Split Systems for Heating in Cool Climates

A Buyers Guide to Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners for Victorian Homes

Last Updated: 2026-08-09

Key Takeaways

Size and rate a split system on its heating load, not its cooling load, when you live in a cool climate.
Use the Zoned Energy Rating Label (ZERL) heating stars for the Cold Zone as your main efficiency comparator, rather than rated Coefficient of Performance alone.
Most new split systems sold in Australia use an inverter compressor and R-32 refrigerant. A non-inverter compressor costs less to buy and more to run.
An inverter compressor holds room temperature closer to setpoint, which improves thermal comfort as well as energy efficiency.
Check the minimum heating operating temperature. Some models hold capacity to −15°C or below, and others fade quickly under 0°C.
Dry mode and a humidity sensor can help manage condensation, mould, bacteria, and virus risk in the shoulder seasons. Dry mode does little below about 13°C indoor.
The Victorian Government runs the Victorian Energy Upgrades program. Rebates of up to AUD$8,000 can be available when a reverse cycle system replaces gas heating.

What to Consider when Comparing Split System Air Conditioners

For homes in Victoria's Central Highlands and similar cool-climate regions, a reverse cycle split system air conditioner can be a low-cost way to heat. Comparing models is harder than it looks, because rated capacities and headline star ratings measure different things. This guide explains what the specifications mean for Ballarat, Bendigo, the Central Highlands, and Canberra, and gives you a printable checklist.

A split system moves heat rather than making it. In reverse cycle heating it draws heat from outdoor air, even at temperatures below zero, and releases that heat indoors. The chart below shows the Cold Zone heating stars for the six models compared later in this guide.

This guide covers split systems only, in single indoor and outdoor pairs and in multi-split configurations. If you have not yet settled the ducted question, read our ducted versus split-system comparison, or the ducted air-conditioner buyers guide. Browse the full buyers guides library for related cool-climate equipment comparisons.

What do Ratings actually tell me about Heating in a Cool Climate?

A split system spec sheet reports figures measured under controlled laboratory conditions. What those figures miss matters as much as what they measure. For step-by-step instructions on sizing the system before you shop, see our guide on how to calculate the heating load for your home.

What COP and EER measure

Coefficient of Performance (heating): COP is measured at exactly 7°C outdoor and 20°C indoor. A COP of 4.0 means 4 kW of heat power output for each 1 kW of electrical power input, at that one test temperature.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (cooling): The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) is measured at 35°C outdoor and 27°C indoor. EER is the cooling equivalent of COP, and it matters less than COP for a cool-climate Victorian home.
Single-point limitation: Neither COP nor EER tells you how the unit performs at 3°C, a typical Ballarat overnight winter low. Real-world energy efficiency at those temperatures is what drives your winter electricity bill.

Why the Cold Zone heating stars can be a better guide

Seasonal basis: The heating stars on the Zoned Energy Rating Label (ZERL) come from the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). The HSPF aggregates performance across a range of outdoor temperatures, including a colder 2°C test point and part-load operation.
Better predictor: For a cool-climate home, the ZERL heating stars can predict winter running costs more reliably than rated COP alone.
Correct zone: Use the Cold Zone rating, the black band on the label, for Melbourne, Ballarat, Bendigo, the Central Highlands, and Canberra. Average Zone figures can understate your bills (Source: energyrating.gov.au).

Inverter vs Non-Inverter Compressor Technology

Every residential split system uses a compressor to drive the refrigerant cycle. The compressor type can affect running costs, thermal comfort, and noise more than any other single specification. The shift from non-inverter to inverter designs has delivered roughly 30–50% lower running costs across the industry (Source: CHOICE, Renew Magazine).

Features of an Inverter Compressor

Variable speed: An inverter compressor varies its speed electronically to match the actual heating or cooling demand. It can hold room temperature within about ±0.5°C of setpoint.
Lower running cost: When the room is close to target, the inverter compressor slows to a fraction of full power instead of cycling off and on. That lowers electricity consumption over a heating season.
Quieter and faster: Inverter compressor units reach setpoint faster at startup. In steady-state operation they run with lower indoor noise and outdoor noise than non-inverter models.

Features of a Non-Inverter Compressor

Fixed speed: A non-inverter compressor runs at full power or not at all. It switches on when the room drops below setpoint and off when the target is reached.
Temperature swings: Non-inverter compressor units typically cause 2–4°C swings around setpoint, which reduces thermal comfort.
Higher running costs: For a Central Highlands home heating through long winter evenings, the running-cost gap can accumulate quickly. You might consider avoiding a non-inverter compressor for whole-home use.

