Heat Pumps
New Zealand Heat Pumps
Using a heat pump in New Zealand as the primary method of heating your home is becoming increasingly popular. In this article we take a look at what a heat pump is and how it works in NZ. We'll take you through the advantages and disadvantages of owning a heat pump, where to buy a heat pump in NZ and how to get heat pumps installed.
What is a heat pump and how does it work?
An NZ heat pump is a reverse cycle air conditioner, which means it both heats and cools. It operates in a similar way to a refrigerator, with coils circulating a refrigerant which draws the cool air from outside your home and pumps it inside for heating (and vice versa for cooling). There are no elements and nothing is actually heated, which makes for a very efficient process. In the cooling mode, a heat pump will also dehumidify the air in your home. Most air conditioning heat pumps in New Zealand consist of a unit mounted outside, and a variety of options for the interior unit, including in-wall, floor mounted, ceiling mounted and ducted options.
Advantages of heat pumps in New Zealand
- Convenience: heat pumps are very easy to use, and provide a controlled heating experience that can be customised by the use of the thermostat to turn off and on at programmed times of the day. 'Set and forget' technology means not having to worry about whether you house will be warm when you wake up in the morning and when you come home from work.
- Efficiency: heat pumps in NZ are an efficient heating option for your home (the most efficient when using electricity). As a general rule, every $1 of electricity used will produce $3 worth of heat.
- Dehumidifying and air filtering: as well as the dehumidifying function, many modern NZ heat pumps include an air filtering system which helps keep the air in your home cleaner and healthier. Ensure you clean the filter every eight weeks or so to keep the unit working efficiently.
- Cooling: electric heat pumps in NZ are the only type of heating appliance that can both cool and heat your home, providing year round functionality.
Disadvantages of heat pumps in New Zealand
- Noise: heat pumps contain fans (both on the indoor and outdoor units) and can be noisy. Some New Zealand heat pump manufacturers will try to mitigate this by comparing the sound to 'wind whistling through the trees.' Ask yourself, would you really want to hear the wind whistling through the trees in your lounge? Check out the specifications of each heat pump and look for models with low decibel ratings. Ask to hear the unit in operation before you buy.
- Cost: heat pumps in New Zealand, while being extremely efficient and offering power cost savings over other electric forms of heating, are expensive to install. The average heat pump will cost a New Zealander around $4,000, meaning it will be several years before the initial costs are recouped by means of cheaper power bills. By this time the average New Zealander may have moved house, leaving the new owner to enjoy the benefits of the investment. Remember, though: installation of an air conditioning heat pump will add to your property's resale value.
- Low temperature issues: in very low temperatures (2°C and under), it becomes difficult for the heat pump to extract heat from the outside air. In frosty, sub zero conditions the exterior unit can freeze up, and it will take time to defrost before working again. Make sure that if you live in an area in New Zealand where the temperature regularly reaches these levels, you install a heat pump that is designed for such conditions.
Where to buy a heat pump in New Zealand
Electric heat pumps are available in New Zealand from a variety of NZ heat pump retailers. It is sensible to go into a showroom and look at the models before you buy. Take all the dimensions of the rooms you are wanting heated in with you, and make sure you speak to a knowledgeable staff member to ensure you get the correct heat pump for your needs. It is highly recommended to get the heat pump professionally installed, and almost all retailers will offer installation as part of the service.
Looking for more information? Find New Zealand heat pumps in the NZS.com directory.
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Business images from Flickr: Sky Tower, New Zealand Flag and Wellington Buildings.
