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Businesses around Victoria have become eligible for free hot water heat pump upgrades thanks to the VEU program, famous for its incredible (often free) energy-efficiency upgrades. We have written before about the free heat pumps offer, including what a heat pump does and if it’s worth your time making the jump to a new one (hint: it is).
Heat pumps present an energy-efficient option for heating water. It works in the opposite way to a refrigerator by extracting heat from the air to heat a tank of water. In fact, heat pumps often achieve efficiency rates of up to 600%, meaning they produce up to 6 times as much energy as the electricity they consume.
Since this offer launched it has raised a lot of questions from interested businesses and business managers, so we thought we’d go through some of these questions here and provide some answers to help clear things up for you.
If we haven’t answered something you need to know, feel free to get in touch or give us a call 1300 788 776.
What are the pros and cons of Hot Water Heat Pumps?
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
Lower running costsHeat pumps are cheaper to run than traditional electric and gas water heaters. The more energy efficient the systems are, the greater the long-term savings on energy. |
High upfront costHeat pumps have a large upfront cost, but on the other hand, their operating costs translate to long-term savings on energy bills and lead to a path of reduced carbon emissions. |
Less MaintenanceHeat pumps require less maintenance than other water heating systems. Certain aspects of the heat pump will need to be checked about once a year, but this can easily be done by you. |
Difficult to installHeat pumps are fairly difficult to install and require both an electrician and a plumber. Split system installations also require a licensed refrigerant handle. |
Better SafetyHeat pumps are safer to operate than other water heating systems. This is because they rely on consuming a small amount of electricity and do not need to burn fuel to generate heat. |
Issues in Cold WeatherAir source heat pumps can experience issues such as icing in cold temperatures, which can ultimately damage the system. However, all heat pumps we install have built-in automatic defrosting technology. |
Reduces Carbon EmissionsA heat pump system reduces carbon emissions and has an efficient energy-to-heat conversion rate. For example, water source heat pumps can reach impressive efficiency levels close to 600% meaning they deliver up to 6 times as much energy as they consume. |
Not completely carbon neutralHeat pumps rely on electricity to operate. Even when not accounting for their production, their carbon footprint will be dependent on how the electricity they use is produced. In comparison to other heating systems, such as electric and gas water heaters, they use much less energy as they extract heat energy from the air instead. |
Long Life spanThe average life-span of a heat pump is about 15 years, and some can even function efficiently for more than 20 years. They are exceptionally reliable and a steady source of heat. |
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Eligible for Government Subsidies/FREEBecause they are so energy efficient, heat pumps qualify for rebates and support from the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments. |
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What is the timeline/wait times for a free heat pump?
This will depend on the model that is selected for installation. We can install most models within a few days of receiving your order. However, some models may need to be manufactured to order and this can take up to 4 months to manufacture, deliver and install.
What businesses are eligible for free heat pumps?
All Victorian businesses are eligible for Government subsidies for heat pump installations.
What areas do we service?
Our main service area is Melbourne’s Metropolitan region. However, we do send teams to service regional locations across Victoria, so please call us to find out if we are installing, or can install in your area.
Will there be any downtime for my business?
No. We may have to turn off your hot water for a couple of hours while we install your new heat pump water heater and potentially your water supply for up to half an hour depending on your plumbing configuration. We may also need to isolate your electricity supply for a very short period depending on your switchboard wiring configuration. We will consult you beforehand if we need to isolate any of your services
Can it take place during business hours?
Yes it can. We will be in and out before you notice us!
How does the installation process work?
Our expertly trained and fully qualified electricians and plumbers look after all of this for you. They will explain everything they need to do on the day so there are no surprises for you.
What free Heat Pump brands do we supply?
Energy Makeovers offers a range of heat pumps that cater to all needs. We are brand agnostic which enables us to purchase and supply the most efficient and suitable products in the market.
Book in a FREE consultation today with one of our experts to identify which solution is best suited to your requirements.
Which Heat Pump is best for my business?
Heat Pumps are available in a range of sizes with the most common tank sizes being between 200 litres and 300 litres. Larger businesses can utilise several large tanks and compressors plumbed in series.
It really depends on the needs of your business. One of our energy-saving experts can help you assess what heat pump type would work best for your circumstances and business needs.
What warranties are available on free heat pumps?
This will depend on the model supplied but most heat pumps are supplied with a 5-year warranty on the tank and 3 years on the compressor.
Do you need to be the owner of a business/building to get a free heat pump?
No. You only need to be the party responsible for paying the electricity bill at the site.
What is the ROI period on a heat pump installation?
For most heat pump investments, the payback is less than a year and potentially much shorter if you qualify for multiple forms of Government incentives. Many businesses in Victoria are eligible for a free heat pump, so the payback period is instantaneous.
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