Finding the right heating system for your home is critical for comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term savings. Simply Heat have provided a list of factors to consider, regardless of the product/system you choose – to assist you in making the right choice for your home.

Space heating represents over 30% of energy consumption in a typical New Zealand home. For homes in the South Island this can be greater due to the colder climate, poorly insulated buildings and inefficient heating systems.

Many New Zealanders are familiar with the challenge of staying comfortably warm during winter. Most homes in New Zealand are heated unevenly and inefficiently, largely because they weren’t designed with effective heating in mind. As a result, Kiwis have become accustomed to living in cold, damp conditions, despite the negative impact on comfort and health.

Explore the Factors Affecting the Output Required

Regardless of the product/ system you choose, all heating technologies will need to be sized correctly. The below factors will influence the heating output needed for your home.

Insulation

A well-insulated home will retain heat better, reducing the need for high-output
heating. Homes built with modern insulation techniques, including insulated walls, floors, and ceilings, will require less heat to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Double Glazing

Double-glazed windows help to reduce heat loss, especially in colder climates. If your home has single-glazed windows or older windows, heat can escape much more easily, requiring a larger or more efficient heating system.

Ceiling Height

Higher ceilings can increase the volume of air that needs to be heated. In homes with ceilings higher than the standard 2.4 meters, more heat output will be needed to warm the space effectively. Heat naturally rises, so a larger heating system will help maintain warmth at lower levels.

Room Shape and Size

Open-plan areas or rooms with irregular shapes may require more heat to distribute
warmth evenly throughout the space. Small rooms, or rooms with many internal walls, may require less heat.

Ventilation and Draughts

Homes with draughts, poor air circulation, or poorly sealed windows and doors will
lose heat faster, increasing the heating demand.

Climate

Homes in colder regions (e.g., southern South Island or inland areas) will require
a larger heating system compared to homes in warmer regions like Auckland or
Northland.

Heating Options

Explore the main options available for New Zealand homes and the factors to consider
before making your decision.