Do You Need to Remove Your Old System for a Rebate? Explained
If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your heating or hot water system in Victoria, there’s one question that comes up time and time again:
“Do I need to remove my existing gas or electric system to claim the rebate?”
The short answer is: Yes – in most cases, you do.
Let’s break it down and explain why system removal (also called decommissioning) is a key requirement under the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program, and how Climate Green, your accredited provider in Melbourne and nearby suburbs, can help you every step of the way.
Why System Removal Matters Under VEU
The VEU Program rewards Victorians for improving the energy efficiency of their homes. One major goal of the program is to transition homes away from fossil fuels – especially gas.
To ensure that the upgrade actually contributes to energy savings, the old, inefficient system must be permanently removed or disabled. This applies to:
- Ducted gas heating
- Gas or electric resistance hot water systems
- Outdated reverse cycle air conditioners
- Wall furnaces or electric storage heaters
What Happens If You Don’t Remove the Old System?
If your old system remains in place and is still operational:
- You may become ineligible for the VEEC (Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificate) rebate
- Your upgrade may not meet compliance requirements
- The provider (like Climate Green) cannot legally process the rebate on your behalf
That’s why proper decommissioning, photo proof, and documentation are required as part of the installation process.
Climate Green Handles the Process for You
As a VEU-Accredited Provider (ACP #A2360), Climate Green follows all compliance rules and ensures your rebate is secured legally and efficiently.
When you book an upgrade with us, we’ll:
- Safely decommission your old gas/electric system
- Document and submit all required proof (photos, forms, compliance certificates)
- Install your new heat pump, reverse cycle aircon, or solar system
- Process your rebate application from start to finish
Whether you live in Melbourne CBD, Dandenong, Craigieburn, Pakenham, Werribee, Sunshine, or Melton, our expert installers are available across all metro and surrounding suburbs.
What If I Have Two Systems?
Some homeowners have multiple systems — for example, a ducted gas unit and a wall-mounted split system. In such cases:
- You must decommission the older system being replaced
- If you’re keeping one unit for backup, you may not be eligible for full rebates
- A site assessment is often needed to verify eligibility
Tip: The more gas appliances you replace, the more rebates you can access!
What Upgrades Qualify When You Remove the Old System?
By removing your outdated system, you could qualify for rebates on:
- Split system or multi-head air conditioning
- Heat pump hot water systems
- Solar battery installations
- Solar PV systems (if bundled with other upgrades)
Climate Green offers all of these — with licensed installers and tailored packages that suit your home and budget.
Areas We Service in Melbourne
We proudly install and service homes across:
- North: Craigieburn, Epping, Roxburgh Park, Campbellfield
- East: Dandenong, Box Hill, Ringwood, Glen Waverley
- West: Sunshine, Deer Park, Caroline Springs, Melton
- South: Pakenham, Berwick, Cranbourne, Frankston
- Inner Suburbs: Coburg, Brunswick, Footscray, St Kilda
…and many more!
Wherever you are, Climate Green brings you energy-efficient solutions backed by real savings and expert care.
Ready to Upgrade? Let’s Electrify Your Home
If you’re replacing a gas or old electric system, don’t risk missing out on thousands in rebates. Talk to the experts at Climate Green and we’ll handle everything — from removal and compliance to fast installation and rebate claim.
Free Quotes Available
Call: 1300 001 690
Email: info@climategreen.com.au
Visit: www.climategreen.com.au
Let’s Power Your Home Smarter — The Clean, Green Way.
Do I have to remove my old gas heater to get the rebate?
A: Yes. Under the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program, your existing gas or electric system must be decommissioned and removed to qualify for the rebate.
Q2: What types of systems need to be removed to claim VEU rebates?
A: Common systems include ducted gas heating, wall furnaces, gas storage hot water systems, and old electric resistive units. Removal must be documented by an accredited provider.
Q3: Can I keep my old system as a backup?
A: In most cases, no. If the old system remains functional or connected, your new installation may not be eligible for the full rebate.
Q4: Who handles the system removal and paperwork?
A: Climate Green, as a VEU-accredited provider (ACP #A2360), handles the safe removal, compliance documentation, and rebate submission on your behalf.
Q5: Do I get a rebate if I’m upgrading from one electric system to another?
A: Possibly. Rebates may apply if the new system is significantly more energy-efficient and the old unit is permanently decommissioned. A site inspection may be required.
