Victoria is on the clock. From 1 January 2027, new gas connections will be banned. Just two months later, rental properties must replace outdated gas hot water units with energy-efficient electric systems.

It’s part of a nationwide shift toward all-electric homes. With the deadline fast approaching, the question is whether households, landlords and the industry are ready.

The transition is big. Gas hot water currently accounts for around 25% of household energy use and a significant share of greenhouse emissions. Victoria’s modelling shows that swapping to efficient electric heat pumps could save households around $330 per year on bills, or up to $520 with rooftop solar.

Wilson Heat Pumps general manager, Mark Padwick, says this is not a distant target but an immediate change on the horizon.

“We are less than 18 months away from new rules. Builders, landlords, and homeowners need compliant solutions, cost-effective and future-ready. Wilson Heat Pumps are designed for that future.”

Wilson Heat Pumps use up to 75% less energy than conventional systems, are 100% electric and are solar compatible. This means they can deliver hot water with virtually no emissions.

According to the CSRIO’s Australian Housing Data Survey, 88% of Victorian households are still using gas, so this change represents both a challenge and an opportunity: a chance to modernise, cut emissions and prepare for net zero living.

Mark says now is the time to act.

“The countdown is on. We want to see households making the switch early so they are not caught out in the rush before 2027.”