What are heat pumps and how do they work?
Heat pumps use technology to extract and intensify the warmth that is naturally in the air around us then use that warmth to produce hot water. They don’t use solar collectors mounted on the roof like solar systems.
The heat pump consists of an insulated storage tank and a heating module. The heating module must be installed outdoors, but there are options to install the storage tank either outdoors with the heating module, or indoors separated from the heating module by up to 4 metres.
A heat pump works to heat water by transferring the intensified warmth from the air around it into the water, stored in the tank, via a heat exchange system that works in a similar way to an air conditioner.
When emptied, it takes time to reheat to have you back in hot water. Heat pumps draw less electricity than a traditional electric storage water heater, and in doing so, are more energy efficient. They do take longer to heat water, so consider a larger tank capacity to ensure you have enough hot water when you need it.
The benefits of heat pump hot water systems
- Heat pumps are an ideal replacement option for an electric water heater as they will often use existing plumbing
- Heat pumps are a great alternative to solar where unshaded north facing or limited roof space is a problem as they don’t require the installation of roof mounted solar collectors.
- Heat pumps can attract solar rebates and incentives. Ask us for more information.
- Heat pumps consume about 1/3 the electricity of traditional electric water heaters.
Save money and install a heat pump water heater
Heat pump water heaters can reduce the energy you use and greenhouse emissions by up to 65%* depending on where you live, according to Australian Government-approved modelling.
After installing a new heat pump hot water system, the impact on your electricity bill will depend on the tariffs you pay and the type of water heater being replaced. The majority of homeowners see the greatest savings on hot water bills when replacing an electric water heater on a continuous tariff.
Heat pump water heaters are recommended for connection to either 24-hour continuous tariff or extended off-peak, minimum of 16 hours per day.
What is the difference between a solar water heater system and a heat pump?
Heat pumps use technology to extract and intensify the warmth that is naturally in the air around us then uses that warmth to produce hot water.
They don’t use solar collectors mounted on the roof like solar systems. Solar water heaters work by absorbing energy from the sun’s rays in the roof mounted solar collectors and transferring this to heat water stored in the tank. Ground mounted direct systems rely on an inbuilt circulator to push the water through the system, whereas roof mounted systems rely on a natural ‘thermosiphon’ effect. Water passes through the solar collector where it is heated, then moves out of the collector and into the tank. The tank gradually gets hotter until the water reaches its maximum stored temperature. Indirect systems use a special heating fluid, rather than water to absorb heat from the collectors. The heat is transferred to the water in the tank via a heat exchanger.
- More information about how solar hot water works »
Can a heat pump replace my current electric hot water system?
Yes, heat pumps are often the simplest replacement for an electric water heater as they have similar storage tanks and use the same plumbing and electric connections.
We can quickly install a new heat pump to replace your old electric water heater. Call us for a quote and to discuss the storage capacity required for your household hot water usage.
How long does it take to install a heat pump?
A heat pump hot water system is typically a quick replacement for your old electric water heater. Our trucks are on the road right now containing new heat pumps ready for installation.
Solar hot water and heat pump rebates
Generous solar hot water rebates now available mean there has never been a better time to make the switch from gas or electric to solar hot water.
The solar rebate schemes were introduced to provide financial incentives to NSW residents and small business owners when they install energy-efficient appliances and equipment. The rebates include the installation of heat pumps and solar hot water systems.
Homeowners and small businesses can now save thousands of dollars when they install an approved solar hot water system in their home or workplace.
Check your solar rebate eligibility by calling 0410-693-532.
** Hurry, this offer is limited so don’t miss out **
For more information about the solar hot water rebates and to confirm your eligibility, contact the friendly team at Cheapa Hot Water. We can let you know heat pump(s) or solar hot water system(s) will offer you the best value for money based on the solar hot water rebate available.
Hot water is our business and we have 30+ years of experience installing hot water systems in homes and small businesses across Sydney. We are a local, family-run business that prides itself on friendly service and expert advice that you can trust. Get in touch – we’re here to help.
