Plumber - Heat Pumps For Hot Water

Hot water is a necessity in homes and businesses such as hotels and restaurants. It is important to have a suitable hot water system that is cost efficient, environmentally friendly and one that will address your hot water needs.

There are different types and sizes of hot water heaters and a skilled plumber can advise you on the one that is best suited for you. You need to keep in mind the number of people that will use the water and trend with which the water is used when identifying a hot water system. One of the options that you can use for heating your water is a heat pump.

How Heat Pumps Work

A heat pump is a water heater that works in a similar way as the refrigerator only that the process used in the heat pump works in the opposite way as that of the refrigerator. A refrigerant is heated by the use of heat from the environment.

An air sourced heat pump absorbs heat from the air in the surroundings and uses this heat to warm a refrigerant such as carbon dioxide which changes into a gas. This gas undergoes compression which produces heat and it is this heat that is used to warm up the water. The gas is then expanded and it turns back into a liquid. The process is then repeated all over again.

Use Of Electricity

The heat pump has a compressor which uses electricity to run. The amount of electricity used is minimal since it is only used to run the compressor and not to heat the water. The only time electricity is used to heat water in a heat pump is when it has been connected as a booster for use during cold days. The booster can also be used if more than usual hot water is required at certain times.

Storage Tank

After the water has been heated in the heat pump, it is transported to a storage tank. Once the water in the storage tank reaches the required temperature, the compressor automatically switches off.

There are heat pumps which are located next to the storage tank. Other pumps are placed away from the storage tank. The tank may be placed in an enclosed area while the heater is placed outside. The pump requires enough airing in order to operate efficiently. Having a storage tank near the heat pump may hamper it from getting the required ventilation.

Savings Made On Heat Pumps

The heat pump is normally more expensive than other types of water heaters. However, the running costs of the heat pumps are very low and the pump saves on energy. A heat pump is best used in locations which have warm, humid weather.

During cold weather, the heat pump may not be able to absorb enough heat from the surroundings to warm the refrigerant. If you live in an area that is mostly cold, you need to consult a plumber who can advise you on the heat pumps in your area which work well even in cold climates. Since the compressor has to run on electricity, it is best to heat your water during off-peak hours in order to reduce on your energy bills.


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James Hasapis is part of a team of experienced, skilled and friendly plumbers at Pipe Masters. They offer exceptional plumbing services including hot water services in Lower North Shore. Please visit the website http://www.pipemasters.com.au/sydney-lower-north-shore/ for more details.