The cost to install a heat pump / air conditioner in your home can vary depending on a wide range of factors. This guide from Fujitsu General breaks down the common heat pump / air conditioner installation costs, from buying the unit itself to purchasing accessories and having the unit installed at your home. For more information on our offerings, see our handy heat pump / air conditioner buying guide, or read our article on when to replace your heat pump / air conditioner to find out whether you actually need a new unit at all.

Factors That Affect Heat Pump / Air Conditioner Costs in NZ

Heat pump / air conditioner installation costs can vary across New Zealand. Below, we’ve included a list of some of the expenses that are common to almost every heat pump / air conditioning installation carried out by Fujitsu General.

  • System Type
    Heat pump / air conditioner installation costs vary greatly depending on the type of unit you are installing. Floor mounted, ceiling consoles, and cassette heat pumps / air conditioners have their own unique installation process when compared to wall mounted units. Additionally, If you want to heat or cool multiple rooms, you will need a multi-room or ducted heat pump / air conditioner which may increase the purchase and installation costs, due to the increased pipework and wiring required.

  • Home Size and Complexity
    The size and configuration of your home can also have an effect on heat pump / air conditioner installation costs. For example a large room that has large windows, without adequate insulation may require a larger, more powerful unit to be installed to ensure the room is heated and cooled effectively. Another aspect to consider is the location of the outdoor unit, the further it is from the indoor unit the higher the potential installation cost due to additional pipework and wiring required.

  • Labour Costs
    Labour is another important cost to consider when replacing or installing a new heat pump / air conditioning system. If the installation is more difficult then the labour costs may be higher than a simple installation.

  • Ongoing Maintenance
    One of the main costs often overlooked by purchasers of a heat pump / air conditioner is the need for ongoing maintenance. Fujitsu General advises to service your heat pump / air conditioner every 1 to 2 years depending on use to maintain optimal performance and efficiency.

Average Cost of Heat Pump / Air Conditioning Installation in New Zealand

Many people expect a straight answer to the question ‘how much does a heat pump / air conditioner cost’. However, the reality is that different systems can vary greatly in terms of price. As a guide, including installation, a wall mounted heat pump / air conditioner can cost between $1500 and $4000, while ducted systems range from $7000 to as high as $20,000. 

Additional Costs to Consider

Beyond the costs of purchasing and installing a new heat pump / air conditioner, there may be additional expenses associated with your unit. These expenses may not apply to all purchases, however they can quickly add to the average cost to replace a heat pump / air conditioner in your home.

  • Required Upgrades
    From electrical upgrades to mounting plinths and brackets, there are a number of alterations that may need to be made to your home to accommodate your chosen Fujitsu General heat pump / air conditioner. These upgrades are more common in older properties. However, with a range available to suit almost any space these additional costs may be minimised.

  • Seasonal Dependence
    Heat pump / air conditioner installation costs in NZ can increase during the peak seasons of summer and winter, as households look to combat the more extreme weather conditions experienced nationwide during these months. Effective planning can help you avoid peak season installation costs or delays.

  • Alterations to Home Structure
    Depending on the age and construction of your home, running ductwork and wiring to each unit may require minor modifications. If your home is not insulated, you may also wish to consider adding layers of insulation prior to installing a heat pump / air conditioner, as this will help your property retain comfortable living temperatures. 

  • Optional extras
    Many heat pump / air conditioner systems have different optional items such as Wi-Fi control, and wall controllers that you may choose to add on to your purchase. These will increase the overall cost of the system but the added features and benefits may be worthwhile if it's what you are after.

How Heat Pumps / Air Conditioners Help Save Money in the Long Run

While purchasing and installing a heat pump / air conditioner costs a considerable amount of money, it could be a wise investment in the long run. Not only does the unit make your home a more comfortable place to live, it can do so while operating as efficiently as possible. Heat pumps are generally cheaper to run than gas heaters, wood burners, or other electric heating options[1]. Many Fujitsu General systems are equipped with energy-saving features like human sensor control. A motion sensor will detect when a room has been left unattended for a period of time and when activated the unit will switch to energy-saving mode. You can also purchase an anywAiR technology controller, that enables smart climate control of your system from your mobile device to ensure maximum efficiency. For more information on our energy-efficient offerings, see our article on choosing the best heat pump / air conditioner for your home.

Are Heat Pumps / Air Conditioners Worth It?

While the cost to install a heat pump / air conditioner in your home can be significant, the comfort benefits often help to offset the expense. While this Fujitsu General guide aims to cover many of the common expenses associated with installing a new heat pump / air conditioner, the best way of determining how much a new system would cost you is to schedule a site visit from your local Fujitsu installer. Contact us today to find out more about the cost to install a heat pump / air conditioner in your home.

 

[1] https://genless.govt.nz/for-everyone/at-home/energy-saving-appliances/choose-good-appliances/heat-pumps/