Services

Heat pump Auckland, Services

How to prepare for split air conditioner installation

July 13, 20220

How to Prepare for Split Air Conditioner Installation

After buying your air conditioning unit, the next most important thing to prepare for is the split air conditioner installation process.

While the professionals will be responsible for your split system air conditioner installation, you still need to consider some important factors to maximize the benefits of your unit and make the split aircon installation process run smoothly.

Factors that Need to be Considered for Split Air Conditioner Installation

As a home or business owner, you play an important role in preparing your space for split air conditioner installation by ticking these factors off your list.

The Location of Indoor and Outdoor Units

It’s important to decide where to put your indoor and outdoor units before the split air conditioner installation technicians arrives at your home. The indoor unit should ideally be located where the air can be distributed thoroughly and without any distractions. It should also be wall mounted at least 8-10 feet from the floor but accessible enough for easy cleaning and maintenance. If the split air conditioner installation is in a bedroom, it’s advisable to mount it above the bed to enjoy the unit’s maximum cooling effect. If the split aircon installation is going above a window, it should be symmetrical to that window to make it look cohesive with the rest of the space.

For the outdoor unit, it’s best to have the split air conditioner installation in an open space like the terrace where air can flow freely over the compressor and condenser. If that’s not an option, choose an external wall sturdy enough to hold the outdoor unit firmly and still facilitate proper airflow.

The Strength of the Wall

One of the most important things to take note before split air conditioner installation is the strength of the wall where it will be mounted. Since you know your house more than the technicians, it’s best to decide on a wall that is strong enough to hold your indoor unit. Never do a split aircon installation on uneven or false walls to avoid accidents. Aside from safety, you will also save from paying additional split system air conditioner installation cost if it is done right the first time.

The Space Between the Air Conditioner and the Wall

During split air conditioner installation, be cautious about the space between the air conditioning unit and the wall. Ideally, there should be a minimum space of 15 centimetres surrounding the top and sides of the unit to facilitate proper airflow. The same principle should be applied for outdoor unit split air conditioner installation.

The Distance Between Indoor and Outdoor Units

If you want to maximise the cooling capabilities of your air conditioning unit, you have to take note of the proper distance between indoor and outdoor units during split air conditioner installation. Keep the distance between the two as close as possible to facilitate the faster flow of your unit’s coolant. The indoor and outdoor units should not be separated by more than 15 metres or cooling will be greatly affected.

For more information on split air conditioner installation, split system air conditioner installation, split system air conditioner installation cost and other things related to air conditioning units, don’t hesitate to give the Trilect team a call or submit your enquiries here 

ABOUT TRILECT ENERGY

Trilect Energy is a division of Trilect Services, New Zealand’s master electrician since 1997.

We are a 100% Kiwi owned & operated electrical service group which is a member of the Master Electricians & Mastercraft network with 40 employees and a 25+ years history of customer satisfaction. 

We do not use sub-contractors. All of the installations will be carried out by our experienced team.

Trilect Energy offers a customized energy plan that works for your home/ business.

Get started now by booking a free on-site consultation.

Or call us on (09) 271 2493

www.trilectenergy.co.nz

Why is My Air Conditioner Not Cooling?

February 14, 20220

Why is My Air Conditioner Not Cooling?

As the warmer months approach, you may find that your central air conditioner isn’t cooling as much as it did last summer, or worse — it’s blowing warm air.

Knowing why your air conditioner is not cooling will help you care for your system, save money on your cooling bills, and know when it’s time to call in the Trilect pros.

Here are a number of common reasons why your air conditioner isn’t cooling the way it should, and details on whether you replace or repair your AC.

Your Thermostat is on Heat Mode

First and foremost, it’s important to check if your thermostat is on heat mode. Perhaps you’ve got some busy little hands at home, or accidentally switched the setting yourself. It happens!

Either way, this is an easy fix. Just readjust to your desired temperature, and you’re good to go.

Dirty Filter

When your air conditioner filter gets dirty and clogged, it can block the flow of air and make your system less efficient. Your air conditioner can freeze up if not attended.

Fortunately, this is another easy fix. Be sure to change your filter on a monthly basis to keep your air conditioner working its best.

Dirty Evaporator Coils

You may find that your air conditioner is not cooling the way it should due to dirty evaporator coils.

