New Zealand winters are famous for their crisp mornings and cool evenings. But let’s be honest—they can also be bone-chillingly col. No one enjoys shivering inside their own home.
As Kiwis, we deserve to come back home to a warm and cozy haven, and a ducted heat pump is a fantastic way to achieve that. But did you know there are ways to maximise the efficiency of your ducted heat pump and keep those power bills in check?
This is your ultimate guide to understanding and maximising the performance of your ducted heat pump.
Ducted Heat Pumps: A Kiwi Winter Essential
Ducted heat pumps are a popular choice for Kiwi homes because they offer a convenient and efficient way to heat your entire house.
Unlike traditional heaters that burn fuel, ducted heat pumps act like clever ninjas, quietly moving existing heat from outside your home to the inside. This makes them a much more environmentally friendly option, and with some simple tricks, they can be cost-effective too.
Here are some secrets to getting the most out of your ducted heat pump this winter:
Set the Perfect Temperature
Setting your temperature tight is key to maximising the efficiency of your ducted heat pump. Aim for a comfortable temperature range of 20-24 degrees Celsius during the day.
Resist the urge to crank it up too high, as this makes your ducted heat pump work harder and uses more energy. Consider lowering the temperature slightly at night when you’re tucked under blankets. This allows for a comfortable sleep without unnecessary energy use.
Clean Regularly
Your ducted heat pump works tirelessly to keep you warm in winter and cool in summer. However, throughout the year, dust and debris tend to accumulate on indoor grilles, vents, and outdoor units.
These blockages restrict airflow and force your heat pump to work harder and use more energy. Establish a cleaning routine at the beginning of both summer and winter. Regularly clean the grilles and filters, and keep the outdoor unit free from leaves, twigs, and other debris.
Get Professional Servicing
To keep your system running at its best, have it professionally serviced by a licensed heat pump/air conditioning technician every one to two years, depending on usage.
Annual servicing includes checking refrigerant levels, cleaning filters, and inspecting ducts for leaks or blockages. This routine helps quickly identify major issues, ensuring your ducted heat pump operates efficiently and effectively, ultimately saving you money on electricity bills in the long run.
Think Clever with Curtains
Maximise the potential of your energy-efficient ducted air conditioning system by closing your blinds, curtains, and shades on the sunny side of your house.
This blocks out sunlight and prevents extra heat gain, enhancing your room insulation, and making your heat pump work less.
Smart Zoning
If your ducted heat pump system offers zoning capabilities, make the most of them by only heating the rooms in use. This targeted approach reduces energy consumption and ensures maximum comfort where it’s needed most.
Additionally, consider designating a constant zone—an area that always receives air while the system is running. Typically, the main living area serves as the constant zone, providing consistent operation for the heat pump and enabling proper unit balancing by your installer.
Proper Scheduling
Don’t waste energy cooling an empty house! Utilise your heat pump’s built-in timers or invest in a programmable thermostat that learns your habits and adjusts the temperature automatically. Schedule the heat pump to turn on before you arrive home.
This way, you walk into a comfortable temperature without blasting the system all day. Program your heat pump to use lower fan speeds during pre-cooling, allowing efficient operation and avoiding the need to rush to cool down a warm house.
To make the most of your ducted heat pump, look no further than Aotea Electric Ashburton! We’re your one-stop shop for all things ducted heat pumps. Our highly trained technicians will ensure your ducted heat pump is perfectly sized and installed for your specific needs.
We provide thorough maintenance services to guarantee your heat pump operates smoothly for many years to come. Get free, personalised advice to choose the ideal ducted heat pump for your home.
Is a Ducted Heat Pump Right for You? Explore the Pros & Cons
Are you considering a ducted heat pump for your home? To help you make an informed decision, we’ve outlined the key advantages and disadvantages of ducted systems. Read on to discover if this might be the right choice for you.
Pros of Ducted Heat Pumps
- Quieter Operation: With the main operating unit located outside, ducted heat pumps are much quieter than single-unit systems. Enjoy a more peaceful home environment—perfect for reading, watching movies, or getting the kids to sleep.
