FEATURES
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Impact
According to Parry, heat pumps are a great energy-saving,
cost-effective water heating method that is becoming
increasingly popular in South Africa. Water heating in a
domestic setting accounts for a large portion of electricity
use. With escalating costs of power, a more energy
efficient source has become vital. Jansen adds that aside
from reducing reliance on a national electricity supplier,
heat pumps have also become more environmental
friendly by using R410a, a more energy efficient and
ozone-friendly gas alternative to R-22. Less reliance on
electricity also results in fewer carbon dioxide emissions
being released into the atmosphere, and usage times and
temperatures can be controlled remotely.
If, for example, the hot water is only required by a
factory for showers for the staff at the end of the day,
Parry explains that the heat pumps can be set to heat
the water from midday. Of interest, says Jansen, is
the increase in applications of heat pumps, especially
providing heating and cooling for various industry
segments. Other than normal domestic and commercial
hot water, Jansen says Alliance has supplied heat
pumps to hydroponic farmers, crocodile farms, industrial
cleaning companies, and Olympic-sized swimming pools,
to name just a few.
Maintenance
Water pumps do not take up much space and can be
discreetly installed in both residential and commercial
properties without any advanced plumbing work. Parry
says that heat pumps require regular servicing and