Choosing the Best Heat Pump Heater: A Guide for Plumbing Professionals
When you’re on the job, every choice matters. The right tools, the right materials, and—most importantly—the right products for your customers.
Heat pump heaters aren’t just another product; they’re key to delivering reliable, energy-efficient hot water to every home and business you work on. Choosing the best heat pump heater means happier customers and a reputation for excellent work.
At iStore, we provide top-quality heat pump heaters at competitive prices to keep your projects profitable.
What Is a Heat Pump System?
Unlike traditional electric heaters, which use electricity to generate heat, or gas heaters, which burn fuel, heat pump water heater systems draw thermal energy from the air to heat water.
Since air is a limitless resource, using it to heat water is a smart, sustainable choice that reduces energy use and costs.
How Does a Heat Pump Heater Work?
- A fan pulls in air across the heat pump’s evaporator.
- Refrigerant in the evaporator absorbs thermal energy from the air. This energy causes the refrigerant to heat up and change from a liquid to a gas.
- The compressor then pressurises this gas, making it hot.
- The hot gas travels through a condenser coil, which heats the water inside a coil-wrapped tank.
- Once the gas cools down, it turns into a liquid and returns to the evaporator to start the process again.
- The cycle continues until the set target temperature is achieved.
- As customers use hot water in their homes, the cycle restarts once the tank temperature drops below a certain temperature.
Exploring iStore’s Product Range
The iStore 180L heat pump is ideal for smaller households with up to three people, efficiently handling daily showers, regular dishwashing, and small laundry loads.
The 270L heat pump is better suited for larger households of four or more people, managing multiple back-to-back showers, filling large bathtubs, and frequent dishwashing and laundry loads.
Both models incorporate innovative technology for optimal performance your customers will love.
- Intelligent Computer Control: The built-in computer monitors all aspects of its surroundings and adjusts the pump’s performance to match the hot water needs while guaranteeing efficiency and reducing energy waste.
- Scheduling Capabilities: Users can program heating cycles to align with off-peak electricity rates, maximising energy usage and cost savings.
- User-Friendly Controls: Accessible digital interfaces enable users to monitor and adjust settings easily, which can reduce the need for service calls for simple adjustments.
- Energy Efficiency: With a high COP (Coefficient of Performance), our heat pumps produce more heat than conventional systems for the same amount of electricity.
- Diagnostics and Alerts: Built-in diagnostic tools can detect issues and display error codes, facilitating faster and more accurate troubleshooting.
And for you, iStore heat pump water heaters are easy to install! We’ll explore this later.
Choosing the Right Heat Pump
Household Size and Hot Water Usage
Here are key factors to consider when recommending a heat pump heater to your customers.
- Smaller Households (1–3 people): For homes where daily use includes a couple of showers, washing dishes, and light laundry, a 180L heat pump is a great choice. It meets typical demands without overspending on capacity.
- Larger Households (4+ people): If your customer’s family takes back-to-back showers, fills larger bathtubs, or runs frequent loads of laundry and dishes, go for a 270L model. It can keep up with heavier hot water needs, so no one has to face the dreaded cold last shower of the day.
- Future-Proofing: Is your customer’s household small now but could potentially grow later? A bigger system can save them from needing a future upgrade.
Climate Compatibility
It’s important to take into consideration where your customer lives because although heat pump water heaters are suitable for various climates, their efficiency can change depending on the temperature.
Standard heat pumps work well year-round in mild to warm climates with temperatures consistently above 0°C. They pull enough heat from the air to meet daily hot water demands without extra assistance.
In areas where temperatures regularly drop below 5°C, you’ll want a heat pump with these features.
- Defrost Function: Prevents ice build-up on the evaporator, ensuring the system runs smoothly even in freezing conditions.
- Boost Mode or Backup Element: A supplementary heating element helps maintain water temperature when the air is too cold for the heat pump to operate effectively.
- Insulated Tank: Better insulation keeps the water hot for longer, reducing the system’s workload.
Installation Made Easy
Simple Setup Process
iStore heat pump heaters are designed for straightforward installation.