Not only can a dirty evaporator coil cause your air conditioner to malfunction and run constantly, but it also means it’s using more energy than necessary, driving up the cost of keeping your home comfortable.

Dirty coils are a job for the pros. Once the coils are clean, regular A/C tune-ups will keep them that way.

Low Refrigerant

Your air conditioner relies on refrigerant to operate properly, and it always has the right amount of refrigerant – unless there’s a leak.

If you notice your air conditioner not cooling your home properly, take a look for signs of a leak, like icy buildup or hissing noises.

If you even have the tiniest suspicion that you have a leak in your air conditioner, turn it off and get in touch with us.

Broken or Disconnected Ducts

Your problem may also be as simple as a broken or disconnected duct.

Your machine’s ductwork is responsible for distributing cool air throughout your home, and damage can result in poor distribution or low efficiency.

Outdoor Unit Needs Maintenance

Lastly, your air conditioner may not be working correctly due to problems with your outdoor unit, which gets dirty fast.

That’s where you’ll find condenser coils essential to your machine’s functionality. These can be kept clean and working with regular tune-ups for your air conditioner.

ABOUT TRILECT ENERGY

Trilect Energy is a division of Trilect Services, New Zealand’s master electrician since 1997.

We are a 100% Kiwi owned & operated electrical service group which is a member of the Master Electricians & Mastercraft network with 40 employees and a 25+ years history of customer satisfaction. 

We do not use sub-contractors. All of the installations will be carried out by our experienced team.

Trilect Energy offers a customized energy plan that works for your home/ business.

Get started now by booking a free on-site consultation.

Or call us on (09) 271 2493

www.trilectenergy.co.nz

Heat pump Auckland, Services

10 Loud Noises My Air Conditioner Is Making

February 14, 20220

10 Loud Noises My Heat Pump Is Making

A heat pump is a complex appliance, with lots of moving parts that tend to make noise, especially when you own an older model.

But even if you’re used to a certain amount of noise from your central heat pump system, pay attention to sudden, unusual loud sounds. And check this list to find which noises spell trouble for your heat pump.

Buzzing

Whether you hear loud buzzing noises indoors or outside, beware! It’s not an angry swarm of hornets nesting in your heat pump unit, but rather the warning signal of electrical problems like:

  • Loose wires
  • Motor going bad
  • Capacitor damage
  • Compressor malfunction
  • Or if you see sparks, electrical arcing

Squealing

Some heat pump systems naturally make a squealing noise when first starting up. Unfortunately, you just have to live with that.

However, if this type of sound is new, listen carefully to what it’s trying to tell you. Squealing could indicate either a blower wheel malfunction or a dying indoor blower or outdoor fan motor.

Heat pump repair or even replacement could be necessary

Clicking

There are two distinct types of clicking noises a central heat pump system might make. Fortunately, the difference is obvious.

With the first, you can switch your unit on, although the clicks get faster and closer together as it powers up. The most common cause? A foreign object in the outdoor unit, which you can easily remove.

If you have the second, the machine will make noise yet not actually start operating. Here you’re probably facing an electrical problem — likely the capacitor, compressor, or broken thermostat.

Humming

Usually a humming noise points to a minor issue. (Whew!) You should still get it seen to, however, before a small problem (like loose wiring or refrigerant piping) turns into a big headache. And there’s an off-chance the hum is caused by a faulty motor.

Rattling

Check the outdoor unit; a rattling noise may be the result of debris (like leaves or twigs) that’s fallen into the vents. If so, simply clear it out … and prune back the shrubbery around the unit.

Otherwise, the rattling could be caused by loose fasteners. Once again, this is not a major problem.

Worst case scenario: The compressor motor is about to fail.

Hissing

When your heat pump hisses at you, don’t take it personally. Ageing HVAC ductwork may be the culprit. If it’s apparent that the hissing noise stems from the heat pumpitself, a refrigerant leak may be to blame.

Banging

You’ll hear banging if the outdoor heat pump unit’s fan is in trouble. Possibly, something’s getting in the way of its blades (a minor issue). On the other hand, the fan may have worked its way loose from its mounting.

Bubbling

The liquid is the culprit when your heat pump begins bubbling. Could be the condensate drain line is just making itself heard, which is nothing to worry about. If there’s a refrigerant leak, though, the unit needs professional heat pump repair.

