Heat Pump Hot Water System

A Heat Pump Hot Water System uses a cooling cycle to extract heat from the ambient air. It then uses a heat exchanger unit to heat the water in it’s insulated storage cylinder.

These systems work the same as using an air conditioner when working in a heating cycle, but it heats the water rather than the air in the house.

A heat pump hot water system can be considered as a kind of solar water heater because the heat in the air finally comes from the sun. Unlike solar water heating systems, heat pump systems do not have an electric or gas amplifier system. However, they use electricity to power the evaporator fan and compressor when heating the water.

Benefits of a Heat Pump Hot Water System

These types of systems typically use 60-75% less power than traditional hot water electrical systems. This is because electricity is used to operate the heat pump and the elements do not heat the water directly.

Heat pump water heaters are usually installed outside the ground. In some cases, it can be installed indoors. This can be an advantage over solar water heaters because it eliminates the need for panels to be installed on the roof and is easier to install. It is important to install it in a well-ventilated area, as you always need access to the surrounding airflow during operation.

Like an air conditioner, a heat pump water heater has a fan and a compressor that make a noise when the unit is heating water. This should be taken into account when installing these. Ideally, it should be placed away from the bedroom window and in a location that does not cause noise problems for neighbours. Once you have a quote, contact the supplier about the noise level (decibels) of the unit. Also ask about installation options that reduce noise issues.

Heat Pump Rebates NSW

Many heat pump hot water systems are elligible for grants through the Federal Governments Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme, generously covering a proportion of the up-front costs of purchasing and installing the system. These grants are called Small-scale Technology Certificats (STC’s) and are offered based on how sustainable a hot water system is. Your STC rebate value will depend on your installation location. For more information about these rebates, visit the Australian Government Clean Energy Regulator website below or call CRG Plumbing today on 02 4656 4064.

Visit the Clean Energy Regulator Website

Example of a Heat Pump System

A good example of this technology is the Rinnai Enviroflo range of Electric Integrated Heat Pump hot water systems. They deliver a comprehensive set of installation configurations perfect for the various site specific requirements around the Campbelltown and greater Sydney area.

There is a range of capacity sizes, and they can be equipped with magnesium or hard water anodes to further customise their capabilities to suit the application.

A standard feature of the Rinnai Enviroflo is the single element boost. This allows the product to be used in high demand applications, or even cold ambient conditions, meaning you will enjoy always hot water all year round.

Built locally in Australia to outlast tough Australian conditions, these tanks have been designed and tested to operate with water pressures up to 1000kPa, much higher than normal. Best of all, they are lighter in weight to aid quick and safe installation whilst having a minimal impact on the environment.

Features of Rinnai Electric Integrated Heat Pump hot water systems include:

  • Efficient: Innovative control system to maximise hot water availability while using up to 65% less energy.
  • Quiet: Whisper quiet operation < 48 dB.
  • Quality: Australian designed and built ensures a high level of product quality.
  • Tough: 1000 kPa maximum water pressure rating.
  • Environmental: R290 refrigerant used with a minimal charge of just 300 grams and low environmental impact.
  • Warranty: 5 year cylinder warranty and 3 years compressor warranty
  • Reliable: Inbuilt electric element to ensure you always have a reliable supply of hot water.
  • Choice: Available in 250L and 315L sizes to suit your hot water needs.
  • Confidence: Auto disinfection preventing the potential growth of legionella.
  • Automated: Auto restart function – in the event of a power outage it will automatically restart once the power is re-instated.
  • Adaptable: Can be installed anywhere in Australia.

For more information about heat pump hot water systems and any available government rebates, call the experts at CRG on 02 4656 4064 or fill out our contact form to enquire online.