- Integrated Design: The heat pump (evaporator, fan, and compressor) and storage tank are combined into a single unit, eliminating the need for complex refrigerant piping and reducing installation time.
- Standard Connections: Equipped with standard ¾ inch inlet and outlet fittings for quick and secure connections.
- Pre-Wired Electricals: Equipped with a standard 3-pin 10 amp plug is a simple plug and play installation.
- Compact Footprint: Fits in typical installation spaces, needing minimal clearance. Suitable for various residential settings without extensive modifications.
- User-Friendly Commissioning: The intuitive control panel facilitates easy programming of operating modes and temperature settings.
Minimal Downtime
The iStore heat pump heater’s quick and easy installation means your customers won’t have to endure long periods without hot water, keeping their daily routines intact.
The fast installation also reflects your service well, keeping your customers happy and making them more likely to trust you with future jobs.
Comprehensive Guides and Support
We provide comprehensive resources to support you throughout the installation process of our heat pump water heater systems.
Detailed installation manuals for the 180L and 270L models are accessible on our website. These manuals cover every aspect of the installation process, including site selection, plumbing connections, electrical requirements, and system commissioning.
Got an installation question or after some technical advice? Our support team is ready to help. Call us on 1300 515 640, email info@istore.net.au, or fill out this online form.
Additionally, our website has a FAQ section that addresses common installation questions.
Plumbing Considerations
Sacrificial Anode
After installing an iStore heat pump, it’s a good idea to explain the system’s sacrificial anode to your customer. You can tell them how this metal component in the system’s water tank attracts corrosive elements in the water, preventing them from attacking and corroding the tank.
Each iStore heat pump heater has two sacrificial anodes: the whole life anode, which stays in place for the system’s entire lifespan, and the service anode, which must be replaced.
If the customer’s home uses capital city water, you should check and if required replace the service anode every two years. More frequent checks and replacements are necessary for harsher regional water usage.
Scaling Protection
Your customers must understand that minerals found in hard water, such as calcium and magnesium, can build up inside their systems, forming scale deposits on heating elements and internal components.
Scaling can make it harder for the heat pump to transfer heat to the water, increasing energy use and running costs. Excessive scale can lead to clogged pipes, damaged components, and even system failure, resulting in costly repairs or replacements.
Educating your customers on scaling protection measures, like installing a water softener in hard water areas or scheduling regular maintenance, will save them money on energy and repairs and extend the life of their heat pump water heater.
FAQs
What Should Plumbing Professionals Look for in a Heat Pump Heater?
Look for a heat pump heater that
- Can accommodate the number of occupants in the home and their hot water demands.
- Has a high COP (Coefficient of Performance) for efficiency.
- Features defrost modes or backup heating for colder climates.
- Is durable, with a sacrificial anode for corrosion protection.
- Offers clear installation manuals, accessible support, and easy maintenance.
What Are the Installation Requirements for Heat Pump Heaters?
Heat pump heaters must be installed in well-ventilated areas with access to ambient air, like outdoors or in a ventilated space. They require standard plumbing connections, a suitable electrical supply, and enough clearance for airflow and maintenance.
How Can Heat Pump Heaters Benefit My Clients?
Heat pump heaters provide more energy-efficient hot water than traditional systems, reducing electricity costs. Because they use less energy, they cut carbon emissions and are environmentally friendly. All while providing your customers with reliable hot water!
What Maintenance Is Needed for Optimal Performance?
- Every Six Months: Inspect the heat pump water heater system for leaks and clean debris from the air intake vents, filters, and the unit’s surrounding area.
- Every 2–3 Years: System servicing by a licensed plumber checking and if required replace the sacrificial service anode.
Elevate Your Services with iStore’s Heat Pump Heaters
Your customers will love the reliable, eco-friendly iStore heat pump heater, which never disappoints in delivering hot water and slashing electricity bills.
And you’ll love using iStore’s products because they’re easy to install and maintain and come with extensive installation support.
Explore our heat pump heaters online, then contact us today to find an iStore supplier near you. Call 1300 515 640 or fill out this online form, and we’ll be in touch soon.