Screeching

Take screeching very seriously. A squeal of metal on metal from your outside unit tells you that the fan motor or the compressor has given out. You need replacement parts pronto.

Indoors, that screech signifies your blower fan motor should get new bearings or a new belt.

Whistling

This is also bad news. High-pitched whistling could mean a refrigerant leak, which is bad for your heat pump and worse for your indoor air quality … and your health.

Equally nasty, whistling sometimes indicates dangerously high internal pressure in your air compressor.

ABOUT TRILECT ENERGY

Trilect Energy is a division of Trilect Services, New Zealand’s master electrician since 1997.

We are a 100% Kiwi owned & operated electrical service group which is a member of the Master Electricians & Mastercraft network with 40 employees and a 25+ years history of customer satisfaction. 

We do not use sub-contractors. All of the installations will be carried out by our experienced team.

Trilect Energy offers a customized energy plan that works for your home/ business.

Get started now by booking a free on-site consultation.

Or call us on (09) 271 2493

www.trilectenergy.co.nz

Heat pump Auckland, Services

How Do Heat Pumps Work & Save Me Money?

February 14, 20220

How Do Heat Pumps Work & Save Me Money?

Are you looking for a way to improve energy efficiency in your home, lower your monthly energy bills, and reduce your carbon footprint? Good for you!

When you live in Auckland, a great place to start is with your heating and cooling system. HVAC typically accounts for a large portion of our energy consumption, due to our extreme temperatures in both winter and summer.

Installing a high-efficiency heat pump system will reduce your energy usage and cut down your HVAC costs all year long.

How Do Heat Pumps Work During The Winter?

A heat pump’s function is to move heat (thermal transfer), rather than create heat. In winter, your heat pump will move heat from the ground or outside air into your home heating system. By contrast, conventional furnaces and boilers produce heat — by burning eco-UNfriendly fossil fuels like natural gas.

The internal mechanics of a heat pump are similar to that of an air conditioner, which moves heat from inside to outside in the summer. Today’s heat pumps use an eco-friendly refrigerant, outdoor compressor, and indoor coil to lower your energy costs and provide heating/cooling for your home.

In the past, this heating method had one drawback — poor performance at temperatures below 5 degrees C. But it’s not like it will happen in Auckland in a foreseeable future, so let’s not worry about it.

How Do Heat Pumps Work During The Summer?

In summer, a heat pump works as your cooling system, using the same process of heat transfer to moderate your home’s temperature. However, this time, the heat pump acts to cool your home by moving warm air outdoors, just like an air conditioner.

The system simply makes some minor adjustments at the start of the cooling season in order to switch the direction of heat transfer. And just like a regular air conditioner unit, your heat pump will dehumidify to keep you extra comfortable.

Are Heat Pumps Energy-Efficient?

Heat pumps are extremely energy efficient.

In fact, there is a chance you can reduce your heating and cooling costs by as much as 75 per cent when you install a heat pump. So the answer to “do heat pumps save money” is a resounding YES!

How can we compare HVAC energy savings? The coefficient of performance (COP) measures the heating or cooling output in proportion to the energy input required to run the system.

Typically, heat pump equipment has a COP of 2.0 to 5.4 at 8 degrees C. No other heating or cooling unit has a COP greater than 1, meaning they use more energy.

Talk To Auckland's Heat Pump Experts

We know heat pumps — and we know Auckland’s climate. We professionally install, repair, and maintain heat pumps for many homes in the Auckland wide area, like yours. Talk to us about the best, most energy-efficient heat pump options for your home today!

ABOUT TRILECT ENERGY

Trilect Energy is a division of Trilect Services, New Zealand’s master electrician since 1997.

We are a 100% Kiwi owned & operated electrical service group which is a member of the Master Electricians & Mastercraft network with 40 employees and a 25+ years history of customer satisfaction. 

We do not use sub-contractors. All of the installations will be carried out by our experienced team.

Trilect Energy offers a customized energy plan that works for your home/ business.

Get started now by booking a free on-site consultation.

Or call us on (09) 271 2493

www.trilectenergy.co.nz

Heat pump Auckland, Services

Trilect Guide To Buying The Best Heat Pump For Your Home

February 14, 20220

Trilect Guide To Buying The Best Heat Pump For Your Home

If you live in Auckland and are in search of an efficient alternative method to heat and cool your home, it’s worthwhile to consider a heat pump. This eco-friendly source of heating and cooling is clean, quiet, and energy-efficient.

