How do Hot Water Heat Pumps Work?
Hot Water Heat Pumps:
Usually when you think of solar water heating, you think of panels and
heat collectors installed on the roof—traditional solar water heating systems.
However, you can also make heat pump hot water.
A heat pump uses renewable energy to heat water in a different way-no
solar panels are needed! Heat pumps can save a lot of cash on your hot water
bill because they use about one-third of the energy used by electric water
heaters. In addition, there are generous rebates, making them a very economical
choice!
How does the Hot Water Heat Pumps system work?
The heat pump works in the same way as the reverse cycle air
conditioner. It is not heating the room, but heating water.
The following are the working principles and steps of Hot Water Heat
Pumps:
1. The liquid refrigerant passes through the evaporator, where it
absorbs heat from the air and becomes a gas.
2. The gas refrigerant is compressed in the electric compressor.
Compressed gas will cause its temperature to rise, making it hotter than the
water in the tank.
3. The hot air flows into the condenser, where it transfers the heat to
the water and turns it back into a liquid.
4. The liquid refrigerant then flows into the expansion valve, where its
pressure drops, allowing it to cool down and enter the evaporator to repeat the
cycle.
5. Unlike traditional resistance water heaters that use electricity to
directly heat water, heat pumps use electricity to drive compressors and fans.
The heat pump is able to transfer more heat energy from the surrounding air to
the water, which makes it very efficient. The amount of heat that can be transferred
from the air to the water depends on the ambient temperature.
When the outdoor temperature is higher than the cold refrigerant, the
heat pump will absorb heat and transfer it to the water. The warmer the outdoor
air, the easier it is for the heat pump to provide hot water. As the outdoor
temperature decreases, the amount of heat that can be transferred decreases,
which is why the heat pump does not work well in places with low temperatures.
In order for the evaporator to continuously absorb heat, it is necessary
to continuously supply fresh air. Fans are used to assist air flow and remove
cooled air.
Types of Hot Water Heat Pumps system:
There are two types of heat pump systems-split system and integrated
system.
Split system-The evaporator, fan and compressor are separated and
connected to the storage tank through refrigerant pipes.
Integrated system-In an integrated system, the entire system is
connected (tank, compressor) and appears as a unit.
How to choose a heat pump water heater?
Heat pump water heater systems generally have a higher initial cost than
traditional storage water heaters. However, their lower operating costs can
offset higher procurement and installation costs.
Before purchasing a heat pump hot water system, you also need to
consider the following points:
1. Size and first hour rating
2. Fuel type and availability
3. Energy efficiency (energy factor)
4. Total cost
5. If you are considering installing integrated hot water, space heating
and cooling heat pump systems in your home, please refer to our information on
air source heat pumps and geothermal heat pumps.
Installation and maintenance:
The correct installation and maintenance of your heat pump hot water
system can optimize its energy efficiency.
The correct installation depends on many factors. These factors include
fuel type, climate, local building code requirements and safety issues.
Therefore, it is best to have a qualified plumbing and heating contractor (or
geothermal heat pump system installer/designer) install your heat pump.
When selecting qualified professionals, please do the following:
1. Request a cost estimate in writing
2. Seek reference
3. Check with your local Better Business Bureau about the company
4. See if the company will obtain local permits and understand local
building codes when necessary.
5. Regular maintenance of the water heater can significantly extend the
service life of the water heater and minimize efficiency loss. Read your user
manual for specific maintenance recommendations.
Improve energy efficiency
After the water heater is properly installed and maintained, try some
additional energy-saving strategies to help reduce your hot water bill. Some
energy-saving equipment and systems are more cost-effective to install with
water heaters.