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Discover the Benefits of Heat Pump Hot Water Systems
Say goodbye to the days of draining your wallet and your patience waiting for hot water. Discover revolutionary heat pump hot water systems, the cost-effective and eco-friendly solution for heating your home’s water.
At iStore, our heat pumps are built for sustainability, affordability, and performance to make your home greener, your energy bills leaner, and your hot showers longer.
What is a Heat Pump Water Heater?
Unlike traditional electric heaters that simply convert electricity into heat, and gas heaters that burn fuel to generate heat, heat pump hot water systems extract heat from the air.
Air is an unlimited natural resource, so using it to heat water is sustainable and just makes sense!
How Does a Heat Pump Hot Water System Work?
A fan pulls air over a hot water heat pump’s evaporator, where refrigerant absorbs heat from the air and turns the refrigerant into a gas. The compressor pressurises this gas, heating it further. The hot gas then passes through a condenser coil, heating the water inside the tank. As the gas cools, it returns to a liquid and cycles back to the evaporator.
This process continues until the water reaches the set temperature and restarts when the water drops below the set temperature, as hot water is used.
Heat pump hot water systems can be paired with solar panels. The solar panels generate the electricity needed to power the heat pump, reducing reliance on the grid, lowering electricity costs, and making the system even more environmentally friendly.
Benefits of iStore’s Heat Pump Hot Water Systems
Sustainability
Our hot water heat pumps consume 75–85% less electricity than traditional electric and gas water heaters.
By relying on renewable thermal energy rather than fossil fuels, an iStore heat pump helps reduce your carbon footprint. It consumes approximately only 500 watts of energy per hour during the air-to-energy heating process and can lower the average Australian home’s CO2 emissions by up to 2.9 tonnes a year!
For further sustainability, you can integrate an iStore heat pump with an iStore hybrid solar inverter and battery. Excess photovoltaic (PV) energy generated by your solar panels can run your heat pump instead of going to waste.
Savings
Because our heat pumps use much less electricity than traditional water heaters, you’ll notice significant savings on energy bills.
How significant?
Your water heating costs can be lowered by up to 70%, saving you up to $1000 a year!
iStore hot water heat pumps feature four economical operating modes to save you even more money. There’s a hybrid mode for when guests are staying at your place and a vacation mode for when you’re away.
Additionally, this innovative, money-saving water heating solution can appeal to potential buyers, enhancing your home’s value.
Versatility, Reliability, and Easy Maintenance
iStore heat pumps supply hot water to kitchens, laundries, and multiple bathrooms in homes of all sizes.
These pumps automatically restart the heating cycle once the temperature in the tank has dropped below a set temperature, so you’ll always have hot water on hand.
The all-in-one pump unit is quick and easy to install, and maintenance is minimal because there are few moving parts.
iStore’s Heat Pump Solutions
iStore heat pump hot water systems are available in two sizes, both boasting all the amazing benefits mentioned above.
The 180L pump is perfect for smaller homes with water heating needs that may include up to three people showering daily, washing dishes, and doing small laundry loads.
The 270L pump is better suited for larger households with more hot water needs, such as multiple family members (four or more) taking back-to-back showers, filling large bathtubs, and handling lots of dishwashing and laundry loads.
Choosing the Right Heat Pump Hot Water System
Picking the right hot water heat pump doesn’t have to be tricky. Here are some quick tips to help you make the best choice.
- Household Size: More people means more frequent hot water usage. A 180–200L system suits smaller households, while larger families might need a 270L system or bigger.
- System Type: Got space outdoors? A split system gives you flexibility because the heat pump sits outside, and the tank can go wherever it fits best. Prefer an all-in-one option? An integrated system combines everything in one unit, making installation easier.
- Climate: Heat pumps work well in most climates, but if you live somewhere colder, choose one designed for low temperatures.
- Insulation: Look for a tank with good insulation so your water stays hot for longer and your heat pump doesn’t have to work as hard.
- Roof Space and Shading: If you plan to pair your heat pump with solar panels, make sure your roof has enough space for the panels and gets plenty of sunlight for the best results.
