Upgrading your home’s heating and cooling system isn’t just about comfort — it’s about efficiency, performance, and future-proofing your property.
At Coop Group, we recently completed a full Braemar Dominator ducted air conditioning installation in Croydon, replacing an outdated gas ducted heater with a modern, all-electric reverse cycle system.
This two-day project is a perfect example of how a well-planned upgrade can deliver powerful results with minimal disruption.
Project Overview: Croydon Heating & Cooling Upgrade
This Croydon home was running on an older gas ducted heating system that had reached the end of its lifespan.
The client wanted:
- A more energy-efficient solution
- Heating and cooling in one system
- Lower running costs
- Access to available rebates
Scope of Works Included:
- Removal of the existing gas ducted heater
- Supply and installation of a Braemar Dominator system
- Installation of new ductwork in the roof
- Integration with existing downstairs dropper ducts
- Installation of outdoor compressor unit
- Clean pipework finish using Colorbond capping
The entire upgrade was completed over two days, delivering a complete transformation in home comfort.
Why We Installed a Braemar Dominator
The Braemar Dominator is specifically designed for Australian homes transitioning away from gas ducted heating.
👉 Learn more about the system here:
https://www.seeleyinternational.com/product/braemar-dominator-series-reverse-cycle-heating-system
Unlike standard ducted systems, the Dominator is engineered to:
- Replace gas heaters directly
- Work with existing duct layouts
- Deliver both heating and cooling
This makes it one of the most practical upgrade solutions currently available.
Removing the Old Gas System (and Unlocking Rebates)
One of the first steps in this project was removing the existing gas ducted heater.
Not only was this system inefficient, but replacing it also allowed the homeowner to take advantage of rebate opportunities — a major incentive for switching to electric systems.
Benefits of Removing Gas:
- Reduced energy costs over time
- Lower carbon footprint
- Eligibility for government rebates
- Safer, cleaner home environment
This is one of the biggest reasons we’re seeing more Melbourne homeowners making the switch.
New Ductwork Installation in the Roof
To ensure optimal performance, we installed brand new ductwork throughout the roof space.
Why this matters:
- Old ducting can restrict airflow
- Leaks and inefficiencies reduce system performance
- New ducting ensures balanced air distribution
By upgrading the ductwork, we ensured the new system could operate at peak efficiency from day one.
Integrating Existing Downstairs Dropper Ducts
While we installed new ducting in the roof, we were able to connect into the existing dropper ducts that serviced the downstairs areas.
This approach allowed us to:
- Maintain the existing vent layout
- Reduce unnecessary structural work
- Keep installation time and cost down
It’s all about using the right combination of new and existing infrastructure for the best outcome.
Outdoor Unit Installation & Placement
The outdoor compressor unit plays a critical role in any reverse cycle system.
For this project, the unit was installed on the side of the home, in a position chosen by the homeowner.
Key Considerations:
- Accessibility for maintenance
- Airflow and performance
- Visual impact on the home
Every installation is tailored to the property — there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.
Clean Finish with Colorbond Capping
A standout feature of this installation was the attention to detail on the external finishes.
We installed Colorbond capping to neatly conceal:
- Copper pipework
- Electrical cabling
- Connections between indoor and outdoor units
Why This Matters:
- Protects components from weather
- Improves longevity of the system
- Creates a clean, professional appearance
At Coop Group, we don’t just install systems — we make sure they look the part too.
How the Braemar Dominator Works
The Braemar Dominator is a reverse cycle heat pump system, meaning it can both heat and cool your home using the same infrastructure.
Cooling Mode:
- Heat is extracted from inside the home
- That heat is transferred outside via the outdoor unit
Heating Mode:
- Cold air inside is removed
- Heat energy is absorbed from outside air and delivered indoors
This process is highly efficient, making reverse cycle systems one of the most cost-effective ways to control indoor temperatures.
Designed for Melbourne Conditions
Melbourne’s climate demands flexibility — hot summers and cold winters require a system that can do both.
The Dominator delivers:
- Reliable heating during winter
- Strong cooling performance in summer
- Consistent airflow throughout the home
This makes it an ideal solution for homes in Croydon and across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.
Two-Day Installation — Minimal Disruption
Despite being a full system upgrade, this project was completed in just two days.
Day 1:
- Removal of existing gas system
- Installation of indoor unit
- Installation of new ductwork
Day 2:
- Outdoor unit installation
- Pipework and electrical connections
- System testing and commissioning
We plan every job carefully to minimise downtime and disruption for homeowners.
Before & After: The Difference
Before:
- Outdated gas ducted heater
- No cooling capability
- Poor airflow
- Increasing energy costs
After:
- Modern reverse cycle system
- Heating and cooling in one
- Improved airflow and comfort
- Energy-efficient operation
The result is a home that’s more comfortable, more efficient, and ready for the future.
Why More Homeowners Are Switching to Electric
Across Melbourne, we’re seeing a strong shift toward all-electric homes.
Key Drivers:
- Rising gas prices
- Government incentives and rebates
- Improved energy efficiency
- Environmental considerations
- Increased demand for cooling
The Braemar Dominator is designed specifically for this transition, making it one of the most practical upgrade options available.
Is This Upgrade Right for Your Home?
A Braemar Dominator system is ideal if you:
- Have an existing ducted gas heater
- Want to add cooling to your home
- Are looking to reduce energy bills
- Want a cleaner, all-electric solution
Every home is different — but for many properties, this upgrade delivers significant long-term value.
Key Features Recap
- ✔ Direct replacement for gas ducted systems
- ✔ Heating and cooling in one system
- ✔ Works with new or existing ductwork
- ✔ Energy-efficient operation
- ✔ Clean, professional installation
- ✔ Fast turnaround time
Why Choose Coop Group?
At Coop Group, we specialise in complete heating and cooling solutions — from system design through to installation and commissioning.
We focus on:
- Quality workmanship
- Efficient system design
- Clean, professional finishes
- Long-term performance
Whether it’s a simple replacement or a full system upgrade, we handle the entire process.
Get in Touch
If your current system isn’t keeping up — or you’re ready to move away from gas — now’s the time to upgrade.
We can help you choose the right system, maximise rebate opportunities, and deliver a seamless installation from start to finish.
👉 Contact Coop Group today to discuss your heating and cooling upgrade.