The best type of heat pump for your home depends on its size and layout, how many rooms you want to heat and cool, the space available for installation and your budget. High-wall and floor-mounted units work well for single rooms or open-plan living areas. In contrast, multi-split and ducted systems suit homes that need heating and cooling in several rooms.
Below, we explain how each type works, where it fits best and what to think about before you choose.
High-wall heat pumps
High-wall heat pumps are the most common type in New Zealand homes. The indoor unit sits high on a wall, and the outdoor unit sits outside, often on the other side of the same wall.
They suit lounges, open-plan living areas and larger bedrooms. Because installation is usually simple, they are often the most affordable way to heat one main space. However, one unit will not evenly heat rooms down a hallway or behind closed doors.
Floor console heat pumps
Floor consoles sit low on the wall, close to the floor, much like a traditional heater. Warm air comes out at floor level, so the room can feel comfortable quickly.
These units are a good fit where wall space is limited. For example, they work well under a window, in rooms with large glazing or in homes with sloping ceilings. They also make filters easier to reach, which helps with regular cleaning.
Multi-split heat pumps
A multi-split system runs two or more indoor units from a single outdoor unit. Each room gets its own indoor unit, and you can usually control each one separately.
This option suits homes that need heating in a few rooms but have limited space outside. As a result, it can be a tidy choice for townhouses, units and sections with narrow side yards. On the other hand, if the outdoor unit develops a fault, every room it serves loses heating at the same time.
Ducted heat pumps
Ducted systems hide the indoor unit in the ceiling space or under the floor. Ducts then carry warm or cool air to vents in each room.
They give whole-home comfort with very little on show, so many people choose them for new builds and major renovations. They need the most planning, enough ceiling or underfloor space and the biggest budget. That said, they can be the neatest long-term solution for larger family homes.
How do you choose the best type of heat pump?
Start with how you live in your home rather than the product. A few questions help narrow it down:
- Which rooms do you use most? If you mainly need to heat the lounge, a single high-wall or floor unit may be all you need.
- How many rooms need heating? Several bedrooms or separate living areas point towards multi-split or ducted.
- Where can the units go? Wall space, ceiling height, roof space and room outside all affect your options.
- Are you building or renovating? Ducted systems are much easier to install while walls and ceilings are open.
- What is your budget? Single units cost the least to install. Whole-home systems cost more but cover more of the house.
Getting the size right matters just as much as the type. An undersized unit struggles on cold mornings, while an oversized one costs more than it needs to.
What is the best type of heat pump for a whole home?
For whole-home heating, most households end up choosing between multi-split and ducted. Multi-split works well in existing homes because each indoor unit needs only a small hole through the wall for pipework. Ducted suits new builds, renovations and homes with good ceiling or underfloor access.
Some homes also use a mix. For instance, a high-wall unit in the living area and smaller units in the bedrooms can cover most of the house without the cost of ducting.
Why get a local expert to assess your home?
Every home is different, so a site visit is the best way to find the right system. A local installer can look at your layout, check your switchboard and recommend the type and size that suit how you live.
At GoFox, each franchise is locally owned and operated, so you deal with a team that knows homes in your area. Our national buying power also helps keep pricing competitive on quality units. You can read more about our heat pump installation and servicing, or see our wider range of electrical services.
Common questions about choosing a heat pump
Is a high-wall or floor heat pump better? Neither is better in every case. High-wall units suit most rooms and are the most common choice. Floor consoles work well where wall space is limited or where you want warmth at floor level.
Can one heat pump heat my whole house? Usually not evenly. A single unit mainly heats the room it sits in and spaces that open onto it. For whole-home heating, look at multi-split or ducted systems.
Are ducted heat pumps worth it? They can be, especially for new builds, renovations and larger homes. They heat every room evenly and keep units out of sight. However, they cost more and need suitable ceiling or underfloor space.
Do I need an electrician to install a heat pump? Yes. A licensed electrician needs to complete the power supply and electrical connection. They will also check whether your switchboard can handle the extra load.
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