Types of Heat Pump Hot Water Systems
The main types of heat pump hot water systems are split and integrated.
In a split system, the evaporator, fan, and compressor that operate the pump are separate from the water storage tank and connected by refrigerant piping. The heat pump is installed outside, while the tank can be installed indoors or outdoors, offering more installation flexibility and quieter operation, as the compressor is outside.
An integrated system combines the heat pump and water storage tank into a single unit, with the pump mounted on top of the storage cylinder. This setup is ideal for spaces needing a streamlined solution, such as smaller backyards or narrow side passages, because it’s more compact and easier to install.
Speaking of installation, heat pump hot water systems are typically installed by a licensed plumber on a flat, stable surface, such as a concrete slab or paved area. Once everything is connected to the water and power supply, you’re ready to enjoy hot water.
Worried about where to install your hot water heat pump? It will still operate well in shaded or low-light areas because it extracts heat from the surrounding air, not direct sunlight.
Costs and Incentives
Heat pump hot water systems can be more expensive upfront than traditional electric or gas systems, but they make up for it by saving you money on power bills.
With an iStore heat pump’s high-quality construction and long-lasting performance, you’re investing in a system that delivers reliable savings for years to come. And with our competitive pricing, you get excellent value without compromising on efficiency or durability.
Government incentives, rebates, and electricity tariffs are available to help further offset the cost of installation.
- Federal Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES): Households installing eligible renewable energy hot water systems can create Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs) that are then sold to recover a portion of the upfront system installation cost.
- State Incentives: Some state governments offer incentives for the installation of solar panels, batteries, and heat pumps.
- NSW: For homes with existing solar systems, incentives range from $1,600 to $2,400 off the upfront installation cost of a household solar battery. The excess solar energy stored in this battery can power your heat pump.
- Victoria: Eligible households can receive a rebate of up to $1,400 for installing solar panels. Using solar panels to power a heat pump will reduce your grid reliance and water heating costs.
- Renewable Energy Hot Water System Rebates: Depending on the state you live in, you may be eligible for $800 to $3,000 off a renewable energy hot water system when replacing a traditional one. You could receive a $1,080 incentive for installing an iStore 270L heat pump, as it’s approved by the Australian Federal Government Clean Energy Regulator.
Time-of-Use Tariffs: Electricity rates vary depending on the time of day, with lower rates during off-peak hours. By scheduling your hot water system to operate during these cheaper periods, you can further reduce energy expenses.
FAQs
What Are the Main Advantages Over Traditional Water Heaters?
Heat pumps
- Use up to 85% less electricity than traditional electric and gas water heaters.
- Reduce your power costs over time.
- Can be paired with solar panels for even greater savings.
- Lower your carbon footprint by using renewable heat from the air.
How Much Can I Save on My Energy Bills?
With an iStore heat pump, your water heating costs can be lowered by up to 70%, saving you up to $1000 a year compared to conventional hot water systems.
What Maintenance Is Required for Heat Pump Systems?
A heat pump hot water system should be inspected for leaks and freed of debris every six months, and air filters should be washed or replaced every 6–12 months.
It’s recommended that a licensed plumber service the system every 2–3 years.
Discover the Future of Hot Water Heating Today!
iStore heat pumps work smarter, not harder—tapping into clever tech to shrink your carbon footprint and cut your energy bills down to size while your family enjoys hot water on demand.
Explore our hot water heat pump range online, then contact us today to upgrade your home’s water heating system. Call 1300 515 640 or fill out this online form, and we’ll be in touch soon.
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iStore Batteries Comply With NSW Battery Scheme
iStore is pleased to announce their battery range now complies with the current published “Equipment Requirements” released by the NSW government in conjunction with the Scheme Administrator (IPART).
NSW Climate and Energy Action states “Installing more batteries across NSW will help make the grid more reliable and stable while reducing our reliance on fossil fuels during periods of peak demand. This will help reduce NSW’s emissions by 70% by 2035 and achieve net zero by 2050.”
