Hot Water Heat Pumps
Hot water heat pumps are an energy-efficient and low-emissions technology that significantly reduces household water heating costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Heat pump hot water cylinders use up to 75% less electricity than conventional electric hot water systems, and are cost-effective for households with higher water consumption.
Although they incur a higher up-front purchase cost, their low running costs make them a worthwhile trade-off.
Information based on EECA.
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Hot water heat pumps use a vapour compression cycle with a refrigerant fluid which works to extract heat from the air and transfer it to the water until the desired temperature is reached in the water tank.
The refrigerant absorbs heat from the air and evaporates into a contained space. It is then compressed, which raises its temperature to above the desired hot water temperature.
The hot, pressurised refrigerant is then sent through a condenser coil, where it transforms back into a liquid, transferring its heat to the water.
The liquid refrigerant then flows back to the evaporator coil to repeat the cycle.
Information based on EECA.
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There are two types of residential hot water heat pumps — your choice may depend on how much space you have in and around your home.
Split system: this solution consists of two separate components: an outdoor unit which contains the refrigerant circuit, and a separate hot water cylinder which can be located either outdoors or indoors. The outdoor unit and cylinder are connected with water or refrigerant pipework, which carries the heat to the cylinder.
Split hot water heat pumps provide greater flexibility in installation, as the cylinder can be placed closer to the hot water consumption areas. It is also possible to retrofit the outdoor unit (the heat pump itself) to an existing hot water cylinder.
Integrated system: this option combines the components of a heat pump and a hot water cylinder into a single unit. The heat pump part of the unit is most commonly on top of the cylinder, and the single unit must be installed outside. Depending on the layout of your house and existing plumbing, this could offer easier installation.
Information based on EECA.
Images from EECA.
Rinnai HydraHeat™ Hot Water Heat Pump
Rinnai has designed HydraHeat™, a top-notch integrated system powered by only 150g of high-efficiency refrigerant, making it one of the most sustainable options on the market.
Operating much like a refrigerator in reverse, the HydraHeat™ utilises the surrounding air’s ambient temperature and amplifies this energy to heat water at significantly reduced costs compared to conventional hot water cylinders.
Designed and Built in NZ Specifically designed for New Zealand climatic conditions (from - 10°C to +42°C), as well as coastal locations.Operates in full heat pump mode right down to - 10°C without the need for electric boosting.
Up to 75% Savings on Hot Water Costs* Provides highly efficient water heating, minimising energy consumption and lowering operating costs.
Dedicated to Sustainability Powered by only 150g of high-efficiency R290 refrigerant with low Global Warming Potential and COP of 4.7.**
Reliability The inbuilt electric element guarantees a consistent and dependable supply of hot water, at all times.
Modular 'Heat Pump Ready' Design Ability to upgrade from a standalone electric water heater to Heat Pump Technology with addition of Heat Pump unit.
Easy Servicing Removable Heat Pump unit allows for easy servicing, and ensures uninterrupted supply of hot water.
Frost Protection Built-in defrost and frost protection functions to handle colder climates.
Warranties 5-year head unit warranty and a 7-year cylinder warranty.
User-friendly Control Interface Features OLED screen and six operation modes for versatility.
6 Operation Modes Standard, Boost, Eco 55, Eco 50, High Usage, and Element Only.
Suitable for Hard or Soft Water Areas Featuring an enamel cylinder with a magnesium anode for effortless use in both hard and soft water areas.
Ideal for a Range of Residential Styles Suitable for homes of 2–6 people. Plus an operating sound level of only 45dBA makes it suitable for a wide range of homes, including built-up residential areas.
Renowned Quality Crafted with exceptional quality by Rinnai New Zealand, the trusted name in total home living.
* Compared with a standard hot water cylinder in Zone 5 (Auckland). Annual energy performance estimated according to AS/NZS4234:2008 and AS/NZS5125:2014, medium load size. ** Accredited Testing to AS/NZS 5125 Pending by NATA accredited Provider.
Split Systems
Black Diamond AquaCore Hot Water Heat Pump
AquaCore is a dedicated hot water heat pump system that delivers reliable, energy-efficient domestic hot water year-round.
Designed for New Zealand conditions, Aquacore uses advanced air-to-water heat pump technology to reduce household energy use and carbon emissions compared to conventional electric cylinders.
Easy to install in both new homes and existing properties, it’s a smarter way to heat your water.
Black Diamond AquaCore Hot Water Heat Pump
Three operation modes: Eco (lower power consumption), Standard (very fast recovery), Disinfect (for poor water quality areas)
Seven on/off user timers
Smart user display with a simple, easy-to-use control panel
Legionella compliance built into the control system
How it works: Split AquaCore System
Click to enlarge.
Split Systems
The Panasonic Range
Panasonic’s hot water heat pump is an efficient way to heat your water using energy from the ambient air, saving you up to 80% of your hot water heating costs, depending on your water usage.
With a Global Warming Potential (GWP) rating of 1, it’s one of the most eco-friendly heat pumps of its kind on the market, great for the environment as well as your wallet.
Panasonic HE-UM60AR
Split system with bespoke outdoor unit, can be used with new or preexisting cylinder
Includes Smart Controller