When building a new home, one of the most crucial elements to consider is how you’ll heat the house. Heating and plumbing are at the core of comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term usability.
Here, we’ll explore several important factors and questions to address as you are planning and starting to make decisions for your new home, ensuring it meets your unique needs and preferences.
Questions on the Building
1. Floor Coverings:
The type of flooring you select can influence your choice of heating. For instance, underfloor heating is highly efficient with tile or concrete floors, while carpet might impact heat transfer. If you are considering underfloor heating, check compatibility with your floor coverings.
2. Windows:
Your choice of windows will significantly impact the home’s energy efficiency. Double-glazed windows are common for energy conservation, but also consider the specific brand and model of joinery and glazing. High-performance glazing, such as triple-glazed windows, may be worth considering in cold climates to prevent heat loss.
3. Insulation:
Proper insulation in the floor, ceiling, and walls can reduce your heating needs by maintaining internal temperature better. Consider what type of insulation is being used (e.g., fiberglass, spray foam, cellulose) and its effectiveness in different parts of the house.
4. Air Tightness:
Homes that are well-insulated and air-tight will retain heat more effectively, reducing energy costs. Air-tight construction techniques are key for a high-performance home, minimising drafts and temperature fluctuations. However, it’s essential to balance air tightness with ventilation systems to maintain air quality.
How You Intend to Use the Home
1. Room Usage:
Will all rooms be occupied all the time, or will some (like bedrooms or guest rooms) only be used occasionally? Rooms that are not used frequently can be equipped with independent heating controls, so you don’t waste energy heating them when they’re empty.
2. Comfortable Temperatures:
Understanding your preferred temperature for different rooms will help you choose the right heating system. Living areas may need to be kept warmer, while bedrooms can often be cooler for comfortable sleeping. How important is it to maintain different temperature zones?
3. Control:
Do you want all rooms to have separate thermostats? Zonal control allows you to set different temperatures in various areas, optimising comfort and energy efficiency. Some smart heating systems let you control this through an app or home automation system.
Fireplaces and Wall Space
1. Fire Usage:
If you’re considering a fireplace, how often will it be used? Is it primarily for ambiance or will it be a major heat source? If used primarily at night, ensure your main heating system will maintain warmth during the day.
2. Wall Space:
If radiators are part of your heating plan, you’ll need to account for wall space, as they can take up valuable room or limit furniture placement. Underfloor heating might be a better option if wall space is at a premium.
Cooling Options
1. Heat Pumps with Cooling:
Some heat pumps can serve dual purposes, providing cooling in the summer and heating in the winter. If you live in a climate that experiences hot summers, this could be a valuable addition to keep your home comfortable year-round.
Hot Water and Separate Spaces:
1. Hot Water Heating:
Heat pumps can efficiently heat water, making them a versatile option if you’re looking for both home heating and hot water solutions. Fast and efficient, this can be a game-changer for busy households that need ample hot water on demand.
2. Separate Flat:
If your home includes a separate flat or guest suite, consider its heating needs. Installing radiators could be a good option for quick, responsive heating, especially if the space is only used intermittently.
Solar Power and Integration
1. Solar Considerations:
Are you thinking about integrating solar power into your home, either now or in the future? Solar can greatly reduce your long-term energy costs and pair well with systems like heat pumps, which can use solar power to generate heat, hot water, and even cooling.
2. Heat Pump Integration:
Some heat pumps offer full integration with solar, hot water, and cooling systems. This kind of set-it-and-forget-it solution allows you to automate temperature control for maximum efficiency while reducing your energy bills.
Heat Pump Considerations
1. Noise Levels:
Some heat pumps are noisier than others, so if your home is in a quiet area or if the unit will be located near frequently used living spaces, choose a model with low operating noise.
2. Quality and Longevity:
Heat pumps vary in quality, cost, and warranty length. Higher-end models may offer better long-term performance and energy savings, making them a better investment if this will be your long-term home rather than an investment property.
Once you’ve determined how you plan to live in your home—whether it’s a place you’ll use daily in every room, or one where certain areas may only be used occasionally—you’ll have a clearer idea of the best heating solutions.
Answering these questions will allow your contractor to perform heat loss calculations, ensuring that the system installed will meet your comfort needs efficiently and effectively. Proper planning will ensure your home is warm, energy-efficient, and tailored to your unique lifestyle.
If youre looking to build a new home in Queenstown, Wanaka or surrounding areas and would like some advice on heating get in touch!
Call Us; 03 443 5718
Email: admin@optum.co.nz