Posts Tagged ‘heat pump’

Benefits of Heat Pumps

Friday, November 21st, 2008

Heat pumps are a great alternative to solar hot water systems with panels on the roof. The electricity savings are substantial (about 70% compared to 90% for a solar hot water system in Queensland). All solar rebates are available for a heat pump and the installation costs are substantially lower.

In addition, the innovative Dux Airoheat Sub-Zero Heat Pump works even when there is frost without adding anything to the costs. This is a huge advantage over solar panels, especially in areas where it is hot all year and then there are a couple of frosty nights in winter. Solar panels needs to be protected against that. With our heat pump, you don’t have to worry about frost.

Heat Pump Advantages

The Dux Airoheat Sub-Zero Heat Pump has range of advantages over other systems:

  • It is the most efficient heat pump in its class in Australia, ensuring maximum energy savings and minimum greenhouse gas production
  • It is the quietest product available so that you will not be disturbed
  • It is the shortest heat pump available so that it fits under every eave (1.8m high)
  • Two sacrificial anodes ensure long tank life in all water conditions
  • High impact polymer louvers and lid improve durability
  • It works at temperatures below zero making it suitable throughout Australia

Innovative Product

The Dux Airoheat Sub-Zero heat pump is the latest development from Dux in their commitment to offer innovative products. It includes an automatic de-icing function which switches back to normal heat pump operation as soon as the ice is gone. That ensures maximum efficiency without wasting the heat that is generated to de-ice.

No backup booster element is necessary, which would reduce efficiency. Instead the Dux heat pump uses fans to defrost the evaporator coil, therefore optimising comfort and efficiency in any climate.

The new lid & louver section is moulded from high impact, highly UV stabilised European automotive polymer. It adds to the heat pump’s durability, prevents colour loss and reduces the weight of the system.

How do Heat Pumps Work?

The basic operation is based on the same principle as a fridge. Except, the other way around. A fan draws in air which is compressed. The temperature increases and is then transferred to a liquid which heats the water.

For details you can have a look at the wikipedia article on heat pumps.

Heat Pumps or Solar Hot Water Panels?

We used to recommend heat pumps only for situations where a solar hot water system was not feasible (e.g. too little sun or a roof that was too steep). However, the simpler installation reduces costs by up to $1,000. That makes it a very interesting alternative, not only to solar hot water systems with panels, but especially to the old electric systems.

If you have a plumber, we can just ship the heat pump to you. We still look after all the rebate forms to make sure that you get the maximum you are entitled to. Or you can leave it all to us and we organise the installation of the heat pump for you.

The free online quote will give you an instant comparison between the heat pump and solar hot water system with all costs and the possible savings.


Find Out Whether You Can Benefit From Solar Hot Water.

You can get an instant quote right now. There are 23 simple questions that lets our online calculator work out the best solution for your situation. That way you know exactly whether you can benefit from solar hot water.

Start with 1. Find System.

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Is a Heat Pump a Solar Hot Water System?

Tuesday, September 30th, 2008

I have heard some salespeople vigorously defend the heat pump as a solar hot water system. It does use the heat (or warmth) of the air to heat water. The source of that heat is the sun. Therefore it can be seen as a solar hot water system.

But there are no collectors involved and it does need electricity to function. Far less than any electric hot water system though. That is the reason that it receives the full federal government rebate and renewable energy certificates (REC’s).

Heat Pump  Advantages

The biggest advantage: no direct sunlight is necessary. We also recommend a heat pump where a solar hot water system is not feasible (e.g. for properties with an asbestos roof, when the North facing roof space is too far from where the water is to be used and of course where there is a lack of sunshine).

Heat Pump Disadvantages

The disadvantage: while producing hot water, it makes a noise (similar to an air conditioning unit). It is therefore best to put it away from any living areas. Electricity is necessary to power the fan that draws in air. This is minimal compared to an electric hot water system.

Dux Aeroheat Subzero Heat Pump

We offer the Dux Aeroheat Subzero Heat Pump for its efficiency, quality and quietness. It runs at 50dB, half the noise of some other systems available.