If you’re thinking about replacing your old gas heater with an energy-efficient reverse cycle multi split system, you may be eligible for significant savings through the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program and Emerald Programs.
One of the most common questions homeowners ask is:
“Is my current gas heater eligible?”
The good news is that many existing gas heating systems can qualify for an upgrade.
What types of gas heaters are eligible?
In most cases, Victorian households may be eligible if they have an existing gas heating system that is being permanently replaced with an approved reverse cycle air conditioning system installed by an accredited provider. Eligible systems generally include gas heating systems that are operational and can be decommissioned as part of the installation process.
Common eligible gas heaters include:
Gas ducted heating systems
This is the most common upgrade under the VEU program.
If your home has central gas ducted heating connected to floor or ceiling vents, you could be eligible to replace it with one or more high-efficiency reverse cycle split systems.
By upgrading, you’ll enjoy:
- Lower running costs
- Heating and cooling from the one system
- Improved energy efficiency
- Reduced reliance on expensive gas
Gas wall furnaces
Older gas wall furnaces found in hallways or living rooms may also be eligible for replacement.
These systems are typically much less efficient than modern reverse cycle air conditioners and can cost significantly more to operate during winter.
Which gas heaters may not be eligible?
Some systems may not qualify for rebates, including:
- Gas fireplaces used mainly for decoration
- Portable gas heaters
- Heating systems that have already been permanently decommissioned
- Appliances that don’t meet VEU replacement requirements
Every property is assessed individually, so the best way to confirm eligibility is to have an accredited installer inspect your existing heating system.
What is replacing the gas heater?
Rather than installing another gas appliance, eligible homes upgrade to modern reverse cycle split system air conditioners.
These systems provide:
- Efficient heating in winter
- Cooling during summer
- Lower electricity usage compared with older heating technologies
- Smart controls and Wi-Fi functionality on many models
- Reduced household carbon emissions
Unlike gas heaters, reverse cycle systems offer year-round comfort from a single unit while using significantly less energy.
Additional eligibility requirements
Besides having an eligible gas heater, you’ll generally need to:
- Live in Victoria
- Have a property that’s at least two years old
- Replace your existing gas heater with an approved reverse cycle air conditioner
- Use a VEU-accredited installer
- Have the old gas heater professionally decommissioned during installation
Emerald Programs also requires participating homes to meet its program eligibility criteria, including having existing gas heating and using one of its accredited installation partners.
Why upgrade your gas heating now?
The Emerald Electrify Heating Program currently has limited availability, with only 1,000 spots across Victoria. Once those spots are filled, the additional cashback offer and current incentive structures may no longer be available. With energy costs continuing to rise, there has never been a better time to upgrade your home’s heating and cooling.
If you currently have gas ducted heating or an older air conditioning system, there’s a strong chance you qualify.
Not sure if your gas heater qualifies?
The easiest way to find out is with a free eligibility assessment.
Our Emerald Programs team can confirm if your current heating system qualifies under the VEU program, explain the rebates available to you, and recommend the best reverse cycle split system for your home.