Do You Need to Decommission Your Old Gas Ducted Heating System to Get VEU Rebates? Here’s the Truth for Victorian Homeowners
If you’re a Victorian homeowner planning to upgrade your heating and cooling system, you may be wondering:
“Do I have to decommission my old gas ducted system to qualify for the VEU (Victorian Energy Upgrades) rebates?”
The answer isn’t as black and white as you might think. Let’s break it down clearly and explain why many installers still recommend removing the old gas system—even when it’s not always mandatory.
✅ Is Decommissioning a Gas Ducted System Required for VEU Rebates?
In most cases:
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You are not strictly required to decommission your gas ducted system to qualify for VEU rebates.
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However, some types of upgrades—like switching from gas ducted heating to ducted reverse cycle air conditioning—may unlock higher rebate values if the gas system is completely removed.
The key is the type of system being installed and the evidence provided during the rebate application.
🔧 Why Do Installers Recommend Decommissioning the Gas System Anyway?
Even if not legally required, many professional installers—including us at Victorian Air Conditioning Solutions—recommend decommissioning your gas system for several reasons:
1. Maximise Your Rebate Value
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Removing the gas system can help you access higher-tier rebates under the VEU program, especially when installing high-efficiency electric reverse cycle systems.
2. Avoid Risk of Ineligibility
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If both the old gas and new electric systems are left running simultaneously, your rebate claim may be rejected.
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Decommissioning ensures full compliance with rebate requirements.
3. Reduce Long-Term Costs
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You’ll avoid paying gas service connection fees, annual inspections, and maintenance on an unused system.
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Switching fully to electricity simplifies your utility bills and boosts your energy efficiency.
4. Improve System Design & Performance
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Leaving old ductwork or appliances in place can interfere with airflow, zoning, or thermostat performance.
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Decommissioning allows for a cleaner installation and better comfort control.
5. Future-Proof Your Home
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Victoria is moving toward a clean energy future. By retiring gas appliances now, you’re making your home more sustainable and ready for future changes in energy policy.
🔄 What Are Your Options?
Here are the practical choices for homeowners:
| Option | Rebate Eligibility | Installer Advice |
|---|---|---|
| Keep gas system and add new electric system | May get partial rebates (depending on usage) | Risk of rejection if both are active |
| Disconnect gas system (but leave ducts) | Likely to qualify | Acceptable for many installations |
| Fully decommission and remove gas system | Highest rebate and safest option | Recommended by most installers |
👷♂️ How We Can Help
At Victorian Air Conditioning Solutions, we:
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Assess your eligibility for VEU rebates
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Recommend the most cost-effective upgrade
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Handle safe removal and decommissioning if needed
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Ensure your rebate claim is fully compliant and maximised
📞 Ready to Upgrade?
Let us take the guesswork out of your heating and cooling upgrade.
Call us today to get a free quote and VEU rebate consultation.
Your comfort and savings start with the right advice.
👉 Visit www.victorianairconditioningsolutions.com.au
📞 Phone: 0485 952 870
📍 Servicing: Melbourne & Regional Victoria
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