An outdoor unit is connected to your geyser (which gets switched off ), allowing water to be heated at a far more efficient rate. It ultimately saves you 66% of your water heating bill which translates into 30% of your electricity bill.

Heat pump water heating is a new idea using existing technology and represents the latest generation of water heating systems. It surpasses solar, gas, electric and coal systems and offers a better and more environmentally friendly solution to water heating.

Heat pumps work on the refrigerant reverse cycle principle, drawing heat out of the atmosphere and discharging it into the water, thereby heating it, as shown in the diagram below.

 

1. Very energy efficient system results in reduced operating costs. 33% of the cost of electrical water heaters (geysers).
2. Heats water cheaper and faster than electricity.
3. Produces water up to 60°C conveniently controlled by a thermostat.
4. Hot water is being produced whilst being used.
5. Will work in all weather conditions from -10°C to +43°C
6. Reliable, low maintenance and easy to operate. Backed by a 5 year warranty.
7. Safe - water and electricity are completely isolated.
8. Take up far less space than solar.
9. Payback period 2 - 3 years for average home (3 to 5 residents).

 

The performance of heat pumps is usually described by the Coefficient of Performance (COP), which is the ratio of useful heat produced to the energy required to produce it. Heat pumps have a COP of 3 meaning for every 1kw of energy used, 3 units of heating are produced. The efficiency actually increases the higher the ambient temperature is.

This means on average that the remaining 66% of the electrical consumption can be saved compared to geysers, which work on a 1:1 ratio i.e. 1kw energy = 1kw heating. With geysers contributing up to 50% of typical household electricity cost, heat pumps can save up to 33% of this cost.

 

Eskom will increase your monthly electricity bill by 25% on the 1st April 2010. Eskom are going to impose further increases of 25% next year and in 2012. Your Geyser accounts for 43% of your monthly electricity bill.

 

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