Sounds great so far! But at this point, you may still not be convinced about heat pumps. How exactly do they work, and would a heat pump make sense for your home?

Read on to find the answers to all your heat pump questions.

How Do Heat Pumps Work?

Heat pumps work by means of heat transfer with the help of refrigerant and electricity. In the winter, they extract existing heat from the air, soil, or water (the source) and move it into your home.

The fact that a heat pump does not actually create heat offers you a large number of advantages:

  • Energy efficiency, up to 140 per cent
  • Safety (no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, natural gas leak, or explosion)
  • Sustainability (will not be used up like fossil fuels)
  • Money-saving due to lower utility bills

Are There Different Types Of Heat Pumps?

Yes, there are 3 types of heat pumps — air source, water source and geothermal.

The main difference is not in their method of operation but rather their heat source.

Air-Source Heat Pump

Air-source heat pumps can be ducted or ductless systems. An air-source heat pump moves heat from the outdoor air to the air inside your residence to provide heating and moves the heat outside to provide cooling.

These systems are quiet, affordable and energy-efficient.

Ducted. These systems work very similarly to a central air conditioner and furnace forced-air system. You will have an indoor coil in the furnace area and an outdoor unit.

Ductless. These systems have a heat exchanger and a blower in a contained package. They often have multiple heads mounted on the interior walls of the home, as well as an outdoor unit.

Water-Source Heat Pump

Water source heat pumps draw water through their system to extract heat from the liquid. Either groundwater (well) or a nearby body of water is used to provide the heat supply. Water source heat pumps are not common in New Zealand.

Geothermal Heat Pump

Geothermal heat pumps or ground source heat pumps extract energy from the soil. These systems are complex and costly to install and repair. Geothermal systems are also not common in New Zealand.

Do I Need To Worry About Sizing A Heat Pump?

Correct sizing is vital, in order to maximize the energy efficiency and comfort that result from using a heat pump.

Installing an undersized heat pump means that you won’t enjoy the maximum energy savings. Your system will have to fall back on the supplemental heating method more frequently.

An overly large heat pump will operate inefficiently in warmer weather. It will short-cycle and produce excess heat.

How Often Should I Perform Maintenance On My Heat Pump?

Your heat pump maintenance schedule is similar to what you’d do for a forced-air furnace. Here’s what will be necessary to keep your system running efficiently:

At least once every 3 months: Check the system filter and clean or change as necessary. Check out how to do it.

Once a year: Have your heat pump professionally inspected and tuned up. We will ensure your heat pump is operating at the high efficiency it’s designed for, and that any minor issues that can arise will be taken care of promptly.

To ensure expert maintenance at an affordable price contact Trilect Energy team and we can sort it out for you.

Talk To Auckland's Heat Pump Experts

We know heat pumps — and we know Auckland’s climate. We professionally install, repair, and maintain heat pumps for many homes in the Auckland wide area, like yours. Talk to us about the best, most energy-efficient heat pump options for your home today!

ABOUT TRILECT ENERGY

Trilect Energy is a division of Trilect Services, New Zealand’s master electrician since 1997.

We are a 100% Kiwi owned & operated electrical service group which is a member of the Master Electricians & Mastercraft network with 40 employees and a 25+ years history of customer satisfaction. 

We do not use sub-contractors. All of the installations will be carried out by our experienced team.

Trilect Energy offers a customized energy plan that works for your home/ business.

Get started now by booking a free on-site consultation.

Or call us on (09) 271 2493

www.trilectenergy.co.nz

5 BENEFITS OF HAVING A HEAT PUMP IN AUCKLAND

February 13, 20220

5 BENEFITS OF HAVING A HEAT PUMP IN auckland

Heat pumps can be an efficient choice in most climates. Consider these five benefits that a heat pump offers compared to other heating and cooling solutions:

PROVIDE BOTH HEATING AND COOLING

Auckland doesn’t always have deep, extremely cold winter. Instead of that, we have hot, hot and again, hot (did I stretch enough?) summer. Hence why many homeowners don’t give much thought to their home’s heating system.

When deciding what type of HVAC system to install, homeowners usually ask whether a heat pump is better than an air conditioner.

