Brivis vs Braemar — Gas Ducted Heating Comparison
Compare Australia's two most popular Australian-made gas ducted heating brands side by side — pricing, reliability, energy efficiency, service availability, and which brand better suits your home and location.
Winner
Brivis
Best overall option once average cost, coverage, and support reputation are weighed together.
Average Gap
$1,362
Difference in average pricing across overlapping ducted heating services.
Market Range
$160 - $8,500
The full low-to-high range across both providers.
Dandenong South, VIC · Est. 1966
From
$2,300
Average
$5,000
Coverage
7 areas
Best for: Homeowners in Melbourne, Adelaide, and Canberra who want maximum long-term reliability from Australia's most established ducted gas heating brand, with confidence in ongoing parts and service availability.
Review BrivisLonsdale, SA · Est. 1939
From
$160
Average
$3,638
Coverage
6 areas
Best for: Adelaide and Melbourne homeowners seeking an energy-efficient Australian-made ducted gas heater with strong local service support and a reputation for quiet, reliable operation.
Review BraemarSide-by-Side Price Comparison
Compare overlapping service types directly so the right price anchor is clear before you request quotes.
| Service | Brivis | Braemar | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas Ducted Install — Small House | $4,700 | $4,500 | +$200 |
| Gas Ducted Install — Medium House | $6,700 | $6,500 | +$200 |
| Gas Ducted Heater Replacement | $3,400 | $3,300 | +$100 |
| Add-On Cooling System | $5,200 | N/A | - |
| Annual Service and Maintenance | N/A | $250 | - |
Pros & Cons
Brivis
WinnerPros
- ✓Market-leading reliability with units regularly lasting 20+ years in Australian homes
- ✓Large nationwide dealer network with fast parts availability and experienced local technicians
- ✓Comprehensive range of zone controllers including Wi-Fi smart options compatible with all Brivis systems
Cons
- ✗Premium brand pricing — typically 5–10% above mid-market alternatives for equivalent capacity
- ✗Gas-only product range means you need a separate system for cooling unless add-on is specified
Braemar
Pros
- ✓Manufactured in Australia with excellent local parts availability, especially in South Australia
- ✓Strong focus on energy efficiency with some of the highest star ratings in the ducted gas category
- ✓Quiet operation — well regarded for low noise levels, particularly in bedrooms and living areas
Cons
- ✗Slightly less dealer coverage than Brivis outside South Australia and Victoria
- ✗Add-on cooling integration can be more complex than purpose-built reverse cycle systems
Bottom Line
Verdict
Brivis and Braemar are the two benchmark Australian ducted gas heater brands and are closely matched across most criteria. Brivis has a broader national dealer network and is arguably the market leader by installed base. Braemar is manufactured in South Australia and typically offers slightly better energy efficiency ratings at equivalent price points, making it particularly popular in Adelaide and among buyers prioritising running costs. Both have excellent long-term reliability records with units commonly lasting 20+ years.
Choose Brivis if you are in Melbourne or NSW where Brivis has a particularly strong dealer network, if maximum brand recognition and resale value is important, or if your preferred local installer specifically recommends Brivis. Choose Braemar if you are in Adelaide or South Australia where Braemar has manufacturing and parts supply advantages, if energy efficiency is your top priority (Braemar tends to offer slightly higher star ratings at comparable price points), or if your installer recommends Braemar based on local service and support experience. Both are excellent choices—the installer relationship and quote price should be the deciding factor.
Comparison FAQ
Braemar is cheaper on average in this comparison, but the right answer depends on your specific requirements including house size, number of zones, existing ductwork condition, and local installer pricing.
House size, number of heating zones, existing ductwork condition, gas vs reverse cycle technology choice, star energy rating, and installer experience usually affect the total cost and value more than a blended average. Always confirm what is included in the supply-and-install price, the warranty terms, and ongoing service availability.
Choose Brivis if you are in Melbourne or NSW where Brivis has a particularly strong dealer network, if maximum brand recognition and resale value is important, or if your preferred local installer specifically recommends Brivis. Choose Braemar if you are in Adelaide or South Australia where Braemar has manufacturing and parts supply advantages, if energy efficiency is your top priority (Braemar tends to offer slightly higher star ratings at comparable price points), or if your installer recommends Braemar based on local service and support experience. Both are excellent choices—the installer relationship and quote price should be the deciding factor.