From winter woolies to summer pyjamas: free heat pump transforms a Rangiora home
Thanks to a home heating subsidy, first-home buyers like Courtney in Rangiora are getting fully funded heat pumps that improve energy efficiency, reduce power bills, and support cleaner air.
The home did have a wood burner but compliance had expired six years earlier, so Courtney was using a heater instead.
What she didn’t expect was that just a couple of months later, she’d be back in summer pyjamas — thanks to a fully subsidised heat pump installation through a regional clean heating programme.
“I saw a Facebook ad about a grant, but I honestly didn’t think I’d qualify,” Courtney said. “I applied on a whim and next minute, I was approved. I didn’t pay a cent.”
Support proves a game-changer for replacement heating
With support from Community Energy Action (CEA), and funding from us and the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), Courtney had a 7.2kW high-wall heat pump installed by EnviroMaster, and her old fire removed and disposed of by HeatStore.
“The first online application only took seconds, and everything was well communicated after that. CEA even applied to Environment Canterbury on my behalf. I was honestly in shock at how easy it all was.”
With her heat pump now programmed to warm the house before she gets home from work, the difference has been life-changing.
“It’s so brilliant having it set up to just do its thing. Even on low temperatures the heat pump keeps the whole house toasty — it's amazing. As soon as the heat pump was installed, I was back into the summer PJs with much lower power bills.”
First-home buyer Courtney Mitchell
As someone with asthma, Courtney also appreciates the added health benefits of cleaner air. “This model has extra filtration so the air feels drier and fresher, and the condensation isn’t nearly as bad as before.”
Courtney’s message to others? Don’t count yourself out.
“Just do it. I honestly didn’t think I would be eligible. But here I am with a brand-new heat pump. This is such an amazing opportunity, and it was so easy and pain-free, I barely had to lift a finger.”
Financial assistance for cleaner heating options
Replacing old wood burners with new, cleaner forms of heating can be a costly exercise.
With home heating subsidies available to help low-income households living in Clean Air Zones, the transition to cleaner forms of heating that further improve air quality is easier and more affordable. Those who meet the eligibility criteria can get up to 100 per cent of the cost of a replacement ULEB or efficient heat pump.
Get in touch: If you have any questions, contact our advisory team on 0800 324 636.
Alternatively, if you don’t meet the eligibility criteria, you may be able to get a loan from your bank or retailer. Some banks allow you to add the cost of home heating appliances to your mortgage without additional fees, while some retailers offer interest-free loans for a certain period. We encourage you to investigate these options.
Courtney's old heater set up
The new heat pump in the process of installation