Refrigerant Choice — R-32 vs R-410A

In the current Australian market, a new split system uses either R-32 or the older R-410A. Almost every new model now ships with R-32. Renew Magazine and CHOICE both report that the transition is close to complete for new product.

R-32 vs R-410A at a glance

R-32: Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 675, and about 5% more energy-efficient than R-410A. It is classified A2L (mildly flammable), and Australian service networks support it as the standard in new product.
R-410A: GWP of 2088, more than three times the figure for R-32. The Australian phase-out is under way, and servicing costs may rise as supply tightens through 2026 (Source: DCCEEW).
Licensed servicing: Any refrigerant work requires a licensed technician. Confirm that your installer holds a current Refrigerant Handling Licence.

Single Split or Multi-Split for Whole-Home Heating?

A whole-home heating plan often mixes one split system in the main living area with smaller units in bedrooms. A multi-split connects several indoor units to a single outdoor unit, which changes both the ratings you compare and the way the system behaves. Our how to guides cover related decisions for all-electric homes.

Multi-Split Trade-Offs in a Cool Climate

One outdoor unit, several indoor units: A multi-split saves outdoor space and reduces the number of outdoor units on a wall. Each indoor unit still needs its own refrigerant pipe run.
Shared refrigerant circuit: The indoor units share one compressor and one circuit. Most multi-split systems cannot heat one room while they cool another.
Ratings apply to the combination: ZERL stars for a multi-split apply to a tested indoor and outdoor combination. Ask your installer for the rating of the exact combination quoted.
Part-load behaviour: A large multi-split serving one small room may run well below its efficient range. Separate single split systems can suit rooms that you heat only occasionally.

Practical Features to Look For in a Cool-Climate Split System

Choosing between split systems in the 7–8 kW class involves more than kilowatts and star ratings. For a cool-climate home, humidity control, mould protection, and connected control matter as well. Consider honeycomb cellular blinds as a companion measure that can reduce your heating load before you switch the unit on.

Use this checklist to record what you find for each model you compare:

Practical Features Checklist

ZERL Cold Zone heating stars: The Cold Zone heating figure on the Zoned Energy Rating Label is the primary efficiency number for cool-climate Victoria. Average Zone figures can understate your bills.
Heating capacity (kW): Match the capacity to the room or zone. For a typical Melbourne main living area, 6–8 kW is common. An energy assessor can size it more precisely from floor plan, glazing, insulation, and ceiling height.
Minimum operating temperature: Some models begin to lose heating capacity or enter extended defrost cycles below −10°C to −15°C. Record the manufacturer's minimum outdoor heating temperature.
Dry mode quality and humidity sensor: A true humidity sensor stops dry mode at a target relative humidity, while most units instead use coil-temperature logic. Dry mode is largely ineffective below about 13°C indoor, so use it after a heating cycle rather than at 2am.
Mould prevention inside the unit: Look for automatic post-cycle coil drying or a dedicated mould-prevention cycle that helps limit bacteria and virus growth on damp coils. The Daikin Alira X includes a Mould Proof Operation, and the Mitsubishi Electric MSZ-AP relies on aftermarket products.
Air filtration — HEPA and Catechin: Some units offer aftermarket HEPA filtration for fine particles, and Catechin-coated filters that use green-tea polyphenols and silver ions for antibacterial action. These help with airborne dust and pathogens, but they do not sterilise room air.
Indoor noise — quiet mode and silent mode: For bedrooms, check the quiet mode or silent mode noise level in dBA. Premium units reach 19–22 dBA at low speed, and most comparison models sit between 29 and 34 dBA. Outdoor noise typically ranges from 44 to 56 dBA.
Wi-Fi and Phone App control: A built-in Wi-Fi module and a manufacturer Phone App allow scheduling, remote start, and energy monitoring. Confirm whether the Wi-Fi is native or requires a separate adapter at about AUD$80–$120.
Single or multi-split configuration: Record whether the quote is for a single indoor and outdoor pair or for a multi-split. The ZERL stars must apply to the exact combination quoted.
VEU rebate eligibility: The Victorian Energy Upgrades program can offer up to AUD$8,000 when a reverse cycle system replaces gas heating. Smaller amounts can apply to split-to-split upgrades. Rebates require installation by an Accredited Person and a five-year manufacturer warranty (Source: energy.vic.gov.au).
Warranty service network: Confirm that an authorised repairer operates within practical distance. Some warranty terms limit travel-cost coverage to 50 km.

