Replace Gas Ducted Heating with Ducted Electric

The shift from gas to electric heating is gaining momentum as homeowners seek more sustainable and cost-effective solutions for their heating and cooling needs. As energy efficiency becomes a top priority, replacing gas-ducted heating with electric systems has become a compelling option. This transition not only helps reduce carbon footprints but also offers long-term savings and improved comfort for households. A major roadblock for Victorians has been the high reliance on ducted heating. Now, a new electric heat pump system that slots into the same space as the gas unit and uses the existing ducted vents has been introduced into the market. 

The Braemar Dominator Series™. This blog will explore the benefits of making the switch from gas to electric heating, introduce the features of the Braemar Dominator Series™, discuss the installation process, and highlight the long-term advantages of this change. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of why to consider replacing their gas-ducted heating with an electric system.

The Shift from Gas to Electric Heating

The transition from gas to electric heating is growing as homeowners seek more sustainable and cost-effective solutions. Effective January 1, 2024, legislation in Victoria has banned gas connections for new builds, prompting many existing homeowners to follow suit. Electric heating systems have several advantages over their gas counterparts. They produce zero emissions when used in homes, converting electricity directly into heat without releasing harmful pollutants. This makes electric heating a cleaner option compared to fossil fuels. Additionally, electric systems are generally safer, as they eliminate the risks associated with gas appliances, such as carbon monoxide release and open flames.

Environmental considerations

The environmental impact of gas extraction and transportation has become a significant concern. Natural gas extraction, particularly through fracking, can have negative effects on groundwater and contribute to methane leakage, a potent greenhouse gas. The transportation of natural gas through pipelines also carries environmental risks, with an estimated 2 to 2.5% of gas leaking into the environment during transport.

In contrast, electricity can be produced from renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower. As the world moves towards more renewable electricity generation, homes with electric heating will be able to take advantage of cleaner energy sources. Some major electricity suppliers now offer tariffs that use 100% renewable electricity.

Energy efficiency comparison

Electric heating systems, particularly heat pumps, have proven to be highly energy-efficient. These systems don’t generate heat directly using an electric element but instead use heat pump technology to extract heat from the outside air. This makes them the most efficient form of electric heating available.

For most Victorians, electric reverse cycle split systems are the most energy-efficient and lowest-cost heating option, generating the lowest greenhouse emissions. The Victorian government estimates that households can save up to $1,000 off their annual energy bills by switching to electric heating – or $2,200 if they have solar installed. This significant cost saving, combined with the environmental benefits, makes the shift from gas to electric heating an attractive option for many homeowners.

Introducing the Braemar Dominator Series™

The Braemar Dominator Series™ has revolutionised the heating and cooling market with its leading-edge technology. This innovative system uses all-electric reverse cycle technology, packaged into an indoor unit that fits neatly into the ceiling space, directly replacing existing gas heater units while leaving other components intact. The Dominator Series™ is designed to be a direct replacement for any brand of ducted gas heater, including Bonaire, Brivis, Rinnai, Eco Pacific, and more.

One of the key features of the Dominator Series™ is its use of R32 refrigerant, which has a 68% lower global warming potential than R410A and requires up to 30% less charging quantity. The system also incorporates inverter technology with an EC (electronically communicated) backward curved fan, providing high static, quiet, and energy-efficient airflow.

Heating and Cooling Capabilities

The Dominator Series™ stands out as one of the most powerful single-phase reverse cycle ducted systems on the market for heating performance. At rated conditions, it can achieve 17kW of heating, with a maximum heating output of up to 21kW. The system is designed with higher heating capacities than cooling, recognizing that it’s replacing ducted gas heating which typically has higher capacities.

The Dominator Series™ allows users to switch between different rooms in their home and control the settings in each zone via a wired wall controller and RF sensors. The system comes standard with 4 RF sensors and can be expanded to accommodate up to 8 zones.

Australian Design and Manufacturing

Seeley International, the company behind the Braemar Dominator Series™, is proudly 100% Australian owned . The indoor unit of the Dominator Series™ has been meticulously designed by Seeley International’s engineering team and is manufactured and assembled in Albury, New South Wales. While some components, like the EC backward curved indoor fan from Germany, are imported, many are locally made.

Installation Process and Considerations

Before replacing a gas-ducted heating system with an electric alternative, it’s crucial to assess the current setup. Homeowners should consider if replacing like for like is the best option, as new electric heat pump systems are more efficient and cheaper to run than gas ducted heating. To get an accurate assessment, we will come to your home for a free quote and assessment. 

Retrofitting options

When retrofitting, it’s essential to consider the existing infrastructure. The Braemar Dominator Series™ is designed to fit neatly into the ceiling space, directly replacing existing gas heater units while leaving other components intact. This makes it an ideal option for those looking to switch from gas to electric heating. Homeowners should also consider the R-value of the ductwork when installing a new system, as better insulation leads to lower heat losses and more efficient operation. We will give you advice on your options and we aim to make it as simple as possible. 

Professional installation requirements

Professional installation is crucial for safety and efficiency. All gas connection, piping, and installation must be carried out by a certified gas plumber like Harley Plumbing. For electric systems, it’s important to consult a professional electrician to assess the electrical system’s capacity and make any necessary upgrades. The installation of heating systems is regulated by Australian Standards, and there are minimum specifications a home must meet to be eligible for certain types of heating.

Long-term Benefits and Savings

Switching to electric heating systems can lead to significant long-term savings. These systems are highly efficient, converting all the electricity they consume into heat. For most Victorians, electric reverse-cycle split systems have proven to be the most energy-efficient and cost-effective heating option, generating the lowest greenhouse emissions. Running a reverse-cycle air conditioner for an entire year can cost less than operating an electric heater for just three months during winter. But with this new electric heat pump system to replace the gas ducted heating the market is smashed wide open! It’s not just a binary choice of gas ducted or reverse split system. 

Maintenance advantages

Electric heating systems generally require less maintenance compared to gas heaters. They don’t involve combustion processes, eliminating the need for frequent safety checks and reducing overall maintenance costs. Regular maintenance for electric systems typically involves simple tasks like cleaning filters monthly to ensure optimal performance.

Conclusion

The transition from gas to electric heating, particularly with systems like the Braemar Dominator Series™, has a significant impact on both household finances and environmental sustainability. This shift offers homeowners a chance to cut costs, reduce their carbon footprint, and enjoy more efficient heating and cooling. The Dominator Series™, with its innovative design and powerful performance, stands out as a top choice to consider when making this change.

Ultimately, the move to electric heating represents a step towards a cleaner, more cost-effective future for home climate control. With benefits ranging from lower energy bills to increased property value, it’s a change that makes sense for many homeowners. As technology continues to advance and renewable energy becomes more prevalent, the advantages of electric heating systems are likely to grow even further.

FAQs

1. Is it possible to switch from gas-ducted heating to electric heating?
Yes, you can definitely switch your heating system from gas to electric. While the initial costs might be higher, this change is beneficial for the environment and can reduce your energy bills over time.

2. What are the costs associated with replacing gas central heating with an electric system?
The cost to replace a gas-ducted heating system with an electric one typically starts from $1,800. This cost depends on the type of electric heating system selected and whether additional ductwork or wiring is necessary.

3. Does Braemar produce gas or electric heaters?
Braemar manufactures gas heaters and has introduced their newest heater which is an electric heat pump system, which is known for providing immediate warmth and high levels of comfort. They are highly efficient, boasting some of the best star ratings for efficiency in Australia.

4. Can a gas central heating system be upgraded to an electric system?
Yes,that’s what the Dominator has been made for!