inverter outdoor unit for reliability.
5. Is it safe and compliant?
Yes. The Dominator meets MEPS, Electrical Safety, and EMC standards. It is only supplied through trained, authorised installers, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.
6. How often does it need servicing?
Like all reverse-cycle systems, annual servicing is recommended. Our licensed technicians check refrigerant levels, drainage, electrical components, and duct integrity to maintain efficiency and warranty.
7. Can I keep my evaporative cooler with the Dominator?
Yes. This is one of the key benefits—it’s built to integrate with existing evaporative cooling for a year-round comfort solution.
Conclusion
The transition from gas to electric heating, particularly with systems like the Braemar Dominator Series™, has a significant impact on both household finances and environmental sustainability. This shift offers homeowners a chance to cut costs, reduce their carbon footprint, and enjoy more efficient heating and cooling. The Dominator Series™, with its innovative design and powerful performance, stands out as a top choice to consider when making this change.
Ultimately, the move to electric heating represents a step towards a cleaner, more cost-effective future for home climate control. With benefits ranging from lower energy bills to increased property value, it’s a change that makes sense for many homeowners. As technology continues to advance and renewable energy becomes more prevalent, the advantages of electric heating systems are likely to grow even further.
Why Choose Harley Plumbing for Your Switch?
- Over 20 years of experience in Melbourne heating and cooling
- Licensed and insured technicians
- Expertise with all major brands, including Seeley, Brivis, Rinnai, Mitsubishi Electric & Daikin
- Free on-site quotes and upfront pricing
- Up-to-date with rebates and regulations
Make the Switch
Gas is being phased out in Melbourne, and ducted electric heating is the smarter, more sustainable choice for homeowners. By switching now, you’ll enjoy:
- Lower running costs
- Cleaner, healthier air
- Year-round comfort
- Access to government rebates
✅ Don’t wait for winter — book your free ducted electric heating assessment with Harley Plumbing today and see how much you could save.
