Gas Ducted vs Reverse Cycle Ducted
Compare gas ducted heating with reverse cycle ducted systems for Australian homes — installation cost, running costs, climate suitability, and which technology makes sense for your situation.
Winner
Daikin
Best overall option once average cost, coverage, and support reputation are weighed together.
Average Gap
$340
Difference in average pricing across overlapping ducted heating services.
Market Range
$170 - $15,000
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 BrivisRydalmere, NSW · Est. 1963 (AU operations)
From
$170
Average
$5,340
Coverage
8 areas
Best for: Homeowners in Sydney, Brisbane, and Queensland who want best-in-class reverse cycle ducted heating and cooling with maximum energy efficiency, smart zone control, and the largest service and support network in Australia.
Review DaikinSide-by-Side Price Comparison
Compare overlapping service types directly so the right price anchor is clear before you request quotes.
| Service | Brivis | Daikin | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas Ducted Install — Small House | $4,700 | N/A | - |
| Gas Ducted Install — Medium House | $6,700 | N/A | - |
| Gas Ducted Heater Replacement | $3,400 | N/A | - |
| Add-On Cooling System | $5,200 | N/A | - |
| Reverse Cycle Ducted System (small house) | N/A | $8,000 | - |
| Reverse Cycle Ducted System (medium house) | N/A | $12,000 | - |
| Zone Controller Upgrade | N/A | $1,100 | - |
| Annual Service and Maintenance | N/A | $260 | - |
Pros & Cons
Brivis
Pros
- ✓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
Daikin
WinnerPros
- ✓Industry-leading energy efficiency ratings in reverse cycle ducted category — among the lowest running costs in the market
- ✓Intelligent zoning and smart home integration with Daikin Online Controller and third-party systems
- ✓Largest installer and service network for reverse cycle ducted in Australia with extensive training programs
Cons
- ✗Premium pricing — Daikin ducted systems typically cost 10–20% more than equivalent competitor systems
- ✗Gas ducted products not available — Daikin focuses exclusively on reverse cycle/heat pump technology
Bottom Line
Verdict
Gas ducted heating ($3,500–$13,000 installed) is cheaper upfront and delivers excellent heating in cold climates. Reverse cycle ducted systems ($6,000–$14,000) cost more but provide year-round heating and cooling from a single system. In Melbourne, Adelaide, and Canberra where winters are genuinely cold, both are viable. In Sydney, Brisbane, and Queensland where summer cooling is equally important, reverse cycle is increasingly preferred. In Canberra, the ACT government plans to phase out new gas connections—making reverse cycle the only future-proof option for new builds.
Choose gas ducted if you live in Melbourne, Adelaide, or a similarly cold climate, already have a gas connection, only need heating, and want the lowest possible upfront cost. Choose reverse cycle ducted if you need year-round heating and cooling, are in Sydney or a warmer climate, want the lowest running costs over the system's lifetime, or are building in Canberra or another jurisdiction moving away from gas. Reverse cycle is the better long-term investment for most homeowners.
Comparison FAQ
Brivis 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 gas ducted if you live in Melbourne, Adelaide, or a similarly cold climate, already have a gas connection, only need heating, and want the lowest possible upfront cost. Choose reverse cycle ducted if you need year-round heating and cooling, are in Sydney or a warmer climate, want the lowest running costs over the system's lifetime, or are building in Canberra or another jurisdiction moving away from gas. Reverse cycle is the better long-term investment for most homeowners.