What’s the Best Way to Stay Warm Without Burning Through Your Budget?

As power prices continue to rise across New Zealand, many Kiwis are asking the same thing:

"What’s the smartest, most cost-effective way to heat my home this winter?"

Let’s take a look at the most common heating options so you can make a warm, energy-wise choice for your household.

🔁 Heat Pumps - The Smart Winter Winner

If you're looking for comfort, efficiency, and long-term savings, a heat pump is tough to beat.

✅ Energy efficient: A standard 5kW heat pump costs just over $1.00 per hour to run.

✅ Quick to warm: Heats a space rapidly and efficiently - especially if your home is well-insulated.

✅ Year-round comfort: Heats in winter and cools in summer.

✅ Set and forget: Use a timer and set the temperature no higher than 21°C for optimum performance and power savings.

✅ Low maintenance: A professional clean and service once a year keeps things running smoothly.

Pro tip: The right size matters - installing the correct-sized unit for your room is key to getting the best results.

🔌 Electric Heaters - Convenient, but Costly Over Time

Electric heaters are everywhere - and while they’re affordable upfront, not all are created equal when it comes to running costs.

🔸Fan heaters - Ideal for a short, sharp burst of heat in small rooms. Not cost-effective long-term.

🔸 Panel heaters - Low wattage and ideal for pre-heating a room with a timer. Best for background warmth.

🔸 Oil, micathermic, ceramic heaters - Each has its pros, but none match a heat pump for power savings.

💡 Example: A 2.4kW panel heater running for 5 hours can cost around $3.00 per day - much more than a heat pump for the same result.

🔥 Wood Burners - Rustic Charm with Extra Work

There’s nothing quite like the warm glow and gentle crackle of a wood burner on a cold night.  For many households, they offer cosy vibes and lower running costs – especially if firewood is free.

But keep in mind:

⚠️Labour-intensive: You’ll need to chop, haul, store, and feed your fire.

⚠️ Less efficient heat control: Harder to regulate temperature evenly across the home.

⚠️ Not instant: They take time to heat up and aren’t ideal if you want quick warmth.

⚠️ Environmental impact: Emissions can affect indoor and outdoor air quality.

Ideal for: Rural or semi-rural homes with access to affordable firewood and where regular upkeep isn’t an issue.

🔥 Gas Heaters - Instant Heat, Increasing Costs

Gas heaters offer fast, reliable warmth - great for heating up a space quickly on cold evenings.

Ideal for: Homes already connected to gas, where fast heating is a priority - and proper ventilation is in place.

However:

⚠️Gas prices are rising: Running costs are increasing faster than electricity - and prices are expected to continue climbing.

⚠️ Ventilation matters: Portable gas heaters can create moisture and air quality issues unless properly flued.

⚠️ Installation adds up: Fixed gas heaters must be professionally installed and vented outdoors, which can be costly.

⚠️ Safety first: Poorly maintained gas heaters can pose fire or carbon monoxide risks.

🌡️ In Summary: Choose What’s Right for Your Home

🔧 How Can AB Electrical Help?

AB Electrical is here to help you heat your home smartly, safely, and efficiently.

We supply and install high-performing heat pumps and panel heaters to suit a wide range of homes and budgets - helping you stay warm without blowing out your power bill.

✅ Want advice on the right heating system for your home?
✅ Not sure what size heat pump you need?
✅ Wondering if a panel heater will do the trick?

📞 Call us on 0800 688 244 or 📧 email office@abelectrical.co.nz - and let’s chat about your best options for staying cosy this winter.

☝️ Sorry – firewood deliveries not included!