Frequently Asked questions about Heat pump installations
How long does installations take?
The time it takes to install an air conditioning unit or heat pump depends on the type of system, the property layout, and whether it’s a new install or a replacement. Here’s a practical breakdown for residential installs in Auckland.
DISCLAIMER: These prices are indicative only and can’t be seen as a quote. A quote will be generated after a site inspection and weighing up all the variables that could influence the installation and subsequent pricing.
Standard High Wall Split System (Most Common)
Time: 3–6 hours
This includes:
Mounting the indoor unit
Installing the outdoor unit
Running pipework and cabling
Drilling wall penetrations
Vacuuming and pressure testing
Commissioning and testing
If it’s a straightforward back-to-back install (indoor and outdoor units on opposite sides of the same wall), it’s usually closer to 3–4 hours.
Multi-Split System (2–3 Indoor Units)
Time: 1 full day (6–8 hours)
Longer pipe runs and additional indoor units increase installation time.
Ducted Heat Pump System
Time: 1–3 days
This depends on:
Roof space access
Size of the home
Number of outlets
Electrical upgrade requirements
Ducted systems require duct runs, return air systems, zone control setup, and more detailed commissioning.
Replacement Install
Time: 2–4 hours
If the pipework and wiring are reusable and compliant, replacements are significantly quicker.
What Can Increase Installation Time?
Difficult access (double-storey homes)
Long pipe runs
Concrete or brick walls
Electrical switchboard upgrades
Council compliance requirements
Can I install a heatpump in a bedroom?
Yes, you absolutely can install an aircon/heat pump in a bedroom. In fact, it’s one of the most common rooms to install one in.
Why Bedrooms Are Great for Heat Pumps
Keeps temperature consistent overnight
Helps with humidity control (less damp, healthier air)
Much quieter modern units
More energy efficient than portable heaters
Things to Consider Before Installing
1. Indoor Unit Position
Usually mounted high on the wall
Not blowing directly onto the bed
Ideally on an external wall (shorter pipe run = cleaner install = cheaper install)
2. Outdoor Unit Location
Needs airflow space
Shouldn’t be right outside the bedroom window if noise is a concern
Must comply with local noise rules (in Auckland, residential noise limits apply under Auckland Council regulations)
3. Size of the Unit
Bedrooms usually need a smaller capacity unit (often 2.5kW–3.5kW depending on size and insulation). Oversizing can cause short cycling and reduced efficiency.
4. Noise Level
Modern systems from brands like:
Mitsubishi Electric
Daikin
Panasonic
are extremely quiet. Many operate around 19–25 dB on low fan mode (quieter than a whisper).
Typical Installation Time for a Bedroom
If it’s a standard high wall unit on an external wall:
3–4 hours for a straightforward install.
Are heatpumps expensive to run?
No, heat pumps are not generally expensive to run, especially compared with traditional electric heating. In fact, they’re one of the most energy-efficient heating options you can use at home.
Why Heat Pumps Are Efficient
Heat pumps don’t produce heat like an electric heater. They move heat from the outside air into your room, which means they can deliver 3–5 units of heat for every 1 unit of electricity they use. That’s far more efficient than standard electric heaters, which are around 100% efficient at best.
Typical Running Costs (New Zealand)
Running costs vary based on how long you use them, the size of the unit, and your electricity plan, but here are common estimates:
- Hourly (heating/cooling): roughly $0.15–$0.50 per hour depending on size and settings.
- Daily (8 hours): around $1.20–$4.00 per day.
- Monthly: $30–$120 for typical household use.
- Yearly: often about $200–$600 total.
These are rough averages. Real costs depend on how often you use heating vs cooling, your insulation, and electricity rates.
If you use your heat pump just in winter evenings or to quickly warm a room, your bills can be at the lower end of these ranges. If you run it more continuously in a cold house, costs go up but still remain cheaper than many other electric heaters.
Compared to Other Heating Options
- Cheaper to run than gas heaters, wood burners, or electric resistance heaters, around a third of the cost of gas heating in many cases.
