Winter in Geelong has a way of exposing every weakness in an old heating system. If your gas heater is noisy, uneven or pushing your energy bills higher each month, you’re not alone. Many local homeowners are choosing to upgrade before winter demand peaks and costs climb even further.

This year, there’s an added incentive. Government rebate programs across Victoria are helping reduce the upfront cost of replacing outdated gas heating with modern, energy-efficient systems. Waiting could actually mean paying more in the long run.

Why Geelong homeowners are replacing old gas heating

Gas heaters were once the standard choice for Victorian homes. But with rising gas prices and increasing focus on efficiency, many households are realising older systems are expensive to run and often struggle to heat larger homes evenly.

Modern ducted air conditioning systems operate as reverse-cycle heat pumps. That means they provide reliable heating in winter and cooling in summer, all from the one system. Instead of maintaining ageing gas appliances, homeowners are investing in year-round comfort with lower running costs.

Across Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula and the Surf Coast, more families are making the switch before winter pressure hits installation schedules.

How government rebates reduce the upfront cost

Upgrading to a ducted system can feel like a big decision. The good news is that Victorian government initiatives are designed to encourage households to move away from inefficient heating.

Eligible homes replacing older gas systems with approved reverse-cycle units may qualify for substantial rebates. These programs can significantly reduce installation costs, making the move to energy-efficient heating far more accessible.

Stewart Air Conditioning manages the rebate process from start to finish. From eligibility checks through to compliant system selection and documentation, the paperwork is handled professionally so you don’t have to navigate it alone.

Energy-efficient heat pumps Geelong homes are choosing

Today’s reverse-cycle heat pumps use advanced inverter technology that adjusts output automatically to maintain a steady temperature. Instead of constantly switching on and off, they operate more efficiently and deliver consistent comfort.

For many homes, upgrading means replacing separate heating and cooling systems with one streamlined solution. When properly designed, ducted systems also allow zoning, so you only heat the rooms you’re using. That added control can further reduce energy consumption during winter.

Why timing matters before winter bills rise

Each year, installation demand increases as temperatures drop. Waiting until the coldest weeks of winter often means longer lead times and limited availability.

Upgrading earlier ensures you secure your installation booking before peak season. It also means accessing available rebate funding while programs remain active.

Most importantly, it prevents another season of high gas bills and inconsistent heating.

Is your home eligible for a ducted upgrade?

Eligibility depends on factors such as the system being replaced and compliance requirements under current Victorian programs. Many homes across Geelong, Torquay, Ocean Grove and surrounding areas qualify without homeowners realising it.

If you’re currently running an older gas heater, wall furnace or inefficient electric system, it’s worth exploring your options.

A professional assessment can quickly determine whether your home meets rebate criteria and what size system would deliver the best long-term performance.

Take control of your winter comfort

Upgrading to a modern ducted reverse-cycle system is not just about staying warm. It’s about lowering ongoing energy costs, improving comfort and preparing your home for the future of heating and cooling.

Before winter bills climb higher, speak with a local team that understands both installation design and available rebate programs.

Book your free quote with Stewart Air Conditioning today and discover how affordable a ducted upgrade can be.

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Learn more about available government rebates

Secure your installation before winter demand peaks.