When you book a heat pump installation in New Zealand, the electrical connection is not something just anyone can legally do — it's restricted electrical work that must be carried out by a registered electrician. Depending on your installer's qualifications, they may handle this themselves or bring in a subcontractor. Either way, it should be seamlessly organised for you.
Why the Electrical Connection Is a Big Deal
Connecting a heat pump to your home's electrical supply involves wiring a dedicated circuit, installing a disconnect switch, and often upgrading your switchboard. Under New Zealand law, this is classified as restricted electrical work (REW) — meaning it can only be performed by a person registered with the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB). Doing this work without the right licence is illegal and can void your home insurance.
Once the work is complete, the electrician must issue you a Certificate of Compliance (CoC). Keep this document safe — you may need it when selling your home or making an insurance claim.
What Qualifications Can a Heat Pump Installer Hold?
Heat pump installers in New Zealand come from different trade backgrounds:
- Refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC) technicians — trained to handle the refrigerant pipework, indoor and outdoor unit placement, and commissioning. They are not automatically licensed to do electrical work.
- Registered electricians with RAC training — some installers hold dual qualifications, meaning they can legally complete both the refrigerant and electrical sides of the job.
- Companies with in-house electricians — larger installation firms often employ registered electricians on staff, so the whole job is handled under one roof.
Always ask your installer upfront: "Are you registered with the EWRB, or will you be subcontracting the electrical connection?" A reputable company will give you a straight answer.
The Subcontracting Arrangement — Is It Normal?
Yes, subcontracting the electrical work is completely normal and widely practised across New Zealand. Many specialist heat pump companies focus on the refrigeration side and have a trusted, registered electrician they work with regularly. This arrangement works well provided:
- The subcontractor is genuinely registered with the EWRB (you can verify this on their public register)
- The electrical work is completed promptly so your heat pump isn't sitting idle
- You receive a Certificate of Compliance for the electrical work
- The overall quote covers both trades — watch for hidden costs if the electrical work is quoted separately
What About Building Consent?
Most standard heat pump installations are exempt from building consent under Schedule 1 of the Building Act, but this depends on the type of system and how it's installed. For example, ducted systems or installations involving significant structural work may require consent. MBIE Building Performance has guidance on Schedule 1 exemptions, but always confirm with your local council before work begins — rules can vary.
What the Homeowner Can (and Cannot) Do
As a homeowner, you can:
- Choose the location of the indoor and outdoor units (within the installer's technical guidelines)
- Paint or decorate around the unit after installation
- Clean filters regularly (this is encouraged and does not require a tradesperson)
You cannot legally:
- Wire the heat pump to your switchboard yourself
- Alter or extend the electrical circuit
- Handle refrigerant (this requires an approved handler certification — confirm the current regulatory requirements with the relevant authority, as rules in this area have been subject to change)
For safety and legal compliance, leave all electrical and refrigerant work to the licensed professionals. WorkSafe NZ has clear guidance on electrical safety in the home.
Getting a Quote — What to Ask
When comparing quotes from heat pump installers, use this checklist:
| Question | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Is electrical work included in the price? | Avoids surprise invoices |
| Who is the registered electrician? | Confirms REW compliance |
| Will I receive a Certificate of Compliance? | Legal requirement for REW |
| Is a new circuit or switchboard upgrade needed? | Can significantly affect cost |
| What brand and model are you recommending? | Affects efficiency and warranty |
As a broad guide, a standard single-room heat pump supply and installation (including electrical) typically ranges from around $2,000 to $4,500+, depending on unit size, brand, and site complexity. Ducted or multi-room systems cost considerably more. Always get at least two or three quotes.
Healthy Homes and Rental Properties
If you're a landlord installing a heat pump to meet the Healthy Homes heating standard, the same licensing rules apply. The installation must be done correctly and documented — a CoC for the electrical work is part of that paper trail.
When to Call a Professional
For any heat pump installation, you should always use a qualified professional. The refrigerant work requires an approved handler, and the electrical connection is restricted work under NZ law. Attempting either yourself is unsafe, illegal, and could void your insurance. You can find qualified, local heat pump installers on tradedirectory.co.nz — look for companies that clearly state their EWRB registration or their subcontracting arrangement.
Sources & Further Reading
- Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB) — verify your electrician's registration
- MBIE Building Performance — building consent and Schedule 1 exemptions
- WorkSafe NZ — electrical safety guidance
- Tenancy Services — Healthy Homes heating standard
- BRANZ — home heating and insulation resources
- Energywise — choosing and using heat pumps efficiently
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