It’s one of the most common questions Auckland homeowners ask: Should I leave my heat pump on all the time, or is it better to switch it off when I’m not using it?
With rising power costs and changing weather patterns, understanding the most efficient way to run your heat pump can make a real difference to your comfort and your bills. This guide explains the pros and cons of continuous operation, what the experts recommend, and how to fine-tune your system for year-round efficiency.
Pros and Cons of Running a Heat Pump Continuously
Leaving your heat pump on 24/7 can have both benefits and drawbacks:
Pros
- Stable indoor temperature: Your home stays consistently warm (or cool) without big fluctuations.
- Less cycling: Your heat pump avoids frequent stop–start cycles, which can reduce wear and tear.
- Good for well-insulated homes: If your home holds heat well, gentle continuous heating (or cooling) can be efficient.
Cons
- Higher energy use in some homes: Older or poorly insulated properties may lose heat too fast, causing the system to run longer and use more power.
- Overheating overnight: Keeping the same daytime temperature at night can sometimes waste energy and make bedrooms too warm.
- Unnecessary operation: Running the unit while you’re out for long periods isn’t always cost-effective.
A helpful way to compare the real-world impact is to review expected running costs. Albany Heat Pumps offers a simple guide here: how much a heat pump costs to run.
Energy Efficiency: What the Experts Say
Most experts agree that the most efficient approach depends on how your home retains heat.
If your home is well insulated, reducing the temperature rather than switching the unit off completely can be more efficient. The heat pump then works gently rather than heating a cold home from scratch.
However, in homes with draughts or single glazing, continuously running the heat pump may lead to higher energy bills. In those cases, turning it off when you’re away or asleep – or dropping the temperature significantly – is usually more economical.
For overall power behaviour, you can explore typical usage patterns here: how much power a heat pump uses.
Best Settings for Comfort
For everyday use, the following settings give the best balance of comfort and efficiency:
- Heating mode with Auto fan: Helps maintain a steady temperature without overworking the unit.
- Set between 18–21°C: Ideal for most Auckland homes in the cooler months.
- Lower to 16–18°C overnight: Keeps bedrooms comfortable without wasting heat.
- Use timers: Schedule operation around your routines to avoid unnecessary runtime.
- Keep filters clean: Even a slightly blocked filter reduces efficiency and increases power use. You can read more in the maintenance guide here: heat pump maintenance.
These small adjustments can significantly improve comfort while reducing demand on the system.
Tips for Reducing Power Bills While Staying Warm
If you want to run your heat pump more efficiently without sacrificing warmth, try the following:
- Seal draughts and close doors to keep heat where you need it.
- Use curtains at night to reduce heat loss through windows.
- Pre-heat living areas before you get home rather than heating from cold.
- Take advantage of dry mode on damp days to maximise comfort at lower temperatures.
- Check insulation levels – even minor upgrades make a big difference in heat pump performance.
- Follow year-round efficiency advice here: energy-saving tips.
A well-set system can cut running costs without compromising on comfort.
Should You Leave Your Heat Pump On All The Time?
So, should you leave your heat pump on all the time? The best answer is: it depends on your home and how you use it. Many households achieve great results by running their heat pump steadily during the day and lowering the temperature at night. Others do better switching it off when they’re away for long periods.
If you’re unsure what’s right for your home, expert guidance can make all the difference. Albany Heat Pumps helps Auckland homeowners optimise their systems based on real-world installs, not generic advice.
