Alternatives to Heat Pumps: Exploring Your Best Home Heating Options in New Zealand

Geraldine C.
Jul 24
7 min read

Disclaimer: Updated Content Alert: This article was first published on July 16, 2024 and refreshed on July 23, 2025 to ensure we provide the most current and helpful information for our readers.

Heat pumps have long been the go-to for many New Zealand homeowners seeking efficient and convenient heating. However, they aren't for everyone. Perhaps you dislike their aesthetic, the type of airflow they produce, or your home has unique architectural constraints. Whatever your reason – whether it's specific home requirements, personal preferences, or budget considerations – a range of excellent alternative heating systems are available.

This comprehensive guide will explore five popular heat pump alternatives in New Zealand: hydronic (air-to-water) systems, wall panel heaters, wood burners, gas fires, and underfloor electric heating. We'll delve into how each works, their benefits, and crucial considerations to help you make an informed decision for a warm, comfortable New Zealand home.

5 Best Heat Pump Alternatives

Hydronic (Air-to-Water) Systems: Advanced Central Heating

Hydronic heating or air-to-water systems are an excellent alternative to traditional heat pumps. These systems work by transferring heat from the air outside to water, which is then circulated through pipes to radiators, underfloor heating, or convectors within the home.

How Do Hydronic Systems Work?

An air-to-water heat pump extracts heat from the outside air and uses it to heat water. This heated water then circulates through a network of pipes to various heat emitters within your home. These can include:

Radiators: Classic panels that emit radiant heat.
Underfloor Heating: Pipes embedded in the floor slab, warming the floor surface for gentle, even heat distribution.
Convectors: Units that use natural convection to circulate warm air.

Beyond space heating, many hydronic systems can also efficiently heat your domestic hot water, providing a complete heating solution.

Benefits of Hydronic Heating

Superior Energy Efficiency: Hydronic systems are highly energy-efficient, especially when paired with underfloor heating. They use renewable energy sources, making them an eco-friendly option.
Unparalleled Comfort: These systems provide even and consistent heating, avoiding the hot and cold spots often associated with other heating methods.
Versatility: Hydronic systems can be used for space heating and domestic hot water, offering a comprehensive solution for home heating needs.
Quiet Operation: Unlike traditional heat pumps with indoor fan units, hydronic systems are typically very quiet as the heat distribution happens silently through pipes and radiators/ floors.

Key Considerations for Hydronic Systems

High Initial Costs: The purchase and installation costs for hydronic systems can be substantial, particularly for retrofitting into existing homes where extensive plumbing work might be required.
Professional Maintenance: Regular, professional maintenance is crucial to ensure the system runs efficiently and to prolong its lifespan.
Space Requirements: The system requires space for the outdoor unit, water tanks, and piping infrastructure.
Response Time: Underfloor hydronic heating can take longer to heat up compared to other systems, as it warms the thermal mass of the floor first.

Wall Panel Heaters: Simple & Cost-Effective Spot Heating

Wall panel heaters are a good choice for those looking for a straightforward and low (upfront) cost heating solution. These heaters are mounted on the wall, providing radiant and convection heat to the room.

How Do Wall Panel Heaters Operate?

Wall panel heaters work by heating the air that comes into contact with the panel's surface. As the air warms up, it rises and circulates throughout the room, creating a consistent and comfortable temperature.

Benefits of Wall Panel Heaters

Easy Installation: Wall panel heaters are easy to install and can be mounted on any wall with access to an electrical outlet.
Low Maintenance: These heaters require minimal maintenance, making them a hassle-free heating option.
Compact & Discreet Design: Wall panel heaters are slim and compact, making them ideal for homes with limited space.
Affordable Upfront Cost: Compared to other alternatives, wall panel heaters have a significantly lower initial purchase price.

Key Considerations for Wall Panel Heaters

Limited Heating Capacity: Wall panel heaters are best suited for small to medium-sized rooms. They may struggle to provide adequate heat for larger spaces.
Running Costs (Continuous Use): While modern models are more efficient, continuous operation of multiple electric wall panel heaters can lead to higher electricity bills, especially in poorly insulated homes.
Temperature Control: Some basic models struggle with temperature control, making it harder to maintain a consistent temperature.

Wood Burners: Traditional Warmth & Rustic Ambiance

Example of a wood burner inside the home

Wood burners, or wood stoves, have been a traditional heating method in New Zealand for many years. They provide powerful, radiant heat and create a cosy, rustic atmosphere.

How Do Wood Burners Produce Heat?

Wood burners generate heat by burning mainly wood logs. The heat is then radiated into the room, providing warmth. Modern wood burners are designed to be highly efficient, with some models featuring secondary combustion technology to burn wood more entirely and reduce emissions.

Benefits of Wood Burners

Cost-Effective Fuel (Potentially): Wood can be a relatively inexpensive fuel source, especially if you have access to free or low-cost wood.
Eco-Friendly (with Sustainable Sourcing): When wood is sourced from sustainably managed forests, it is considered a renewable energy source, making it a more environmentally conscious choice than fossil fuels. Modern burners also have lower emissions than older models.
High Heat Output: Wood burners can generate significant heat, making them suitable for larger spaces and open-plan living areas.
Atmosphere & Ambience: The crackle and glow of a real fire provide an unmatched cosy and inviting ambiance.
Energy Independence: They offer a degree of independence from the electricity grid, providing warmth even during power outages.

