Heating Your Home: Getting Started with Heat Pump Prices in NZ
There’s nothing like coming home to a warm home in winter, or waking up in one too. A heat pump is well-known to be the most cost-effective way of heating your home and because it can cool in summer time as well, it truly represents an excellent option for year-round comfort. But exactly how much does a heat pump cost in New Zealand?
The cost of a heat pump in New Zealand depends on several factors, including the type of system, size, installation complexity, and if additional features (eg. WiFi adaptors, anti-corrosion treatment etc) are required. This comprehensive guide from OneAir, your trusted HVAC expert, will delve into the world of heat pump pricing in NZ, equipping you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.
Since 2015, OneAir has been providing heat pump solutions all across New Zealand. We have a vast database of knowledge having serviced and installed tens of thousands of heat pumps and ventilation systems and are pleased to share some of that experience in the article below.
Understanding Heat Pump Systems
It may be hard to imagine, but heat pumps are able to extract heat from the outside air, even during cooler months, and transfer it indoors to create a warm and comfortable environment. They can reverse the process in warmer weather, acting as an air conditioner to keep you cool. There are three main types of heat pump systems:
Single Split System
This is the most common and budget-friendly option. It comprises one outdoor unit connected to a single indoor unit, ideal for heating and cooling a single room or small open-plan living area.
Multi-Split and VRF System
This system offers one outdoor unit connected to multiple indoor units. This allows you to control the temperature in several rooms independently, unlike a Ducted System. An important point to note is that even though these systems have only one outdoor unit, they generally cost more than single splits.
Ducted Heat Pump System
For ultimate comfort and discreet appearance throughout your home, a ducted system is the way to go. It typically is hidden away in your attic and distributes warm or cool air through grilles located either on your ceiling, floor or wall.
Heat Pump Pricing in NZ: A Range to Consider
So how much does a heat pump cost to buy and install in New Zealand? Here's a general breakdown to give you a rough idea:
Single Split Systems: $1,500 - $3,500 (including installation)
Multi-Split Systems: $4,500 upwards (including installation)
Ducted Heat Pump Systems: $6,750 - $19,000+ (including installation)
Factors Affecting Heat Pump Cost
Several factors can influence the final cost of your heat pump, so it's essential to consider these aspects:
System Type: Perhaps surprisingly, Ducted and Multi Split VRF systems are generally more expensive due to the complexity of installation compared to single or multi-split systems.
Size and Capacity: The heat pump's size and heating/cooling capacity will depend on the size of your home and insulation levels as well as how much direct sunlight you are exposed to. Larger homes require more powerful systems, leading to a higher price tag.
Efficiency Rating: Higher efficiency ratings, measured by a coefficient of performance (COP), translate to lower running costs, but typically come with a slightly higher upfront cost.
Brand and Features: Different brands and additional features, such built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, can impact the price.
Installation Complexity: Factors like ease of access for installation and the length of the copper pipe run affect the installation cost.
How to Make Sure You Pay The Lowest Price Possible For Your Heat Pump
Here are some tips to ensure you get the best value for your heat pump investment:
Determine your total cost of ownership : how long do you intend to live in your current home? How much will you use it? Selecting a cheap heat pump system makes sense if you are planning to sell your house soon, but for a forever home, you may want to spend more on a premium brand which typically have longer lifespans and greater energy performance, so you will save on power bills in the long run.
Get Multiple Quotes: Contact reputable HVAC companies and obtain quotes for different system options. If your install is not straight forward, get a few opinions as different installers may have different ways of achieving your desired end result. A warning : cheapest does not necessarily mean the best, as you want to be sure that the installers are properly qualified and the installation materials used are good quality. Most importantly, you want your installer to be around years from now as they will provide free repairs if there was a mistake made during installation. Ask for a copy of their public liability insurance so you will be covered in the event that something goes wrong
Government Rebates: The New Zealand Government and certain local councils may offer rebates and grants to encourage energy efficiency. Check for current incentives that may apply to your heat pump purchase https://www.eeca.govt.nz/assets/EECA-Resources/Research-papers-guides/EECA-Energy-Efficiency-First-Overview.pdf.
Apply for an energy loan: Certain banks provide low interest loans for eco-friendly assets for your home. Contact your bank to find out more
Install the outdoor unit on the ground: This avoids having to use wall or roof brackets which are costly and require additional labour to install them
Install the outdoor unit as close as possible to the indoor unit: Copper refrigerant pipe is the most-expensive material used in an installation, so the shorter the distance between the indoor and outdoor unit, the more you will save.
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