50 | CONTRACTING Optum Plumbing and Energy Solutions T T Kim Bowden Tailoring temperatures to clients’ needs More architects and homeowners are now prioritsing passive or high-performance homes: Kevin Henderson, the owner of Optum Plumbing and Energy Solutions, can sum up what he sells in one word: comfort. The Wānaka-based company specialises in heating, cooling and solar integrations for high-end clients across the Southern Lakes. “What we’re trying to achieve is, when you walk into a home it’s at the right temperature – not too hot, not too cold,” Kevin says. “We work with clients to find out what level of comfort is right for them.” Kiwi homes haven’t always had a great track record on this front, but Kevin says there’s a growing trend towards better building practices and smarter internal systems – ones that are kinder to both the planet and people’s wallets, at least in the long run. “We have a history of building houses that are pretty basic – limited insulation, poor-quality windows,” he says. “The priority has often been to get them up quickly, build them as cheaply as possible, and get people into them.” But Kevin has noticed a shift. More architects and homeowners are now prioritsing passive or high-performance homes: well insulated spaces with thermally efficient, airtight windows and doors, and heating and cooling systems calculated to be fit for purpose. Cost efficiency is another big driver. While Optum’s projects are high-end, Kevin says long-term running costs remain a motivator for many clients. “In the old days, heating used to cost a fortune – whether it was gas, diesel, or an open fire,” he says. “And the houses were so leaky all that heat would just escape.” Today, things have changed. “People are investing up-front in better insulation, and it makes the running costs of these (heating, cooling and hot water) systems much cheaper. So, you’re more comfortable for less money.” A lot of Optum’s work comes through referrals, returning architects, or clients that have found the business online, but the first step is always the same – Kevin begins with a conversation. “From my perspective, it’s about sitting down with the homeowner as they’re the ones living in the house,” he says. “We’ll ask things like, ‘In winter or summer, what temperature feels right to you for comfort? Do you prefer air-based systems, with warm air moving around? Or do you want underfloor heating or radiators?’ It’s all about understanding their lifestyle and preferences.” Then come the technical details. Optum carries out detailed heat loss and heat load calculations to make sure the systems they install are precisely matched to the home’s needs. Once those needs are clear, Kevin works closely with architects and builders to bring the vision to life, sourcing the right products for the heating, cooling and hot water and how it will all be controlled. Mechanical ventilation is also often part of the equation, allowing for airflow without the heat loss or gain that comes from opening doors and windows. “You’re removing moisture, keeping fresh air coming in and moving that stale air out,” Kevin says. The company’s commitment to customer service doesn’t end once their systems are installed. “It’s about walking people through their system, showing them how it works, and how we can make subtle changes to suit their needs as they start to live in their home,” he says. At Optum Plumbing and Heating, we specialise in providing the ideal heating solutions tailored to your needs. Plumbers, Heating Technicians and Gas Fitters proudly serving Queenstown, Wanaka and Surrounding Areas DOES YOUR HEATING SYSTEM MEET YOUR COMFORT NEEDS? IT MIGHT BE TIME FOR AN UPGRADE. BUILDING CONTRACTORS C R O M W E L L For all your building needs Garry 027 220 1195 | www.cbc.nz
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