The answer is yes. An air conditioner does one thing: cool your home. A heat pump can do that, too, but it can also heat your home. Auckland may not get as cold as other places, but winter still brings some days when a built-in heating system comes in handy. Installing a heat pump makes it easy to switch back and forth between heating and cooling as the weather changes. That’s because the same system will handle both tasks.

LOWER YOUR MONTHLY HEATING BILLS

If your home currently relies on some form of electric resistance heating, a heat pump can reduce your heating bill. While electric furnaces, baseboard heaters and wall heaters use electricity to generate heat, a heat pump extracts it from the outdoor air to warm your home. Transferring heat requires a lot less energy than creating it. As a result, heat pumps use significantly less energy than traditional HVAC systems.

Heat pumps become less efficient when the outside air gets too cold. In harsher climates, homeowners often need to install a backup heat source. However, since below-freezing temperatures are extremely rare in Auckland, that drawback doesn’t apply to homeowners here. Our moderate winters allow for optimal heat pump efficiency.

IMPROVE INDOOR AIR QUALITY

Another alternative to electric resistance heaters is a combustion heater. Rather than using electricity to produce heat, this type of furnace relies on natural gas, propane or another combustible fuel source. While these furnaces can be more efficient than electric ones, they also produce carbon monoxide as a natural byproduct. If a leak develops in the system, this deadly gas can spill into your home.

Compared to gas furnaces, heat pumps have the edge when it comes to indoor air quality. Because heat pumps don’t rely on combustion, they carry no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning or a gas explosion. Additionally, they won’t dry out your home’s air the way a combustion furnace will. Air that’s too dry can trigger asthma attacks and cause unpleasant symptoms such as dry skin and eyes.

REDUCE YOUR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Heat pumps aren’t only good for your wallet and health. They’re also good for the environment. Combustion systems introduce more pollutants into the air, both inside and outside your home. Electricity is by far the cleanest way to convert energy into heat, giving electric heat pumps an instant advantage.

However, heat pumps take the Eco-friendliness of electric heating a step further. Using far less electricity than a traditional heating system, a heat pump enables you to reduce harmful emissions and shrink your carbon footprint regardless of where the electricity comes from.

INCREASE OVERALL HOME COMFORT

Homeowners in Auckland have several other reasons to choose a heat pump. In general, heat pumps offer superior control and comfort.

Look for features like two-stage cooling, which can prevent indoor temperature swings, and durable outdoor components designed to withstand the elements and last for years.

ABOUT TRILECT ENERGY

Trilect Energy is a division of Trilect Services, New Zealand’s master electrician since 1997.

We are a 100% Kiwi owned & operated electrical service group which is a member of the Master Electricians & Mastercraft network with 40 employees and a 25+ years history of customer satisfaction. 

We do not use sub-contractors. All of the installations will be carried out by our experienced team.

Trilect Energy offers a customized energy plan that works for your home/ business.

Get started now by booking a free on-site consultation.

Or call us on (09) 271 2493

www.trilectenergy.co.nz

5 Ways to Stay Cool Without Air Conditioning/ Heat Pump

February 11, 20220

5 Ways to Stay Cool Without Air Conditioning/ Heat Pump

There’s no substitute for air conditioning/ heat pump when it comes to keeping your cool in the sweltering summer. But even if you already have AC, finding other ways to keep your home cool can add up to big savings on your energy bills.

Take the strain off your air con/ heat pump with these seven energy-efficient steps to beating the heat.

Shut the windows

It might seem like the last thing you want to do, but closing the windows when it’s hot outside will prevent warm air from entering your rooms. Especially if those windows face the sun.

Open the windows again when temperatures drop to let the cool evening air circulate. Find out which windows face prevailing winds so you can make the most of the cooling breeze.

Block out the sun

Even if your windows are closed, the sun can still heat up your rooms if your window coverings let enough of it through.

If you already have blinds or heavy, dark-coloured drapes, you can supplement these with external shutters or awnings. Or even plant some trees if you’re thinking long-term.

Insulate your home

Your air conditioner/ heat pump has to work extra hard if your home’s not insulated. Installing loft and wall insulation reduces heat transfer and helps your rooms stay cooler for longer, as well as warmer in the winter.

The installation will pay for itself over time in reduced electricity bills.

Use your fans properly

It can be a shock to learn that you’ve been using fans wrong all these years, but many people do.

If you have a ceiling fan, make sure it’s rotating anti-clockwise to blow downwards rather than simply circulating the air. Place standing fans in doorways and in front of windows that receive the wind to create cooling air currents.

