What is air source heat pump?

Are you tired of high electricity bills on your water heating system? If you are thinking of replacing your water heater, air source heat pump is the way to go.

An air source heat pump water heater will save your running costs and will save energy. You wonder how? In this blog, we will discuss in detail what an air source heat pump is, and how it works?

Let’s get started!

What is an air source heat pump water heater?

An air source heat pump water heater, also known as air-to-water heat pump is an energy-efficient appliance that uses a refrigeration system to transfer heat from the surrounding air to heat water. Unlike traditional water heaters that generate heat directly, air source heat pump system absorb heat from the air and use it to warm the water stored in a tank.

How does an air source heat pump system work?

Here’s a step-by-step explanation of air source heat pump heating process:

1. The heat pump draws in air from the surrounding environment using a fan.
2. The air passes over a refrigerant-filled evaporator coil, causing the refrigerant to absorb the heat from the air and turn into a gas.
3. The compressor then pressurizes the refrigerant gas, increasing its temperature.
4. The hot refrigerant gas then passes through a condenser coil, where it transfers its heat to the water stored in the tank.
5. As the refrigerant gives up its heat, it condenses back into a liquid and passes through an expansion valve, which reduces its pressure and temperature.
6. The cycle then repeats, with the refrigerant absorbing heat from the air and transferring it to the water.

What are the benefits?

Following are the advantages of an air source heat pump installation in your home:

1. Energy Efficiency:

They are significantly more energy-efficient than traditional electric or gas water heaters, consuming up to 75% less electricity.

2. Cost Savings:

The reduced energy consumption can lead to substantial savings on electricity bills, making them a cost-effective choice for Indian households.

3. Environmentally Friendly:

By using renewable energy from the air, these type of water heaters have a lower carbon footprint compared to conventional water heaters that rely on fossil fuels or electricity generated from non-renewable sources.

4. Minimal Maintenance:

It requires minimal maintenance, with fewer moving parts compared to traditional water heaters, ensuring reliable and hassle-free operation.

What are the air source heat pump disadvantages?

Everything has its pros and cons, so does an air source heat pump system. Some of the drawbacks include:

1. Lower Heat Supply Compared to Boilers:

These have a lower heat output compared to traditional boilers, which means they may require larger radiators or underfloor heating to effectively heat a home.

2. Longer Warm-up Time:

It takes longer to heat up a property compared to standard combustion boilers. This is because they are designed to run continuously to maintain an ambient temperature, rather than quickly heating up from cold.

3. Noise Levels:

It can be noisier compared to traditional water heaters, as they have a compressor and fan that operate during the heating process. The noise levels can be a concern for some homeowners, especially if the unit is installed in a living space or near bedrooms.

What factors you need to consider?

There are a few factors you should look into before purchasing an air source heat pump system. They are:

1. Installation Location:

Air source heat pump water heaters require adequate space around the unit. So the installation should be done where there is enough space for proper air circulation and efficient operation.

2. Energy Efficiency:

Look for water heaters with a high coefficient of performance (COP) to ensure maximum energy efficiency and cost savings.

3. Capacity and First Hour Rating:

Consider the size of the water heater and its first hour rating to ensure it can meet your household’s hot water demands.

4. Maintenance and Warranty:

Opt for such water heaters with a reliable warranty and easy-to-maintain components to ensure long-term performance and peace of mind.

Conclusion

Air source heat pump water heaters offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution for hot water needs in India. It also reduces greenhouse gas emissions and carbon footprint. As the demand for energy-efficient and eco-friendly home appliances continues to grow in India, these water heaters are poised to become an increasingly popular choice for homeowners.

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