Air Source Heat Pump Water Heaters Frequently Asked Questions
Air source heat pump water heaters offer an efficient way to produce domestic hot water (DHW) by making use of heat that is already present in the surrounding air. They can be used in houses, flats, and apartments, as well as many commercial properties where a reliable supply of stored hot water is required.
Our Air Source Heat Pump Water Heaters FAQs cover the questions we are most commonly asked about these systems, including how they work, how they compare with conventional hot water cylinders, how much electricity they use, the temperatures they operate at and what needs to be considered when choosing the correct cylinder size.
The term ‘air source heat pump water heater’ can refer to two different types of systems. Some are all-in-one units, where the heat pump and hot water cylinder are combined into a single appliance. Others use a separate air source heat pump connected to a purpose-designed hot water cylinder for heat pumps.
Whichever type is used, the basic principle is the same. Heat is taken from the air and transferred into the water stored inside the cylinder, reducing the amount of direct electrical energy required to produce hot water.
What Is an Air Source Heat Pump Water Heater?
An air source heat pump water heater takes heat from the surrounding air and uses it to produce hot water for showers, baths, basins, sinks, and other domestic hot water requirements.
Unlike a conventional electric immersion heater, which converts electricity directly into heat, a heat pump uses electricity mainly to operate the compressor, fan, controls, and refrigerant circuit. The refrigerant absorbs low-grade heat from the air, raises its temperature, and then transfers that heat into the water stored inside the cylinder.
How Does an Air Source Heat Pump Water Heater Work?
Air passes across an evaporator where the refrigerant absorbs heat. The refrigerant then travels to a compressor, which increases its pressure and temperature. It then passes through a condenser or heat exchanger, where that heat is transferred into the stored domestic hot water.
After releasing its heat, the refrigerant passes through an expansion device, reducing its pressure and temperature before returning to the evaporator. This cycle continues automatically until the required hot water temperature is reached.
Common Questions for Air Source Heat Pump Water Heaters
This FAQ section provides straightforward answers to the most common questions about air source heat pump water heaters, including sizing, efficiency, running costs, water temperatures, cylinder design, installation, and renewable energy integration.
Click on the question you want answered, and you will be taken to a dedicated page with more detailed information.