Most homeowners focus on aesthetics when designing their homes, and it’s easy to understand why. For years, as they’ve been renting and saving up every spare penny toward their dream home, they’ve imagined how they want it to look.
As a homebuilder or developer, you know there’s more to a home than meets the eye. True value lies in the balance of beauty and function. So, it’s up to you to remind homeowners that functional features are what will make a house really work for them.
Functional features like heat pump hot water systems are an innovative, sustainable choice that will make their new home more comfortable and reduce their energy costs.
With iStore’s high-quality, affordable heat pumps, you’ll deliver not just the beauty your clients want in their homes but also the functionality they need.
Build smarter. Build better. Build with iStore!
Understanding Heat Pumps for Homes
An air-source heat pump pulls thermal energy (heat) from the air outside and uses it to warm water. Even on a chilly day, the air still contains thermal energy because the molecules in the air are constantly in motion, and this motion is what constitutes thermal energy.
Here’s how it works: The heat pump system draws in air and uses a special liquid (refrigerant) to absorb the air’s heat. The liquid then compresses, making it very hot. That heat transfers to the water stored in the system’s tank, which is now ready for use throughout the home.
What’s amazing is that this process involves simply moving existing heat; it doesn’t rely on generating heat from scratch, like traditional water heaters. Because of this, heat pumps use approximately one-third of the electricity of conventional electric water heaters.
Boost a New Construction’s Value With an iStore Heat Pump
Adding an iStore heat pump hot water system to a new build is a clever selling point because of the following benefits to homeowners.
Energy Efficiency
The performance of a heat pump is typically measured by its Coefficient of Performance (COP), which is the ratio between how much heat the pump produces compared to the electricity it uses. The higher the COP, the more efficient the system.
When the air temperature around an iStore 180L heat pump is 20°C, it can heat water from 15°C to 60°C with a COP of 4.37. This means that for every unit of electricity the system uses, it produces 4.37 times that amount of heat energy to heat water. The 270L heat pump achieves a COP of 4.82 under the same conditions.
This impressive efficiency translates to real energy savings, with iStore heat pumps consuming 75–85% less electricity than traditional electric and gas water heaters!
Long-Term Savings
Although traditional electric or gas water heaters may be cheaper initially, they have much higher running costs over time because they consume significantly more energy to produce the same amount of hot water as a heat pump.
With water heating accounting for up to 27% of the average home’s energy bills, these higher running costs can quickly add up!
While an iStore heat pump may have a slightly higher upfront price tag, it’s a long-term game-changer. Our heat pumps can save households around 70% on heating costs, equating to savings of as much as $1,000 a year on energy bills.
Over time, the savings from lower energy bills will more than cover the heat pump’s initial expense.
Increased Home Value
Homes with sustainable, energy-efficient features like an iStore heat pump often command higher resale prices. The system’s advanced technology and long-term benefits– such as reduced energy bills – make it an attractive selling point for potential buyers.
An iStore heat pump’s compliance with Australian energy efficiency programs and incentives further solidifies its value in the market, reassuring buyers of its quality and reliability.
Superior Performance
iStore electric heat pumps for homes incorporate smart technology for optimal performance.
- Intelligent Computer Control: The built-in computer monitors all aspects of its surroundings and adjusts the heatpumps performance to match the hot water needs while guaranteeing efficiency and reducing energy waste.
- Scheduling Capabilities: Heating schedules can be set to align with daytime excess solar electricity generation or off-peak electricity rates, maximising energy usage and saving homeowners more on electricity.
- User-Friendly Controls: With the easy-to-use digital display, homeowners can conveniently monitor and adjust system settings.
- Diagnostics and Alerts: Built-in diagnostic tools can quickly detect issues and alerts the homeowner to prevent expensive repairs and keep the system running smoothly.
Our heat pumps are also built with high-quality materials and two key features for long-lasting performance.
An integrated heating coil wraps around the outside of the tank, keeping the heating coil separate from the water and avoiding direct exposure to minerals and corrosive elements.
Our tanks also have anodes—metal rods submerged inside the tank preventing rust and damage to the tank itself. Each tank has not one but two anodes—double the anodes means double the durability!
Gentler Environment Impact
A heat pump reduces a home’s greenhouse gas emissions and carbon footprint by using air—a renewable energy source—instead of fossil fuels.
What kind of a reduction are we talking about?
The iStore heat pump uses approximately only 500-800 watts of energy per hour during the heating process, lowering the average Australian home’s CO₂ emissions by up to 2.9 tonnes a year.
