HEAT PUMPS/AIR CON
Having a reliable heat pump/air con installer fits your home with the most energy-efficient form of electric heating you can install in your home.
Heat pumps (or ‘reverse cycle air conditioners’) use the same technology as your refrigerator but in reverse to heat your home. They work by taking heat from the air outside your house and transferring it inside, using a sophisticated compressor, fan, and refrigerant gases.
In New Zealand, heating is the primary reason that people buy a heat pump. Virtually all heat pumps available are “reverse-cycle,” which means they can be used for both heating and cooling, great on hot summer days and nights. A heat pump in your bedroom can help you sleep more comfortably, and you don’t have to run it all night; often just a few hours as you go to bed is enough to improve your sleep.
Most heat pumps also have a dehumidifying option as well to assist with condensation control.
With so many heat pump brands and heat pump sizes, making a decision on the right heat pump can be confusing!
As expert heat pump installers, GreenSide Energy Solutions can recommend, supply, and install the unit(s) that will provide you with the most value for money.
You might also be eligible for a heat pump subsidy of 80%*. GreenSide Energy Solutions recommends Panasonic as their preferred supplier of heat pumps.
* Ts & Cs apply.
THE WARMER KIWI HOMES PROGRAMME
We are one of the larger Warmer Kiwi Homes installers. Our insulation installers are knowledgeable, experienced, and extremely good at what they do.
Also, all our work is installed to the Energy Efficiency Conservation Authority (EECA) standard, which meets current New Zealand standards, as required for new builds and Healthy Rental applications.
The size of the heat pump you need is dependent on the size of the room you want to heat or cool, taking into account the area of windows and your local climate. Our home energy assessors can guide you on what size is best for your home and help with correct placement in a room to avoid draughts blowing directly onto you and for optimum performance.
Installation of a heat pump involves two components:
- The indoor unit, which you see in all the ads and pictures
- The outdoor compressor unit
It’s important that both components of your heat pump are installed professionally, as there are refrigerant gas and electrical considerations.
All our installations are carried out by qualified installers and registered electricians who are knowledgeable, experienced, and extremely good at what they do.
YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR HEAT PUMPS
Being an approved service provider to EECA under the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme, we offer a wide range of New Zealand's top heat pump brands, such as Panasonic, Mitsubishi Electric, Daikin, and Hitachi, to name a few.
Our professional technicians can discuss the different brands with you and confirm placement and pricing.
HEAT PUMP SERVICES
Keeping your heat pump maintained and serviced is more important than you may think.
Heat pumps add value. Not just money-wise but also by adding comfort to your home. They are often at the bottom of the list regarding maintenance and servicing, but keeping on top of it can help significantly extend the life of your heat pump and help you save money in the long run by not having to buy a new unit. Here are a few points on how keeping your heat pump serviced can improve its performance.
LONGER LASTING AND ADDED EFFICIENCY
Regular maintenance and servicing are key to keeping your heat pump running at its full potential for longer. When your heat pump is not running at its full potential, it costs you more energy consumption than when it’s maintained regularly.
HEALTH BENEFITS AND IMPROVES COMFORT
When your filters are dirty and complete, they can’t catch the bacteria and odours, which means they’re coming into your home. When your filter is blocked, airflow is restricted. Having reduced airflow can strain the air fan, burn the motor, cause your system to overheat, burn out the motor, and fail.
WHEN SHOULD YOU SERVICE YOUR HEAT PUMP?
You should get it serviced before winter or the peak of summer. Ideally, before you need it most. Avoid leaving it until the last minute, as our books fill up far in advance. If your power bill has increased without reason, there’s a chance your heat pump might need a service.
If you think cleaning the filter regularly is enough to replace a full service, unfortunately, it’s not. While keeping the filters clean is essential, this is only basic maintenance where servicing looks at the mechanical operation of both the indoor and outdoor units.
THINGS YOU CAN CHECK YOURSELF
INDOOR UNIT
- Clean the grilles (panels that move) with a damp cloth
- If the airflow is weak, check that the panels aren’t blocked and the filter is clean
- Filters can usually be cleaned with a vacuum or damp cloth. If you want to give them a deep clean, wash them in warm soapy water and leave them out to air dry before returning them to the unit
OUTDOOR UNIT
- Gently hose the unit down to remove loose dirt and leaves
- Use a soft brush to remove any dirt or leaves that may be stuck or blocking the vents or coil
- If you have some issues with your unit, we have some tips to help you figure out what they might be
- If you can’t turn on your heat pump, check the batteries
- If the airflow is reduced compared to normal, check that the air vents aren’t blocked
- Check the maintenance manual for more information
If you go through these and still are having trouble, get in touch!
Because we know heat pumps so well, we know what your heat pump needs and when to ensure it’s running in top condition. At GreenSide Energy Solutions, our service includes the following:
- Clean and disinfect drainpipes and condensate pumps if fitted
- Clean air filters
- Check the electrical circuit for the system
- Check for any refrigerant gas leaks
- Check the system fault diagnostics
- Check temperature readings
- Check the system's general operation
- Check noise levels
- Instruct in any operation and maintenance requirements if necessary
- Clean and disinfect the system's coils
INSULATION
Insulating your home is the single most effective measure you can take to keep your home comfortable all year round.
VENTILATION
Ventilation is essential to control condensation and create a drier, healthier home that is more energy efficient to heat.
LED LIGHTING
Save money and the planet by upgrading your current lighting with energy-saving LED lighting throughout your home.
As an owner-occupier, you may be eligible for a Warmer Kiwi Homes subsidy.