water heating
Heat Pump Water Heating
A heat pump takes heat out of the surrounding air. This warm air is then compressed to heat it up further and pumped into your water cylinder to heat up the water.
Due to the fact that heat pumps do only move heat but not generate heat, heat pumps are on average 2 to 3 times more energy efficient than regular water heating methods. So what are the pros and cons of using a heat pump to heat your water?
The payback period is about 4 to 6 years for heat pump water heating. The life expectancy is according to many electricians 10 - 15 years. The cost of a heat pump for water heating is between NZ$4,000.00 and NZ$8,000.00.
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There are two options for you to choose from: a water tank with integrated heat pump or a regular water cylinder with a separate heat pump. Our personal view favours the separate water tank and separate heat pump. We believe that a water cylinder will outlast a heat pump with current technology. If they are separate, then the heat pump can be replaced without the need for a new water cylinder. Check out our free calculator and find out how much heat pump or solar water heating could save you.
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Compared to the likes of solar, a heat pump is more consistent in its energy saving as it is not reliant on direct sun energy. This means better savings in winter, which are usually offset by higher costs in summer compared to solar. Heat pumps for water heating have a payback time of a few years and are ideal for most households.
Advantages of using a heat pump to heat your water:
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Cheaper running costs and lower power bills for the same amount of water heating. The payback period is on average between 4 and 6 years
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Disadvantages of using a heat pump to heat your water:
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Higher upfront cost
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Heat pumps can dramatically lose efficiency in lower temperatures- ensure to find a unit that copes well with the temperatures on offer in your area during the cold months
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Heat pumps do create a noise when running