Cook outdoors

Of course, the other way to enjoy home-cooked meals without heating up the kitchen is to take things outdoors and enjoy the fresh breeze.

That doesn’t have to mean a barbecue every night though. A solar oven can roast and bake using nothing but the power of the sun, keeping your bills even lower.

ABOUT TRILECT ENERGY

Trilect Energy is a division of Trilect Services, New Zealand’s master electrician since 1997.

We are a 100% Kiwi owned & operated electrical service group which is a member of the Master Electricians & Mastercraft network with 40 employees and a 25+ years history of customer satisfaction. 

We do not use sub-contractors. All of the installations will be carried out by our experienced team.

Trilect Energy offers a customized energy plan that works for your home/ business.

Get started now by booking a free on-site consultation.

Or call us on (09) 271 2493

www.trilectenergy.co.nz

Tips for Running Air Conditioning in Winter

February 11, 20220

Tips for Running Air Conditioning in Winter

Air conditioning isn’t just for the summer. When you install reverse cycle air conditioning (also called a heat pump), you can switch from cooling to heating at the touch of a button and enjoy comfortable temperatures 12 months a year.

If you’re thinking about installing air conditioning and heating in your home or business, a reverse cycle system kills two birds with one stone. Not only will you save on purchase and installation costs compared to buying each system separately, but you can also look forward to lower energy bills for the long term.

How do heat pumps work?

Reverse cycle air conditioning does just what it says – it’s a cooling system that can also be run in reverse.

When you want to cool your home in the summer, warm air is passed over a refrigerant that cools it down and lowers the internal temperature of your rooms. If you want heating in the winter, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the outside (even on cold days) to warm up the air going into your rooms and raise the internal temperature.

As well as heating, these systems can also dehumidify the air and filter out contaminants to improve the air quality. As there’s no flame or heated element, heat pumps avoid the safety risks of gas and electric heaters.

What are my options?

Whether you prefer a ducted or split system, both types of air conditioners are available with reverse cycle functions.

Ducted air conditioning uses a single outdoor unit to pump cool or warm air into multiple rooms through hidden vents. As you can use the same ducts all year round to provide heating and cooling, reverse cycled ducted air conditioning saves space in your walls and on your roof compared to installing a separate ducted gas heating system.

Split systems are cheaper to install, as they don’t use ducts. Instead, indoor units provide heating and cooling in each room and are connected to outdoor units (or a single outdoor unit in a multi-head split system). This saves space compared to having separate cooling and heating units in each room, and some systems can be set up to provide heating and cooling in different zones at the same time.

How much do they save?

Using the same system to provide your heating and cooling makes practical and financial sense. While reverse cycle systems can cost more than standard air conditioning, you’ll save money overall by not having to purchase, install and service separate systems. But the biggest savings are to your energy bills.

Modern air conditioners use inverter technology to make them as energy-efficient as possible. Reverse cycle air conditioning uses 72 per cent less electricity than the portable heaters many people rely on in the winter. It’s also safer and doesn’t take up any extra space in your rooms.

You can save more on your heating costs and keep your rooms as comfortable as possible this winter when you:

  • Close doors and windows to prevent heat from escaping or dissipating to rooms where it’s not needed.
  • Close curtains and blinds to reduce heat transfer through the windows. Denser curtain fabrics and solid blinds trap more heat.
  • Insulate your roof and walls to keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
  • Turn off the heating at night. Snuggle up in warm bedding instead.
  • Schedule regular services to keep your air conditioning operating at peak efficiency all year round.

Portable heat pump

The least efficient and least powerful option, portable air conditioning units are used for personal cooling or to cool small rooms. They’re a lot less effective at cooling larger spaces and will run up expensive cooling bills in the long term.

Single-hose units don’t connect to the outside, so they have to work hard to circulate the air inside rooms to reduce the air pressure and draw warm air into the system. Dual-hose units are more efficient, as one of their hoses brings in and pushes out air from the outside, so they don’t need to alter the air pressure.

ABOUT TRILECT ENERGY

Trilect Energy is a division of Trilect Services, New Zealand’s master electrician since 1997.

We are a 100% Kiwi owned & operated electrical service group which is a member of the Master Electricians & Mastercraft network with 40 employees and a 25+ years history of customer satisfaction. 

