What is a Heat Pump Hot Water System?
Companies have been actively working to protect the environment by developing green technology during the last few decades. Heat pump hot water systems are an example of such environmentally friendly technology. What makes them even more likable is that the appliances offer significant benefits to users, as we will see in this article.
What is a Heat Pump Hot Water System
A heat pump hot water system heats water in the unit using heat collected from the air around the unit. Its functioning principles are similar to that of a refrigerator, which is often called a reverse refrigerator. The significant difference between the two is that while a refrigerator system removes heat from the refrigerator into the environment, a heat pump hot water system takes heat from the atmosphere into the system.
How Does a Heat Pump Hot Water System Work?
A heat pump hot water system uses a heat exchange system to collect heat from the air surrounding the unit. The fan carries the hot air into the evaporator, where the heat changes the refrigerant from liquid to gas. Next, the refrigerant moves through an electrical compressor, where it is compressed, and this compression process further increases the temperature in the gas pipes. The heat exchanger then carries the heat through the lines into the tank, where the water is heated.
Pros of a Heat Pump Hot Water System
Heat pump hot water systems have a handful of benefits that make them reliable to heat your water. Below are some of their most valuable benefits:
Energy Saving
Heat pump hot water systems use way less electrical energy than conventional heaters as they only use the electrical power to run the fan and the compressor. Also, depending on the location it is installed, it can be a great way to use renewable energy as it can convert excess energy in places like furnace rooms and solar outputs on your rooftop.
It is Cost Efficient
Heat pump systems save you between $300 to $400 annually. Over the lifetime of the heat pump system, this could amount to about $4000 in savings.
Cons of a Heat Pump Hot Water System
Below are possible downsides of a heat pump hot water system that should be considered before installation.
Cools the Air Around Them
A heat pump hot water system cools the air around the unit as it transfers the heat to the water. To avoid this, installing the unit in places with excess heat output is best.
High Installation Cost
Heat pump systems are slightly more expensive than conventional water heaters. However, this is not considered a con as the money it saves you in three years covers the cost of purchase and installation.
Bottom Line
There are different types of heat pump hot water systems available in the market, such as Geothermal, air-air, water source, and hybrid heat pumps. Each of them has unique differences that set them apart from the others. If you want to purchase a heat pump, a good plumber can help you decide which types of hot water systems are best for you.