Brivis vs Braemar: Which Ducted Heating System Is Better for Your Melbourne Home?

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If you’re replacing or upgrading your gas ducted heating system, Brivis and Braemar are the top two most-consistently named brands across Australia. Both are trusted brands designed for Melbourne’s changing weather, but which one is right for your home?

At Ideal Air Melbourne, we install, service and replace both brands regularly; while both brands are reliable and efficient, here’s what homeowners need to know before making a decision.

Performance & Reliability

Brivis

Brivis has built a strong reputation for durable ducted gas heating systems that perform consistently in colder climates. Many Melbourne homes have operated Brivis systems reliably for 10–15 years or more with proper servicing.

Braemar

Braemar is known for offering high-efficiency models and strong airflow performance. Some homeowners prefer Braemar for its energy-efficient product range and competitive pricing.

Our Verdict

Both brands are dependable, and in most cases, installation quality and correct sizing matter more than the brand badge.

Energy Efficiency

Brivis

Brivis’s StarPro range offers high-efficiency heaters with star ratings up to 6 stars and modulating tech to reduce gas use; this means good gas savings compared with older or lower-rated heaters, especially when used with zoning systems.

Braemar

Braemar generally leads in energy efficiency, with some of the highest energy efficiency ratings on the Australian market. This includes certain Ecostar models with 6 star & 7 star equivalent ratings, reducing gas usage and running costs.

Our Verdict

Both Brivis and Braemar offer high-efficiency star-rated systems for Melbourne homes, but Braemar’s leading-edge efficiency and star ratings are among Australia’s best.

Features and Technology

Brivis

Select models come with Brivis ICE cooling technology, an add-on that lets you integrate cooling in your home using the same ductwork as the gas heater. Additionally, some Brivis models allow flexible installation options and advanced controls via apps.

Braemar

Braemar’s Softair system helps reduce cold drafts at start-up and delivers a more even heat distribution throughout your home. Most models offer strong zoning and control flexibility, often with easy-to-use controllers.

Our Verdict

While Braemar offers quiet, even heat distribution, we’re giving the edge to Brivis, with its flexible installs and the game-changing ICE cooling technology, perfect for homes that want year-round comfort without a separate air conditioner.

Installation - More than Just the Brand

Both Brivis and Braemar offer a range of gas heater installation options: If your ceilings and roof space are tight, Brivis’s flexible installation range can be useful. For zoning across many rooms with precise control, Braemar units are often superior.

But more important than that: the installation itself can have a massive effect on the efficiency, longevity, and cost of your gas ducted heater.

Systems will often get blamed for installation or maintenance issues, caused by factors such as:

Poor duct design
Inadequate return air
Incorrect sizing
Incomplete commissioning
Lack of maintenance

A correctly sized and professionally installed system from either brand will outperform a poorly installed alternative every time. That’s why it’s so important to engage a local professional for a full assessment of your home’s heating needs.

Like-for-Like Replacement: The Cost Advantage

If your existing unit is either Brivis or Braemar, keeping a like-for-like installation can often reduce overall installation costs:

Existing ductwork usually aligns with similar unit specifications
Gas connections are typically compatible
Control systems may require minimal modification
Less structural adjustment is required

This can mean faster installation, lower labour time, and reduced overall installation cost.

For many homeowners, a like-for-like replacement is the most straightforward and cost-effective solution, especially if the previous system performed well.

When It’s Smart to Switch Brands

Sticking with the same brand for your Gas Heater replacement might seem easy, but it isn’t always the right move for your home. A replacement is the perfect opportunity to fix “sins of the past” and find a unit that actually fits your environment.

It is time to reassess if your current brand:

Fails Clearance Requirements: If your old ducted heater lacked the “breathing room” to operate efficiently, switching to a brand with more flexible clearance specs will improve system longevity.
Lacks Modern Features: If you are missing out on essential Wi-Fi controls or whisper-quiet modes, don’t settle for an outdated model just for the sake of brand loyalty.
Is Too Bulky: For tight or compact spaces, moving to a brand known for smaller footprints makes installation cleaner and future maintenance easier.
Has Incompatible Wiring: If your current setup won’t talk to modern smart controllers, a different brand can often save you from costly rewiring.

Don’t just replace the box, replace the problem. Use this opportunity to find a system that truly meets your needs.

Which Is Better for Melbourne Homes?

Both Brivis and Braemar offer a range of advantages for Melbourne homes, and while there’s no universal winner, consider the following:

If maximising energy-efficiency is key, choose Braemar, taking advantage of their top-of-the line star-ratings.
If you’re looking for cooling technology and smart integrations, choose Brivis, with its ICE-cooling tech for year-round comfort, and flexible installation.
If you want the longest-lasting system, that keeps costs low and performance high, choose a professional installation from an accredited technician above all else.

You don’t have to make this decision alone; Ideal air Melbourne will assess your current system, explain your options clearly, and help you decide what ducted gas heater brand makes the most sense for your home.

Book a heating assessment with Ideal Air Melbourne today and get expert advice tailored to your home.