How the changing regulations on gas hot water will affect your home

From March 2027, gas hot water systems will be phased out of Victorian homes and replaced with efficient electric alternatives, such as heat pumps, when they reach the end of their life. The Gas Substitution Roadmap is part of the state's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions and the transition into clean energy. A range of programs and rebates have been rolled out to incentivise homeowners to make the switch. 

At Outright, we've worked on countless homes in the Bayside area and its surrounding Melbourne suburbs. We've seen homes that are simply not set up for electric hot water systems. It's not uncommon for older apartments to have strict power limits enforced across the building. We've seen this in Elwood, with its 1920s Art Deco apartment blocks, and in Brighton, with its unrenovated single-fuse apartment blocks, time and time again. Unfortunately for them, installing a new electric hot water system might be easier said than done.

Changing from gas to electric can be expensive. In terms of upfront costs, you have to remove your old gas lines and old hot water system before the new one can be installed. As homeowners ourselves, we understand that the new regulations might be daunting. Fortunately, if you take the time now to consider your home and its water demands, you’ll have more freedom to choose the right hot water system and can avoid any excess stress. 

Our plumbing experts will talk you through all your options, unpacking how you can supplement your existing system, before leaping to suggest a replacement. For example, did you know that having solar panels brings down the running cost of your electric hot water system? Outright Plumbing wants to help your family make an informed decision that is both compliant under the new regulations and also beneficial to you.

What exactly are the new regulations?

As a part of our commitment to transparency, we've simplified the government's regulations to convey the facts and what they mean for you. We've gotten rid of all the technical jargon you might find on the pages of other plumbers because we care about people more than making a sale.

Here's what you need to know:

• 1st January 2027: All new homes and most commercial properties will have to be built all-electric.
• 1st March 2027: Gas systems in existing homes must be replaced with electric counterparts if they've reached the end of their life.

Some residential buildings where installation proves difficult, and existing commercial buildings are eligible for exemptions. A qualified plumber will be able to assess your plumbing system to determine whether you meet these criteria.

What that means for homeowners post-March 2027

At the end of the day, it's your personal choice whether you decide to keep your existing gas system or not. Rest assured that there'll be no extra charges or penalties for homeowners with gas hot water systems. It’s simply that after 1st March, it can only be replaced by an efficient electric alternative, such as a heat pump hot water system. Here's what Outright recommends so that you're in the best position when the changes come into effect.

If your gas hot water system is reaching its end-of-life

If you've had the same gas hot water system for over 10 years, there's visible rust on it, or it's making a concerning clanging sound, then now is the time to get it replaced! Outright Plumbing has installed all different types of hot water systems across Melbourne and also specialises in gas. Our plumbers will thoroughly test your new system to make sure it delivers reliable hot water well into the future. By choosing to get your gas system replaced now, you get ahead of the new regulations and have the ability to choose a system that suits your needs.

If your gas hot water system is new and functioning well

Even if you think your system is in tiptop shape, a hidden vulnerability can disrupt the pressure and flow of your hot water. Whilst it might not start off as an issue, if left unchecked, it can cause an emergency leak or wreck your hot water unit. Whilst you can still call in a plumber to service your gas hot water system after March 2027, if it is beyond repair, you won't have the flexibility to decide between gas or electric. Homeowners should make the most of this time by getting their systems checked so they have peace of mind going forward with the new regulations.

Not sure if your gas hot water system is up to scratch? Call Outright Plumbing Today!

Outright's expert plumbers offer maintenance checks to save you big down the line, as well as installation if you need a new unit. Right now, the choice remains yours on whether you'd like a gas or electric system, but times are changing. Call our highly-skilled plumbers today to organise a check of your current hot water system and receive tailored advice ahead of the regulations. Contact us today to get ahead!

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