“It’s wonderful to see another state scheme roll out in Australia, we know from experience that these schemes are very effective in not only achieving industry growth but also generating better accessibility for homeowners wishing to enhance their sustainability by purchasing a battery. The scheme will see NSW property owners who utilise the rebate reduce their power bills while contributing to our collective net-zero targets. It’s a win-win for everyone,” says iStore CEO, Eliese De Oliveira.
The current equipment requirements proposed by the NSW government have varied slightly from previous state rebates. This has required additional product development, testing and subsequent changes to warranty conditions for most industry manufacturers. Fortunately for iStore, the exceptional quality of our product has meant that we have been able to adopt these higher requirements and these amendments have now been published effective September 2024.
If you’re an eligible NSW resident, you could access between $1600 to $2400 off the up-front installation costs of a battery for homes and businesses with existing solar and between $250 to $400 for connecting your household or business battery to a Virtual Power Plant (VPP). Further information regarding the scheme is available here.
iStore is an Australian-owned and operated company with the safest battery technology in the market. iStore batteries have four layers of safety technology including 8 temperature sensors per cell and automatic self-extinguishers. A slim and compact design makes the battery range a versatile solution for any homeowner.
Meet Jack ‘Longy’ Long, iStore’s Senior Technical Leader
Today, we’re excited to introduce you to one of the pillars of our team, Jack ‘Longy’ Long, our Senior Technical Leader. With a wealth of experience and a passion for innovation, Longy has been instrumental in driving our technical vision forward.
In this video, you’ll get to know Longy’s journey in the industry, his passion for solar, and the unique insights he brings to iStore. Whether you’re a homeowner on your journey to home electrification or in the industry, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.
So, sit back, relax, and join us as we dive into the tech side of iStore with Longy!
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Meet Kang, iStore’s BDM
We asked iStore’s Business Development Manager, Kang Ren, some questions regarding the new iStore solar energy range.
1. What sets iStore’s inverters apart from the competition?
2. We asked Kang, “What are some features of the iStore battery?”
3. Kang describes further features of iStore’s modular solar battery.
4. We asked Kang to tell us more about how iStore addresses battery safety.
About iStore
Discover our complete home electrification range, from high-performance solar hybrid inverters and battery storage with optional blackout protection to pool heaters and multi-award-winning iStore heat pumps. Designed for longevity, backed by 100% local Australia-based support. Our team work collaboratively with our suppliers to ensure the supply of cutting-edge products in the market. With more products on the road map, iStore empowers Australians to take control of their home energy through complete electrification.
Experience the convenience of smart home electrification with iStore – The Australian Home Electrification Company.
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Meet Tiarna Hodge, iStore’s RMA Manager
Meet Tiarna Hodge, iStore’s RMA Manager. We asked Tiarna some questions about iStore, its monitoring platform and warranties. Firstly, we asked Tiarna to introduce iStore’s Monitoring platform.
Tiarna explains how to monitor your products using iStore’s Monitoring platform.
We asked Tiarna, ‘What is iStore’s top priority in regards to customer satisfaction?”
We asked Tiarna about iStore’s inverter warranties.
About iStore
Discover our complete home electrification range, from high-performance solar hybrid inverters and battery storage with optional blackout protection to pool heaters and multi-award-winning iStore heat pumps. Designed for longevity, backed by 100% local Australia-based support. Our team work collaboratively with our suppliers to ensure the supply of cutting-edge products in the market. With more products on the road map, iStore empowers Australians to take control of their home energy through complete electrification.
Experience the convenience of smart home electrification with iStore – The Australian Home Electrification Company.
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iStore Battery Fully Approved for SolarVIC and SAPN Programs
Introduction
The renewable energy landscape continues to evolve, and solar power is at the forefront of this transformation. As professionals in the industry, we’re always on the lookout for cutting-edge technologies that enhance solar system performance. In exciting news, the iStore battery has recently received approval for both the Solar Victoria (SolarVIC) program and the South Australian Power Networks (SAPN) list. Let’s delve into the details and explore why this development matters.
iStore Battery Overview
The iStore battery, from Australian company iStore, is a high-performance energy storage solution designed specifically for residential and commercial solar systems. Its key features include:
- Cutting-Edge Technology: Safety is paramount with multiple layers of safety features and protection including self-extinguishing technology in its battery modules.
