PHAM NEWS | MAY 2025 24 Water Heating & Cylinders


Hot water heat pumps up to the challenge


Hot water heat pumps are emerging as a practical solution for decarbonising home heating, providing low-carbon hot water while meeting regulations, making them ideal for both new builds and retrofits in the push towards sustainable energy solutions – so says Dimplex’s David Patrick.


L


ike space heating, hot water must be efficiently electrified when a traditional heat pump is


unsuitable for a building. In response to this challenge, hot water heat pumps (HWHPs) are emerging as a practical and efficient solution for generating low-carbon hot water in homes and apartments that need to decarbonise their hot water provision or meet EPC targets. These compact, specialised units feature a ducted system that delivers fresh air to a small refrigeration circuit mounted on top of a water cylinder. Installed indoors, a HWHP resembles a standard hot water cylinder in both appearance and footprint, and most solutions do not have separate outdoor components. They’re also designed to require minimal maintenance and servicing.


Offering a straightforward path to creating an electrified, sustainable portfolio of options, HWHPs can tackle various challenges for those with electric heating systems. Customers might simply need a cylinder replacement; alternatively, they


may want to reduce their bills and switch from fossil fuels but might lack the resources or space to consider other heat pump technologies.


David Patrick Head of specification marketing at Dimplex


Meeting regulations As the UK moves towards net- zero carbon emissions and the government aims to phase out gas boilers in new homes over the next three years, installers face increasing pressure to offer solutions that support the decarbonisation of both new and existing UK homes. As the demand for energy- efficient, low-carbon heating and hot water solutions rapidly increases, HWHPs are a solution that ticks all the right boxes – they’re compliant with the ever- evolving regulations while being practical and cost-effective for end users.


HWHPs offer a straightforward, standalone solution for efficient hot water heating


t An integrated control unit makes it hassel free to set up the Edel


q The Edel hot water heat pump is a self- contained system that makes installation simple and removes the need for specialist heat pump expertise on site


For example, the Future Homes Standard and Part L-ready Dimplex Edel HWHP harnesses renewable energy from the external air to heat water up to 60°C in a durable, unvented stainless-steel cylinder. The compact units measure up to 630mm in diameter, and storage options of 170, 200, or 270L are available to meet every specification need. With a COP of up to 3.36 and an average energy consumption of just 250W, the Edel can deliver significant carbon savings. This means it can produce over three units of heat for every unit of electricity consumed, using up to three times less electricity than standard electric water heaters.


Maximum impact Most hot water heat pumps (HWHPs) are designed as self- contained systems that offer a straightforward, standalone solution. This makes installation simple and removes the need for specialist heat pump expertise on site. The installation process is similar to that of a standard unvented cylinder, with the addition of two air ducts to support the heat pump operation.


The Edel HWHP arrives


pre-wired and pre-filled with refrigerant with an integrated control unit for hassle-free setup and commissioning. These features ensure straightforward installation, enabling easy integration into a home’s existing system


with minimal disruption. This is especially useful for retrofit projects, where space or structural limitations may restrict other low-carbon heating options.


Installers should also ensure all ductwork complies with Part F of the Building Regulations. At the same time, the unit itself must meet Part G requirements. Partnering with an experienced supplier is key, as well as pro- viding access to expert technical support and tailored installation guidance to ensure a smooth and compliant fit every time.


Whole-home integration Smart whole-home space and water heating solutions are designed to meet regulatory needs while providing greater control and comfort for occupants. Driven by regulatory changes and an ongoing need to reduce energy bills, such systems are fast becoming the norm.


However, rather than relying on a ‘one size fits all’ approach, a smart electric space and water heating system can combine various complementary products. This approach ensures a low-carbon, whole-home solution optimising energy usage and comfort through easy- to-operate, consumer-friendly controls.


Intelligent electric space heating is made even smarter thanks to the various ways the system can be controlled. Most smart systems can now be managed remotely via smartphone apps, providing convenience and allowing users to amend their planned heating schedule remotely. For example, when integrated with the


Dimplex Control Hub, the Edel HWHP works in tandem with compatible electric radiators and HHR (high heat retention) storage heaters to create a seamless whole-home low- carbon system.


Chance to upskill For installers aiming to stay ahead in a fast-evolving market, hot water heat pumps (HWHPs) like the Edel offer a valuable opportunity to expand their service offering. These compact, cost-effective systems are easy to integrate. They provide a practical, future-ready solution for sustainable domestic heating and hot water, helping installers grow their portfolio and meet rising demand for low-carbon alternatives.


For those looking to extend their services and skillset, Dimplex offers dedicated face- to-face training on product installation, servicing, and system principles, including a course focused specifically on the Edel HWHP.


Installers focussed on delivering high-quality work and staying ahead of the curve can also become part of the Dimplex PRO Installer Club – a free, exclusive programme designed for individual installers and small businesses working with our products. Membership unlocks access to expert-led training, technical guidance, priority support, and exclusive discounts and promotions. Whether new to heat pump technology or looking to upskill, the exclusive club helps installers stay competitive and confident in a fast-evolving market. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/525/34


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