Fireplaces and the Future of Gas in Victoria

Over two million Victorian households currently use gas for cooking, heating, and hot water. While a push is underway to phase out gas connections in new builds, there is still something to be said about the quality, consistency, and reliability of gas-based appliances.

Of all the gas appliances on the market today, fireplaces represent the epitome of cutting-edge design and efficiency. Modern fireplaces offer the same look and feel as a traditional setup, while still being able to heat spaces with greater ease than ever before.

Today, we’re going to dive into everything you need to know about the future of gas in Victoria, including a specific focus on fireplaces. Let’s get started.

Victoria’s Gas Substitution Roadmap: What Does it Mean for Gas Connections?

On Jan 1, 2024, the Victorian State Government officially introduced its gas substitution roadmap with an aim to “guide the state towards zero emissions”. This policy’s primary goal was to phase out new residential gas connections across the state. While this does represent a clear roadmap for the government’s current and future intentions, it’s also important to note that this doesn’t spell the end for gas-based appliances.

As noted by the Department for Transport and Planning, “the gas connection prohibition does not apply to the following applications:

Any planning permit application lodged before 1 January 2024.
A section 72 amendment to a permit if the original permit application was lodged before 1 January 2024.

In practical terms, this means that these rules primarily apply to new homes and developments. Therefore, if you are one of the 80% of Victorian homes currently connected to the natural gas network, gas-based heating is still a viable option.

Moving Forward

The journey towards a greener future is lined with important decisions for homeowners. The shift away from natural gas brings a focus on cost, environmental benefits, and the transition to renewable energy. Let’s look into it in greater detail-

Gas provides more affordable energy to the home: The average cost of gas is 65% lower than the cost of electricity supply.

Gas is cleaner than current alternatives: Natural gas provides energy to homes with an average of 75% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than grid electricity.

Switching from gas to electricity is expensive: According to modelling commissioned by Gas Energy Australia, the cost of switching from gas to electricity generally falls somewhere between $21,555 and $41,430 per home – a high price for the majority of Victorian homeowners.

The renewable gas future is coming: Gas distributors aim to fully decarbonise their distribution networks by 2040 as a stretch target, with the Australian Gas Infrastructure Group aiming to deliver at least 10% renewable gas across its distribution networks by 2030, and 100% by 2050.

The Advantages of Modern Gas Fireplaces

Whether you own an older heater or currently have nothing in place at all, there’s never been a better time to buy a brand-new fireplace. Getting a new model installed has also become much easier since the introduction of freestanding fireplaces and other variations that only require a cavity to be placed in the wall.

Across the board, modern fireplaces are more:

Safe
Eco-friendly
User-friendly
Fast-acting
Efficient; and
Easy to install
Easy to maintain

Additionally, you don’t have to keep running to the store to buy more bags of firewood!

A Wealth of Options

Gas log fireplaces aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. There is a wide range of different styles, sizes, and variations available. Some of your options include:

Gas Log
Freestanding or In-Built
Double Sided
Indoor
Universal Inserts

Within each variation, there is also the chance to select a colour, finish, and size that best suits your individual space.

How Does a Modern Gas Fireplace Work?

A gas fireplace typically produces sustained fire using three basic mechanisms. These are the air intake, combustion, and the exhaust. Let’s explain how it works using direct vent as an example, which remains one of the most common forms.

First invented in the 1980s, direct vent systems are known for their excellent level of efficiency, safety, flexibility, and most importantly, their ability to remove the need for an existing chimney.

Natural vs LPG

Choosing the right fuel for gas log fires involves deciding between natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), each of which has its own unique set of considerations.

Clean burning and efficiency are two hallmarks of natural gas, which can lead to lower running costs. Despite its negative impact on the atmosphere in its unprocessed form, natural gas poses a lower risk of leaks due to its lower volatility and tendency to disperse quickly in the air. The main hurdle with natural gas is the need for a gas line connection, which can bring about additional installation costs. If you’re unsure, reaching out to local gas plumbers can give you a clearer idea of these expenses.

On the flip side, LPG is a viable alternative for homes without access to natural gas lines. This has become even more prevalent since so many Victorian homes have made the switch to electric connections exclusively.

fireplace setup in room

As a derivative of natural gas processing, LPG is stored in liquid form under pressure and used in various applications, including gas log fires. Its higher volatility means it must be stored outside the home, and users should be prepared for regular refills.

Although natural gas is certainly appealing for its clean burn and cost efficiency, it may involve initial setup costs for those without an existing connection. LPG, in contrast, is independent from the main gas supply lines. This decision often boils down to whether or not your property has an existing gas connection.

Fireplace Guide

If you’re looking to add a gas fireplace to your home, there are several reliable options to consider. Here’s a quick overview to help you decide.

Heat & Glo Fireplaces

Known for smart designs and efficient heating, these fireplaces are perfect for anyone looking to keep their home cosy without sacrificing style. Whether your home is already connected to the gas network or you’re using LPG bottles, Heat & Glo has got you covered. Here are some of the most popular models:

1. Heat & Glo – I30-X Insert

efficient fireplace

The I30-X is an efficient fireplace insert that improves heating and air quality. It’s easy to install, works with your existing fireplace, and offers options for both modern and traditional looks. It can also be used in new fireplaces with a special kit.

Features

High-definition log set
3-speed fan for powerful convection heating
Intellifire remote for flame height, fan speed
Optional glass liners for a deeper firebox appearance.
Available on natural or LPG gas.
Brick refractory liners

It combines cutting-edge balanced flue technology for efficient heating with a beautiful, realistic log set. Its dual flexi flue system makes installation easy: one flue brings in fresh air for burning, while the other safely removes exhaust, ensuring your indoor air stays clean.

The I30-X is completely sealed from the inside, promoting excellent air quality in your home. It also offers a variety of stylish finishing options. Choose from simple black trims with 3 or 4 sides, or select from a variety of mantelpiece and fascia styles to match both classic and modern interiors.

2. Heat & Glo – 6KX

modern fireplace

The 6KX combines the beauty of a traditional fire with advanced technology, creating a cosy, modern fireplace experience. It features a large viewing area that makes it feel like a high-end fireplace. The logs and ember bed look so real, you might think it’s a traditional wood-burning fire.

Features

High-definition log media
Virtually invisible anti-reflective glass provides a clear visual of the fire
LED ember bed and & LED backlighting create ambience
Heat Management puts the heat where you want it, when you want it
Dynamic Thermostat tapers flames with rising temps to maintain comfort level
Variable speed fan disperses heat throughout the room

It’s the perfect spot to relax in any home, fitting well with any decor style, from classic to modern.

The 6KX offers several stylish designs, all with ClearVue™ technology for a clear, safe view of the fire.

Stay Warm this Winter with a Brand New Fireplace

Victoria’s journey towards greener energy solutions is underway, but gas fireplaces still hold significant value for homeowners. Newer gas models are an efficient, eco-friendly heating option that aligns with both the comfort needs of today and the environmental goals of tomorrow.

If you’re searching for the ideal fireplace, Jet Master has everything you need to stay warm. Whether you’re looking for electric fireplaces, gas fireplaces, or accessories, we’re here to keep your family cosy all winter long. We can also supply gas fireplaces to Ballarat, Geelong, and Bendigo homes!