Professional Energy Assessment for Whole-Home Heating

Multi-split sizing and placement decisions sit inside a whole-home heating plan, not beside it. Professional advice from an energy assessment can right-size each unit against your actual heat loss before you commit to a quote.

If you would rather have a professional turn all of this into a clear, costed plan for your home, find out more about how our Energy Assessments can help you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a reverse cycle split system air conditioner? A split system has an indoor unit and an outdoor unit joined by insulated refrigerant pipes. Reverse cycle means the same unit can heat in winter and cool in summer.
Why is rated COP not enough when choosing for a cool climate? The Coefficient of Performance is measured at one point only, 7°C outdoor and 20°C indoor. It does not describe performance at a 3°C Ballarat winter low.
What does the Energy Efficiency Ratio measure? The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) is the cooling equivalent of COP, measured at 35°C outdoor and 27°C indoor. It matters less for cool-climate heating.
What is the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor? The Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) aggregates heating performance across a range of outdoor temperatures. It includes part-load operation and a colder 2°C test point.
Which heating climate zone applies to Ballarat and the Central Highlands? Ballarat, Bendigo, the Central Highlands, Melbourne, and Canberra sit in the Cold zone of the Zoned Energy Rating Label (Source: energyrating.gov.au).
Where do I find the Cold Zone stars on the label? The Zoned Energy Rating Label shows three coloured climate bands. The Cold Zone figures appear in the black band, with separate heating and cooling stars.
What is the difference between an inverter compressor and a non-inverter compressor? An inverter compressor varies its speed to match demand. A non-inverter compressor runs at full power or not at all, which causes larger swings in thermal comfort.
Does a non-inverter compressor still make sense anywhere? A non-inverter compressor costs less to buy and can suit occasional use in a small room. Over long winter evenings the running-cost gap can accumulate quickly.
Which refrigerant do new Australian split systems use? Almost all new residential models now use R-32, which has a Global Warming Potential of 675. R-410A has a GWP of 2088 and is being phased out.
Is R-32 refrigerant a safety concern? R-32 is classified A2L, which means mildly flammable. Australian service networks support it, and any refrigerant work requires a licensed technician.
How cold can a split system keep heating? Manufacturers state a minimum outdoor heating temperature. Some models hold capacity to −15°C or −20°C. Output at that point is typically 60–80% of the rated figure.
Does dry mode dehumidify in winter? Dry mode is largely ineffective below about 13°C indoor, because it removes humidity by cooling the coil. Use it after a heating cycle rather than overnight.
What does a humidity sensor add to dry mode? A humidity sensor measures relative humidity and can stop dry mode at a target setpoint. Units without one rely on coil-temperature logic instead.
How do I limit mould inside a split system? Look for an automatic coil-drying run or a dedicated mould-prevention cycle. Regular filter cleaning also reduces the damp surfaces where mould, bacteria, and virus particles collect.
Do HEPA or Catechin filters clean the room air? HEPA filters capture fine particles, and Catechin-coated filters add antibacterial action. Neither sterilises room air, and both need replacement on the manufacturer's schedule.
How quiet is a split system in a bedroom? Check the quiet mode noise level in dBA. Premium units can reach 19–22 dBA at low fan speed, and many comparison models sit between 29 and 34 dBA.
Are there limits on outdoor unit noise? Outdoor noise typically ranges from 44 to 56 dBA at maximum capacity. Victorian councils set local noise limits, so check the rules before you settle on a location.
What size split system suits a cool-climate living area? For a typical Melbourne main living area, 6–8 kW is common. See our guide on how to calculate the heating load for your home for a more precise method.
Can one outdoor unit run several indoor units? Yes. A multi-split connects several indoor units to one outdoor unit, and most multi-split systems cannot heat one room while they cool another.
Does the Victorian Energy Upgrades program cover split systems? The Victorian Government sets the Victorian Energy Upgrades rules, not your installer. Eligibility and rebate amounts change, so check the current criteria before you assume you qualify.

Printable Checklist for Comparing Split System Air Conditioners

Print this checklist and complete one copy per model you are comparing. Bring it to a showroom, or use it when you review manufacturer spec sheets and installer quotes. Record what you find in the "Specification / Value" column, and use the "Your Notes / Assessment" column for your own comments.

