Ducted reverse-cycle quotes in Melbourne can differ by thousands of dollars for what looks like the same system. Usually the difference is in what is included, not the unit itself. This checklist helps you line quotes up so you are comparing like with like.
The quick answer
To compare ducted quotes fairly, check the exact model and size, how many zones are included and whether they are temperature-controlled, how many outlets and how much ductwork is included, whether removing the old gas heater is in the price, how the VEU rebate is applied, and whether the price is fixed or a "from" figure.
The 14-point checklist
| Check | What to ask |
|---|---|
| System brand, model and size (kW) | Ask for the exact indoor and outdoor model numbers, not just the brand. Two 14kW quotes can be for different product lines. |
| How the size was worked out | A proper quote comes from measuring your home: rooms, insulation, ceiling height, windows and orientation. Be wary of a size picked from bedroom count alone. |
| Number of zones | How many zones are included, and what does each extra zone cost? |
| Type of zoning | Are the zones on/off dampers, or temperature-controlled with a sensor in each zone? Temperature-controlled zones hold each area at its own set temperature. |
| Zone controller | Which controller is included (brand and model), and does it have a phone app? |
| Outlets | How many outlets are included, and how much is each extra outlet? |
| Ductwork | Is new insulated ductwork included, and what insulation rating? Will any existing ductwork be reused? |
| Return air | Is the return air grille and filter included, and is a new return needed? |
| Old gas heater | Is removal and making safe of the old gas ducted heater included? |
| Electrical | Is the electrical connection included? Ask what happens if a switchboard upgrade or 3-phase power is needed. |
| Rebate | Is the VEU rebate already taken off the price, how much is it, and what do you need to qualify? |
| Storey and access | Is the price for single or double storey? Are there extra charges for roof access or a difficult ceiling space? |
| Fixed or estimate | Is the quote a fixed price after a site visit, or a “from” price that can change? |
| Warranty | What is the manufacturer warranty, and what workmanship warranty does the installer give? |
The three things that cause the biggest gaps
1. Zoning
Zoning is where quotes differ most. A low headline price may include no zones, two on/off zones, or a basic controller, with each extra zone added later. A higher price may include four to eight temperature-controlled zones with a smart controller. Ask for the zone count and type in writing.
2. "From" prices
A "from" price is normally the smallest system in a range, in a single-storey home, with the fewest zones and outlets. It is a starting point, not a quote for your home.
3. How the rebate is shown
In Victoria, the VEU rebate on ducted reverse cycle generally applies when an existing gas ducted heater is replaced. Some prices are shown before the rebate and some after. Make sure every quote you compare shows the same thing.
An example of a like-for-like quote
Our ducted price list shows every package we install with the full inclusions written out: the system, AirTouch 5 with a temperature sensor in each zone, the number of outlets, insulated ductwork, removal of the old gas heater, and the conditions that apply. You can hold any other quote up against it, line by line.
Common questions
Why are some ducted quotes so much cheaper than others?
Usually because of what is included. Fewer zones, on/off rather than temperature-controlled zoning, fewer outlets, reused ductwork, or a price shown before costs like gas heater removal can all lower the headline figure.
Should every ducted quote include zoning?
Not always, but most homes benefit from it, and it is one of the biggest cost differences between quotes. Ask how many zones are included, whether each has a temperature sensor, and what extra zones cost.
Is the VEU rebate already included in ducted prices?
It depends on the installer. Ask whether the rebate is already deducted, how much it is, and what conditions apply, such as removing an existing gas ducted heater.
Want a fixed, itemised quote to compare? Request a free in-home design below, or call us on 0440 133 820.