Choosing the right heat pump can feel like a big decision, especially with all the models, sizes, and features available. Whether you’re renovating your home or looking to cut down on your energy bills, this guide is here to help you understand the different types of heat pumps and how to choose the one that suits your lifestyle, your space, and the part of New Zealand’s unique climate you call home.
Exploring the Different Types of Heat Pumps for Your Home
Not all heat pumps will suit your home. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common types you’ll find across New Zealand:
1. High Wall Heat Pumps (Split Systems)
These are the most popular type of heat pumps in New Zealand. The indoor unit mounts high on your wall, and the outdoor unit sits just outside. They’re perfect for heating and cooling single rooms and ideal for homes that don’t require ductwork.
- Best for: Bedrooms, lounges, and small open-plan areas.
- Pros: Easy to install, cost-effective, energy efficient.
- Cons: May not be ideal for large or multi-room coverage.
2. Floor Console Heat Pumps
Mounted close to the ground, floor consoles are a great alternative if you have limited wall space. They can be recessed into walls and offer excellent airflow.
- Best for: Homes with large windows or limited wall space.
- Pros: Discreet, even heat distribution, great for older homes, and good for those who prefer the warmth circulating at floor level (great for cold feet).
- Cons: Slightly bulkier than wall units. Furniture needs to be placed 1m away from the unit to allow the air to circulate
3. Ducted Heat Pumps
A ducted system involves one central unit that sends air through ducts to every room in your home via ceiling or floor vents. Ducted heat pump systems are invisible and offer full-home comfort.
- Best for: Anyone wanting a premium heating solution for the home, perfect for both older homes, and in new builds.
- Pros: Quiet, sleek with centrally controlled comfort. Optional zoned heating and cooling.
- Cons: Higher upfront cost and installation complexity.
4. Multi-Room Systems
A multi-room system connects several indoor units to one outdoor compressor. You can heat or cool multiple rooms independently, using a variety of unit styles (wall, floor, or ceiling).
- Best for: Growing families or larger homes with varied room usage.
- Pros: Individual temperature control per room, energy efficient.
- Cons: More expensive than a single split system.
What Size Heat Pump Do I Need for My Home?
The answer depends on several factors, including the size of the room, insulation quality, ceiling height, and your location in New Zealand.
As a general guide:
- Small rooms (up to 20m²): 2–2.5kW system
- Medium rooms (20–40m²): 3.5–5kW system
- Large open areas (40m²+): 6–8kW+ system
However, New Zealand’s climate zones can impact performance. Homes in Christchurch, for example, experience colder winters than those in Auckland, which means you’ll likely need a slightly larger unit or a model built for colder climates. For precise sizing, a professional installer will assess:
- Room dimensions and insulation
- Window and door placement
- Local climate conditions
- Desired usage (heating, cooling, or both)
Remember, bigger isn’t always better. An oversized unit can cycle on and off too quickly, leading to uneven temperatures and higher power bills. Undersized units, on the other hand, will work overtime, are less efficient and cost more to run.
How to Choose the Perfect Heat Pump for Your Lifestyle
Now that you know the types and sizes available, here are a few extra things to think about:
1. Your Daily Routine
If you work from home or have family members at home, a multi-room or ducted system might make sense. If you’re away most of the day, a single high-wall unit in the main living area may be all you need.
2. Aesthetic Preferences
Do you want to keep your interior sleek and minimal? Floor consoles or ducted systems are less visible than wall-mounted units.
3. Smart Features
Modern heat pumps often include Wi-Fi control, programmable timers, and energy-monitoring features, which are great for tech-savvy homeowners or those looking to optimise their energy use.
4. Energy Efficiency
Look for the Energy Star rating and models with inverter technology, which adjust output to maintain a consistent temperature, saving energy in the process.
5. Trusted Brands
Stick with well-established brands like Fujitsu and Mitsubishi for reliability, warranty coverage, and local support. Both offer high-performance models specifically built for New Zealand conditions.
Find the Right Heat Pump with New Zealand Heat Pumps
With so many types of heat pumps available, the best choice for your home comes down to size, layout, climate, and lifestyle. Whether you’re upgrading your living room comfort or planning a full-home heating solution, there’s a heat pump that fits the bill.
Still not sure where to begin? Talk to the experts at New Zealand Heat Pumps for tailored advice and professional installation across the country. They’ll help you select the right model and size so you can enjoy energy-efficient comfort all year round.