- Easy Temperature Control: Manage your home’s indoor temperature from one central unit. This makes ducted systems incredibly easy to operate, ensuring a comfortable environment throughout your home.
- Consistent Temperature: Say goodbye to hot and cold spots! Ducted heat pumps provide a consistent temperature in every room, enhancing overall comfort.
- Improved Air Circulation: Improve air circulation and reduce muggy, humid air during the summer months. This can make your home feel fresher and more pleasant.
- Cost-Effective: Save money on running costs. Ducted systems are more efficient and economical to operate compared to multiple single heat pumps.
- Sleek Design: Enjoy the aesthetic benefits of a sleek and discreet design. Ducted systems blend seamlessly with your home decor, adding to your home’s overall appeal.
Cons of Ducted Heat Pumps
- Space Requirements: A ducted system requires adequate space for the main unit. If your home lacks this space, installation may not be possible.
- Complex Installation: Installation of a ducted heat pump is more complex than a conventional system, which means it takes longer to complete.
- Higher Initial Cost: While the initial cost is higher, you are investing in a superior product that can save you money in the long run. A ducted heat pump heats and cools your home more efficiently than other systems.
In conclusion, ducted heat pumps offer numerous benefits, from quieter operation and consistent temperatures to cost savings and sleek design. However, they require sufficient space, involve a complex installation process, and come with a higher upfront cost. Carefully weigh these pros and cons to determine if a ducted heat pump is the right fit for your home.
Winter is Coming! Save Big on Fujitsu Ducted Heat Pump (0% Interest)
Plus, make winter more affordable with Fujitsu Cool Finance! This limited-time offer from Fujitsu General allows you to:
- Purchase a Fujitsu Ducted Heat Pump/Air Conditioner with no deposit.
- Enjoy no interest for up to 60 months!
Here’s the catch:
- Offer is valid from May 1st, 2024, to August 30th, 2024, through eligible and finance-accredited Fujitsu installers like Aotea Electric Ashburton.
- To qualify, purchase your Fujitsu Ducted Air Conditioning System by 4:59 pm NZST August 30th and have it installed by 4:59 pm NZDT September 30th, 2024.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity! Contact Us today! We’ll answer your questions, get you a free quote, and help you get approved for Fujitsu Cool Finance. Don’t wait – you have less than three months to make the Fujitsu ducted heat pump yours!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I apply for Fujitsu Cool Finance?
- Visit Aotea Electric Ashburton or give us a call (03) 308 2621 to request a free quote on a Fujitsu ducted heat pump system.
- We’ll also guide you through the application process for Fujitsu Cool Finance offered by humm (NZ) Ltd.
- Get pre-approved for financing while you’re with us, so you can walk out knowing exactly what your options are and how much you can save.
- Once approved, you can purchase your new ducted system using Fujitsu Cool Finance and our certified electricians will ensure your new Fujitsu system is installed flawlessly for optimal comfort.
What is the difference between a ducted heat pump and a standard heat pump?
There are primarily two types of heat pumps: the ductless mini-split heat pump and the ducted heat pump. Both systems operate by transferring heat energy. The main distinction lies in their technology usage; ductless mini-splits employ inverter technology, whereas ducted systems do not.
How do I clean filters in my ducted heat pump?
A good rule of thumb is to clean them at the start of the summer season and again during winter. Here’s how you can clean it:
- The filters are typically located behind the return air grille. Undo the hinged return air grille frame to access the filters.
- Once you have access to the filters, carefully slide them out from their housing.
- Wash the filters with warm, soapy water to remove any dust, dirt, and debris. Use a gentle scrubbing motion with a soft brush or sponge to clean the filters.
- After washing, ensure the filters are completely air-dried before reinstallation.
- When the filters are dry, carefully place them back into their housing, ensuring proper alignment. Then, reposition the return air grille frame and secure it in place.
Can I add zones to the existing ducted heat pump?
Yes, adding zones to your existing ducted heat pump/air conditioner is possible! This can be a great way to improve comfort in your home by allowing you to control the temperature in different areas independently.
We can assess your specific system and determine if adding zones is feasible and the best solution for your needs. We can advise you on the most efficient approach for your situation, ensuring energy efficiency is not compromised.
