In the middle of a Christchurch winter, your heat pump becomes one of the most important appliances in your home. But cold weather can also bring confusion. Many people ask questions about how to use their heat pump properly, what to do when something goes wrong, or how to save power.
Whether you’re new to heat pumps or have had one for years, winter often brings up new questions. From running costs to best settings, here are some of the most common winter-related heat pump FAQs plus how to get the most out of your system when it matters most.
Using Your Heat Pump in Winter
What temperature should I set my heat pump to in winter?
Aim for 20–22°C in living rooms and about 18°C in bedrooms. This gives comfort without wasting energy. Higher settings will not heat faster, they just use more power.
Should I leave the heat pump on all day?
Yes, if you are at home and the house is insulated. Keeping a steady temperature is more efficient than turning it off and on.
Is it better to turn it off when I leave?
If you’re stepping out for less than an hour or two, keep it running. For longer periods, switch it off. Timers or smart systems like AirTouch help manage this.
Can I run my heat pump overnight?
Yes. Many people keep a lower setting at night. It’s safer and more efficient than letting the room go cold and reheating in the morning.
What are the best settings for winter?
Use “Heat” mode with medium fan speed. Avoid “Auto” mode as it can suddenly switch to cooling. Timers are handy for early mornings.
What’s the best way to heat the whole house?
Larger homes may need a ducted or multi-room system. These spread heat evenly and can be controlled room-by-room with zoning tools like AirTouch.
Common Heat Pump Problems
Why is my heat pump not blowing warm air?
Check the settings first. If it is set to “Heat” and still not working, the filters may be blocked or the unit may need servicing.
Why does cold air come out during winter?
When the unit defrosts, it may briefly blow cool air. This is normal and usually lasts a few minutes. If it keeps happening, it may need attention.
Why is my heat pump turning off on its own?
This is called short cycling. It could mean the system is too big or the thermostat isn’t working properly. A technician should check this.
Why does my heat pump smell bad?
A musty smell often means mould or bacteria in the filters. A full service and clean usually fixes it.
Why is water leaking from my indoor unit?
Most likely, the drain is blocked. This needs fixing quickly to avoid damage. Regular servicing helps prevent this.
Why is my outdoor unit covered in ice?
Some frost is normal, but full ice build-up is not. It may have poor airflow or a faulty defrost system. Don’t try to remove the ice yourself and get it checked.
Why is my remote not working?
Try replacing the batteries. If it still won’t work, the remote may be broken or the unit may need resetting.
Energy and Efficiency
Is it cheaper to leave a heat pump on all day?
Yes, as long as it’s set to a steady temperature. Constantly switching it off and on uses more energy.
What is the most efficient way to use a heat pump in winter?
- Keep filters clean
- Set a steady temperature around 20°C
- Use the timer
- Shut curtains and doors
- Book a service every year
Why has my energy bill gone up?
If the heat pump is working harder due to dirty filters, old parts, or low refrigerant, it will use more power. An older system may also be less efficient.
How can I heat my whole house with a heat pump?
A single unit won’t do the job for large homes. Consider a ducted or multi-room system with zoning like AirTouch. This spreads heat evenly and reduces wasted energy.
When should I replace my heat pump?
If it’s 10–15 years old, needs frequent repairs, or runs up your power bill, a new one could be more cost-effective in the long run.
Need Help This Winter?
If your heat pump isn’t working properly, or you’re unsure if it’s running as efficiently as it should, Hiko Heating can help. From servicing and repairs to full upgrades, they’ll make sure your system is ready for the cold.
Call now on 027 629 0052 or email mitch@hikoheating.co.nz to book your winter check-up or get a quote.