Split System Air Conditioner — Comparison Checklist

Feature	Specification / Value	Your Notes / Assessment
Identification
Brand & Series
Model Number
Colour Options
Performance Ratings
Heating / Cooling Capacity (kW)
COP (Heating Efficiency) Coefficient of Performance at 7°C outdoor / 20°C indoor — single test point
EER (Cooling Efficiency) Energy Efficiency Ratio at 35°C outdoor / 27°C indoor
HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) Where published — seasonal heating efficiency, higher is better
ZERL ★ Heating — Cold Zone Use Cold Zone for Melbourne, Ballarat, Bendigo, Central Highlands, Canberra
ZERL ★ Cooling — Cold Zone
Technical Specifications
Compressor Type Inverter / non-inverter — inverter is standard in most new models
Single or Multi-Split For a multi-split, ZERL stars apply to the exact indoor and outdoor combination quoted
Min. Operating Temp — Heating °C outdoor — capacity degrades below this, so check whether your site gets frost
Indoor Noise — Hi / Quiet (dB)
Outdoor Noise (dB)
Refrigerant (R-32 / R-410A)
Country of Manufacture
Comfort & Climate Features
Dry Mode
Humidity Sensor Stops at target relative humidity — or temperature-differential logic only
Mould Protection Auto coil-dry fan run / Mould Proof cycle / None
Air Purifier / Filtration HEPA / Catechin / Built-in / Add-on — treats room air, unit internals, or both
Connectivity & Control
Wi-Fi — Built-In or Adapter

Phone App Name / Store Rating
Weekly Timer — Physical Remote
Weekly Timer — Phone App
Physical
Weight — Indoor / Outdoor (kg)
Indoor Unit Dimensions (H×W×D mm)
Outdoor Unit Dimensions (H×W×D mm)
Cost & Warranty
Est. Installed Price (AUD, May 2026)
VEU Rebate Eligibility Up to AUD$8,000 for gas-heating replacement, or $200–500 split-to-split
Warranty — Parts & Labour (min. 5 yr for VEU)
Authorised Repairer Distance Travel costs may apply beyond 50 km from the repairer’s base — check the terms
Overall Assessment
Consumer Ratings / Reviews
Installer Reputation
Your Overall Assessment

Split System Air Conditioner Models from Leading Brands Compared

Rated COP and Cold Zone heating stars do not rank these six models in the same order. The chart below places the two figures side by side, which shows why a single test point can mislead.

How to Use the Comparison Table Below

The table below compares six reverse cycle split system models in the 7.1–8.0 kW heating class. Each model was selected for its relevance to Melbourne and cool-climate Victorian homes. All six models use R-32 refrigerant and carry a 5-year parts and labour warranty, which also satisfies the current VEU rebate condition. All ZERL star ratings are Cold Zone figures, the correct figures for Melbourne, Ballarat, Bendigo, the Central Highlands, and Canberra. Specifications marked ¹ are calculated from published manufacturer data and are not explicitly stated in the manufacturer's spec sheet. Specifications marked † were unconfirmed at the time of writing. Verify them directly with the manufacturer or your installer before you make a purchasing decision.

IMPORTANT: We have no affiliation with and do not recommend or endorse any of the Brands listed below. And the Specifications and Prices of these Models (although correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication) are subject to change at any time by Manufacturers and Retailers. So please take these as a Starting Point for Your Own Research ...

How to Read the Table

Brand / Model: The manufacturer and the specific model number. The series name appears below in smaller text.
Heat kW / Cool kW: Manufacturer-rated heating and cooling capacity in kilowatts at standard test conditions, 7°C outdoor for heating and 35°C outdoor for cooling.
EER / COP: Energy Efficiency Ratio (cooling) and Coefficient of Performance (heating) at standard test conditions. Both are single-point figures.
ZERL ★ Cold Zone (Cool / Heat): Zoned Energy Rating Label star ratings for the Cold climate zone.
Min Heat Temp: The manufacturer's stated minimum outdoor temperature for heating operation. Capacity at this point is typically 60–80% of rated output.
Indoor Noise — Hi / Quiet (dB): Maximum and quiet-mode indoor noise. The quiet-mode figure matters most for bedrooms.
Outdoor (dB): Outdoor noise level at maximum capacity.
Dry & Mould Features: Whether the unit has an integrated humidity sensor and automatic mould prevention.
Air Purifier: Built-in or optional air purification technology, such as HEPA, Catechin, or Streamer.
Wi-Fi: Whether Wi-Fi is built into the unit as standard, or available through a Phone App with a separate adapter.
Est. Installed (May 2026): Indicative installed price in Australian dollars at May 2026, before any VEU rebate.
Notes: Key characteristics and points to investigate further in your own research.

