The Best Heat Pump and Air Conditioning Experts in Auckland

Updated 27 April 2024

Summary:

Heat pumps are a clean way to heat your home and serve as a cost-effective alternative to wood burners, fan heaters and underfloor heating. Every week, hundreds of Auckland homes have a heat pump installed. But what are the upfront costs, ongoing costs and pros and cons?

In this guide, we cover:

Know this first - Essential to the efficient running of a heat pump is a well-insulated home. Before shopping around for a heat pump, make sure your home is warm and sealed. Otherwise, your energy efficient heat pump will be working inefficiently for all winter.

Heat pumps are big business – in 2019, government data confirmed over 170,000 new units were sold around New Zealand. Right now, 30% of New Zealand homes have one installed.

How much do heat pumps cost?

There are three significant costs - the unit price and installation (both one-off), and the ongoing costs.
Research from Consumer NZ in 2019 found significant variations in heat pump unit and installation costs.

1. The unit

The price range is $1,350 to about $6,000
Most heat pump units installed in Auckland have a 6 kW capacity, but the price of each unit, like any appliance or whiteware, will be influenced by brand, promotions and warranties.

2. The installation

Consumer estimates a standard installation will cost anywhere from ranging from $750 to $1,350.
You’ll need an electrician (who will connect the unit to your main circuit) and an installer (who affixes the unit and makes sure everything is installed correctly, as well as being adequately protected from the weather.

3. Operating costs

Per a recent article in Stuff and guidance from the ECCA, heat pumps are the most efficient way of using electricity to heat your home. This is because they transfer heat from outside air and in this way produce three to four times more warmth (300-400 per cent efficiency).
In terms of energy usage, for every 5kW of heating, you pay for around 1.5kW of electric energy. In general, heat pump heating is roughly one quarter the cost of electric heating and about one third the cost of gas heating.
While every heat pump, home and power unit price will be different, the savings over oil-filled heaters can be significant. As an example, for a standard-sized lounge, with insulation and good curtains, heating this to 21 degrees in winter will cost:

$4.30 per day ($30c/kWh) using an oil heater (total cost per winter month = $129).
$0.95 per day using a heat pump like the Daikin FTXM50 (total cost per winter month = around $30).

Pros and Cons of a Heat Pump

Heat pumps get a lot of positive media, but are they without drawbacks? We explain the pros and cons below:

Energy-efficient – heat pumps produce far fewer carbon emissions than conventional heating such as wood burners. As Auckland chills down for winter and the smell of fires burn, a heat pump is arguably the greenest heating source you can have.
Easy to install – heat pumps are, in most cases, easy to install. They will need some space outside for the condenser unit, but an experienced heat pump installation professional will find a discreet place to place them.
Provides aircon – Auckland can have hot summers, so being able to use the unit to cool your living areas can be more efficient than ceiling fans or stand-up fans.

Cons

Upfront cost - According to a recent article in Stuff, you're unlikely to get any change from $2,300-$3,500, but you "should regain that in electricity savings over time".
Noise – some heat pumps can be noisy, so selecting a quiet model is wise if you’re sleeping close to the unit.
Not 100% zero-carbon – unless your electricity source is solar, hydro or wind, the energy used to run a heat pump isn’t completely zero-carbon.
Not always efficient for smaller spaces – Per the article in Stuff, electric heaters are the most cost-effective option to heat small bedrooms and occasionally-used areas, like an office. But in large living spaces, a heat pump that runs at triple the efficiency for a fraction of the cost (as low as 20 per cent compared with other forms of electric heating), will more than pay for itself.

Heat Pumps Frequently Asked Questions

Heat pumps are a big investment, and with such a variety of options it is essential to do your homework. The FAQs below help explain how to find the right unit for your needs.

Which heat pump is right for my home?

Firstly, you need to calculate the space you wish your heat pump to regulate. You'll need to look at the number of windows, your insulation and potential places for installation. Different heat pumps are designed for different sizes and conditions. This avoids a unit being pushed to the limits (when the unit's power is too small for the area) or worn out by turning off and on frequently (when a unit is too big for a small space).

How long does it take to install a heat pump?

In most instances, it will be about 3-6 hours, depending on complications, pipe material and wall material.

How long will a heat pump last, and how long is the warranty?

Quality units can last between 10 to 15 years. It's important to carry out regular maintenance to extend the life as long as possible. A warranty is usually around five years, but some manufacturers offer warranties for up to seven years.

The Best Auckland Heat Pump Professionals

Our list below, which is no particular order, highlights popular Auckland-based heat pump installation specialists. We have selected these based on their history of longstanding service within Auckland, location and data extracted from internet reviews on Google Business, Facebook, TradeMe Services and others.

