Split or combined unit? Choosing the Right Heat Pump Hot Water System for Your Christchurch Home

When it comes to lowering your power bills and freeing up space inside your home, heat pump hot water systems are a smart upgrade. At Hot Water Shop, we offer two main types: split systems and single, integrated units. Each has unique benefits depending on your household’s needs, layout, and budget.

Advantages of a Split Heat Pump System

Installation Flexibility
With a split system, the small heat pump unit is placed outside, and plumbed back to your existing hot water cylinder inside the house. This flexibility is especially useful in Christchurch homes with limited outdoor space or garden beds, where a large outdoor cylinder would not be suitable.

Higher Performance for High Demand
Split systems usually feature larger compressors, which means faster water heating and quicker recovery times. For larger families or busy households that go through a lot of hot water, this makes a noticeable difference in comfort and convenience.

Retrofit Potential
In most cases, a split system can even be retrofitted to an existing hot water cylinder, making it a clever way to upgrade without a full replacement.

When a Combined Unit is a Better Choice

Space Efficiency
An integrated, single unit keeps everything together in one compact outdoor package. This frees up indoor storage space and is ideal if you have room outside to house the unit.

Simpler Installation
Because the system is self-contained, installation is quicker and less complex. Fewer pipes and components mean lower installation costs, which can be a big plus for homeowners looking for a straightforward upgrade.

If your current cylinder is old or failing
If your existing hot water cylinder is due for replacement and combined hot water heat pump cylinder makes great economical sense. You already have to spend some money, so the extra budget required to upgrade to heat pump option can pay off within three years.

Key Considerations for Christchurch Homes

• Home Layout: Split systems provide flexibility for tight spaces, while integrated units suit homes with more outdoor room.
• Hot Water Demand: High-use larger families benefit from the faster performance of split systems, while lower-demand homes can save more with integrated units.
• Installation & Cost: Single units are cheaper and simpler to install, while split systems offer premium performance at a higher upfront cost.

No matter which system you choose, both options can reduce your hot water power bills by up to 70% while freeing up precious indoor space. At Hot Water Shop, we’ll help you find the right fit for your home and even show you how to take advantage of green home loan options to make your upgrade easier to manage.