Choosing between reverse cycle air conditioning and gas ducted heating is one of the more common questions we get from Melbourne homeowners. Both are proven ways to heat a home through a Victorian winter, but they suit different properties, budgets and priorities. Here is a straightforward comparison.
How each system works
Reverse cycle systems are simply air conditioners that can run in reverse to produce heat. They move heat from outside into your home using refrigerant, which makes them remarkably efficient. The same system cools in summer, so you get year-round comfort from one unit — available as split systems for individual rooms or refrigerated ducted for the whole home.
Gas ducted heating burns natural gas in a central furnace and distributes warm air through ducts and vents. It is a heating-only system, known for delivering a strong, comforting heat quickly. We cover installation and service under our gas heating services.
Running costs
Running costs depend on energy prices, how well your home is insulated and how you use the system. As a general guide:
- Reverse cycle is very efficient — it typically produces several units of heat for each unit of electricity it draws, which keeps running costs low.
- Gas ducted running costs are closely tied to the price of natural gas, which has become more variable in recent years.
- A well-zoned reverse cycle system lets you heat only the rooms in use, which can reduce costs further.
We avoid quoting specific savings figures because every home is different, but efficiency is one of the main reasons many Melbourne households now lean towards reverse cycle.
Comfort and feel
Some people prefer the immediate, enveloping warmth of gas ducted heating, particularly in older or draughtier homes. Reverse cycle heat is gentler and very consistent, and modern systems reach temperature quickly. Comfort is subjective, so it is worth considering what your household actually prefers.
Which should you choose?
Reverse cycle tends to make sense if you want one system for heating and cooling, value efficiency, or are building or renovating. Gas ducted can still appeal if you already have gas connected, prefer that style of heat, and only need heating. If you would like ducted comfort year-round, our guide on what ducted zoning really does is a useful next read.
The best choice always comes down to your specific home. Request a quote and our team can talk through the options based on your layout, insulation and budget.
