Looking to replace your existing gas heating system? Switch to an energy-efficient hot water heat pump
If you want a reliable hot water supply but also want to keep your utility bills lower, a hot water heat pump system could be the answer.
Hot water heat pumps are very efficient, using about 70% less electricity than a traditional electric water heating system - potentially saving you hundreds of dollars each year. They are ideal for larger households that have a higher daily water demand, but are also a great option for households of any size that are looking to replace their existing gas heating systems or looking for a more eco-friendly solution.
At Tasman Plumbers, we supply and install hot water heat pumps from leading brands. Contact us to discuss your options. If you do need a more traditional system, we also install electric hot water cylinders and gas infinity water heating systems.
Split Systems
Split systems have a separate outdoor unit and cylinder. This allows the heat pump unit to be installed in a convenient location outside and the cylinder to be inside, either in place of an existing water cylinder or somewhere close to areas of high water consumption. With a split system you may also be able to use your existing cylinder.The preferred choice for a larger household, also has less restrictions for installation.
Integrated Systems
With integrated systems, the heat pump unit and the water cylinder are combined in one integrated unit. These systems are usually simpler and less expensive to install than a split system. Having everything outside also frees up space in cupboards or utility rooms where the water cylinder would typically be.The preferred choice for replacing an existing electric or gas cylinder. Is highly cost-effective and straightforward.
Expert advice on the best hot water heat pump for your requirements and recommendations on the best brand
As an established plumbing company, Tasman Plumbers has a team of expert plumbers who can assess your home and your requirements and then offer expert advice on the best type and size of system and the right brand for you.
We work with reputable brands such as Rinnai to ensure we are providing customers with durable, reliable and efficient hot water heat pumps. Brands like Rinnai are also designed for New Zealand conditions which means they work efficiently even during lower outdoor temperatures.
Contact us to arrange your in-home consultation.
Hot water heat pumps work like a refrigerator in reverse. They take heat from the surrounding air and use it to heat the hot water. They don't generate heat themselves but transfer existing heat which is why they are more efficient. In brief - the refrigerant absorbs heat from the air and evaporates, then the vapour is compressed which raises its temperature, heat is transferred to the water and the refrigerant condenses. The pressure drops and the cycle starts again.
Systems are measured using a Coefficient of Performance (COP), which is the ratio of energy output to input. A higher COP means better efficiency. For example, if a system has a COP of 4 it means it produces 4kW of heat for every 1kW of electricity used. Hot water heat pump systems have a higher COP than traditional systems.
It does depend on the system you install and the amount of water you use, but hot water heat pumps typically use 60%-75% less electricity than standard electric cylinders. This can translate to hundreds of dollars saved on your electricity bill across the year. While the upfront costs of a hot water heat pump are greater, the savings will quickly balance this out.
Some banks do offer loans or deals to assist homeowners in upgrading their heating and water heating. You can check with your preferred bank to see if they have a loan option and if you qualify.
One element of hot water heat pumps is the refrigerant used. A standard called Global Warming Potential (GWP) is used to measure how much heat a refrigerant traps in the atmosphere compared to carbon dioxide (COâ‚‚), which has a GWP of 1. The lower the GWP, the better it is for the environment. New Zealand is working to phase out high-GWP refrigerants which may be common in older heat pump systems. We use modern systems which use better refrigerants such as R290 (propane). These are better for the environment and more efficient.
We recommend servicing your hot water heat pump system every two years. Between those times, the system should only need minimal maintenance, such as checking for obstructions or obvious damage and cleaning.