Is Ducted Heating Gas or Electric? Key Differences, Costs & Efficiency Explained
So, you’re sitting there, maybe wrapped in a blanket, wondering if your current heating setup is cutting it or worse, you’re planning a renovation or building a new home and you’re stuck on this one question that seems simple but somehow isn’t: is ducted heating gas or electric better?
It’s not just you. That question trips up heaps of people.
On the surface, it seems straightforward, right? You’ve got two systems that essentially do the same thing keep your house warm when it’s freezing outside. But once you scratch the surface a little, you realise it’s not just about warmth. It’s about bills. It’s about comfort. It’s about the environment, future proofing, and maybe even how much your property’s going to be worth in a few years.
Now, traditionally in Australia, gas ducted heating has been the go-to. Reliable, powerful, pretty fast to heat the whole house. Ask any homeowner from a few years back and they’ll probably tell you they went gas and never looked back.
But here’s the thing times are changing. Electricity is cleaner now. More people have solar. Gas prices? Not as low as they used to be. Suddenly, that old reliable gas system doesn’t feel like such a no-brainer anymore.
So, what do you actually need to know before choosing? That’s what we’re unpacking here not just a surface-level comparison, but the nitty-gritty stuff. The kind of insights you’d want if you were helping your best mate choose the right system for their home.
Let’s break it all down.
What’s the Difference, Anyway?
At first glance, they look kind of similar you’ve got ducts in the ceiling or floor, a central unit somewhere out of the way, and warm air coming into each room. But the way gas and electric systems operate behind the scenes? That’s where things really diverge.
How Gas Ducted Heating Works
So, with gas systems, here’s what’s happening. Cold air gets sucked in from your home, passed through a gas-powered furnace (usually natural gas, sometimes LPG), heated up in the combustion chamber, and then pushed back out through the ductwork into each room.
That’s it. There’s usually a thermostat to manage the temperature and a fan to help circulate the warm air. It’s fast, efficient (at least in terms of delivery), and it’s been trusted for years in places like Melbourne and Adelaide where winters hit hard.
The downside? You’re burning fuel. Literally. There’s a flame involved. That’s heat being created through combustion, which means emissions and the need for regular maintenance to keep things safe.
Gas vs Electric Heating
How Electric Ducted Heating Works
Now let’s flip it.
Electric ducted systems (most of them) work on reverse cycle technology. Basically, they function as heat pumps. They don’t burn anything instead, they extract heat from outside air (yes, even cold air has heat in it) and move it into your house.
That heat gets distributed through the ducts, just like a gas system. But the tech behind it is totally different. You’re not making heat, you’re relocating it and that difference makes a big impact on energy use and efficiency.
Also, these systems can switch modes in summer to become air conditioners, which gas ducted systems can’t do. So it’s kind of a two-for-one setup.
Cost to Run: What Are You Really Paying For?
Now we get into the stuff most people care about the most: how much is this thing going to cost me to run?
Gas Running Costs
Gas has had a reputation for being cheaper. And sure, for a while it was. But over the last few years, gas prices have gone up. Not crazy overnight jumps, but enough that it’s starting to eat into that “cheaper than electric” advantage.
Here’s the tricky part your running cost isn’t just about gas rates. It depends on how often you run it, how big your home is, how well-insulated the place is, and even the thermostat settings you use.
Rough ballpark? For a mid-sized Aussie home using gas ducted heating in winter, you’re probably looking at $600–$1,200 per year, maybe more if you live in a colder climate and run it every day.
Also worth mentioning there’s no cooling with gas. If you want summer comfort, you’ll need a separate air conditioner, and that means extra cost.
Electric Running Costs
Electric systems used to scare people with their running costs, but things have shifted. Especially if you’ve got solar. Electric reverse cycle systems are incredibly efficient now like, we’re talking over 300% efficiency in many models.
That means for every one unit of electricity they use, you could get three units of heat. Sounds wild, but it’s real.
Now, if you’re running one of these systems with solar during the day or even storing solar energy in a battery, your actual heating cost can drop dramatically. We’re talking as little as $200–$400 a year for some homes.
Without solar, the numbers still often look better than gas these days, especially with good zoning and insulation.
Upfront Installation: What’s It Going to Cost to Get Started?
Initial setup cost depends on a few things do you already have ductwork? Do you have an existing gas connection? Is your switchboard ready for a big electric unit?
Installing Gas Systems
If your home already has gas, it’s usually easier and a bit cheaper to install a gas ducted system. You’re just plugging into what’s already there. A standard setup might cost anywhere from $3,000 to $5,500, depending on house size and complexity.
But and it’s a big but if your home is all-electric or in a new estate where gas isn’t even available, then adding gas becomes an expensive hassle. You’re talking about running a new line, getting permits, and possibly extra trenching or plumbing.
Installing Electric Systems
Electric reverse cycle systems usually cost a bit more upfront, especially the high-efficiency models. You’re probably looking at $4,500 to $7,000+ depending on size, brand, and whether you’re doing cooling zones too.