We do not use sub-contractors. All of the installations will be carried out by our experienced team.

Trilect Energy offers a customized energy plan that works for your home/ business.

Get started now by booking a free on-site consultation.

Or call us on (09) 271 2493

www.trilectenergy.co.nz

Heat pump Auckland, Services

How energy efficient is an heat pump unit?

February 11, 20220

How energy efficient is an heat pump unit?

Even if you’re making the most of natural cooling in your home, there’s no substitute for a heat pump to keep you and your family cool when the summer heat arrives and warm it up when winter comes.

Installing a heat pump doesn’t have to mean running up expensive energy bills, as long as you choose your unit wisely. Investing in the latest energy-efficient systems is well worth it for the long-term savings you’ll enjoy on cooling costs.

Here are the most popular types of heat pumps in New Zealand and how they compare in the efficiency stakes.

Ducted systems

The most efficient option if you need to cool a larger home or commercial building, a ducted system that connects multiple rooms to a central fan coil that’s usually installed in the roof. You can control the individual units in each room, and more advanced ducted systems allow you to set multiple zones for different cooling needs.

A ducted system is usually the most expensive type to install, because of all the ductwork that needs to be done. But once it’s installed, you’ll enjoy cheaper running costs compared to most other systems.

Split systems

Slightly less efficient than ducted systems in a larger building, split system air conditioners are the ideal option for small and medium-sized homes.

They’re cheaper to install, as no ducting is required. Instead, the outdoor unit is connected to the separate indoor unit via a hose. In a multi-split system, multiple indoor units can connect to the same outdoor condenser, saving space outside your home.

The most efficient split systems use inverter technology that controls the fan motor with greater precision, making it easier to maintain your desired temperature and avoiding wasting energy.

Window heat pumps

If you only need to cool a single room, you may prefer a traditional window unit. These are some of the cheapest heat pumps to buy up-front and the easiest to install, but they’re less energy-efficient than ducted and split systems, which means more expensive cooling costs in the long term.

There’s still a large degree of difference between different brands and models though, so you should always compare before you buy. It can be worth paying more up-front for a feature-packed air conditioner than one that’s going to run up expensive bills and provide less efficient cooling.

Portable heat pump

The least efficient and least powerful option, portable air conditioning units are used for personal cooling or to cool small rooms. They’re a lot less effective at cooling larger spaces and will run up expensive cooling bills in the long term.

Single-hose units don’t connect to the outside, so they have to work hard to circulate the air inside rooms to reduce the air pressure and draw warm air into the system. Dual-hose units are more efficient, as one of their hoses brings in and pushes out air from the outside, so they don’t need to alter the air pressure.

ABOUT TRILECT ENERGY

Trilect Energy is a division of Trilect Services, New Zealand’s master electrician since 1997.

We are a 100% Kiwi owned & operated electrical service group which is a member of the Master Electricians & Mastercraft network with 40 employees and a 25+ years history of customer satisfaction. 

We do not use sub-contractors. All of the installations will be carried out by our experienced team.

Trilect Energy offers a customized energy plan that works for your home/ business.

Get started now by booking a free on-site consultation.

Or call us on (09) 271 2493

www.trilectenergy.co.nz

Heat pump Auckland, Services

Inverter Heat pump Vs Non-Inverter Heat pump

February 10, 20220

What You Should Know About Inverter Heat pump Vs Non-Inverter

You could save up to 58 per cent on your heating and cooling running costs with an inverter heat pump compared to a non-inverter type. With inverter technology becoming more accessible to the domestic market, heat pump manufacturers are taking advantage of this great energy-saving feature.

These significant energy savings are thanks to a different way of running the compressor motor between inverter and non-inverter units. As your local heating and cooling experts, we’ll be running through how inverter vs non-inverter heat pumps work and breaking down how inverter types are more energy efficient.

How Inverter Heat pump Work Differently from Non-Inverters

The main difference between how inverter heat pumps work compared to non-inverters is the compressor. In a conventional, non-inverter heat pump, the compressor only has two speeds it can run at to maintain your home’s desired temperature – on and off, or 100 per cent and 0 per cent.

On the other hand, an inverter-driven compressor keeps the motor turned on continuously and adjusts the speed to vary the temperature. This means the power used can vary between 0 and 100 per cent. This is more energy-efficient than turning the motor on and off repeatedly.

