Heat Pump vs Other Heating Methods

Choosing the right heating for your NZ home? Compare heat pumps with electric heaters, gas heating, and wood burners to make an informed decision.

⚡ Quick Comparison

Heating Type
Upfront Cost
Running Cost
Efficiency
Best For
Heat Pump
$2,000-4,000
Low
300-400%
Most homes
Electric Heater
$50-500
High
100%
Occasional use
Gas Heater
$500-3,000
Medium
80-95%
Instant heat
Wood Burner
$3,000-8,000
Low-Medium
65-85%
Central heating

🔍 Detailed Comparison

🔥 Heat Pumps

✅ Advantages

  • Extremely energy efficient (COP 3-6)
  • Heating AND cooling in one unit
  • Clean operation - no emissions
  • Low running costs
  • Long lifespan (15-20 years)
  • Precise temperature control

❌ Disadvantages

  • Higher upfront cost
  • Professional installation required
  • Efficiency drops in extreme cold
  • Outdoor unit needs space
  • Regular maintenance needed

💵 Cost Analysis

Upfront: $2,500-4,500 (inc. installation)

Daily running: $1.50-3.00 (winter)

Annual cost: $300-600

Payback period: 3-5 years vs electric

⚡ Electric Heaters

✅ Advantages

  • Low upfront cost
  • Easy to install (plug in)
  • Portable options available
  • No maintenance required
  • Instant heat

❌ Disadvantages

  • Very high running costs
  • Inefficient (100% conversion)
  • No cooling function
  • Limited heating area
  • Can dry out air

💵 Cost Analysis

Upfront: $50-500

Daily running: $6-12 (winter)

Annual cost: $1,200-2,400

Best for: Occasional use only

🔥 Gas Heaters

✅ Advantages

  • Quick heating
  • Works in power cuts
  • Good for large spaces
  • Consistent performance

❌ Disadvantages

  • Requires gas connection/bottles
  • Safety considerations
  • Regular servicing required
  • No cooling function
  • Gas price volatility

💵 Cost Analysis

Upfront: $1,000-4,500 (inc. installation)

Daily running: $4-8 (winter)

Annual cost: $800-1,600

Gas bottle: $80-120 per bottle

🪵 Wood Burners

✅ Advantages

  • Excellent heat output
  • Creates ambiance
  • Can heat whole home
  • Wood can be cost-effective
  • Works in power cuts

❌ Disadvantages

  • Very high installation cost
  • Requires chimney/flue
  • Wood storage needed
  • Regular cleaning
  • Air quality concerns
  • Not suitable for all properties

💵 Cost Analysis

Upfront: $4,000-11,000 (inc. installation)

Wood cost: $300-600/cord

Annual cost: $400-800

Maintenance: $200-400/year

🏠 Our Recommendation

For Most NZ Homes: Heat Pumps Win

Heat pumps offer the best combination of efficiency, versatility, and long-term value for most New Zealand homes. Here's why:

  • Energy Efficiency: 3-4x more efficient than electric heating
  • Dual Function: Heating in winter, cooling in summer
  • Cost Savings: Lowest running costs of all electric options
  • Government Support: Subsidies available for eligible households
  • Environmental: Lower carbon footprint than fossil fuel heating

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, heat pumps are 3-4 times more efficient than electric heaters, typically saving 60-75% on heating costs over the long term.
Heat pumps usually cost 30-50% less to run than LPG heating and are competitive with natural gas, while offering cooling functionality.
Heat pumps typically pay for themselves within 3-5 years through energy savings compared to electric heating, faster in homes with high heating usage.

Ready to Choose Your Heating?

Get personalized recommendations and quotes for the best heating solution for your home.

Get Free Quotes