- Scalability: Start out with one or two battery modules, and expand as your family grows – iStore battery can be easily scaled to meet your energy storage needs.
- IP66 rated: means it is suitable for use in outdoor enclosures
- Slim design: it can be accommodated in smaller spaces
- Intelligent Energy Management: The iStore battery integrates seamlessly with iStore inverters through the secure EnOS platform and iStore Univers app, allowing for dynamic load shifting, peak shaving, and grid independence.
SolarVIC Approval
The Solar Victoria program aims to promote solar energy adoption across the state of Victoria, Australia. As part of this initiative, approved inverters and batteries must meet stringent quality and safety standards. The iStore battery has successfully met these requirements, making it eligible for SolarVIC rebates and incentives.
Benefits of choosing the iStore battery under SolarVIC:
- Financial Incentives: Homeowners and businesses can access financial incentives when installing the iStore battery alongside their solar panels.
- Energy Independence: With the iStore battery, users can store excess solar energy during the day and use it during peak evening hours, reducing reliance on the grid.
SAPN List Inclusion
The South Australian Power Networks (SAPN) maintains a list of approved inverters and batteries for grid-connected solar systems. The iStore battery has secured its place on this prestigious list, signifying its compatibility with SAPN’s network requirements.
Why the iStore battery stands out for SAPN installations:
- Grid Stability: SAPN prioritizes grid stability and safety. The iStore battery’s smart management features contribute to grid-friendly operation.
- Emergency Backup: During power outages, the iStore battery provides reliable backup power, ensuring an uninterrupted electricity supply.
Conclusion
As solar professionals, we recognize the significance of choosing reliable and approved components for our installations. The iStore battery’s dual approval for SolarVIC and SAPN programs underscores its quality, performance, and commitment to a sustainable energy future. Whether you’re a homeowner, installer, or business owner, consider the iStore battery a valuable addition to your solar system.
References
- Solar Victoria Rebates and Incentives
- South Australian Power Networks (SAPN)
Note: The information provided here is based on available data up to June 2024.
Approved Inverters. Retrieved from Clean Energy Council – Approved Inverters : Clean Energy Council. (2024). Clean Energy Council Approved Inverters List. Retrieved from Clean Energy Council – Approved Inverters List : Solar Victoria. (2024). Solar Victoria Program. Retrieved from Solar Victoria : Solar Victoria. (2024). Solar Homes Program Guidelines. Retrieved from Solar Homes Program Guidelines : South Australian Power Networks. (2024). Connecting to the Network. Retrieved from Connecting to the Network : iStore Energy
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Join iStore at Smart Energy 2024
Join iStore to discover our new iStore PV range at the biggest all things renewables event in Australia! iStore is proud to be a Titanium Member of the Smart Energy Council and Smart Energy 2024 is back and bigger than ever! Gear up to immerse yourself in a symphony of innovation and inspiration at Smart Energy 2024 – the unmissable rendezvous for all things renewables!
At iStore, we are making it even easier to electrify your whole home with our new range of solar inverters and batteries. Plus, our new custom-built iStore Home App makes monitoring your solar energy system a breeze. Our new range will appeal to a wide range of customers offering a unique value proposition. With rigorous safety testing and integrated monitoring, you can trust our fully Australian-owned, family business to provide a complete solution – all supported by our dedicated, local service division.
If you’re eager to check out our latest iStore PV range in person, you won’t want to miss – so come and join us at Stand 26 for a drink!
Why we are excited about Smart Energy 2024!
1. Top minds charting the renewable revolution: We’re looking forward to engaging in riveting discussions, mind-expanding debates, and thought-provoking presentations where speakers tackle the big topics for the renewable industry
2. Sharing iStore’s quality cutting-edge technology and innovative solar solutions, backed up with our Australian support team.
3. Community networking: Join us to discuss how we can work together to bring wholly our Australian-owned iStore product range into every home in Australia. Plus, you’ll have the chance to have a drink, unwind and chat to the best in the industry.
