Is Your Commercial Building Ready for What's Next?
With Victoria moving toward all-electric new commercial buildings from 2027, now is the time to plan smarter heating and cooling systems — before the plasterboard goes up and the decisions get expensive.
Heating and Cooling Choices Are Changing Fast for Victorian Businesses
For many commercial spaces, the old approach was simple: install what had always been used before. But that is changing.
Rising energy costs, sustainability expectations, gas transition planning and changing building requirements mean businesses need to think more strategically about their heating and cooling systems.
At First Choice Heating & Cooling, we work with clients to design practical solutions that suit the building, the usage, the budget and the long-term operating costs.
Energy Efficiency
Reduce running costs with systems designed for how your building actually operates.
Indoor Comfort
Consistent, reliable comfort for staff, customers and tenants throughout the year.
Lower Operating Costs
The right system choice now can significantly reduce long-term energy and maintenance bills.
Future Compliance Planning
Stay ahead of changing building requirements and avoid expensive retrofits down the track.
Better Building Performance
Heating and cooling is one of the biggest factors in commercial building energy ratings.
Zone Flexibility
Independent control across different spaces, floors and occupancy zones within the same building.
Smarter Heating & Cooling for Commercial Buildings
The right solution depends on the site, the usage and the goals. Here are the options we work with most often for commercial clients.
Reduce Gas Reliance, Improve Efficiency
A strong option for businesses looking to move away from gas and reduce their energy costs. Modern commercial heat pump systems are highly efficient and well suited to Victoria's climate. Eligible for Victorian government rebates in many cases.
Quiet, Even Comfort for Demanding Spaces
Ideal for buildings where consistent, quiet comfort and long-term performance are important. Hydronic systems work particularly well in offices, clinics, hospitality venues and high-end commercial or residential developments.
Flexible Cooling for Any Commercial Space
Flexible, scalable solutions for offices, retail spaces, restaurants, clinics, showrooms and mixed-use commercial buildings. From single-zone installations to full multi-zone commercial systems.
A Staged Approach for Existing Buildings
For existing buildings, the answer is not always a full replacement straight away. A staged or hybrid approach can help businesses transition more practically — spreading cost while improving performance step by step.
Commercial Clients Across Many Industries
We work with business owners, builders, developers and property managers across a wide range of commercial building types in South East Melbourne and surrounds.
From First Conversation to Completed System
Every commercial project starts with understanding the building, the usage and the goals — not just choosing a product off a shelf.
Site Consultation
We discuss your building, how it's used, your energy goals and your timeline. Early advice helps avoid the expensive choices that come from deciding too late.
System Design
We recommend the right system for the site — whether that's a heat pump, hydronic solution, commercial air conditioning or a staged hybrid approach.
Installation & Handover
Professional installation by our experienced team, with full handover and ongoing support so your system performs for the long term.
The Best Time to Decide Is Before the Build Starts
The best time to make heating and cooling decisions is before the building work starts — not after the plasterboard goes up and everyone starts panicking into their coffee. Early advice can help avoid expensive retrofits and poor system choices.
Commercial Heating & Cooling FAQs
When do Victorian commercial buildings need to move to all-electric?
Under Victoria's plan to transition to all-electric buildings, new commercial buildings are expected to move toward all-electric requirements from 2027. The exact timeline and requirements are subject to change, so it is worth understanding what this means for your specific project sooner rather than later. Early planning gives you the best options.
Can we keep our existing hydronic system if we replace our gas boiler?
In many cases, yes. One of the advantages of modern electric heat pumps is that they can work with existing hydronic pipework and emitters in the building. This means you can replace the gas boiler with an electric heat pump and retain the comfort and performance of your existing system. We assess each building individually to confirm compatibility and any adjustments needed.
Are there rebates available for commercial heating upgrades?
Yes, there are Victorian government rebates available for eligible heat pump upgrades in commercial settings under the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program. The specific eligibility and rebate amounts depend on the system type, building size and other factors. We can help you understand what is available for your project.
How early in a new commercial build should we be planning heating and cooling?
The earlier the better. Ideally, heating and cooling should be considered during the design and planning phase of any new commercial build — before structural decisions are locked in. This avoids compromises in system placement, duct runs and energy performance. We can work directly with builders, architects and developers at any stage.
Do you work with builders and developers, or just end-use clients?
We work with both. We regularly collaborate with commercial builders, developers and property managers on new builds and major renovations, as well as working directly with business owners replacing or upgrading their existing systems. Whether you are planning from scratch or replacing older equipment, we can help.
Discuss Your Commercial Project
Planning a new commercial build, upgrading an existing site or replacing older gas equipment? Tell us about your project and we'll help you understand your options.
Ready to discuss your project?
Fill in our contact form and we'll be in touch within one business day. Tell us about your building, timeline and what you're trying to achieve.
Or call us directly on 03 9000 0000