Residential / Solar & energy
Heat pumps
Rethink the way you heat water. We assess an efficient hot water upgrade around your household demand, installation space and electrical requirements.
Local electricians · Clear advice · Ongoing support
How a heat pump works
A conventional electric hot water system uses an element to convert electricity into heat directly. One unit of electricity gives you roughly one unit of heat, and that is the ceiling.
A heat pump does not make heat, it moves it. It runs a refrigeration cycle in reverse, extracting warmth from the outside air and transferring it into the tank. Because it is moving existing heat rather than creating it, one unit of electricity delivers several units of heat. In the Queensland climate, where the ambient air is warm for most of the year, that efficiency holds up very well.
Why it suits solar
A heat pump is a flexible load. The water does not care what time of day it was heated, only that it is hot when you want a shower. That means you can schedule heating for the middle of the day, when your solar array is producing more than the house is using.
Instead of exporting that surplus for a low feed-in tariff, you store it as hot water. It is effectively a thermal battery, and it is one of the cheapest forms of storage available.
What you are replacing
Electric resistive
The clearest upgrade. Same job, far less electricity, and the ability to shift heating into your solar window.
Gas storage or instantaneous
Removes a gas connection and its supply charge, and lets hot water run on power you generate rather than fuel you buy.
Solar hot water
Older evacuated tube or flat plate systems at end of life are often better replaced with a heat pump plus PV, which is simpler to maintain.
What to consider
- Position. The unit needs decent airflow and is best kept away from bedroom windows, since the compressor makes some noise when running.
- Tank size, matched to household size and shower habits rather than to the old tank by default.
- The electrical supply. A heat pump needs a correctly sized circuit, and if your tariff arrangement is changing, the metering may need attention too.
- Scheduling. Setting the unit to run during daylight is what unlocks the solar benefit, and it is worth getting right at handover.
Heat pumps can be financed too. Our green loan options cover other electrical equipment, not just solar and batteries.
Good to know
Your questions, answered.
Will a heat pump work in winter here?
Yes. South East Queensland winters are mild, and heat pumps are designed to operate well below our typical overnight temperatures. Efficiency drops slightly in cold weather but remains well ahead of an electric element.
Are they noisy?
They make some noise while the compressor runs, comparable to an air conditioner outdoor unit. Position matters, which is why we look at placement before quoting.
How long do they last?
Comparable to a conventional system, with the compressor being the main wearing component. Manufacturer warranties vary by brand and model.
Do I need solar first?
No, a heat pump cuts hot water costs on its own. It just works considerably better alongside solar.
Let’s talk about your project.
Tell us your suburb, priorities and the work you have in mind. We’ll help you take the next step.