Brand / Model	Heat kW / Cool kW	EER / COP	ZERL ★ Cold Zone Cool ★ / Heat ★	Min Heat Temp (°C)	Indoor Noise Hi / Quiet (dB)	Outdoor (dB)	Dry & Mould Features	Air Purifier	Wi-Fi	Est. Installed May 2026	Notes
Daikin
Daikin FTXV71WVMA Cora	8.0 / 7.1	3.68¹ / 4.26¹	3.0★ / 2.0★	−15	49 / 30	53	Sensor: No Mould cycle: No	Enzyme Blue filter (passive anti-mould)	Adapter (~$80–120)	$2,800– $3,200	Mid-range Daikin with R-32 refrigerant and an inverter compressor. Some user reports describe a clicking fan motor and thermistor failures in the current generation†. EER and COP are calculated from rated power input and are not explicitly stated by the manufacturer.
Daikin FTXM71WVMA Alira X	8.0 / 7.1	3.55 / 4.08	3.5★ / 2.5★	−15	49 / 30	53	Sensor: Yes ✓ Mould Proof: Yes ✓	Daikin Streamer (built-in) — treats unit internals and room air	Native	$3,000– $3,500	Highest Cold Zone ZERL heating stars in this comparison. The humidity sensor stops dry mode at a target relative humidity. Mould Proof Operation does NOT trigger after timer-OFF, so press remote OFF manually.
Mitsubishi Electric
Mitsubishi Electric MSZ-AP71VGD2 AP Series	8.0 / 7.1	3.53 / 3.83	3.5★ / 2.0★	−10	49 / 30	55	Sensor: No Mould cycle: None	Optional: Plasma Quad Connect (~$450–650 installed)	Native (from Apr 2025)	$2,800– $3,200	Long-term reliability is well regarded in Australian consumer reviews. ProductReview.com.au Best Split System Air Conditioner 2023, 2024, and 2025. No built-in mould prevention, so a SAN-AIR V3R behind the filter is a practical DIY mitigation.
Mitsubishi Electric MSZ-GS71VFD GS Series Builder / Project	8.0 / 7.1	3.24 / 3.64	3.0★ / 2.0★	−10	50 / 33	56	Sensor: No Mould cycle: None	None	†	$2,400– $2,800	Builder and project channel unit, with lower rated efficiency than the AP series. For an owner-occupier who pays the running costs, weigh that efficiency gap against the lower purchase price.
Fujitsu / General
Fujitsu / General ASTH24KMTD Lifestyle†	8.0 / 7.1	3.41 / 4.19	3.5★ / 2.0★	−15	49 / 29	54	Sensor: † Mould cycle: †	†	Adapter (UTY-TFSXJ)	$2,700– $3,100	High rated COP of 4.19, but only 2.0★ ZERL Cold Zone heating. That gap illustrates why rated COP alone does not predict cool-climate seasonal performance. Quietest unit in quiet mode here at 29 dB.
Panasonic
Panasonic CS-Z71XKR Aussie Tough / Deluxe Z	8.0 / 7.1	3.45 / 3.83	3.5★ / 2.0★	−20	49 / 34	54	Sensor: † Mould cycle: †	†	Adapter (CZ-TACG1)	$2,900– $3,300	Lowest minimum operating temperature in this comparison at −20°C, which is relevant for exposed sites. Quiet-mode indoor noise of 34 dB is the highest here. Verify dry mode and air purification with Panasonic Australia.
Notes: All ZERL star ratings are Cold Zone figures — the correct climate zone for Melbourne, Ballarat, Bendigo, the Central Highlands, and Canberra. All six models use R-32 refrigerant and carry a 5-year parts and labour warranty, which also satisfies the current VEU rebate condition. ¹ EER and COP for the Daikin Cora (FTXV71WVMA) are calculated from published rated power input figures. The manufacturer does not state them explicitly. † Not confirmed in research — verify directly with the manufacturer or installer. Installed prices are indicative at May 2026, before any VEU rebate. Supply-only pricing is about $600–800 less than the installed figures shown.