Air Conditioning Specialists

Areas served: Greater Auckland region and all nearby suburbs
Base: Auckland
Hours: Mon to Fri 8 am – 5 pm
Google Review Rating: 4.9/5
Website: Air Conditioning Specialists
Facebook Page: Air Conditioning Specialists
Email Address: [email protected]
Phone: 09 834 6128

Customer Feedback:

Fixes all significant types of heat pump repair
Identifies the fault quickly in the air conditioning system and fix it in no times
Air Conditioning Specialists provides quality heat pump at a reasonable price
6-year parts and labour on all of their Fujitsu Heat Pump range

Pros:

Accepts heat pump repair even if they didn't install it

Cons:

None

Important Must-know Facts and Services:

Air Conditioning Specialists is a one-stop air conditioning shop that provides heat pump repair service as well as warranty repairs within the greater Auckland region
Offers services for heat pump installation and maintenance
Gives warranty repair of Fujitsu heat pumps
Accepts heat pump repair for other brands

Oxygen Air

Areas served: Auckland wide
Base: East Tamaki, Auckland
Hours: Mon to Fri 8 am – 6 pm
Google Review Rating: 4.9/5
Website: Oxygen Air
Facebook Page: Oxygen Air
Email Address: [email protected]
Phone: 0800 854 085

Customer Feedback:

Provides advice and quotation based on the need of the client’s home
Offers a heat pump and air conditioner installation at a reasonable price
Staffs are accommodating and efficient, installing air conditioners as to how their clients want to

Pros:

Gives up to 6 years warranty to their installed units with installment plans available
Air conditioning system and installation from $1,595

Cons:

None

Important Must-know Facts and Services:

Oxygen Air covers Auckland and offers small and large heat pump set-ups
It is New Zealand owned and operated with a highly experienced team to provide lasting solutions to your air conditioning and heating needs
Install heat pump and air-conditioner to residential areas
Installs heat pump and ventilation system to commercial places
Installs ducted heat pump system

Heat and Cool

Areas served: Auckland Wide
Base: New Lynn, Auckland
Hours: Mon to Fri 8 am – 4 pm
Google Review Rating: 4.9/5
Website: Heat and Cool
Facebook Page: Heat and Cool
Email Address: [email protected]
Phone: 09 827 4784

Customer Feedback:

Provides professional service and repairs
Uses credible and reliable air-conditioning suppliers
Maintains good communication with the clients with a friendly approach

Pros:

Provides free online quote
Gives clients the best advice from their expert team

Cons:

Only uses Mitsubishi Electric products

Important Must-know Facts and Services:

Heat and Cool is a New Zealand owned and operated business that provides an air conditioning system and heat pump installation service across Auckland
Offers heat pump maintenance service and air conditioning sale and installation

AES Heat Pumps

Areas served: Auckland wide
Base: Mount Wellington, Auckland
Hours: Mon to Fri 8 am – 5 pm
Google Review Rating: 4.9/5
Website: Auckland Energy Solutions
Facebook Page: Auckland Energy Solutions
Email Address: [email protected]
Phone: 09 575 1191

Customer Feedback:

Makes the whole installation process simple and stress-free for their clients
Carefully executes their job and always work around safety
Staff are friendly and accommodating
Their prices are competitive, and they provide value for your money

Pros:

Considers the client’s budget and provides reliable recommendations
Provides free online quote
Uses known and reputable products such as Fujitsu, Mitsubishi-Electric, Panasonic, Daikin, Toshiba and Carrier

Cons:

None

Important Must-know Facts and Services:

Auckland Energy Solutions (AES) has a team of registered electricians whose expertise include the installation of heat pumps
They have also accredited installers of Ducted AC Systems in Auckland
Supplies and installs heat pumps and air conditioning systems
Installs Hi-Wall Split systems
Provides services for central ducted heating and cooling systems
Installs cassette units in residential and commercial premises
Does removal, relocation, maintenance, re0gassing and de-gassing services

Kiwi Heat Pumps

Areas served: Greater Auckland region
Base: North Shore City, Auckland
Hours: Mon to Fri 7 am – 7 pm
Google Review Rating: 4.8/5
Website: Kiwi Heat Pumps
Facebook Page: Kiwi Heat Pumps
Email Address: [email protected]
Phone: 0800 549 443

Customer Feedback:

Their team has excellent attention to details
Offers competitive prices for their units and installation service
Has commendable work ethics and precision
Provides professional advice on what air conditioning system is suitable for your property

Pros:

Accepts heat pump installation even if it was not purchased from them

Cons:

Does not sell other brands of heat pumps

Important Must-know Facts and Services:

Specialises in air conditioning systems and heat pumps, covering different regions in Auckland
Supplies and installs a wide range of cooling systems for residential and commercial properties
Provides services for ventilation set-up and maintenance
Does custom design heat pump system

Varcoe Airconditioning and Heat Pumps

Areas served: Auckland Wide
Base: Papakura, Auckland
Hours: Mon to Fri 8 am – 5 pm
Google Review Rating: 4.7/5
Website: Varcoe Air Conditioning and Heating
Facebook Page: Varcoe Air Conditioning and Heating
Email Address: [email protected]
Phone: 0800 088 888

Customer Feedback:

Considerate of their client's budget in installing a unit
Their team of technicians are friendly and trustworthy
Customer-focused and responsive to all questions about their service
Follows up with the client when their service maintenance is near due

Pros:

Site Safe accredited
Only installs top-quality heat pump brands
Provides free online quote

Cons:

Does not cater heat pump relocation

Important Must-know Facts and Services:

Varcoe Air Conditioning and Heating have been operating since 1975 in Papakura, providing installation service of top tier brand of heat pumps and air conditioning units
They have a team of well-trained industry professionals to ensure proper installations of cooling and heating systems
Offers unit cleaning and disinfecting of air conditioners
Checks electrical terminals, components and evaporator coils
Checks air temperature for installed units
Installs a single room and multi-room heat pumps
Provides services for ducted whole home heat pumps, floor consoles and cassettes
Installs commercial heat pumps and Wifi heat pump control

Comfort Solutions

Areas served: Auckland wide
Base: Henderson, Auckland
Hours: Mon to Fri 8 am – 4:30 pm
Google Review Rating: 4.8/5
Website: Comfort Solutions
Facebook Page: Comfort Solutions
Email Address: [email protected]
Phone: 0800 226 636

Customer Feedback:

Provides leading brands of air conditioning and heat pump units
Provides a heat pump that can meet all heating, dehumidifying and cooling requirements of your home
Their team of professionals works around safety

Pros:

Offers full 5-year installation warranty to make sure that nothing goes wrong the system they installed
Only uses registered suppliers and installers like Fujitsu, Mitsubishi Electric and Panasonic

Cons:

None

Important Must-know Facts and Services:

Comfort Solutions is an Auckland based company that works from design to installation
Takes care of the regular maintenance of air conditioning unit regardless if it is Panasonic, Fujitsu or Mitsubishi electric heat pumps
Offers complete air conditioning and heat pump service
Does ventilation set-up
Installs and repairs heat pumps

Top Lane Traders

Areas served: Greater Auckland region
Base: Manukau, Auckland
Hours: 24/7
Google Review Rating: 5.0/5
Website: Top Lane Traders
Facebook Page: None
Email Address: [email protected]
Phone: 021 140 3674

Customer Feedback:

Their trained technicians provide a full test and tag service to assess if the unit is fit for use
Top Lane Traders team is dedicated to their customers exhibiting a professional yet friendly approach to all clients
Maintains long term clients who depend on them for heat pump and air conditioning works

Pros:

Provides a free first service on installed heat pumps, which is helpful for clients

Cons:

None

Important Must-know Facts and Services:

Top Lane Traders has been in the industry for more than four years supplying, installing, cleaning and servicing heat pumps around the Auckland area
Offers cleaning and regular service for installed units
Does test, tag and service

i-Air Projects

Areas served: Auckland region
Base: Auckland
Hours: Mon to Fri 8:30 am – 5 pm, Sat 9 am – 4 pm
Google Review Rating: 5.0/5
Website: i-Air Projects
Facebook Page: i-Air Projects
Email Address: [email protected]
Phone: 021 023 80898

Customer Feedback:

Sends professional, polite and knowledgeable staff to do the job
Makes sure that the job is done on time and with quality results
Provides excellent recommendations on what brand to use
Has a great value of money
Cleans the place where they worked after a job is done

Pros:

Considers client’s time and money

Cons:

None

Important Must-know Facts and Services:

Established in New Zealand since 2008
Specialises in the supply and installation of world-class Air Conditioning & Ventilation Systems for both Commercial and Architecturally Designed Residential contracts

Absolute Cool Ltd

Areas served: Auckland, Hamilton and other cities (by appointment)
Base: Penrose, Auckland
Hours: Mon to Fri 8 am – 7 pm, Sat 9 am – 7 pm
Google Review Rating: 4.9/5
Website: Absolute Cool Ltd
Facebook Page: Absolute Cool Ltd
Email Address: [email protected]
Phone: 0800 937 2665

Customer Feedback:

They are easy to deal with and goes to schedule a visit with just one call
Their team arrives and finishes on time
They have polite and helpful staff who explains how to operate heat pumps
Absolute Cool offers excellent products and has outstanding workmanship

Pros:

Member of Site Safety
No overtime charges

Cons:

Need a prior booked appointment for health and safety

Important Must-know Facts and Services:

Absolute Cool Ltd provides air conditioning solutions to residential and commercial properties in Auckland and Hamilton
Offers reputable brands of air conditioning and services for their installed units
Provides services for heat pump installation, ventilation system fix, commercial air-conditioning, design, maintenance and installation

⚠️ Disclaimer: MoneyHub.co.nz may have financial relationships with some businesses listed on this page due to their acceptance of our invite for additional promotion. We stand by the businesses we work with and believe them to be among the best. The pricing information provided is for informational and guidance purposes only and may not accurately represent the actual quotes or final bills for individual services. Our list should not be considered comprehensive. Please research and obtain quotes directly from a range of businesses to ensure accurate pricing and suitability for your needs.

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