Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Duct Heating System

Kate Westall
1 day ago
4 min read

Thinking about installing ducted heating but feeling overwhelmed? Or perhaps your current heating setup leaves you cold in winter while bills rise? Many Australian homeowners face these same questions—especially with climate variations from Melbourne’s icy winters to Brisbane’s mild cool seasons.

This guide simplifies everything you need to know about choosing the right Duct Heating System for your home, budget, and climate. By the end, you'll clearly understand system types, costs, and factors to consider before making your investment.

What Is a Ducted Heating System and How Does It Work?

A Duct Heating System is a whole-home heating solution that delivers warm air through hidden ducts in the ceiling or floor. A central unit warms air and distributes it evenly through vents across all rooms, avoiding cold spots common with portable heaters or single split systems.

Key Components

Heating unit(gas or electric) located outside or in roof space
Insulated ducts to transport warm air
Thermostat for temperature control
Return air grille for airflow circulation
Zoning options for heating selected areas only
The result? Uniform, controlled heating throughout your home.

Types of Ducted Heating Systems

1. Gas Ducted Heating

Popular in states with natural gas access such as Victoria and South Australia, gas systems heat quickly and are often cheaper to run. Modern units reach up to 6-star efficiency and perform well in cold climates.

2. Reverse Cycle Ducted Systems

These systems provide both cooling and heating. They extract heat from outside air—even during winter—to warm your home. Reverse cycle units deliver high efficiency and offer year-round climate control.

3. Add-On Cooling

Homes with gas ducted heating can add:

Evaporative cooling (best for dry climates)
Refrigerated cooling (works in any humidity)

Your local climate plays a major role in choosing the best option.

Which System Suits Australian Climate Zones?

Melbourne / Hobart: Gas ducted heating performs best for cold winters.
Brisbane / Northern NSW: Reverse cycle systems suit warmer climates with more cooling needs.
Perth: Reverse cycle is preferred for its balance of heating and cooling.
Adelaide: Both systems work well due to varied seasonal temperatures.

Consider your suburb’s microclimate—not just your state—before deciding.

How Much Does a Duct Heating System Cost?

Installation Costs

Approximate installation for a typical 3-bedroom home:

Gas ducted heating: $3,000–$7,000
Reverse cycle ducted heating and cooling: $7,000–$15,000

Costs vary based on home size, number of zones, ceiling space, and system quality.

Running Costs

Gas ducted heating: $600–$1,200 annually(average)
Reverse cycle: Similar or slightly higher electricity use, but also provides cooling

Higher energy ratings mean lower long-term costs.

Long-Term Value

A quality Duct Heating System lasts 15–20 years and increases property value, especially in cooler regions. Consistent heating also boosts comfort and reduces health-related issues such as winter colds.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing

1. Home Size and Layout

Larger homes or those with higher ceilings require stronger systems. Multi-storey homes benefit from zoning due to warm air rising.

2. Insulation

Even the best ducted system will struggle in poorly insulated homes. Improve insulation (ceiling, walls, windows, draught-sealing) before installation to reduce running costs.

3. Climate Zone

Alpine regions need robust systems, while coastal areas may require more cooling support. Consider your local climate conditions carefully.

4. Budget and Incentives

Factor in:

Installation costs
Yearly maintenance
Energy bills

Some states offer rebates for high-efficiency systems, helping reduce upfront costs.

Is Ducted Heating Worth It?

Pros

Whole-home comfort
Quiet operation
Cleaner indoor air
Smart zoning for energy saving
Works discreetly without affecting home aesthetics

Cons

Higher installation cost
Running costs rise in poorly insulated homes
Some older homes need structural changes to fit ducts

When It Makes Sense

Larger homes
Families needing consistent warmth
New builds or major renovations
Investment properties in cooler zones

Alternatives

Split systems for small homes
Hydronic heating for radiant warmth
Hybrid systems combining ducted + split units

Maintenance and Usage Tips

Regular Maintenance

Clean or replace filters monthly during winter
Schedule annual servicing ($150–$250)
Ensure burners, fans, and safety devices operate correctly

Efficiency Tips

Set thermostat to 18°C–20°C
Use zoned heating to warm only occupied rooms
Seal doors and windows
Use natural sunlight during the day
Clean return air grilles regularly

These steps help your Duct Heating System run efficiently and extend its lifespan.

How to Make Your Final Decision

Step-by-Step Checklist

Measure your home’s size and ceiling height
Review insulation quality
Analyse your climate zone
Set a realistic long-term budget
Compare at least three installer quotes
Check warranties and brand reputation
Ensure the system allows future upgrades
Consider maintenance needs

Taking a structured approach prevents costly mistakes and ensures long-term satisfaction.

Your Path to Perfect Comfort

Choosing the right Duct Heating System doesn’t have to be complicated. Match the system to your home, climate, and budget rather than simply selecting the most expensive option. Whether you opt for gas ducted heating in Melbourne or a reverse cycle system in Perth, the right solution is the one that delivers comfort efficiently for many years.

Use this guide to ask informed questions, compare quotes, and choose a reliable installer. With the right planning, you’ll enjoy warm, comfortable winters and efficient performance all year round—making your investment truly worthwhile.