Why Geelong Homes Are Switching to Heat Pump Hot Water
Hot water is one of the biggest single energy costs in most Geelong homes, often making up 15–30% of your total power bill. A heat pump hot water system doesn’t generate heat directly — it extracts warmth from the surrounding air (even on cool days) and uses it to heat your water tank, using up to 70% less energy than a standard electric system.
Velocity Solar installs and services heat pump hot water systems from iStore and Reclaim Energy across Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula and the Surf Coast, either as a standalone upgrade or paired with a new or existing solar system, so your hot water can run on free daytime solar power.
We’ve been designing and installing solar, battery and hot water systems in this region since 2011, with more than 1,600 installs completed and counting, all done by our own local, A-grade qualified team.
Heat Pump vs Gas vs Electric vs Solar Hot Water
A quick comparison to help you weigh up your options.
Heat Pump
Running cost: Lowest of the four
Upfront cost: Moderate — offset by rebates
Solar-friendly: Yes — runs on daytime export
Lifespan: 10+ years
Standard Electric
Running cost: Highest of the four
Upfront cost: Lowest upfront cost
Solar-friendly: Partial — high draw, hard to fully offset
Lifespan: 8–12 years
Gas
Running cost: Rising, plus connection fees
Upfront cost: Low–moderate
Solar-friendly: No
Lifespan: 10–15 years
Solar (Thermal)
Running cost: Low, needs a boost on cloudy days
Upfront cost: Higher — roof collectors + tank
Solar-friendly: Yes, by design
Lifespan: 15–20 years
Actual running costs depend on household size, hot water usage, tariff and system size — contact us for a figure specific to your home.
Which Heat Pump Brand Is Right for You?
We install two trusted brands, chosen for their reliability in Australian conditions. Both come with genuine local support from our Geelong-based team.
iStore Heat Pump
A 400% energy-conversion-rate heat pump built for Australian conditions — a strong all-round option for most Geelong households. Compact design suits smaller spaces.
Reclaim CO2 Heat Pump
Uses natural CO2 refrigerant (GWP of just 1) for a lower environmental footprint, with glass tanks built for local water conditions and a 10-year warranty.
What Size Heat Pump Do You Need?
1–2 People
160–170L tank
Good fit for units, townhouses and couples
3–4 People
250–270L tank
Most common size for Geelong family homes
5+ People
315L+ tank
Larger households, or high hot water use
These are general guides only — our team sizes every system to your household’s actual usage, climate and roof orientation on-site.
Heat Pump Rebates for Geelong Homeowners
Eligible Victorian homeowners can currently receive a Solar Homes hot water rebate of up to $1,000 towards an approved heat pump or solar hot water system, or up to $1,400 for an eligible locally made product. Eligible heat pump systems may also qualify for federal Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), helping reduce the upfront cost even further.
To qualify, you generally need to:
- Be the owner-occupier of an existing Victorian home (not new builds or rentals)
- Have a combined household taxable income under $150,000 per year
- Be replacing an existing hot water system that is at least 3 years old
- Not have already received a hot water or battery rebate at the property
- Install an approved product through an authorised retailer — Velocity Solar is a Solar Victoria authorised retailer
From March 2027, gas hot water systems in existing Victorian homes will need to be replaced with an efficient electric alternative (like a heat pump) when they reach end of life — so many households are getting ahead of this now while rebates are available.
Rebate figures and eligibility rules can change — we’ll confirm your exact entitlement at your free assessment.
Heat Pump Hot Water FAQs
Is a heat pump better than solar hot water?
Both can cut your hot water costs significantly. A heat pump has a lower upfront cost and works well even on cloudy days, while solar (thermal) hot water needs direct sun and an electric/gas booster on overcast days. If you already have solar panels, a heat pump lets you run hot water on your existing solar export rather than installing separate roof collectors.
How much does a heat pump hot water system cost to run in Geelong?
Running costs depend on household size, hot water usage and your electricity tariff, but heat pumps typically use up to 70% less energy than a standard electric system. We’ll give you a specific estimate for your home at your free assessment.
Can a heat pump be installed with my existing solar system?
Yes. A heat pump hot water system can be added to an existing solar setup so your hot water heats during the day using solar export instead of drawing from the grid.
Are heat pump hot water systems noisy?
Modern heat pumps like iStore and Reclaim are designed to run quietly, similar in volume to a standard outdoor air conditioning unit, and are usually positioned away from bedroom windows during installation.
What rebates are available for heat pumps in Victoria?
Eligible Victorian homeowners can currently receive a Solar Homes hot water rebate of up to $1,000 (up to $1,400 for locally made products), which can be combined with federal STCs. See the eligibility criteria above, or contact us to check your specific situation.
Ready to Cut Your Hot Water Costs?
Book a free on-site assessment with our local Geelong team. We’ll recommend the right system and size for your home, and check your rebate eligibility.
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