Winter is here in Melbourne, and it’s cold. If you want to cut down your electricity bill and reduce your carbon footprint, upgrading to a heat pump could be a great choice. Compared to the conventional electric heaters, heat pump uses air and are 3 times more efficient (yes, 3 times cheaper as well). Though it’s a great long-term investment, the installation might be the largest roadblock. The truth is, it doesn’t require homeowners to overhaul their house and is rather a straightforward process. In this article, we will help you better understand heat pumps and introduce you to the installation process.
What to Expect During Heat Pump Installation
Depending on the setup and location, a typical heat pump installation takes around 4-6 hours. It’s generally a straightforward process because they use the same plumbing and electrical connections as electric hot water systems. So during the installation, the old system is removed while the old water pipes and electrical wires are reconnected to the new system.
Choosing the right location is important. Installers place the unit where it has adequate airflow and away from corrosive chemicals. Meanwhile, a modern heat pump system produces 45 – 55 decibels of noise, similar to a refrigerator. When installing, choose certified professionals, and communicate with them about the location if you are concerned about the noise.
Factors That Influence Installation
As mentioned before, the installation is often straightforward. However, there are a number of factors that can influence the process. Understanding them can help you make informed decisions.
Site Accessibility: Confined and obstructed areas increase installation difficulty. If this applies to your old heating system site, consider freeing up the space as open and easy-to-reach spaces speed up the process and reduce installation costs.
Existing Infrastructure: Homes with modern electrical systems and compatible plumbing usually require minimal adjustments. Compare your original system with the model you want to purchase, as some plumbing might need electrical and pipe modifications, increasing the installation cost and time.
Heat Pump Model: Larger models with advanced features can add setup time.
Noise and Ventilation: While installers assess the site for good airflow, proper placement also considers noise implications to minimize disturbances. If your household could not provide a location that accommodates both aspects, consider quieter models that operate around 45 decibels.
Installation Requirements and Recommendations
Heat pumps must comply with local building codes and noise regulations. Adequate ventilation is essential, and the unit must not be near corrosive chemicals.
It is highly recommended to hire a professional for Installation to ensure correction and safety. Professional installation protects the unit’s warranty and guarantees the best efficiency and durability, ultimately speeding up the cost & break-even for your upgrade.
For homeowners in Melbourne and surrounding areas, Solar Flow is a trusted name in heat pump installation. With expertise in products like the Sanden Heat Pump, Solar Flow ensures each system is tailored to your property’s needs and maximize energy savings for you.
Different Types of Heat Pumps
Heat pumps come in a few main types, each suited for different home setups and climates. Find the best type for your household’s needs.
Air-Source Heat Pumps: These are the most common for residential water heating. They extract heat from the surrounding air and are ideal for mild to warm climates.
Split-System Heat Pumps: These systems separate the tank and compressor, allowing more flexibility in installation and quieter operation near living spaces.
Integrated Heat Pumps: These units combine the compressor and tank into a single system, making them compact and suitable for homes with limited space.
Hybrid Heat Pumps: Some models combine heat pump technology with conventional electric elements to ensure a consistent hot water supply during periods of high demand or colder temperatures.
Sanden Eco Plus Heat pumps are exceptional are efficiency. Solar Flow proudly offers the latest Sanden Eco Plus models, designed to meet the highest standards of performance and durability.
Cost and Energy Savings Over Time
Compared to the electric and gas heating systems, heat pumps use only one-third of the electricity to produce the same amount of heat. In general, the total price of purchasing and installing a heat pump costs around $2,500 to $6,500. Over time, homeowners can expect to recover the initial investment within 3 to 5 years, depending on the usage.
Government rebates in 2025 further reduce the upfront cost. Victorian residents can access multiple rebates, including the Federal STC Rebate, Victorian Energy Upgrades, and Solar Victoria’s Hot Water Rebate. Reaching a potential cut of up to $2,600.
Here’s a price breakdown:
| System Quality | Unit Cost | Installation Cost | Total (Before Rebates) |
| Budget | $2,000–$2,600 | $700–$1,500 | $2,700–$4,100 |
| Mid-Range | $2,500–$3,000 | $1,000–$1,500 | $3,500–$4,500 |
| Premium | $3,000–$4,000 | $1,500–$2,500 | $4,500–$6,500 |
Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Efficiency
A good installation can speed up the price break-even process for your upgrade. Maintenance is also a major factor during the process. Here are 3 tips for ensuring your heat pumps work at top efficiency.
- Clear Debris: Good airflow is key to good performance. Clear leaves, dust, and other debris around the unit.
- Inspect for Corrosion and Leaks: Address minor issues before they progress into costly repairs. DIY and check pipes, connections, and the unit casting for signs of corrosion and leaks.
- Professional Servicing: Schedule annual maintenance with a qualified technician. They will inspect refrigerant levels, clean evaporator coils, and ensure all components are working efficiently. Solar Flow offers ongoing maintenance support, helping customers protect their investment and enjoy trouble-free performance.
Why Choose Solar Flow for Your Heat Pump Installation?
Solar Flow has built a reputation for delivering top-tier heat pump solutions across Melbourne. Specializing in high-quality systems like the Sanden Eco Plus Heat Pump, Solar Flow offers expert advice, professional installation, and tailored solutions to fit each home’s specific needs.
Their team of certified technicians ensures that installations comply with all local regulations, maximizing system efficiency and reliability. Beyond installation, Solar Flow provides maintenance services to keep systems running at their best for years to come.
Choosing Solar Flow means partnering with a company committed to customer satisfaction, sustainability, and long-term energy savings.
Ready to Upgrade Your Hot Water System?
Discover how easy it is to switch to a heat pump hot water system. For expert installation and trusted service, explore Solar Flow’s Sanden Heat Pump solutions and get started on reducing your energy bills today.