For perspective, the average vehicle emits about 4.6 tonnes of CO₂ annually, so reducing CO₂ emissions by 2.9 tonnes is like taking a car off the road for six months!
Choosing the Right Heat Pump for a New Home Construction
Consider the following questions to choose the right heat pump hot water system for your client’s home.
- How big is the household?
A 180L heat pump is sufficient for the daily hot water needs of one to three people, while a 270L size is better suited for the higher demand of four people or more.
- What system setup best suits the home?
For easier installation – and installation in smaller backyards or narrow side passages – an all-in-one outdoor system like the iStore heat pump is the way to go. Its modern, compact design also integrates seamlessly into new homes without compromising aesthetics—it’s a win-win!
- How important are energy efficiency and cost savings to the homeowner?
A heat pump with a high energy efficiency rating will cut down on electricity bills and save them money in the long run.
- What is the climate?
If the house is in a colder area, choose a heat pump proven to perform well in low temperatures.
If you’re building in NSW or Victoria, it’s helpful to know that the Australian Clean Energy Regulator (CER) divides Australia into climate zones, offering these colder regions higher rebates for installing energy-efficient systems.
Additionally, the NSW and Victorian state governments include the iStore heat pump in their ESS and VEU energy-saving programs, proving its reliable performance and efficiency in colder climates.
- How well-insulated is the tank?
Select a tank with good insulation to keep water hot for longer and lessen the heat pump’s workload.
To qualify for a government rebate, a heat pump hot water system must meet the Australian Government’s compliance testing for heat loss. With over 50mm of insulation, the iStore heat pump tank meets and exceeds this testing.
- Will the heat pump be paired with solar panels?
Pairing a heat pump with a solar system reduces electricity costs by using free, renewable solar power to run the pump.
The home’s roof must have enough space for solar panels and get plenty of sunlight to maximise the panels’ use and, in turn, the heat pump.
Installation and Maintenance
iStore heat pumps for homes are quick and straightforward for a professional to install.
- The single-unit design eliminates the need for complex refrigerant piping.
- The compact system requires minimal clearance and fits in typical residential installation spaces.
- Standard 20mm inlet and outlet fittings easily connect to existing plumbing systems.
Pre-configured electrical “3pin 10 amp” plug is a simple plug and play installation.
It is important for homeowners to know that regular maintenance will keep their heat pump performing at its best and extend its lifespan.
Every six months, they should clear away debris around the unit to maintain proper airflow and remove any dust and dirt buildup.
FAQs
What Are the Benefits of Using Heat Pumps in New Constructions?
- Energy Efficiency: Heat pumps use much less electricity than traditional water heaters.
- Savings: Less electricity usage means lower bills. Lower operating costs also offset the upfront investment over time.
- Sustainability: Relying on renewable energy from the air cuts greenhouse gas emissions and supports eco-friendly living.
- Market Appeal: Energy-efficient homes attract buyers and can increase resale value.
- Versatility: Heat pumps work in various climates and can integrate seamlessly into modern designs.
How Do Heat Pumps Compare to Traditional HVAC Systems?
Some might confuse a heat pump with a traditional HVAC system because both use similar technology to transfer heat. However, a heat pump heats water, while a traditional HVAC system is designed for air temperature control.
What Should Builders Consider When Installing Heat Pumps?
- Climate Compatibility: Choose a heat pump designed to perform efficiently in the local climate, especially in colder regions. The iStore heatpump is designed for all climate regions of Australia.
- System Size: Ensure the heat pump’s capacity matches the household’s hot water needs.
- Placement: Plan to install the unit in a well-ventilated area with sufficient clearance to optimise airflow and efficiency.
- Energy Rebates: Check for government incentives or programs that can offset installation costs.
- Professional Installation: Use licensed professionals to guarantee proper electrical and plumbing setup.
How Do Heat Pumps Impact Home Resale Value?
Heat pumps can help homes sell faster and attract higher offers because they lower energy bills and reduce a home’s carbon footprint, meeting the growing demand for more affordable and sustainable living.
Elevate New Constructions With iStore’s Heat Pumps
From showers and luxurious bathtub soaks to washing dishes and doing laundry, hot water is essential to everyday life.
Your clients need reliable, affordable hot water that makes their lives comfortable and doesn’t strain their family’s budget.
Eco-conscious homeowners also want sustainable solutions that reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing style or function.
Partner with iStore today to tick all the boxes for your clients’ hot water needs. Explore our range of the best heat pumps for homes, then call us on 1300 515 640, email info@istore.net.au, or fill out this online form. We look forward to working with you!
