How much does Heating Installation cost?

When it comes to heating, you now have a wide variety of choices for your home. If your system needs a repair or it is time for a new one, the next thing you want to know is how much it will cost. The price for installation and repair depends on the type of system and can range anywhere from $150 for a minor repair to $10,000 for the complete installation of a ducted system.

Heating Installation Costs Across Australia

Regardless of the type of system that you have, one of the most significant expenses in repair or installation is labour. For most systems, the person that you hire must have an HVAC license. They might also need plumbing, electrician, and general construction certifications for some jobs. Labour rates vary depending on where you live. Here are some examples of what you might expect to pay for an HVAC specialist in various areas in Australia.

The cost of heating repairs differs significantly according to the type of system that you have. Here are a few examples of price comparisons for the basic repair of your system.

• Ducted heating repair cost: $150 to $400 for most repairs
• Underfloor heating repair cost: $2,700 to $7,000 to replace a boiler
• Gas water heater repair cost: $200 to $350 for most repairs

Moreover, requesting help in inspecting your heating system may come with unexpected costs for other repairs. For instance, checking whether the electricity cable for the fan on a 1996 Vulcan Quasar wall furnace is connected or not may end you up withdrawing it from use due to age and motor issues. It might be more cost-efficient to replace it altogether.

Now, let’s compare the different types of heating systems that are available for your home.

Gas vs Electric Heating

Ducted gas heating cost begins at around $2,000 to $5,000 for a larger unit. Central heating cost and ducted aircon cost are around $6,000 to $9,000 for an average home. When it comes to running cost, gas is around $0.02 cents per unit, compared to around $0.26 cents per unit of electricity.

Hydronic vs Electric Underfloor Heating

Heated floor cost depends on the area that you want to heat. Some people reduce their hydronic heating cost by only heating a small portion of the home, such as a small bathroom or bedroom floor. If you want to heat the entire floor of your house, the underfloor heating cost begins at around $30 to $115 per square metre.

Now that you know the difference between the main types of heating available, here’s a list of other types of heating. These guides into more detail for specific types of heating, so you can confidently make the best decision for your home. We’ve also included some air conditioner options as you can save money on by having air conditioning installed in the cooler months.

Several factors can impact the cost to install your heating system, regardless of the type of system that you choose.

Timing – Ducted heating installation cost can vary depending on the season. Many times, there is a high demand for services in winter. You can save considerably when scheduling it in the spring or another off-season time.

Access – Access can affect installation costs. For instance, if you need to install a unit on a second story, it might require special handling. Also, steep grades, houses that are close together, or if the property is in a remote area might affect the cost.

Brands – Depending on the system that you choose, the brand might make a big difference. Regardless of the type of heating that you choose, there are usually some brands that are more expensive than others. Gas hot water systems prices also vary by brand.

The following comparison reflects the lower end of the price range for installation and a similar size heating area.

• Gas Hot Water Heating: $850 – $1,700
• Electric Heating: $1,200
• Hydronic Heating: $30 – $115 per square metre
• Underfloor Heating: $30 – $115 per square metre

The most important tip when choosing the type of heating for your home is to do your research. The type of heating that you choose depends on your location, climate, type of home, and size. Here are some things that you need to consider when doing research on the type of heating for your home.

• Is your area right for solar?
• Compare the average running costs for gas and electric
• Consider the total running costs over time versus the initial investment
• Shop for the most efficient unit, even if you have to pay a bit more initially
• Think about whether you will eventually want to sell your home or stay in it

If you’re dealing with heating problems in your home, there are several things you can try before calling a professional.

• For gas ducted heaters like Braemar and Vulcan CX90, check the thermostat setting and replace the batteries if necessary. If that doesn’t work, check the gas supply and ensure it’s turned on.
• For Vulcan oil heaters, repair manuals and instructions are often available online.
• If you have a Brivis ducted heating system, pilot light and thermocouple issues can be resolved by cleaning them with a soft cloth.
• Fault codes can also provide useful information, so be sure to consult your owner’s manual.
• To troubleshoot control panel and central heating faults, try resetting the system according to the manufacturer’s instructions. 

Hiring a heating installer is an important decision. You want someone that you can trust, and you also want a fair price. Here are some important things to consider when hiring someone to repair or install your heating system.

How to Create an Accurate Estimate

Sometimes, things can be discovered during the installation process that can affect the final cost, but there are some things that you can do to help your professional provide you with an accurate representation of the actual cost of the project.

• Decide on the type of heating unit that you want, and do your research
• Inform your professional about any problems with access to the area
• Tell your professional about any problems with the construction, electrical, and plumbing systems of which you are aware.

Licencing and Qualifications

The type of system that you decide to install will determine the licencing requirements for your professional. Here are some questions that you need to ask to get the best person for the job.

• Are you licenced and qualified to do the job that is requested?
• Do you carry the appropriate insurance to cover you and the work?
• Do you offer any warranties or guarantees?
• How long have you worked with these types of systems?

Here are a few tips for saving money when hiring a heating installer.

• Insist that your professional shops local for units and parts to save on transportation
• Get at least three estimates and compare contracts
• If you can be flexible on your time frame, you can avoid charges for rush jobs

* The cost data is based on Oneflare and third-party sources

Are old gas heaters safe?

Old gas heaters may pose a safety risk if not properly maintained or outdated. Have it inspected by a professional to ensure safety.

How to improve old gas heater efficiency?

Proper maintenance and cleaning can improve efficiency. Add insulation to keep warm air inside and reduce workload on the heater.

When to replace an old gas heater?

Replace if it’s not functioning properly or more than 10-15 years old. Consider newer models for better safety, efficiency, and environmental impact.

DIY removal of old gas heater?

Not recommended as it involves working with gas lines and is dangerous if not done properly. Have a professional HVAC technician handle the removal and disposal to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations.