Heating and cooling in New Zealand is no longer a matter of choosing between a fan heater or an open fire. Modern homes now have a range of sophisticated systems, with the ducted heat pump, the split system air conditioner, and the cassette heat pump leading the way. Each option offers a distinct set of advantages that can completely change how comfortable your home feels throughout the year. The tricky part is that not every system works for every household, which is exactly why we’ve put together this guide.

 

The Ducted Heat Pump

 

A ducted heat pump system delivers comfort across the entire home through a series of hidden ducts connected to ceiling or floor vents. It’s a solution designed for those who want consistent temperatures in every room without bulky units taking up wall space. This central heating option offers both warmth in winter and cooling in summer, keeping everything balanced and efficient.

In New Zealand, ducted heat pumps are particularly attractive for new builds or major renovations because they can be integrated during construction. Once installed, the benefits are immediate. The system provides a constant stream of conditioned air, removing the sharp contrasts you often feel when moving between different parts of the house. It is the kind of comfort you only really notice when it is not there.

The investment is usually higher than a standard wall unit, and installation requires sufficient space in the ceiling or underfloor area. However, for those who value design simplicity, ducted heating is an excellent choice. It offers complete control, efficient performance, and an uncluttered look that blends seamlessly with modern interiors.

 

The Split System Heat Pump

 

The split system heat pump is the most common option for Kiwi households, and with good reason. It combines efficiency, affordability, and ease of installation, which makes it an obvious starting point for many homeowners. With an outdoor compressor connected to an indoor wall unit, it is well-suited to heating or cooling individual rooms or smaller living areas.

A single split system works perfectly if you want to keep one main living space comfortable. For families with multiple rooms to manage, a multi-split heat pump is available. This connects several indoor units to a single outdoor compressor, creating a system that offers flexibility without the full cost of a ducted installation.

The trade-off is that the units are visible on the walls, which doesn’t appeal to everyone. That said, many people are happy to accept this for the balance of affordability, reliability, and effective climate control. It is a straightforward, no-nonsense option that delivers exactly what most households need.

 

The Cassette Heat Pump

 

A cassette heat pump is designed to be mounted in the ceiling, typically in the centre of a room. It distributes air in four directions, which makes it especially effective in open-plan layouts where consistent coverage is needed. Only the slim grille is visible, so it offers a modern and discreet look while still providing excellent performance.

For homeowners who dislike the appearance of wall units but are not ready to commit to a full ducted system, the ceiling cassette heat pump is an ideal compromise. It works well in living rooms, dining areas, or offices where aesthetics matter just as much as comfort. The airflow is evenly spread across the space, avoiding hot and cold patches that can happen with other systems.

Like ducted systems, cassette models require enough ceiling space for installation, and costs are higher than basic wall units. However, the mix of visual subtlety and efficient performance makes them a very appealing choice. For households looking for something modern, unobtrusive, and reliable, a cassette heat pump ticks a lot of boxes.

 

Which Suits Your Home? 

 

The right system depends less on the technology itself and more on how you live in your home. Here’s a practical guide to help you choose.

  • If you have a small space: Apartments and smaller homes usually do not need the scale of a ducted system. A split system heat pump provides quick comfort in one or two rooms, and with a multi-split heat pump, you can expand later if needed. It’s  affordable, efficient, and avoids over-investing in something you will not fully use.
  • If design is your priority: For homeowners who want their interiors to stay uncluttered, a ducted heat pump is hard to beat. The system is tucked away in the ceiling or under the floor, with only slim vents on display. It delivers comfort in every room without changing the look of your space.
  • If you’re building or renovating: A major project is the perfect opportunity for a ducted heat pump system. With walls and ceilings already open, installation is straightforward and less disruptive. It also allows the system to be tailored to the layout, giving you seamless whole-home comfort from the start.
  • If you live in an open-plan home: Large spaces can be difficult to heat evenly with wall units. A ceiling cassette heat pump sits in the centre of the room and distributes air in four directions, keeping temperatures consistent across open areas. It is ideal for modern living rooms, kitchens, or combined dining spaces.
  • If you want flexibility for the whole family: Not every room needs to be the same temperature, and not everyone agrees on what “comfortable” feels like. A multi-room heat pump allows you to control different areas independently, so bedrooms, lounges, and studies can all be set exactly how they are used. It’s a versatile middle ground between single-room splits and a full ducted setup.

 

Ready to Find Your Fit?

 

Choosing between a ducted, split, or cassette heat pump is easier with the right advice. At Air Conditioning Group, we specialise in tailoring systems to suit New Zealand homes of every shape and size. Whether you want whole-home comfort, flexible multi-room control, or a sleek ceiling-mounted solution, our team can guide you to the perfect match.

Reach out to us today and let’s design a heating and cooling system that works for your lifestyle, your budget, and your long-term comfort. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are ducted heat pumps worth the cost?

They cost more upfront but provide discreet, whole-home comfort and can increase property value. For new builds or major renovations, they are often the most future-proof choice.

Can I add more rooms to a split system later?

Yes. A multi split heat pump lets you connect several indoor units to one outdoor unit, making it easy to expand without replacing your existing system.

Are cassette heat pumps efficient?

Absolutely. They perform just as well as wall-mounted units but circulate air more evenly across large or open-plan areas, avoiding hot and cold spots.

How much maintenance do heat pumps need?

All systems need annual servicing and regular filter cleaning. This keeps them efficient, extends lifespan, and avoids costly breakdowns.

Which system is best for older homes?

Split systems are usually the simplest for older homes with limited ceiling space. Ducted or cassette systems may still work if the layout allows, but a professional check is key.