Can a heat pump heat water?

Can a ground source heat pump provide your home with hot water?

It’s one of those questions that plenty of homeowners do ask because it’s difficult to find an answer either way. That’s what we aim to clear up with this piece.

The answer is yes. Now that bit’s out the way it’s time to explain a little more, because there are quite a few considerations you need to make if you want your heat pump supplying you with hot water.

Take a look at the following pointers so you know everything you need to:




1. Efficiency

Hot water is only produced at high temperatures, so obviously the output temperature has to be as hot as possible. As with all heat pumps, the higher the outlet temperature the lower the efficiency levels. So if your heat pump is providing 55C heat for hot water, it could be working 20% less efficiently than for just space heating.

2. Domestic hot water temperature

The maximum temperature of hot water will depend on a number of factors, but what’s important to know is that increasing the temperature will lower efficiency rates.

3. Protection from Legionella

Legionella bacteria can breed in lower temperatures of water up to 55 degrees. This is why it’s important water is heated above this to kill off the bacteria instantly. Breathing in legionella, such as in a shower, can result in illness.

4. Space or hot water heating

Generally, heat pumps can only do one or the other. If you choose to have a heat pump providing both then efficiency levels will deteriorate. One way to combat this is with an immersion heater to help provide extra heat.

5. Hot water heating

If you want hot water heating then you’ll need more coiling for the ground source heat pump, otherwise you could use all the energy at certain times of the year. This can be achieved, but it’ll cost you more and result in fewer savings and earnings.

 

Facts & Figures You’ll Love To Share

  • With an air source heat pump you can save hundreds of pounds every year on your heating bill.
  • Take advantage of the Government’s lucrative Renewable Heat Incentive linked with heat pumps, which pays out for seven years.
  • Heat pumps are easy to install and will provide major cash savings for over two decades.
  • Energy bills have doubled since 2004, so avoid further increase by installing your own home heat pump.

Tom Crosswell

I have been managing online projects since 1999 and I'm a experienced marketeer, who is well versed in international brand management, online business strategy and developing long term relationships. Through my academic and professional background I am a specialist in generating online loyalty towards brands. My experience has taught me that ultimately business is about relationships and people. For more information see my Google+ page.

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