Being able to control the temperature in your home will ensure year-round comfort and improve the well-being of your family. In a country where most homes are too cold in winter and too hot in summer, creating the perfect climate in your home is not just desirable; it’s essential. Kiwis regularly suffer from colds and respiratory conditions because they are not warm enough and are often inhaling dirty air.
Homeowners in Auckland and Wellington face unique climate challenges. For example, Auckland’s humid sub-tropical climate means homes are often unpleasantly hot and muggy. Meanwhile, Wellington’s infamous southerlies make for cold homes. Inefficient heating and cooling is reflected in high energy bills and a lack of overall comfort. It’s time for a change, and Fonko heat pumps can warm and cool a home and create a healthier one. All you have to do is choose the right one!
Choosing the Right Heat Pump
Selecting the right heat pump depends on a range of factors. Different room sizes and layouts are part of the equation, as is insulation (or a lack of it). Meanwhile, rooms with many windows may require a different heat pump set-up than ones with few windows. The orientation of each room also counts; sunnier rooms may need a less powerful heat pump than a more shaded space. With so many things to consider, it’s evident that an initial consultation with heat pump experts like Fonko is the best way to start the buying process.
During these discussions, we can talk about the different heat pumps available to you, and they extend well beyond the choice between two world-class brands in Fujitsu and Mitsubishi. For example, we can discuss the benefits of inverter technology, which sets new standards for energy efficiency and consistent temperature control. Inverter heat pumps do not stop and start like conventional heat pumps. Instead, the heat pump motor in an inverter adjusts speed to maintain an even temperature. They use less power without the stop/start cycle and leave a substantially reduced carbon footprint.
A ducted heat pump is another option for you to consider, especially if your home has the space to conceal the central unit. From this unit, a network of ducts can be connected to vents in several rooms, providing whole house comfort from one central heat source. Because the main operating unit is hidden away, ducted systems are quiet and aesthetically pleasing, and although they cost more, they represent an excellent investment.
Optimising Placement and Settings
Placement and settings play a significant role in creating the perfect home climate; our advice will help you get it right. For example, we will probably suggest that you don’t have heat pumps installed directly above or in front of couches, as the airflow and noise may cause discomfort to those seated on the couch. While the airflow direction can be adjusted using the remote control, the most effective setting is typically the “swing” mode, which disperses air in all directions through motorised louvres. In long, narrow rooms, installing the heat pump on the shorter wall is advisable, facing the room’s length if feasible. If positioned facing a hallway or doors to other rooms, there may be some benefit from the heat flow. For ease of installation, heat pumps are best installed on external walls. While installing them on internal walls separating two rooms is possible, this process is usually more complex and costly.
Room-by-Room Guide
We invite you to refer to this guide to help you select the right temperature and setting for each room. When choosing a temperature, especially to warm up a room on a cold day, you may be tempted to go higher than you need, chewing up more power and creating an uncomfortably hot room in the process. You don’t have to go TOO high, as this guide will prove:
Living Room
Optimal temperature: 20-22°C
Use a programmable thermostat to adjust temperature based on usage patterns.
Place the heat pump unit strategically to ensure uniform heating or cooling.
Bedroom
Optimal temperature: 18-20°C for sleeping comfort.
Utilise zoning capabilities with ducted heat pumps to adjust temperatures according to individual preferences.
Consider installing a timer to adjust temperature settings for nighttime comfort.
Kitchen
Optimal temperature: 18-21°C
Position the heat pump unit away from cooking appliances to avoid heat interference.
Use ventilation fans to remove excess moisture and maintain air quality.
Bathroom
Optimal temperature: 20-22°C for comfort after bathing.
Ensure proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and potential mould growth.
Consider installing a heat pump with dehumidification capabilities for added comfort.
Home Office/Study
Optimal temperature: 20-22°C for productivity.
Utilise zoning features to maintain a comfortable working environment.
Adjust temperature settings based on occupancy to conserve energy when not in use.
Integration with Smart Home Technology
Do you like the idea of coming home to a warm house on a cold winter’s night? You should consider integrating your new heat pumps with smart home systems for remote monitoring and control. Many of Fonko’s latest heat pumps from Mitsubishi and Fujitsu are compatible with popular smart home platforms for seamless integration. It’s a piece of cake to switch on your heat pump from a remote location and enjoy that warm, comforting feeling as soon as you walk in the door.
Maintaining the Ideal Environment
Fonko will help you create the perfect home climate. Regular maintenance will ensure that the state of perfection continues all year round and for many years to come. This includes removing and cleaning the filters frequently: it’s straightforward to do this by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Some will recommend a monthly wash or vacuum of the filters to preserve optimum airflow and heating/cooling. This also helps to avoid musty odours and the onset of larger problems if dust affects the components within the unit. It’s also a good idea to gently wipe the indoor grilles and exterior of the unit to remove dust.
The outdoor unit requires attention, too. Keep the unit clear of vegetation or anything else that impedes airflow into the unit. Don’t plant shrubs or place garden furniture within at least half a metre of the unit, and do a visual check for corrosion each time you remove vegetation from the unit.
Of course, the best way to ensure the trouble-free operation of your heat pump is to ask us to conduct regular inspections and maintenance. Fonko’s heat pump technicians can quickly identify and resolve any issues without delay.
Explore The Range, Discuss Your Options
If it’s time to invest in New Zealand’s most efficient heating and cooling, then it’s also time to explore Fonko’s range of heat pumps. While doing that, schedule a consultation with the Fonko team for personalised advice on creating the perfect home climate.