However, because you get both heating and cooling in one system, the total cost ends up being cheaper than buying two separate units one for winter and another for summer.
Which Heating Suits You Best?
The Long-Term Cost: It’s Not Just About Bills
Alright, so maybe installation’s sorted, and you’re okay with the upfront price but what about the real cost of living with that system over the next five, ten, or even fifteen years? Because honestly, that’s where a lot of people get caught off guard.
You might install something that’s cheaper today, but if it ends up costing you more in the long run, was it really worth it?
Let’s break it down properly.
Gas: Ongoing Expenses You Might Not Expect
Here’s the thing about gas systems they age. And not always gracefully. Over time, efficiency drops a bit, parts wear out, and you’ll need to service the unit more often than you might expect.
Most gas ducted heaters should be serviced at least every two years. Some people stretch it longer, but that’s not really safe especially when there’s combustion involved. Carbon monoxide leaks aren’t common, but when they do happen, they’re dangerous. No sugarcoating that.
So aside from your seasonal gas bills, you’ll also be forking out for:
- Routine servicing (roughly $150–$250 per visit)
- Occasional part replacements igniters, thermostats, maybe even the heat exchanger
- And again no cooling, so you’re probably buying and maintaining a separate AC unit anyway
All those “small” things? They add up.
Electric: Lower Maintenance, More Stability
Electric reverse cycle ducted systems have moving parts too, obviously. But because there’s no combustion happening inside them, there’s just less that can go wrong.
They still need attention now and then usually a check every couple of years to make sure filters are clean, ducts are clear, and the refrigerant levels are where they should be.
But when you compare it to servicing a gas burner? It’s lighter on effort and your wallet.
And then there’s electricity pricing. Yes, power costs can fluctuate, but if you’ve got rooftop solar or you’re on a clever energy plan with off-peak rates, you’ve got some real control. That’s a big deal when you’re planning long-term.
Environmental Impact: What’s Better for the Planet?
Alright let’s shift gears for a second.
We all know energy use affects the environment. Whether you care a little or a lot, it’s still part of the decision. And when it comes to environmental impact, this is where things start tipping heavily in one direction.
Gas Isn’t Exactly Green
Gas is a fossil fuel plain and simple. When you burn it, you release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. That’s not news. But what’s becoming clearer every year is how much those emissions add up.
Australia’s gas infrastructure also leaks methane, which is an even more potent greenhouse gas than CO₂. It’s something policymakers are starting to pay more attention to.
So, even if your gas heater is “efficient,” it still runs on fuel that comes with an environmental cost. And in the long run, the country’s moving away from it.
Electric Systems Can Be Powered by the Sun
Electric systems, by contrast, run on grid electricity but more and more of that grid is being powered by renewables. And if you’ve got your own solar system? You’re heating your home with sunshine. Pretty nice, right?
Plus, electric systems don’t burn anything. There are no emissions from the unit itself. That means your home’s air is cleaner too especially important if you’ve got kids or anyone with asthma.
All things considered, if you’re aiming for a lower carbon footprint, electric systems win hands down.
Safety and Maintenance: Which System Is Safer?
This might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it should be up there. You’re installing a system that moves heat through your home and in one case, involves actual flames. So yeah, safety matters.
Gas Ducted Heating Risks
Let’s be real. Most gas heaters are very safe if they’re installed and maintained properly. But the moment they’re not? That’s when you run into trouble.
Poorly maintained gas systems can leak carbon monoxide and because that gas is colourless and odourless, it can go unnoticed until people start feeling sick. That’s why gas heating requires periodic safety checks.
It’s not meant to scare anyone. It’s just how combustion systems work. It’s a real risk and one that a lot of homeowners only think about once it’s too late.
Electric Systems Are Lower Risk
Electric heating doesn’t involve combustion. There’s no fuel being burned inside your home, which means no CO₂ emissions and no carbon monoxide risk.
They’re not completely risk-free, of course. Electrical faults can still happen in any appliance. But with modern systems and proper installation, those risks are much smaller. Plus, there’s no gas connection to worry about leaking.
From a safety point of view, electric wins again especially in families with small children, elderly parents, or anyone with respiratory sensitivities.
Real-Life Example: Two Families, Two Systems
Let’s paint a picture here nothing fancy, just a basic side-by-side.
Family A lives in an older home in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs. When they moved in, it already had a gas ducted heating system, so they stuck with it. In winter, they run it most nights and on chilly mornings. Their gas bills spike by about $250 – $300 a month from May to August. They also use a couple of split systems in summer which adds to the power bill separately.
Family B, a few blocks over, renovated last year and installed a reverse cycle ducted system with zoning and a 6.6kW solar setup on the roof. Their winter electricity bill barely hits $150, and in summer, they stay cool using the same system no extra ACs needed. Their annual maintenance has been basically nothing so far.
