Need air conditioning installed in Christchurch? We’re Heat Pump HQ—certified installers who’ve been doing this for over 10 years across Canterbury. Here’s what most people don’t realise: in New Zealand, air conditioning and heat pumps are the same technology. One system cools your home in summer AND heats it in winter.
We show up on time, we do the job properly, and we don’t disappear afterwards. Our installers hold National Certificate in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning plus IRHACE membership.
Pricing upfront: Single room AC installations start from $2,500 installed. Multi-room systems run $6,500-$15,000. Ducted whole-home air conditioning is $12,000-$30,000+. No hidden costs, no surprises.
A properly installed air conditioning system uses 600% less energy than portable coolers or inefficient heating. Our customers typically save $800+ per year on power bills while staying comfortable year-round.
Call 03 242 1023 for a free quote. We’ll visit your property, give you honest advice, and quote within 24 hours.
Note: Looking for heat pump installation? It’s the same thing—we just use different terminology. See our heat pump installation page →
Air Conditioning vs Heat Pumps in New Zealand – What’s the Difference?
Here’s the truth: there is no difference. In New Zealand, the terms are used interchangeably because the same equipment does both jobs.
Air conditioning systems (heat pumps) work by:
- Extracting heat from outside air and bringing it inside (heating mode)
- Extracting heat from inside and dumping it outside (cooling mode)
- Using refrigerant to transfer heat, not generate it
So when you search for “air conditioning installation,” you’re getting a system that also heats efficiently in winter. That’s why we’re also called heat pump installers—same equipment, different name.
The key is proper installation. Too many contractors don’t size systems correctly, place outdoor units in poor locations, or skimp on electrical work. We do it right.
What Makes a Good Air Conditioning Installation
The biggest mistake? Installers who guess at sizing instead of calculating. An oversized AC system will short-cycle (turn on and off constantly), wasting power and failing to dehumidify properly. An undersized system will run flat-out and struggle to cool your space.
We do actual heat load calculations. That means measuring your rooms, checking insulation, accounting for window types and sun exposure. Takes an extra hour but it’s the difference between a system that works properly for 15+ years versus one that’s a headache.
What separates professional air conditioning installers from basic contractors:
- Proper electrical work
Older Christchurch homes often need circuit upgrades. We have qualified electricians on our team—no mucking around with dodgy wiring or subcontractors you’ve never met. - Outdoor unit placement
Too close to your bedroom window and you’ll hear it running at night. In the wrong spot and your neighbours will complain. Near coastal areas like New Brighton, we use marine-grade fixtures because salt destroys standard fittings within a few years. - The details that matter
We run refrigerant lines inside protective conduit, use vibration-dampening pads so your unit doesn’t rattle, and position everything for both performance and appearance. These details cost us a bit more time but save you hassles later. - Heritage homes
We’ve done dozens of installations in Merivale and Fendalton character homes where you can’t just whack a unit anywhere. Council has rules, and homeowners want systems that don’t wreck the aesthetic. - New builds
For places like Halswell and Rolleston, we work directly with builders during the framing stage for ducted air conditioning. Get the planning wrong and you’re stuck with compromised ductwork that’s noisy and inefficient.
Why Choose Heat Pump HQ for Air Conditioning Installation?
- Local and specialised
Unlike large national chains, we’re Christchurch specialists who understand local climate conditions, building codes, and heritage home requirements. - Certified expert installers
All installers hold National Certificate in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. Not all Christchurch air conditioning companies can say that. - Transparent, competitive pricing
No hidden costs, no pressure tactics. We provide detailed quotes within 24 hours showing exactly what you’re paying for. - Proven track record
Over 10 years, hundreds of successful installations, and consistently 5-star reviews. Check our Google reviews. - Comprehensive service
From initial consultation to ongoing maintenance, we’re here for the life of your system. We don’t disappear after installation. - Quality workmanship guarantee
Beyond manufacturer warranties, we back our installation work with our own workmanship guarantee.
Air Conditioning Installation Cost Christchurch
Wondering about air conditioning installation costs? Here’s transparent pricing with no hidden fees:
Single Room Air Conditioning:
- Small room 2.5kW: $2,500 – $3,200 installed
- Medium room 3.5kW: $3,200 – $4,000 installed
- Large room/open plan 5.0kW+: $4,000 – $5,500 installed
Multi-Room Air Conditioning Systems:
- 2 indoor units: $6,500 – $8,000 installed
- 3 indoor units: $8,500 – $11,000 installed
- 4+ indoor units: $11,000 – $15,000 installed
Ducted Air Conditioning:
- Small home 100-150m²: $12,000 – $16,000 installed
- Medium home 150-200m²: $15,000 – $20,000 installed
- Large home 200m²+: $20,000 – $30,000+ installed
What’s Included:
- Professional installation by certified installers
- All necessary equipment and materials
- Electrical work and upgrades if required
- Full system testing and commissioning
- Customer training on operation
- Manufacturer warranty (typically 5-7 years)
- Our workmanship guarantee
- Follow-up support
Additional factors affecting cost:
- Difficulty of installation (multi-storey, difficult access)
- Distance between indoor and outdoor units
- Electrical panel upgrades for older homes
- Premium features (WiFi control, advanced filtration)
Ask about payment plans and heat pump subsidies that might be available.
