Do Heat Pumps use Conventional and Non-Conventional Sources of Energy?

Are you confused as to what energy sources do heat pumps use, which leads to lower electricity bill? It used both conventional and non-conventional sources of energy. It is said to be 90% renewable. Instead of using direct electricity to heat water, it utilizes heat from surrounding air to heat water. 

In this blog, we will discuss about conventional and non-conventional resources and how heat pumps use them to heat water efficiently. Let’s get started!

What are Conventional Sources of Energy?

Conventional sources of energy refer to non-renewable resources like coal, natural gas, and oil. These fossil fuels have been the primary energy sources for centuries in India. But it comes with significant environmental drawbacks. They release greenhouse gases, contribute to air pollution, and are finite resources that will eventually be depleted.

What are Non-Conventional Resources?

Non-conventional resources, also known as renewable energy sources, are derived from natural and replenishable sources. Examples include solar, wind, geothermal, and hydroelectric power. These sources are considered clean, sustainable, and have a minimal impact on the environment. One of the primary advantages of renewable energy sources is their ability to reduce our reliance on conventional fossil fuels, mitigating climate change and air pollution. Additionally, it also saves cost, as it reduces electricity consumption.

The main difference between conventional and non-conventional resources lies in their availability and environmental impact. While conventional sources are finite and harmful to the environment, non-conventional resources are renewable and eco-friendly.

What is a Heat Pump?

A heat pump is a water heating device, to meet your daily hot water needs. It is energy-efficient, as it uses less electricity than other traditional water heaters. The difference lies in the working principle. Any traditional water heater, like a geyser, uses direct electricity to heat water. Whereas, a heat pump uses electricity to only transfer heat from one place to another. This heat is used to produce hot water, rather than electricity. A heat pump is one of the best sustainable ideas for the future.

How Does a Heat Pump System Works?

A heat pump works on the principle of transferring heat from one place to another.

This system consists of two main components: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit.

The outdoor unit has two parts – an exhaust fan and a compressor. And the indoor unit is the storage tank, where water is stored.

The exhaust fan absorbs heat from the surrounding air, while the compressor compresses the refrigerant gas, increasing its temperature. This heated refrigerant gas then passes through a spiral condenser inside the indoor unit, transferring its heat to the water stored in the tank. This process continues until the desired water temperature is reached.

Unlike traditional geysers that use a significant amount of electricity to generate heat, heat pumps consume less energy by simply moving heat from one place to another. This makes them more energy-efficient and cost-effective in the long run.

Do Heat Pumps Use Both Renewable and Non-Renewable Sources of Energy?

Yes, heat pumps use both conventional and non-conventional sources of energy. They require electricity (a conventional source) to operate the compressor and the exhaust fan. The primary source of heat is the surrounding air (a non-conventional, renewable source), which is used to heat water, rather than direct electricity, which is the case for most water heaters like a geyser.

Electricity in heat pumps are used only to transfer heat and compress it. This process requires significantly less electricity than a water heater like a geyser which uses direct electricity to heat water. Heat pumps are said to be approximately 90% renewable, significantly reducing their carbon footprint. Not just that, it consumes 75% less electricity than a geyser to efficiently provide hot water. This also makes it a cost-effective option.

What are the Benefits of Heat Pumps?

Heat pump systems come with many advantages. They are:

1. Cost-Effective

Heat pumps have high upfront cost. However, they make up for it through lower operating costs. Heat pumps transfer heat rather than generating it directly. This uses far less electricity – up to 75% less. Over its 10-15 year lifespan, a heat pump can save you hundreds or even thousands in energy costs. So it is actually a cheaper alternative to other traditional water heaters like geysers.

2. Long Lifespan

With proper maintenance, heat pumps last 15 years or more – significantly longer than standard electric geysers (8-10 years). So there is no need for replacement for a long time. This extended life cycle also contributes to it being a cost-effective option.

3. Reduced Water Wastage

Traditional water heaters constantly heat and reheat the same water, leading to significant energy losses. Heat pumps heat water more efficiently, so you don’t have to run the tap as long waiting for hot water. This conserves water, especially in households with long pipe runs.

4. Efficient in Cold Climates

One common misconception about heat pump water heaters is that they may not perform well in colder climates. However, modern heat pump water heaters are designed to be efficient even in low temperatures. They can effectively extract heat from the surrounding air, even when the temperature drops below freezing. This makes heat pump water heaters a viable and energy-efficient option for hot water needs in various climates, including colder regions.

5. Manual Temperature Setting

Most heat pumps allow you to change temperature as per your requirements. This ensures you have hot water when needed without wasting energy by overheating the water beyond your requirements.

6. Availability in Different Sizes

Heat Pumps normally have an indoor and an outdoor unit. But many homes in India, specially in big cities, may not have that space available. For that, a single-unit heat hump is designed. It is also called Integrated Heat Pump.

Conclusion

Heat pumps do require electricity, but it is significantly less if compared to traditional water heaters like a geyser. It is 90% renewable, which not only contributes towards the environment but also saves huge energy costs. By utilizing both conventional and non-conventional sources of energy, they offer significant energy savings, reduced environmental impact, and long-term cost-effectiveness. Adopting this technology is a step towards a greener and more energy-efficient future, benefiting both households and the planet.

Visit SolarClue® to see the best heat pump water heaters. SolarClue® is an online marketplace where solar energy products are sold at discounts up to 50%.