Diamond Creek at a glance
A 1970s suburb
Substantial residential growth came to Diamond Creek in the 1970s. At the 2021 Census, 94.3% of its 4,158 occupied homes were separate houses and just 0.1% were flats.
Long-term owners
Only 10.0% of homes were rented. 35.3% were owned outright and 53.0% with a mortgage, so most decisions here are the owner's to make.
Fire has a history here
Diamond Creek had a number of bushfires between 1894 and 1969, and in 1894 houses were destroyed. Nillumbik Shire Council says bushfire is a serious risk across the shire.
Replacing heating in an older Diamond Creek home
Owner occupiers in Victoria don't have to give up gas heating. DEECA says existing homes have no requirement to switch space heating to electric, so the choice between a new gas heater and reverse cycle is yours.
Many 1970s houses have had new windows, insulation or draught sealing since they were built. Mention it when you get quotes. Energy Safe Victoria warns that renovating or weather-sealing can change the ventilation a gas heater needs to clear carbon monoxide. A gas heater service is the time to have that checked.
Installers here who are licence-checked and do your kind of job will see the request, and only the one who takes it gets your number. If no one near Diamond Creek has taken it after 48 hours, installers from the rest of Victoria may see it too.
If someone feels unwell only when the heater's on
Energy Safe Victoria lists dizziness, nausea, headaches and feeling unwell only at home among the signs of carbon monoxide. If you suspect it, get everyone into fresh air, turn off the gas appliances, open windows and doors, and call 000 in an emergency. Leave the heater off until a qualified gasfitter has been out to test it.
Outdoor units in fire season
Daikin says to keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves and debris, and the ACT Government guide says never to enclose one with slat fencing. In Diamond Creek, add the unit's corner to the list when you clear gutters and leaf litter before the fire danger period.
What we'd do
Our take for Diamond Creek
In a 1970s house that's been sealed up over the years, we'd start with a gas service and a carbon monoxide check, whatever you plan next. Then compare a new gas heater with reverse cycle on paper, in autumn. If you go reverse cycle, choose an outdoor spot you can keep clear all summer.
