Heat Pump Water Heaters NZ
Energy-efficient hot water systems reduce running costs & improve performance.
Heat Pump Water Heater
A smarter and more efficient way to heat your water
Heat pump water heaters are one of the most energy-efficient ways to produce hot water in your home.
Instead of generating heat directly, they extract heat from the surrounding air, using significantly less electricity while still delivering reliable hot water.
At Aqua Works, we help homeowners choose, install, and service heat pump systems that are built for long-term performance.
Call us for a FREE quote and to discuss if a heat pump system is right for your home
What is a heat pump water heater?
A heat pump water heater works differently from a traditional hot water cylinder. A heat pump:
- draws heat from the air
- transfers it into the water tank
- uses less electricity than standard systems
This makes it a highly efficient option for households and for commercial buildings looking to reduce energy use and running costs.
Heat pump water heaters use around 60 to 75% less electricity than a conventional electric hot water system (source: Gen Less).
Why choose a heat pump system?
Lower Energy Costs
Heat pump systems can use significantly less electricity than traditional hot water systems, helping reduce your power bill over time.
Energy Efficient & Future-Focused
A more sustainable option for homes looking to reduce energy consumption.
Reliable Hot Water Supply
Providing consistent hot water for everyday household use.
Suitable for Many Homes
Works well in a wide range of setups, including both new builds and upgrades.
Is a heat pump water heater right for your home?
Heat pump systems are a great option, but not always the right one for every situation. They are best suited if:
- You want to reduce long-term energy costs
- You have space for an outdoor unit
- You’re upgrading or replacing an existing system
- You want a more energy-efficient solution
We’ll assess your home and give you clear advice on whether a heat pump system is the right fit.
Replacing an old cylinder? See hot water cylinder replacement, or all our hot water services.
Like any cylinder, a heat pump water heater lasts longer on balanced, filtered water. See how your water affects your hot water cylinder.
Heat pump versus traditional hot water systems
Heat Pump
- Lower running costs
- Higher upfront investment
- Energy-efficient
Traditional Hot Water Cylinder
- Lower upfront cost
- Higher running costs
- Simpler setup
Not sure which heat pump system is right for your home?
We will assess your setup and give you clear, honest advice to find the best solution.
Heat Pump Systems we work with
Rinnai
High-performance heat pump hot water systems designed for New Zealand conditions, offering smart control, efficient operation, and reliable performance for modern households.
Rheem
Energy-efficient heat pump hot water systems that use heat from the surrounding air to reduce electricity use and deliver reliable mains-pressure hot water for everyday homes.
Econergy
Made in Auckland. Econergy’s tested figure for the HP4000LT is 73.8% less energy than an electric cylinder in the North Island, and it connects to new or existing cylinders.
Aqua Works are your trusted local Plumber near you.
We are Master Plumbers and are On-Call 24/7
Why choose Aqua Works
Choosing a heat pump system isn’t just about the product. It’s about getting the right setup, installed correctly, so it actually delivers the performance and savings it promises.
Specialists in Hot Water Systems
We focus on water systems, so you get advice and installation tailored specifically to heat pump technology, not generic plumbing solutions.
Built for NZ Conditions
We work with systems designed for New Zealand homes and climate, ensuring reliable performance year-round.
Lower Running Costs Over Time
Heat pump systems use energy from the air, using around 60 to 75% less electricity than an electric cylinder.
Installed for Performance
Correct setup is critical. We install systems properly so they run efficiently and reliably, delivering the savings they promise.
Retrofit & Upgrade Expertise
In many cases, we can connect heat pump systems to your existing cylinder. We’ll recommend the best option for your setup.
Installation & ongoing servicing
Installing a heat pump system correctly is essential for performance and efficiency. At Aqua Works, we provide:
Installed correctly to ensure optimal performance, airflow and efficiency from day one.
Often, heat pump systems can be connected to your existing cylinder, reducing installation cost & complexity.
We assess placement, system design and water usage to ensure the system performs as intended.
We’re offering maintenance, servicing and advice to keep your system running efficiently.
Our customers love to recommend Aqua Works…
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“We had an urgent issue and both the receptionist and plumber were considerate, efficient and our issue was resolved in the same day. Thanks so much and I would recommend using this firm in the future.”
Donna Frost, 2025
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“October 2025: Troy and his team disconnected our old leaking solar hot water heater on the roof, and fitted our new heat pump hot water cylinder. All smoothly co-ordinated with a minimum of fuss and disruption. Excellent job guys!”
John Sibley, 2025
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“I have tried quite a few plumbers over the years and Aqua Works has been the best to deal with from every aspect – communication, knowledge, on-time, job done. Highly recommended.”
Andrew Bell, 2025
Choosing the right heat pump system
Not all systems are the same. We help you choose based on:
House-hold size and hot water usage
Available space and installation setup
Budget and long-term savings
System performance and reliability
You’ll get a system that suits your home, not just a generic recommendation. Call us to get advice on your best option.
FAQs about Heat Pump Water Heaters
Are heat pump water heaters worth it?
For many households, yes. Heat pump water heaters use significantly less electricity than traditional hot water systems, which can reduce power bills over time. They’re especially beneficial for homes with high hot water usage and for those looking for long-term energy savings.
How much does a heat pump water heater cost in NZ?
The cost of a heat pump water heater in NZ depends on the system type, size, and installation requirements. While the upfront investment is higher than a standard cylinder, lower running costs can make it more cost-effective over time. We provide clear pricing based on your setup.
You’ll find current prices for the Econergy units in our online shop.
Do heat pump water heaters work in winter?
Yes. They work best in warmer air, but the systems we install are designed for New Zealand winters. Rinnai designed HydraHeat for -10°C to 42°C, Rheem’s AmbiPower 280e runs on its heat pump down to -6°C (its element takes over below that), and Econergy rates the HP4000LT for -5°C to 40°C.
Can I replace my existing cylinder with a heat pump system?
In many cases, yes. Most existing hot water cylinders can be replaced with a heat pump system, depending on available space and setup. We’ll assess your current system and recommend the best option for your home.
Talk to one of our plumbers about your options.
How much space does a heat pump water heater need?
Heat pump systems usually require space for an outdoor unit and a cylinder. The exact requirements depend on the model and installation setup. We’ll assess your property and recommend a system that fits your available space.
Ready to upgrade your hot water system?
We will help you choose the right solution, whether that’s a heat pump or a better option for your home.