The 2026 Rebate Guide: How to Get a Heat Pump for (Almost) Free

The 2026 Rebate Guide: How to Get a Heat Pump for (Almost) Free
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From our headquarters in Mernda, Melbourne Gas & Air Conditioning Group delivers rapid, reliable hot water service and installation to homes across Doreen, South Morang, Epping, and Eltham. Whether you have a burst gas storage unit in Eltham or are looking to upgrade to a high-efficiency Heat Pump hot water system in a South Morang estate, our Dual-Trade (Plumbing & Electrical) team handles the entire process in-house.

Stop Paying Full Price for Hot Water in Epping & South Morang

If you are still heating your water with a rusty old gas storage tank or an energy-guzzling electric element, you are essentially burning money. In 2026, the Victorian Government is practically paying homeowners in Melbourne’s North to switch to modern Heat Pump technology.

But the rebate landscape is confusing. You have Federal STCs, State VEECs, and Solar Victoria rebates. As Mernda’s local VEU-approved experts, we are here to simplify the math.

The “Triple Stack” of Savings

When you hire MGAG to replace your old system, we stack three different financial incentives to slash your upfront cost.

  1. Federal STCs (Small-scale Technology Certificates): This is an upfront discount applied to the price of the unit (like the Reclaim or iStore). It’s based on how much carbon you save.
  2. Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) Rebate: By decommissioning your old inefficient gas or electric unit, we generate “VEECs.” We trade these certificates and pass the cash savings directly to you on the invoice.
  3. The Solar Victoria Rebate (The Big One): Eligible households can claim up to $1,000 back.
    • 2026 Update: Did you know there is now a boosted rebate of up to $1,400 if you choose a “Locally Manufactured” heat pump? Ask us which Australian-made units qualify!

Why “Dual Trade” is Your Secret Weapon

Here is the catch with Heat Pumps: They need electricity. If you hire a standard plumber in South Morang, they will install the tank and then say, “Okay, now call an electrician to wire it up.” That’s a second call-out fee and a second invoice.

At Melbourne Gas & Air, we are Licensed Electricians AND Plumbers.

  • We run the new electrical circuit.
  • We install the dedicated safety switch (RCBO).
  • We plumb the water.
  • We do the rebate paperwork. One team. One fixed price.

Is Your Home Eligible?

To grab the Solar Victoria rebate, you generally need to:

  • Be an owner-occupier.
  • Have a household income under $210,000.
  • Have an existing hot water system at least 3 years old.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I get a heat pump if I don’t have solar panels? A: Yes! Heat pumps are so efficient (400%+) that they save money even without solar panels. However, if you do have solar, they run virtually for free.

Q: How much will it cost me out of pocket? A: It depends on the unit and the installation complexity (e.g., moving the tank location). However, with the “Triple Stack” of rebates, some Epping homeowners are upgrading for a fraction of the retail price. Contact us for a quote.

Q: Do you handle the government paperwork? A: Yes. We are authorized providers. We deduct the VEU and STC savings from your quote upfront, so you don’t have to chase the money later.

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Talk To Melbourne Gas & Air Conditioning Group Team Today