Glossary

Air conditioner: An appliance that conditions indoor air by changing its temperature, and often its humidity, using a refrigerant cycle. A reverse cycle air conditioner can both heat and cool.
Split system: An air conditioner whose components are split between an indoor unit (evaporator and fan) and an outdoor unit (compressor and condenser). Insulated refrigerant pipes connect the two units.
Multi-split: A configuration in which several indoor units connect to a single outdoor unit and share one refrigerant circuit. Most multi-split systems cannot heat one room while they cool another.
Reverse cycle: An operating mode in which the refrigerant cycle can run in either direction. The same unit then heats in winter and cools in summer by moving heat rather than generating it.
Refrigerant: The working fluid in an air conditioner. It absorbs and releases heat as it changes phase between liquid and vapour. Current Australian residential models mostly use R-32.
Inverter compressor: A variable-speed compressor that adjusts its output continuously to match the heating or cooling demand, which improves thermal comfort and energy efficiency.
Non-inverter compressor: A fixed-speed compressor that runs at full output or not at all, cycling on and off. It is less efficient and less comfortable than an inverter compressor.
Dry mode: An operating mode that runs the compressor at reduced capacity to dehumidify air without aggressive cooling. It is largely ineffective below about 13°C indoor.
Humidity: The amount of water vapour in air. Relative humidity is the ratio of actual water vapour to the maximum the air can hold at its current temperature.
Humidity sensor: A sensor inside the indoor unit that measures relative humidity and can stop dry mode automatically at a target setpoint. It is more precise than coil-temperature logic alone.
Condensation: Water that forms when warm, moist air contacts a cold surface, such as an evaporator coil or a single-glazed window. Persistent condensation can encourage mould.
Mould: A microbial growth that can form on damp coils and filters in poorly maintained units, alongside bacteria and virus particles. Mould prevention cycles, dry mode, and filters help reduce the risk.
HEPA: High Efficiency Particulate Air filter. It captures very fine airborne particles, including PM2.5, and is available as a built-in or aftermarket option on some split systems.
Catechin: A natural antibacterial compound from green tea. Catechin-coated filters are reported to deactivate a high proportion of the bacteria and virus particles that pass through them.
Quiet mode: A low-fan-speed setting that reduces indoor noise, sometimes labelled silent mode. It typically produces 19–34 dBA depending on the model and the capacity.
Indoor noise: The sound output measured at the indoor unit, in dBA. It is the figure most relevant to occupants, and it matters most in bedrooms.
Outdoor noise: The sound output measured at the outdoor unit, in dBA, usually at maximum capacity. Local councils may restrict outdoor noise levels.
Wi-Fi module: The wireless component that connects an air conditioner to a manufacturer Phone App for scheduling, remote start, and energy monitoring. It may be native or require an external adapter.
Thermal comfort: The subjective sense of being neither too warm nor too cool. Temperature, humidity, air movement, and radiant surfaces all influence it.
Coefficient of Performance (COP): The ratio of heating power output (kW) to electrical power input (kW), measured at 7°C outdoor and 20°C indoor. It is a single-point figure.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER): The cooling equivalent of COP. It is the ratio of cooling output to electrical input at 35°C outdoor and 27°C indoor.
Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF): A seasonal heating-efficiency metric that aggregates performance across a range of outdoor temperatures. It represents real-world running costs more closely than COP alone.
Zoned Energy Rating Label (ZERL): The Australian energy label for split systems, introduced in 2020. It shows separate heating and cooling star ratings for three climate zones (Hot, Average, Cold) plus annual energy consumption. Cool climate Victoria sits in the Cold heating climate zone.
R-32: The current standard refrigerant in new Australian residential split systems. Its Global Warming Potential is 675, and it is classified A2L (mildly flammable).
R-410A: The previous-generation refrigerant, with a Global Warming Potential of 2088. It is being phased out of new product and remains in service in older systems.
GWP (Global Warming Potential): A measure of how much heat a refrigerant traps in the atmosphere relative to CO₂ over a fixed period, usually 100 years. Lower is better.
VEU (Victorian Energy Upgrades): A Victorian Government program that provides rebates for installing high-efficiency equipment. Rebates include up to AUD$8,000 for replacing gas heating with a reverse cycle system. Accredited Persons (installers) deliver it.