Heat pump hot water systems offer energy efficiency, low maintenance, and longer lifespans, all while reducing running costs compared to electric systems. So, what’s not to love?
Whether your old water heater has broken down or you want to upgrade and reap the cost savings, choosing a hot water pump to replace your electric hot water system seems the obvious choice.
This article looks at the benefits of heat pump water heaters and offers a step-by-step guide to making the switch.
What is a Heat Pump Hot Water System?
A heat pump hot water system uses the ambient air temperature to heat water for your home. Just like solar hot water uses the power of the sun to heat water, a heat pump uses heat from the air.
Where an electric hot water system uses an element inside a storage tank to continuously heat the water to the desired temperature, a heat pump only relies on electricity to operate the pump, rather than heat the water itself. This pump moves refrigerant through the system which transfers heat from the air to the water.
Benefits of Upgrading to a Heat Pump Hot Water System
Heat pumps use up to 75% less electricity than an electric hot water system, so you can expect to save a lot of money on your energy bills, as water heating is usually one of the largest costs. Since they are so energy efficient, government rebates and incentives are available to encourage households to make heat pump upgrades. (Check your rebate eligibility here).
As they rely on renewable energy, they are much better for the environment, they don’t need much maintenance and work well if you already have a solar system installed on your roof. Innovative technology means they can work efficiently in any climate.
Cost Analysis: Electric vs Heat Pump Hot Water Systems
Although some state governments currently offer financial incentives to replace electric hot water systems with heat pumps, the initial cost of a heat pump may still be more than an electric system. However, the reduced running costs mean that heat pumps soon pay for themselves.
In terms of installation, electric systems and heat pumps have similar requirements, but the installation cost will depend on the location of your heat pump in relation to your switchboard and ease of access.
They can often be positioned in the same place as your old electric system, provided the heat pump unit receives adequate air flow.
Step-by-Step Guide to Upgrading
Now you understand why so many people are making the switch to a heat pump system. Let’s go through the steps you need to take to do the same for your household.
Step 1: Assessing Your Current System
In terms of energy efficiency, heat pumps are the clear winner here. Heat pumps use a third of the energy of an electric system. So, even if your electric system still has some life left in it, the cost savings mean you’re better off replacing your current system sooner rather than later, especially if you are eligible for a government rebate.
Step 2: Sizing and Selecting the Right Heat Pump Hot Water System
Heat pump hot water systems range in size from about 150-350L. Selecting the right size for your household is key to gaining those cost savings on running your system. Our article ‘What size heat pump do I need?’ has tips on how to calculate your home’s hot water consumption and recommendations on some of the best brands stocked by Same Day Hot Water Service.
Step 3: Hiring a Professional Installer
In Australia, hot water systems such as heat pumps need to be installed by a qualified plumber. Installation by a professional will maximise the heat pump’s lifespan, efficiency and energy savings, and ensure your property’s comfort so you’ll never have to suffer through a cold shower.
Step 4: Installation Process
There’s a reason we’re called Same Day Hot Water Service and that’s because we understand no one likes to be without hot water for longer than necessary. As well as supplying you with a new hot water system, we have a team of licensed plumbers ready to carry out installation as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Step 5: Upgrading Electrical Wiring
Since your heat pump requires an electricity supply, if you were to upgrade from a gas hot water system you’d need a new electrical circuit from the switchboard, requiring a licenced electrician as well as a plumber.
However, if you are upgrading from electric hot water and have a reusable circuit, your installer will often be able to complete both the water and electrical connections with minimal fuss.
Step 6: Post-Installation Considerations
After installation, your heat pump hot water system will be tested and the electrical connections and refrigerants checked. Your installer will also explain how your heat pump works and how to use the thermostat.
You should also consider installing insulation around your pipes if you don’t have it already to help the pipes retain heat and lower energy use.
In terms of maintenance, your heat pump requires filters to be cleaned periodically. You can ask your installer to show you how this is done.
Step 7: Removal and Disposal of Your Old System
When you choose to have your new heat pump system installed by Same Day Hot Water Service, we will remove your old electric system for you.
So, all that’s left for you to do is sit back and watch your energy costs decline as you enjoy a constant supply of hot water from your new heat pump.
Ready to Upgrade from Electric to Heat Pump Hot Water?
With lower running costs and a smaller environmental footprint, isn’t it time you switched from electric hot water to an energy-efficient heat pump system?
Same Day Hot Water Service has a huge range of heat pumps from leading brands such as Dux, Evo, Reclaim, Rheem and Rinnai, with free delivery to Sydney, the Central Coast, Newcastle, Wollongong, and Melbourne.
Call us on 1300 160 956 or view and order our heat pump hot water systems via our website.