Can a ground source heat pump provide your home with hot water? <\/p>\n
It\u2019s one of those questions that plenty of homeowners do ask because it\u2019s difficult to find an answer either way. That\u2019s what we aim to clear up with this piece. <\/p>\n
The answer is yes. Now that bit\u2019s out the way it\u2019s 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. <\/p>\n
Take a look at the following pointers so you know everything you need to: 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. The maximum temperature of hot water will depend on a number of factors, but what\u2019s important to know is that increasing the temperature will lower efficiency rates. <\/p>\n 3.\tProtection from Legionella<\/strong><\/p>\n Legionella bacteria can breed in lower temperatures of water up to 55 degrees. This is why it\u2019s important water is heated above this to kill off the bacteria instantly. Breathing in legionella, such as in a shower, can result in illness. 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. <\/p>\n 5.\tHot water heating<\/strong><\/p>\n If you want hot water heating then you\u2019ll 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\u2019ll cost you more and result in fewer savings and earnings. <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Facts & Figures You’ll Love To Share <\/strong><\/p>\n
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\n1.\tEfficiency<\/strong><\/p>\n
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\n2.\tDomestic hot water temperature<\/strong><\/p>\n
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\n4.\tSpace or hot water heating<\/strong><\/p>\n