Inverter vs. non-inverter is analogous to a marathon runner vs. a sprinter. A non-inverter heat pump is like a short distance sprinter, using up more energy in short bursts. The inverter is the marathon runner, who goes at a steady pace and is more energy-efficient.

The motor’s speed is adjusted by alternating the polarity of magnets so that they switch between attractive and repulsive forces. The switching attractive and repulsive forces rotate the motor. The speed at which the polarity of the magnets is switched is controlled by the inverter-driven compressor, and this controls the motor’s rotation speed.

So, if you’ve purchased a 6kW split system with inverter technology, that means it won’t always be running at a 6kW capacity. It could be running at a lower capacity or could even run at higher than a 100 per cent capacity for short times.

What Are the Benefits of Inverter Heat pumps?

Having an inverter heat pump means you get to experience a range of great benefits. First, and most obvious, is increased energy efficiency, and so considerably cheaper energy bills.

Heating and cooling in the home accounts for 20 to 50 per cent of your energy bill. So if your inverter heat pump uses 58 per cent less energy, then your energy bill will be 11.6 to 29 per cent cheaper!

Increased environmental friendliness is often coupled with energy efficiency. Installing an inverter heat pump is a more eco-friendly option too!

The variable speed of the compressor-motor means the inverter heat pump is quieter too. Instead of working at full capacity all the time, an inverter ac can operate at lower capacities which are quieter. By turning on and off continuously, a non-inverter heat pump will be more annoying as it switches from silent to noisy repeatedly.

An inverter heat pump also means you’ll be more comfortable. Instead of fluctuating temperatures thanks to a non-inverter unit that turns on and off, your room temperature will be better maintained with the variable speed motor of an inverter heat pump. With the motor always running, your home’s humidity is better controlled too.

Remember how we said an inverter heat pump can work over 100 per cent capacity for a short time? This means you can enjoy faster heating and cooling with an inverter heat pump and reach your desired temperature more quickly.

Thanks to the motor being continuously on, this means inverter heat pumps need less maintenance too and will likely last you longer! Turning the compressor off and on puts pressure on the power load and wears out the components faster.

Are there any Disadvantages of Inverter Heat pumps?

Between better energy efficiency and a quieter operation, it’s hard to think there’d be any disadvantages of inverter heat pumps. There are a couple of disadvantages that you will want to take into consideration before opting for an inverter type, though.

Firstly, an inverter heat pump will cost you more upfront. Because of the more complex technology, there’s a higher price tag associated with an inverter AC. While it might be more expensive to purchase upfront, an inverter heat pump is more of an investment appliance for your home when you save big on the ongoing running costs.

This also means parts can be more expensive if your unit needs repairs. On top of that, not all heat pump installers will know the ins and outs of inverter technology. So, it’s even more important that you use an experienced and licensed heat pump technician with a reputation for quality work.

What’s the Advantage of Non-Inverter Heat pumps?

In most cases, the advantages of inverter heat pumps far outweigh those of non-inverters. The only reason you would choose a non-inverter over an inverter AC is if the upfront cost is too much.

Almost all modern heat pumps on the market today are inverter models though. With more and more inverter ACs coming onto the market, this upfront cost will be coming down over time.

You can enjoy the comfort and cost-effectiveness of an inverter heat pump with Trilect Energy. Whether you’re after a ducted heat pump or split system, our team of inverter AC experts won’t keep you waiting around with our rapid, same-day service.

You can also enjoy your brand-new heat pump for no upfront cost with our $0 deposit, interest-free payment plans**. So, when you’re unexpectedly left with an old and broken heat pump and need an upgrade, there’s no need to dip into your savings to cover the costs.

If you’re looking to invest in your home’s heating and cooling as well as save in the long run, contact Trilect and we can have an expert heat pump installer at your door ASAP.

ABOUT TRILECT ENERGY

Trilect Energy is a division of Trilect Services, New Zealand’s master electrician since 1997.

We are a 100% Kiwi owned & operated electrical service group which is a member of the Master Electricians & Mastercraft network with 40 employees and a 25+ years history of customer satisfaction. 

We do not use sub-contractors. All of the installations will be carried out by our experienced team.

Trilect Energy offers a customized energy plan that works for your home/ business.

Get started now by booking a free on-site consultation.

Or call us on (09) 271 2493

www.trilectenergy.co.nz