- More efficient than plug-in electric heaters.
Tips to Keep Running Costs Down
Set temperature to 18–21°C in winter and 22–24°C in summer.
Use “Eco” or timer modes.
Ensure your house is well insulated with good draught sealing.
Clean filters regularly. Dirty filters make the unit work harder.
Bottom line: Heat pumps do use electricity, but because they are so efficient, they typically cost much less to run than other electric heaters and often cheaper than gas heating over time.
Do you need council consent?
When You Don’t Need Consent
You generally don’t need building consent if:
It’s a standard high-wall split system
The outdoor unit is ground-mounted or wall-mounted
No structural changes are made
No major electrical upgrade is required
The installation complies with noise and boundary setback rules
Most typical home installs in Auckland fall into this category.
When You Might Need Consent
You may need approval from Auckland Council if:
1. You Live in an Apartment or Body Corporate
Body corporate approval is usually required before installation.
2. You’re in a Heritage or Special Character Zone
If your property is in a heritage overlay, visible exterior units may require approval.
3. The Unit Is Close to a Boundary
Councils have noise limits. If the outdoor unit is close to your neighbour’s boundary and exceeds permitted decibel levels, it may not comply.
4. Structural Alterations
If installation involves:
Removing structural framing
Significant roof modifications
Penetrating fire-rated walls (common in townhouses)
5. Commercial Properties
Different rules may apply.
What About Noise?
Outdoor units must meet residential noise limits under council regulations. Modern units from brands like:
Mitsubishi Electric
Daikin
Panasonic
are usually compliant when installed correctly.
Simple Rule of Thumb
If it’s:
A normal standalone house
Standard back-to-back install
No structural changes
What is the best temperature setting?
The best temperature depends on whether you’re heating or cooling, but there is a “sweet spot” for comfort and efficiency.
In Winter (Heating Mode)
Set between 18°C – 21°C
18°C → most energy efficient
20–21°C → typical comfort range
Above 22°C → running costs increase noticeably
In New Zealand, 18°C is also the recommended healthy minimum indoor temperature.
In Summer (Cooling Mode)
Set between 22°C – 24°C
22°C → cooler, but still efficient
23–24°C → ideal balance of comfort and power savings
Below 21°C → electricity use rises quickly
Why Not Set It Higher or Lower?
Every 1°C increase in heating can raise power use by around 5–10%.
Same applies when over-cooling in summer.
Heat pumps work best when maintaining a steady temperature and not constantly trying to “catch up.”
For Bedrooms
Winter: 18–20°C
Summer: 23–24°C
Use low fan or quiet mode overnight
Pro Tip
Instead of turning it off and on:
Let it maintain temperature.
Use timers or scheduling.
Close doors and curtains.
Is annual servicing needed?
Yes, annual servicing is strongly recommended for heat pumps.
In many cases, it protects performance, power efficiency, and your warranty.
Why Annual Servicing Matters
1. Efficiency
Dusty coils and blocked filters force the unit to work harder, increasing power use.
2. Air Quality
Mould and bacteria can build up inside the indoor coil and fan barrel, especially in bedrooms.
3. Prevent Breakdowns
Early detection of:
Refrigerant leaks
Electrical issues
Drain blockages
Failing capacitors
prevents expensive repairs later.
4. Warranty Protection
Most manufacturers (e.g. Mitsubishi Electric, Daikin, Panasonic) require regular servicing to maintain extended warranties.
How Often Should You Service?
Standard Home Use
Every 12 months is ideal.
Heavy Use (all-day heating/cooling, pets, coastal areas)
Every 6–12 months.
Rental Properties
Annual servicing is strongly recommended to maintain performance and avoid tenant complaints.
What You Can Do Yourself
Every 1–2 months:
Clean return air filters (simple wash & dry)
Check outdoor unit is clear of leaves/debris
But this is not a replacement for a full professional service.
Is It Worth It?
A typical service costs far less than:
A failed PCB board
A compressor issue
Loss of efficiency over several years
A well-maintained heat pump can last 10–12+ years.