Call 03 242 1023 for accurate pricing on your Christchurch property.
Our Air Conditioning Installation Process
We’ve refined our process over hundreds of installations:
Step 1: Free Home Assessment
One of our installers visits your property to:
- Assess your cooling and heating requirements
- Check electrical setup and capacity
- Measure rooms and evaluate insulation
- Discuss your budget and preferences
- Recommend the optimal system
No pushy sales tactics—just honest advice.
Step 2: Detailed Quote
You’ll receive a detailed quote within 24 hours with transparent pricing and no hidden costs.
Step 3: Schedule Installation
Most single-room installations take 2-4 hours. Multi-room systems need a full day. Ducted systems take 1-3 days.
Step 4: Professional Installation
Our certified installers arrive with all equipment, protect your property, complete the installation to manufacturer specifications, and test everything thoroughly.
Step 5: Training
Before we leave, we show you how to operate your new system, programme features, and answer all questions.
Types of Air Conditioning Systems We Install
- Split System Air Conditioning
Most popular option. One outdoor unit, one indoor unit. Perfect for cooling (and heating) individual rooms. Starting from $2,500 installed. Takes 2-3 hours. - Multi-Split Air Conditioning
One outdoor unit connected to multiple indoor units throughout your home. Individual room control without multiple outdoor units cluttering your property. One day installation. - Ducted Air Conditioning
Premium whole-home solution. Concealed in ceiling space with only vents visible. Whisper-quiet, zoned control, invisible wall units. 1-3 days installation depending on home size. - Cassette Units
Ceiling-mounted units for commercial spaces or homes with high ceilings. Four-way air distribution for even cooling and heating.
Air Conditioning Brands We Install
We’re authorised installers for all major brands:
Premium Brands:
- Mitsubishi Electric – Exceptional reliability and quiet operation
- Daikin – Advanced features and smart home integration
- Fujitsu – Great value with solid performance
Quality Mid-Range:
- Panasonic – Energy-efficient with good warranties
- Toshiba – Reliable performance at competitive prices
- Haier – Budget-friendly without sacrificing quality
As independent installers, we’re not tied to one brand. We’ll recommend the best system for your situation, not the brand that gives us the best commission.
Compare brands with our heat pump brands comparison guide.
Areas We Serve Throughout Canterbury
We serve the entire Christchurch metropolitan area and surrounding districts.
Central & East: CBD, Edgeware, Addington, New Brighton, Parklands, Burwood, Linwood
South & Port Hills: Cashmere, Halswell, Spreydon, Sydenham, Sumner, Heathcote Valley, Lyttelton
West & North: Riccarton, Fendalton, Burnside, Ilam, Hornby, Papanui, St Albans, Belfast
Outer Canterbury: Rolleston, Lincoln, Prebbleton, Templeton
View our complete service areas.
Call 03 242 1023 for air conditioning installation anywhere in Christchurch.
Smart Air Conditioning Systems
We specialise in smart heat pump systems with WiFi control, smartphone apps, voice control (Google Home, Amazon Alexa), and advanced programming features.
Control your air conditioning from anywhere, set weekly schedules, and monitor energy consumption in real-time.
Common Air Conditioning Installation Questions
How long does air conditioning installation take?
Single room installations take 2-4 hours. Multi-room systems need a full day. Ducted systems take 1-3 days depending on your home’s layout.
Do I need electrical upgrades?
Many older Christchurch homes need some electrical work. Our installers will assess your system during the free site visit and include any necessary work in the quote.
Can you install air conditioning in heritage homes?
Absolutely. We’ve worked on plenty of character homes throughout Christchurch. Our specialists understand heritage requirements and have creative solutions. We also offer heat pump covers for aesthetics.
Will it heat my home in winter too?
Yes! That’s the beauty of modern air conditioning systems in NZ—they’re incredibly efficient heaters. Often 3-6 times more efficient than traditional electric heaters.
How much will my power bill increase?
For cooling, expect $0.20-0.60 per hour depending on room size. Many customers find their overall power bills decrease because the system is more efficient than old heaters or inefficient cooling methods.
Your Next Steps to Air Conditioning Comfort
Ready to transform your Christchurch home with professional air conditioning installation?
Option 1: Call Us
Phone 03 242 1023 to speak with our team. We’ll answer questions and arrange a free home assessment.
Option 2: Book Online
Visit our website to schedule your free consultation.
Option 3: Get More Information
- Use our sizing calculator
- Check heat pump subsidies
- Contact us with questions
What Happens Next?
- Free consultation at your property (no obligation)
- Detailed quote within 24 hours
- Schedule installation at your convenience
- Professional installation by certified installers
- Ongoing support for life of system
Don’t spend another summer suffering through Christchurch’s heat. Don’t settle for unqualified contractors.
Choose certified air conditioning installers with proven expertise and hundreds of satisfied customers.
Get Your Free Quote Today
Call 03 242 1023 – Speak with our friendly team
Email: info@heatpumpshq.co.nz
Online: Book through our website