The Great Debate: Ducted Gas Heating vs Ducted Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning
When it comes to heating and cooling your home, there are many options to choose from. Two of the most popular options are ducted gas heating and ducted reverse cycle air conditioning. Both have their pros and cons, but which is better? In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between these two systems and help you decide which one is best for your home.
Gas Ducted Heater Pros & Cons
Ducted Gas Heating is a central heating system that uses natural or bottled gas as its fuel source. This system is designed to provide warmth throughout your entire home through a network of ducts and vents. Ducted gas heating is efficient, effective, and offers a high level of control over the temperature in your home.
Pros:
Energy efficient options: Ducted gas heating provides warmth throughout your home in a matter of minutes. For optimum energy efficiency, install a 5 or 6 star energy rated unit plus Zoning.
Cost-effective to run: Natural gas has traditionally been cheaper than electricity, making ducted gas heating a cost-effective option for heating your home. Note: we don’t recommend running on LPG if you don’t have access to Natural Gas due to the cost of LPG.
Reliable: With proper maintenance, ducted gas heating systems can last for many years and are generally considered to be a reliable heating option.
Cosy: Gas has a cosy warm feel to it that some people prefer.
Cons:
Maintenance: Gas ducted heating systems require regular maintenance, including bi-annual check-ups and cleaning, to ensure they are operating safely and efficiently.
Non-renewable energy: Natural gas is a fossil fuel, and burning it contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.
Upfront costs: While it’s cheaper to install a Gas Ducted system than a Ducted Reverse Cycle system, there is still an initial outlay due for the unit, ductwork, outlets and electrical requirements.
For more information, visit our Gas Ducted Heating page.
Ducted Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning
Ducted Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning is a central air conditioning system that uses refrigerant to cool or heat your home. This system is designed to provide climate control throughout your entire home through a network of ducts and vents. Ducted reverse cycle air conditioning is efficient, effective, and offers a high level of control over the temperature in your home.
Pros:
Utilizes electricity: Due to renewable energy such as Solar becoming more accessible, many people are opting for electrical appliances
Versatile: Ducted reverse cycle air conditioning can be used to cool and heat your home, making it a versatile option for all seasons.
Affordable options: With advances in technology, ducted reverse cycle air conditioning has become more affordable, making it an accessible option for many homeowners.
Cons:
Upfront costs: Installing a ducted reverse cycle air conditioning system, including ducts, outlets and electrical requirements is more expensive than a ducted gas heater.
Maintenance: Ducted reverse cycle air conditioning systems require regular maintenance, including bi-annual check-ups and cleaning, to ensure they are operating safely and efficiently.
Noise: Some ducted reverse cycle air conditioning systems can be noisy, particularly if they are not installed properly.
For more information, visit our Ducted Reverse Cycle Air Conditioner page.
So, which is better: Gas Ducted Heating or Ducted Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning?
While Gas Ducted Heaters have been used extensively in new house builds in the past, it is more common to have new houses built with Ducted Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners as they are an all-in-1 home heating & cooling solution and can use renewable energy such as solar, which contributes to the house’s overall energy rating.
Most Gas Ducted Heaters we are now installing are replacements for those who already have it but require a new unit, rather than brand new systems.
But ultimately the answer comes down to your individual needs, preferences and budgets.