Now, that’s not to say Family A made a bad call in their case, gas was already there. But if they ever decide to switch or go solar, they’ll be rethinking things fast.
Future-Proofing: Where Is Australia Heading?
We can’t talk about heating without looking forward. Because, let’s face it what makes sense today might not hold up in five or ten years.
And right now? The writing’s on the wall. Australia is heading toward electrification.
The Gas Phase-Out Has Begun
In places like Victoria and the ACT, new homes aren’t even being connected to gas anymore. It’s not just environmental it’s economic. Maintaining gas networks costs a fortune, and as more people go electric, fewer are left paying for gas infrastructure. That’s not sustainable.
This means if you install gas heating now, you might be locked into a system that becomes harder (or more expensive) to support in the future. Replacement parts, servicing, even basic usage all of that could get costlier.
Electric = Ready for Tomorrow
Electric systems, on the other hand, are only getting better. They integrate with solar and battery storage, work with smart thermostats, and plug seamlessly into home energy monitoring apps. They’re adaptable.
If you’re thinking long-term, whether it’s for comfort, cost, or resale value, it just makes more sense to go electric. You’re not just heating your home you’re getting in step with where energy in Australia is heading.
So, Is Ducted Heating Gas or Electric Better for You?
If you’ve made it this far, hats off you clearly want to make an informed choice. And honestly? That’s half the battle.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. What works brilliantly for someone in a brand-new solar-powered townhouse might not suit someone living in an older home with an existing gas connection.
That said, if we’re looking at where the smart money is heading, especially across Australia, the answer’s leaning more and more in one direction. Electric systems especially reverse cycle ducted setups are becoming the preferred option for a reason.
They’re cleaner. They’re adaptable. They offer cooling too. And long-term? They’re better aligned with how Australian homes are being built and powered moving forward.
But hey, if you already have gas installed, and your system’s running fine, there’s no rush to rip it out tomorrow. The goal here is to plan smart for the future and when the time comes to upgrade, know what you’re stepping into.
At the end of the day, the question is ducted heating gas or electric isn’t just technical. It’s personal. It’s about how you live, what your budget looks like, and how much you want to future-proof your home.
Whatever you choose, make sure you’re not just reacting to what’s cheapest today think a few years ahead. That way, you won’t be caught off guard when energy prices shift or rebates disappear.
Quick Recap: Side-by-Side Comparison
Here’s a simple overview not a rigid chart, just a loose summary to help wrap your head around it.
| Feature | Gas Ducted Heating | Electric (Reverse Cycle) Ducted Heating |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Speed | Heats quickly | Slightly slower warm-up in cold temps |
| Cooling | No | Yes (built-in) |
| Efficiency | Moderate (~80–90%) | High (up to 300–400%) |
| Running Cost | Rising gas bills | Can be low, especially with solar |
| Upfront Cost | Cheaper if gas is already connected | Slightly higher, but includes cooling |
| Maintenance | More frequent, combustion-related | Less frequent, low wear and tear |
| Safety | Needs CO checks, fire risk | Lower risk, no combustion involved |
| Eco-Friendliness | Fossil fuel-based | Green energy-ready, low carbon |
| Long-Term Viability | Slowly being phased out | Future-proofed |
Final Thoughts
Choosing between gas and electric ducted heating might’ve seemed overwhelming at first, but now? You’re in a much better position.
Whether you go with what you’ve already got or make the leap to an electric future, the most important thing is knowing what you’re choosing and why. That’s where the real value lies.
And remember if you’ve been asking yourself, is ducted heating gas or electric, chances are you’re also asking what makes more sense for your family, your bills, and your future. That’s the right question.
Make your decision, own it, and enjoy a home that’s comfortable no matter what the weather’s doing outside.
FAQs
Yes, but it depends on your home’s setup. If you already have ductwork in place, it can sometimes be reused with a reverse cycle system. You’ll likely need a licensed electrician to upgrade your switchboard, especially if your home’s older.
Absolutely. Modern reverse cycle systems are built to handle cold conditions even down to sub-zero temps. Brands like Mitsubishi, Daikin, and Panasonic have models designed specifically for Aussie winters.
Yes, especially in Victoria and the ACT. Government incentives are available under programs like the VEU (Victorian Energy Upgrades) scheme. It’s worth checking the rebate could knock hundreds off your install cost.
You’ll likely see higher gas prices as fewer people use the network, plus limitations on servicing older systems. It won’t happen overnight, but it’s already in motion especially in new housing developments.
Definitely. That’s one of the biggest benefits. If your system runs during the day, your solar panels can cover most or all of the cost essentially giving you free heating (and cooling) from the sun.
Both types generally last 10 to 20 years depending on maintenance and usage. Electric systems tend to have fewer breakdowns over time, especially when serviced properly.
Buyers are increasingly looking for all-electric homes with energy efficiency and solar compatibility. An electric system with heating and cooling in one is a strong selling point especially in cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Canberra