Can you reuse gas ductwork when upgrading to Reverse Cycle with the VEU Program?
Why check your duct?
As an authorised provider of the VEU program, EZYAIR will assesses each individual property to determine if existing ductwork meets the requirements to be re-used or if it must be replaced with new ductwork to ensure optimal energy efficiency and VEU compliance.
Why Duct Compliance Matters:
To be eligible for the rebates and incentives offered by the VEU program, your new reverse cycle system installation must be certified to comply with all State and National codes. This includes ensuring all electrical, plumbing, refrigeration, ductwork, installation and fittings meet all regulatory requirements.
Different Duct Insulation Types
In most situations with existing Gas Ducted Heating systems, the existing ductwork and fittings have an insulation rating of 'R1.0'. This is not compliant for re-use with a new ducted reverse cycle system in most instances, as the ductwork for reverse cycle ducted systems requires a minimum insulation rating of 'R1.5'.
However, there are exceptions for some properties which will enable the reuse of existing R1.0 ducts when upgrading from ducted gas to ducted reverse cycle air conditioning through the Victorian Energy Upgrade (VEU) program.
To qualify if your ductwork can be reused, EZYAIR refers to four different State and Federal Building and Mechanical Plumbing Regulations, which are all relevant to each other when analysing a property. The regulations are listed and linked below.
1. The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) Technical Sheet 7.04
The VBA sets the benchmark for safe and efficient building practices in Victoria. As an accredited provider of the VEU program, EZYAIR ensures all our installations meet or exceed VBA Technical Sheet 7.04 guidelines, including the necessary ductwork insulation to ensure optimal performance.
2. Australian Standard AS 4254.1-2012: Flexible Ducting
EZYAIR utilises high-quality ductwork that complies with Australian Standard AS 4254.1-2012. For VEU-eligible upgrades, this means ensuring the ducting not only meets structural and airflow requirements but also provides the necessary insulation to maximize the efficiency of your new reverse cycle system.
3. National Construction Code (NCC) Part 13.7.4:
The NCC mandates a minimum ductwork R-Value for heating and cooling ductwork in each Climate Zone acoording to the Australian Building Codes Board 'Climate Zone Map'.
The Australian Building Codes Board is responsible for giving each area of Australia a 'Climate Zone'. Each Climate Zone then relates to the insulation type required for ductwork of a heating and cooling system.The Benefits of Upgrading with EZYAIR & the VEU Program:
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Significant Rebates: Take advantage of the financial incentives offered by the VEU program when you upgrade to a high-efficiency reverse cycle system with EZYAIR.
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Lower Energy Bills: Modern reverse cycle systems are significantly more energy-efficient than traditional gas heaters, and with correctly insulated ductwork, you'll maximize your savings.
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Improved Comfort: Enjoy consistent and comfortable temperatures throughout your home, with both heating and cooling capabilities.
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Environmentally Friendly: Reduce your carbon footprint by switching from gas to a more sustainable electric heating and cooling solution.
- Expert Assessment and Compliance: EZYAIR's accredited team will thoroughly assess your existing ductwork and ensure your upgrade meets all VEU and regulatory requirements.
Ready to get off gas and save?
If you're in Metropolitan Melbourne and considering upgrading from your old gas heater to an energy-efficient reverse cycle system, please contact the friendly team at EZYAIR, which was founded in 2007 to specialise in fully electric reverse cycle air conditioning (Approved Provider of the VEU program, registration: A2261) who can provide you with expert advice on your existing ductwork and the Victorian Energy Upgrade program.
