Running Your Ducted System Efficiently
Maintaining Your System?
Efficiency starts with the basics: check and clean your filters regularly, keep your outdoor unit clear of leaves and debris, and book an annual service. A blocked filter alone can significantly increase running costs while reducing how well your system heats or cools your home.
Understanding Your Settings
Four modes — here’s what each one does and when to use it
HEAT
This is the ideal temperature for heating — comfortable warmth without overworking your ducted system. Every degree above 20°C adds roughly 10% to your running costs
COOL
This is the sweet spot for summer cooling — every degree below 24°C adds roughly 10% to your running costs.
AUTO
Your ducted system automatically decides whether to heat or cool to reach your target temperature — set it and let it do the work.
DRY
Removes excess moisture from the air without changing the temperature — great for damp NZ winters, making your home feel fresher and warmer.
Three Habits That Save Money
A little planning goes a long way. Check with your power provider for free power hours — providers like Contact Energy, Meridian, and Flick Electric offer free or discounted electricity during off-peak windows. Programme your ducted heat pump to run during these periods to pre-heat or pre-cool your home at zero cost.
1 Hour Before Waking
Schedule your system to start ~1 hour before you get up. Step out of bed into a warm home every morning.
1 Hour After Bedtime
Set it to switch off about 1 hour after you go to sleep. Drift off comfortably without the system running all night.
Use Your Free Power Window
Many NZ providers offer free or discounted power at certain times. Run your heat pump then to heat or cool at little to no cost.
Getting the Best from Your System
Recommended temperatures: 20°C heating, 24°C cooling. Each degree outside adds ~10% to running costs. Free power availability varies by provider and plan. Referral voucher on completed installations only.
Stick to the Sweet Spot
20°C heating, 24°C cooling. Every degree outside adds ~10% to running costs.
Keep Doors Closed
Close unused rooms — your system heats faster and holds temperature more efficiently.
Annual Service
A yearly filter clean keeps your system running efficiently and your warranty valid.
Refer a Friend, Earn $150
Know someone who’d love a ducted heat pump? Refer them to Harrison AC and when they complete their installation, you’ll receive a $150 gift voucher as our thank you. Mention this website or get in touch to refer.
Keep your system running at its best
An annual service with Harrison AC keeps your heat pump running efficiently, extends its lifespan, and ensures your warranty remains valid. We clean filters, clear drains, check refrigerant levels, and inspect all components to catch any issues early. Just let us know if you’d like a reminder in 11 months’ time.
Why Choose Harrison AC?
We don’t just install ducted heat pump systems — we understand how to get the best out of them. Our team has spent years helping Auckland and Hamilton homeowners get more efficient, comfortable homes, and we’re happy to share that knowledge, whether you’re a customer or not.