Heat pumps 101

If you’re in the market for a new heating system for your home, it pays not to look past heat pumps. Offering cheaper heating, year-round temperature control and ease of use, there’s a reason heat pumps are New Zealand’s most popular heating solution.

Switching to a heat pump could save an average household of three people $122 a year, based on calculations using the Gen Less home energy savings calculator (when switching from gas).

There are different types of heat pump to choose from, depending on what you need in your home.

• Single-split systems are easy to install and cost effective — with one outdoor unit connected to an indoor unit that heats one room.
• Multi-split systems are great for larger homes, connecting one single outdoor unit to multiple indoor units that heat different rooms.
• Ducted heat pumps offer central heating for your whole house, blowing heated air through a duct system into multiple rooms in your home. They can be more expensive upfront than the other options.

Have design in mind? For those prioritising interior design, ducted heat pump systems offer an excellent solution with their subtle vent placements in floors, walls, or ceilings.

Prioritise energy efficiency when purchasing a heat pump or air conditioner. This will help reduce your energy costs.

• A heat pump’s Zoned Energy Rating Label shows how energy efficient it is.
• To make the most energy efficient choice you should look for the highest number of stars for heating displayed in the ‘cold’ climate zone. The cold climate zone applies to all of New Zealand, as the labels cover Australia as well. Aim for at least 2 stars, or 2.5 for a small heat pump (less than 5kW).
• Compare heat pump options and annual running costs using the Gen Less Efficient Appliance Calculator.

1. Turn off your heat pump when you leave a room or the house to save energy and money; it's a myth that leaving it on is more efficient.

2. Set the heat pump timer to warm the room before arrival and turn off when unnecessary.

3. To maintain a comfortable, warm, and dry home while saving energy, set your thermostat between 19°C and 21°C.

4. For optimal performance, set the heat pump fan to 'auto' mode, allowing it to automatically adjust its speed.

5. For fast room heating, set the fan speed to 'high' as this setting is also very efficient.

6. For quiet operation, using the 'low' fan setting is acceptable, but be aware that this reduces the unit's efficiency and results in higher energy consumption.

7. It's normal for heat pumps to temporarily blow cold air in very cold weather. This happens so the outdoor unit can defrost, and the heat pump should return to heating mode within a few minutes.

8. To maintain good airflow in your heat pump, regularly clean the removable filter. This is a simple task that involves using either a vacuum cleaner or warm water every couple of months. Doing so prevents the filter from becoming clogged.

9. Properly insulating your home reduces the workload on your heat pump, leading to lower monthly energy bills.

10. Ensure that curtains or furniture do not obstruct the indoor unit, as this can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency.