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.