Heat pumps: Split vs. Integrated systems?
So you’ve decided to get a heat pump for your home. The question now is… should you get an integrated or split unit system? We’ve spelled out all the pros and cons of both types of heat pumps here
Initial Cost (split 4.0/5.0, integrated 2.0/5.0)
Split heat pump water heaters are the oldest versions of heat pumps around and also the most affordable. A 300 lit split heat pump system will cost around $4800.
Integrated heat pump water heaters are equipped with more advanced technologies to make them more streamlined. This explains its higher price, a 300 lit integrated system will cost around $6600
Efficiency (split 4.0/5.0, integrated 4.0/5.0)
Split heat pumps have a separate, larger compressor. The larger the compressor, the more quickly the heat pump system can generate hot water. Integrated units are paired with a smaller compressor so they are more compact.
If your family has high usage and requires a lot of water every other hour, get a system with a bigger compressor.
If your family has peak periods every 4-5 hours or so, an integrated heat pump with a smaller compressor should be good enough to serve your needs.
For split systems: The further away the compressor is from the tank, the lower the efficiency. This is because heat is rapidly lost through the refrigerant tubes when it runs from compressor to tank.
Installation convenience (split 2.0/5.0, integrated 5.0/5.0)
Split systems require much skill and time to install. First, the compressor and tank are installed. A refrigerant pipe is run from the tank to the compressor, similar to that of air conditioning trunking. Finally, refrigerant is pumped into the pipe with care. In an uncontrolled external environment, any dust or air bubbles that enter the refrigerant system will result in a significant drop in efficiency.
Integrated heat pump water heaters are plug and play systems. Installers need only be concerned with the straightforward task of running water pipes from the heater to bathrooms.
