Industry calls for heat pump rebate pause over safety concerns

The air conditioning and refrigeration industry has called for government heat pump rebate schemes to be suspended until safety and performance standards are implemented.

The Australian Refrigeration Equipment Manufacturers Association warned on Monday that New South Wales and Victorian rebate programs are plagued by safety risks, poor performance and fraud.

AREMA managing director Greg Picker said unscrupulous installers were selling poorly made products to obtain government incentives, while legitimate companies struggled to compete.

“Responsible companies simply can’t compete against cut price products with installers who are focused on how many rebates they can get in a day,” Picker said.

The association identified three major problems: unsafe equipment being installed by untrained workers, heat pumps failing to deliver promised electricity savings, and fraudulent operators exploiting unsuspecting consumers.

AREMA argued the incentive programs should be paused until product standards for safety and energy performance are developed and implemented in regulations.

The industry body also called for mandatory training and licensing requirements, noting installers need both plumbing and refrigeration expertise.

“The licensed plumber and fridgies out there needed to have their skills lifted before these programs recommence,” the association said.

A robust compliance regime is also needed to keep questionable products and operators out of the market, according to AREMA.

The association acknowledged well-engineered heat pumps exist globally and can deliver efficient hot water with reduced electricity bills and lower emissions when installed by competent technicians.

However, these quality products have become the exception rather than the rule.

AREMA advised consumers to use common sense, noting that even with government incentives, legitimate installations should cost money.

Picture: AREMA website