When it comes to heating your Melbourne home, choosing between ducted heating and a split system can feel overwhelming. Both systems have their advantages, and the right choice depends on your home's size, layout, budget, and heating needs. At Apex Trade Services, we've installed hundreds of heating systems across Melbourne, and we're here to break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
This comprehensive guide covers installation costs, running costs, energy efficiency, and which system is best suited for different Melbourne homes.
Understanding Ducted Heating Systems
Ducted heating is a whole-home heating solution that uses a central heating unit (usually located in the roof space or under the floor) connected to a network of ducts that deliver warm air to every room through vents or grilles.
How Ducted Heating Works
Advantages of Ducted Heating
-
Whole-home heating: Heats every room evenly and consistently.
-
Discreet appearance: Only vents are visible—no wall-mounted units.
-
Zoning capability: Heat only the rooms you're using to save energy.
-
Adds property value: A permanent heating solution that appeals to buyers.
-
Quiet operation: The main unit is in the roof, making it quieter than split systems.
Understanding Split System Heating
A split system consists of two main components: an indoor unit (mounted on the wall) and an outdoor compressor. Split systems use reverse cycle technology, meaning they can both heat and cool your home. This makes them incredibly versatile for Melbourne's variable climate.
How Split Systems Work
Split systems extract heat from the outdoor air and transfer it inside to warm your room. In summer, the process reverses to cool your space. They're electric-powered and use refrigerant to transfer heat efficiently. Because they require expert handling of electrical and refrigerant lines, it is vital to hire
Advantages of Split Systems
-
Lower installation cost: Significantly cheaper upfront than ducted systems.
-
Heating and cooling: One system for year-round climate control.
-
Energy efficient: Modern units have excellent energy star ratings.
-
Easy installation: Can be installed in a single day with minimal disruption.
-
Targeted heating: Great for heating individual rooms or small homes.
Cost Breakdown: Installation in Melbourne
One of the biggest factors in your decision will be cost. Let's break down both the installation costs and ongoing running costs for Melbourne homes.
Ducted Heating Installation Cost
For a typical Melbourne home (3-4 bedroom), ducted heating installation costs range from $6,000 to $12,000. This includes the central unit, ductwork, vents, and thermostat. If you are upgrading an older unit, our team also offers expert
Split System Installation Cost
A single quality split system unit typically costs $1,500 to $3,500 installed. For a whole home, you might need 2-4 units, bringing total costs to $3,000–$10,000.
Running Costs Comparison
| System Type | Average Winter Running Cost | Energy Efficiency |
| Ducted Gas Heating | $400 - $600 / winter | 4-5 star |
| Split System (Electric) | $500 - $700 / winter | 5-7 star |
Note: Gas heating is generally cheaper to run in Melbourne due to current gas prices. However, if you have solar panels, a split system may be more cost-effective.
Other Heating Options: Reverse Cycle vs Gas Heating
When comparing systems, you'll also hear about reverse cycle heating and gas options. If you are considering a full transition to gas, you may need to
Beyond ducted gas heating, Melbourne homeowners can consider gas space heaters or gas wall furnaces for individual rooms. These are cost-effective for small spaces but don't offer the whole-home comfort of ducted systems.
Expert Tips for Choosing Your Heating System
After years of servicing the local community, here is what we recommend:
-
Think long-term: While split systems are cheaper upfront, ducted heating adds more resale value.
-
Size matters: An oversized or undersized system wastes energy.
-
Don't forget maintenance: Both systems need regular servicing. Annual maintenance can prevent costly
Make the Right Choice for Your Melbourne Home
Ready to stay warm this winter? Both ducted and split systems are excellent options that will keep your home comfortable. The best choice depends on your home size, budget, and whether you want year-round climate control.
At Apex Trade Services, we specialize in both ducted and split system installations across Melbourne. Our experienced technicians can assess your home and recommend the perfect solution for your lifestyle.