Heating, Cooling & Ventilation

As a rule of thumb, allow 120–150 W of heating capacity per square metre for well-insulated rooms, but always have a supplier run a detailed heat-load calculation before purchase.

In airtight modern homes, HRV units can save 20–30 % on heating bills by reclaiming heat from exhaust air while delivering fresh, filtered air—often paying back their premium within a few years.

Most new solid-fuel fireplaces require building consent and must be installed to AS/NZS 2918, including approved flue clearances. Gas fires usually need a gas certificate but not full consent.

Filters should be cleaned every 3–6 months and professionally serviced at least once a year to maintain efficiency, indoor air quality and warranty coverage.

Solar thermal systems cover 60–80 % of annual demand; during cloudy winter weeks they typically rely on an electric, gas or heat-pump booster to guarantee supply.