Myth #1: Heat Pump Systems Don't Work Well in Colder Climates
This is perhaps the most prevalent myth about heat pump water heaters. Many people believe that because heat pumps extract heat from ambient air, they must not work as efficiently in colder climates. However, modern heat pump technology uses special refrigerants and compressors that enable them to extract adequate heat down to temperatures as low as -15°C, even on the coldest Auckland winter nights. With proper sizing, good installation in the right outdoor location, and a backup electric element, heat pump systems work remarkably well year-round in New Zealand.
Myth #2: Heat Pumps Don't Produce Enough Hot Water for Large Homes
This myth stems from people’s experience with older or first-generation heat pump water heaters that had smaller capacities. The reality is that modern heat pumps are available in sizes up to 420 litres and can be set up in tandem systems to produce over 800 litres of hot water per day – more than enough for the largest homes with multiple bathrooms. We recommend proper sizing based on your household requirements and can customise the right system for your needs.
Myth #3: Heat Pump Systems Cost More to Run Than Other Types of Water Heaters
With their higher upfront costs, some assume heat pumps cost more over their lifetime. In fact, owing to their higher efficiencies, modern heat pump systems can cut water heating electricity costs by up to 75% compared to standard electric storage tanks. They achieve much higher cost savings than gas water heaters as well. Plus, they can last over twice as long with lower maintenance requirements. Taken together, heat pump hot water systems deliver excellent returns on investment over their lifetime.
Myth #4: Heat Pumps Are Noisy and Disrupt Outdoor Areas
Some people hesitate to install heat pumps worrying about excessive outdoor noise. Technology enhancements have made modern heat pumps very quiet in their operation. With sound levels around 40-60 dB at one metre, the noise is comparable to an average conversation. Also, outdoor units can be located further away from living areas or noise buffering materials used minimise disruption. Rest assured, there are quiet heat pump options available, so noise doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker.
Myth #5: Heat Pumps Have Lots of Maintenance Issues
Another common mis-perception is that heat pump systems require frequent maintenance and are prone to repairs. On the contrary, modern heat pumps are extremely reliable and built to have very low maintenance requirements over their lifetime. There are no moving parts or filters to clean. Annual check-ups of pressures and refrigerant levels are generally all that’s needed to keep them running at peak efficiency. And thanks to technological improvements, issues like the buildup of ice in winter are rare when systems are correctly installed. The proof is in industry leading 10-year warranties now offered with many new heat pumps.
Myth #6: Heat Pumps Don't Work with Solar or Electric Boosters
Some assume that heat pump water heaters must work as standalone units. This myth comes from lack of awareness about hybrid system possibilities. Modern heat pump units often integrate very effectively with solar thermal arrays and electric boosting to create an ultra-efficient hybrid domestic hot water system.
During sunny stretches in warmer months, solar thermal collectors preheat the water before it enters the heat pump storage tank. This amplification effect allows the heat pump compressor to do less work, conserving even more electricity. Electric boosters then kick in to maintain water temperatures whenever peak demand exceeds capacity. Smart hybrid controller systems now dynamically balance the load between solar gain, heat pump extraction, and booster elements seamlessly. The result is a robust whole-of-system hot water production solution blending the strengths of multiple technologies.
Final Words
There’s no doubt heat pump systems are the most energy efficient and cost saving way to heat water in Auckland homes and businesses. We hope debunking some stubborn myths about heat pumps helps more local homeowners recognise their merits and considerable advantages over other water heating options. As trusted heat pump specialists, Hot Water Solutions is here to guide you through the facts so you can decide if a heat pump is the right solution to meet your hot water heating needs for comfort and cost savings.
Use our contact us page to reach us and we will be more than happy to discuss your hot water situation. Or give us a call on 0800 497658.
At Hot Water Solutions all we do is hot water!
