- The Econergy heat-pump water heater has the potential to cut household hot-water bills by two-thirds nearly everywhere in the country. But our test results show that some other models won't give worthwhile savings in all our climate zones.
- Some manufacturers/distributors have work to do to ensure that their installed products reliably work as intended.
- Large-scale introduction of heat-pump water heaters has the potential to conserve the country's electricity resources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- A study should be undertaken to identify a safe minimum hot-water storage temperature. The building code should then be amended if necessary to reflect the findings.
More information
- Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority: www.energywise.govt.nz
- Hot Water Association: www.nzhwa.org.nz
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Report by Bill Whitley.
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