In New Zealand, both heat pump installers and refrigeration engineers work with systems that move heat using refrigerant — but their qualifications, licensing, and the jobs they tackle are quite different. Understanding the distinction helps you hire the right person for your project and ensures the work is done legally and safely.
What Does a Heat Pump Installer Do?
A heat pump installer specialises in domestic and light-commercial heat pump systems — the kind you'd find heating and cooling homes, offices, and small retail spaces. Their core work includes:
- Selecting the right heat pump size and type for your space
- Mounting the indoor and outdoor units
- Running refrigerant pipework between units
- Commissioning the system and checking for leaks
- Electrical connections (in coordination with a licensed electrician, or if they hold the relevant electrical registration)
In NZ, anyone who handles refrigerants must hold a Refrigerant Handling Licence (RHL) issued under the Ozone Layer Protection Act. This applies to heat pump installers too. The RHL has different classes depending on the type and quantity of refrigerant involved, so always check that your installer holds the appropriate class for your system.
Many heat pump installers are also Licensed Building Practitioners (LBPs) or work alongside them when installation involves restricted building work — for example, penetrations through an exterior wall that could affect weathertightness. Check with your local council whether a building consent is required; most standard residential heat pump installations fall under Schedule 1 exemptions, but it pays to confirm.
What Does a Refrigeration Engineer Do?
A refrigeration engineer (sometimes called a refrigeration and air conditioning technician or engineer) has broader, more advanced training covering a wider range of refrigeration systems. Their work typically includes:
- Industrial and commercial refrigeration (cool stores, supermarket display cases, process cooling)
- Large-scale air conditioning and HVAC systems
- Chiller plants and complex multi-circuit systems
- Fault diagnosis and repair on high-capacity equipment
- System design and commissioning for commercial and industrial clients
Refrigeration engineers usually hold a New Zealand Certificate in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (or an equivalent trade qualification), and they must also hold the appropriate Refrigerant Handling Licence. At senior levels, some hold engineering degrees or work as Chartered Professional Engineers (CPEng).
While a refrigeration engineer can install a domestic heat pump, it's a bit like hiring a structural engineer to hang a picture frame — technically capable, but often not the most cost-effective choice for a straightforward home installation.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Heat Pump Installer | Refrigeration Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Typical work | Domestic & light-commercial heat pumps | Commercial/industrial refrigeration & HVAC |
| Qualification | Trade cert + RHL | Trade cert or degree + RHL |
| System complexity | Low–medium | Medium–very high |
| Refrigerant licence | Required | Required |
| Electrical work | Often included (check licence) | Varies |
| Building consent | Rarely needed (confirm with council) | Varies by project |
Refrigerant Handling: A Legal Requirement for Both
This is the big thing both roles share: handling refrigerant is restricted work in NZ. Under the Ozone Layer Protection Act, only people with a valid Refrigerant Handling Licence may purchase, handle, or recover refrigerants. If someone offers to install or service your heat pump without this licence, walk away — it's illegal and could void your warranty or insurance.
Modern heat pumps use refrigerants such as R32 or R410A. These aren't ozone-depleting like the old R22, but they are still potent greenhouse gases and must be handled responsibly. WorkSafe NZ has guidance on safe handling of hazardous substances in the workplace, which applies to refrigerant work.
Electrical Work and Heat Pumps
Connecting a heat pump to your home's electrical supply is restricted electrical work under the Electricity Act. This must be carried out by a registered electrician or someone who holds the relevant electrical registration. Many heat pump installers are also registered electricians — but always ask to see their credentials. You can verify electrical workers through the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB).
Energy Efficiency Considerations
Whether you're talking to a heat pump installer or a refrigeration engineer, a good professional will help you choose an energy-efficient system suited to NZ's climate. Heat pumps are one of the most efficient ways to heat a home — for every 1 kW of electricity used, a quality heat pump can deliver 3–5 kW of heating. Energywise has useful guidance on choosing and using heat pumps efficiently.
For rental properties, landlords should also be aware of the Healthy Homes Standards, which set minimum heating requirements. Tenancy Services has full details on what's required.
When to Call a Professional
- For a home or small office heat pump: hire a qualified heat pump installer with a valid Refrigerant Handling Licence and electrical registration. Check reviews and ask for references.
- For a cool store, commercial kitchen, supermarket, or large HVAC system: you need a qualified refrigeration engineer with relevant commercial experience.
- For any refrigerant leak, fault, or regas: don't attempt this yourself — call a licensed professional immediately.
- If you're unsure about building consent: contact your local council before work begins.
You can find qualified, vetted heat pump installers and refrigeration engineers in your area right here on tradedirectory.co.nz.
ISO 9001
