Heat Pumps Auckland: Heat Pump FAQs

Here are a list of common questions. If you don’t find the answer you are looking for please contact Heat Pumps Auckland.

How does a heat pump work?

Heat pumps move the air from one location (outside your house) and transfer that heat inside at a higher temperature. The temperature and air flow are controlled by a remote or from the unit control panel. Heat pumps use a system of pipes which contain gas that expands in one part of the system as they compress in another exterior part of the unit, making it hot. This hot air then passes over a series of coils as it is pumped to the interior unit, releasing the heat. That gas then returns to the outside unit where it expands over another set of coils, making it cold. The cycle continues as this gas is then re-compressed.

What are the benefits of a heat pump?
Heat pumps are an economical way to heat and cool your home and you can install several units to suit your heating requirements. They are safe to leave running while you are out or sleeping without posing a fire risk. Using automated timers, you can set a heat pump to operate automatically to allow for a comfortable temperate when you return home. Heat pumps provide a warmer and drier home and enhance the air in your living space by acting as a filter system.

What is HVAC?
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning and refers to mechanical systems for regulating indoor temperature comfort.

Does a heat pump reduce condensation?
A heat pump will not completely eliminate condensation from your home but you will notice a reduction in condensation as a heat pump will assist in reducing moisture in the air.

How easy are heat pumps to use?
Heat pumps are simple to use and maintain. They are operated with a remote control where the occupant can easily regulate temperature and air flow from the unit. They can be programmed to operate at certain times of the day so you can have a warm home when you return at the end of the day or wake up in the morning.

What maintenance is required?
Heat pumps require very little maintenance and cleaning can easily be done yourself. Depending on how often the heat pump is being used, you should vacuum or wash the filters every 4-8 weeks to clear them of dust and other particles.

What size heat pump do I need?
Every home is different and therefore there are several options when it comes to installing your heating system. It is necessary to choose a heat pump which is adequate for the space you want to heat – consider the size of the room, number of windows or glass doors and the amount of insulation of the external and internal walls. If the unit is too small or too large, it will end up using more energy than is required. It’s a good idea to get assistance from a professional heat pump service provider.

Are heat pumps power hungry?
Heat pumps produce up to 3 times the units of heat for every unit of electrical energy consumed in the process, which means that they are in fact the most efficient form of heating you can put in your home when compared to gas or electrical heating appliances. EECA has a rating system which will tell you which are the most energy efficient models in each range.

What are the different types of heat pumps?
• Single Split systems consist of a single exterior compressor unit and an indoor unit where the air flows out.
• Multi Split systems consist of a single outdoor unit which connects to multiple indoor units in different areas of a house.
• A ducted ventilation system consists of a large indoor unit which is concealed in the ceiling space of your home or under the floor. Warm or cool air is then pumped through insulated outlets through ceiling or floor vents throughout the house.

How noisy are heat pumps?
Most leading brands such as Panasonic heat pumps and Mitsubishi heat pumps feature ‘quiet modes’ for added comfort inside and reduced unit noise outside. They are in fact very quiet and do not interfere with the comfort of your home.

What brands do you install?
We carry all leading heat pump brands.

Will a heat pump reduce allergies?
Heat pumps not only provide you and your family with a warmer home, they also keep your home clean and healthy by filtering air and act as a circulating fan which can help reduce the effects of allergies. Some units include technologies to improve the air quality of the room including anti-allergen, anti-virus and anti-bacterial.

How much do heat pumps cost?
Heat pump prices will vary depending on the brand you choose, how many units you require and the installation cost of your service provider. As a guide, heat pump prices start at around $1,500 for a small area and up to $4,800 for split systems. Cost of installation will also vary depending on your service provider.

Running costs will depend on the amount of heating you require however it is roughly a quarter of the cost of electric heating and a third of the cost of gas heating. Heat pumps are a good investment when considering the savings from reduced power consumption in comparison to electrical heating appliances.