Smart Energy 2024 is your ticket to a world of all-things renewable, and it’s absolutely FREE to attend.
At iStore we’re reimagining the future of home energy in Australia leading the way to the electrification of the whole home. Mark your calendars, join us in accelerating the transition to a sustainable future at Smart Energy 2024. Find out more and register at Smart Energy Expo website today!
“iStore eyes up a sustainable future” – published in Smart Energy Magazine (Summer 2023 Edition)
With summer just around the corner, iStore is pleased to be featured in the Summer 2023 Edition of “Smart Energy” Magazine. The full text is available below.
MOST PEOPLE ASSOCIATE ISTORE with the smart air-to-energy hot water system that’s built specifically for Australian conditions. Now the company is forging ahead by diversifying into solar inverters and modular batteries, which made their debut at All Energy Australia in late October. The new product range will include innovative 5kW and 6kW hybrid inverters, complemented by modular batteries ranging from 5kWh, 10kWh, to 15kWh capacity.
“iStore’s mission is to forge strategic partnerships with technology leaders, creating tailor-made electrification solutions that meet the unique needs of Australian households. Our foray into the solar energy sector, seamlessly integrated with our existing product ecosystem represents a natural progression,” says Eliese De Oliveira, General Manager at wholly Australian-owned family enterprise iStore.
“Our target is to electrify homes, our end goal – which we are delivering in bit-sized pieces – is to be a one-stop-shop solution within Australia so we will see an expansion of products, we’re adding in broader aspects of electrification to the home. Our range of water heat pumps was our primary product, and last year we introduced pool heats pumps, now, as announced at All Energy, we are getting into the PV side of the market by introducing PV batteries and inverters. “From the middle of year 2024 we will add EV chargers to the range,” she said.
“This new line perfectly complements iStore’s highly successful hot water solutions… iStore firmly believes that intelligent, energy-efficient solutions lay the foundation for a sustainable future.” iStore batteries and inverters are manufactured in China under an OEM arrangement. Security “We want to eventually invest in local supply and manufacturing, but we don’t yet have the ability, the more important thing now is the supply chain; the issue of cyber security in solar is a hot topic right now, certainly in WA where I’m based, and this was the area we wanted to prioritise taking ownership of,” Eliese told Smart Energy. “We have taken precautions using global entity, the Singapore-based Universe EMS [Energy Management Systems] as our developer.
They have several big-name global clients including Nissan that they provide applications for and provide the application using French servers while we are the administrators so any software changes on the inverter side the data is protected. Eliese added that EMS meets stringent international cyber standards which are more developed than Australia’s.
The new iStore range attracted positivity and interest at All Energy where Eliese picked up the noticeable increase of end-users attending the show, from young families with babies up to retirees. “This is exciting as it shows people are invested in the same journey, smart energy is what we are about and electrification of the home, it’s an important matter,” she said.
Eliese attributes the uptick in consumer interest to cost of living pressures and greater awareness of home electrification which is an obvious option for those wanting to live sustainably and gain greater control over their energy assets. “Another trend is the amount of PV installers who want to expand into hot water systems, so businesses are also adopting the mindset of being a whole home solution for their customers, I think this is exciting.”
She explained the timing of the arrival of new iStore stock in mid-November was less than ideal given most installers had booked out their STC spots, however she anticipates stock will move more rapidly in 2024. Meantime the heat pump hot water market is tracking very well. “That is not ground-breaking news but the positive level of volume and enquiries is welcome,” she said. The popular website My Efficient Electric Home is evidence of the increased interest with hot water heat pumps being the most frequently asked question, having overtaken the number of rooftop PV enquiries a couple of years ago.
Pssst… Want to win a BYD Dolphin valued at $38,800? iStore is giving away two cars in a draw: one to a lucky homeowner and the other to an installer (see page 39). Second and third prizes are a hot water heat pump and a 5kW battery. This generous offer is being promoted through iStore and retailers in a collaborative endeavour to reach a wide audience.
www.iStore.net.au
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