Key Considerations for Wood Burners

Fuel Storage: You'll need a large, dry, and sheltered area to store firewood, which can be heavy and bulky.
Maintenance & Cleaning: Regular cleaning of the stove and chimney is necessary to prevent buildup and ensure efficient operation. Ash typically needs removing after some time, and cleaning glass panels is time consuming and energy-intensive.
Initial Cost: The cost of purchasing and installing a wood burner can be high.
Effort & Convenience: Operating a wood burner requires effort – sourcing, splitting, stacking wood, lighting fires, and managing ash. It's not an instant heat solution.
Air Quality Regulations: New Zealand has strict regulations on wood burner emissions, especially in urban areas. Ensure any new installation meets current clean air standards for your region.

Gas Fires: Convenient & Stylish Heating

Gas fires are a convenient and efficient alternative to heat pumps. They offer the ambiance of a traditional fireplace without the hassle of fireplace cleaning, wood storage and handling.

How Do Gas Fires Provide Warmth?

Gas fires produce heat by burning natural gas (if connected to the reticulated gas network) or LPG (liquefied petroleum gas, supplied in bottles). They come in various configurations: freestanding units, built-in wall units, or inserts that can be retrofitted into existing fireplace cavities. Modern gas fires often feature remote controls, programmable thermostats, and fan-assisted heating for ease of use and efficient heat distribution.

Benefits of Gas Fires

Instant Convenience: Gas fires are easy to operate with a simple switch or remote control, providing instant heat.
Clean and Efficient: Gas fires burn cleanly, producing fewer emissions than wood burners and requiring less maintenance.
Aesthetic Appeal: Many gas fires are designed to mimic the look of traditional wood-burning fireplaces, providing a cosy and attractive focal point in the room.
Reliability: Gas supply is generally very reliable, offering consistent heat.

Key Considerations for Gas Fires

Running Costs & Supply Uncertainty: The cost of natural gas or LPG can fluctuate significantly, impacting running costs. Long-term gas supply in New Zealand is also a consideration for some homeowners seeking renewable alternatives.
Installation Costs: Professional installation is required, which can add to the initial purchase cost.
Ventilation Requirements: Proper ventilation is necessary to ensure safe operation and prevent the buildup of harmful gases.
Reliance on Fossil Fuels: For environmentally conscious homeowners, gas fires still rely on fossil fuels, which may not align with long-term sustainability goals.

Underfloor Electric Heating: Invisible Comfort & Design Freedom

Underfloor electric heating is an increasingly popular choice for modern homes. It offers an invisible and efficient way to heat living spaces.

How Does Electric Underfloor Heating Work?

Electric underfloor heating systems consist of heating cables or mats installed directly beneath the floor surface (e.g., under tiles, laminate, or carpet). When the system is activated, an electric current heats these elements, which then warm the floor. The heat radiates upwards, warming the room evenly and gently, creating a comfortable ambient temperature without visible heating units.

Benefits of Underfloor Electric Heating

Supreme Comfort: Underfloor heating provides a comfortable and even heat distribution, eliminating cold spots.
Space-Saving & Aesthetic: With no visible heaters or radiators, underfloor heating frees up wall and floor space, allowing for a more flexible interior design.
Zoning Capability: Underfloor heating systems can be zoned, allowing you to heat specific areas of your home as needed, enhancing energy efficiency.
Allergen Reduction: As there's no forced air movement, underfloor heating doesn't circulate dust or allergens, which can be beneficial for those with respiratory sensitivities.

Key Considerations for Underfloor Electric Heating

Installation Cost: Underfloor heating installation can be costly, particularly in existing homes where floors need to be lifted.
Running Costs (Electricity Price): While efficient in its heat delivery, electric underfloor heating can be expensive to run continuously, particularly in large areas, given New Zealand's electricity prices. It's often most economical in well-insulated homes or for specific zones.
Slower Response Time: Due to the thermal mass of the floor, these systems can take longer to warm up compared to instant heating methods. They are best suited for continuous background heating rather than quick temperature adjustments.
Impact on Flooring: Not all flooring types are compatible with underfloor heating, or they may require specific installation methods.

Choosing the Right Heating for Your New Zealand Home

Selecting the ideal heating system for your New Zealand home goes beyond just opting for the most popular choice. It's a critical decision that impacts your comfort, energy bills, and lifestyle for years to come. When considering alternatives to heat pumps, it's crucial to thoroughly evaluate your home's unique requirements, your budget, and your personal preferences for warmth and aesthetics.

Each alternative – hydronic systems, wall panel heaters, wood burners, gas fires, and underfloor electric heating – offers distinct advantages and considerations. By understanding these options, you are empowered to make an informed decision that ensures your home remains warm, healthy, and comfortable throughout New Zealand's colder months.

For tailored recommendations based on your home's unique characteristics and heating requirements, or if you're still weighing whether a heat pump might actually be the best fit after all, don't hesitate to reach out to a certified HVAC specialist.