A Comprehensive Comparison of Hot Water Heat Pumps — Reclaim, Apricus, and EcoSpring
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Understanding Heat Pump Hot Water Systems in New Zealand
For Kiwi homeowners looking to reduce energy bills and environmental impact, heat pump hot water systems are increasingly popular. These systems extract heat from the surrounding air to warm water in a storage cylinder, using significantly less electricity than traditional electric cylinders.
With several brands available in the New Zealand market, including Reclaim, Apricus, and EcoSpring, it’s important to understand the differences in performance, efficiency, and suitability for your home. Making the right choice ensures reliable hot water, energy savings, and a system that fits your household’s needs.
Reclaim Heat Pump Systems
Reclaim heat pumps are renowned for their high efficiency and reliability. Key features include:
- Consistent year-round performance: Reclaim units maintain strong heating even in cooler ambient temperatures.
- Advanced controls: Smart thermostats and timers allow homeowners to manage energy use effectively.
- Compatibility with existing cylinders: Many Reclaim systems can integrate with current storage cylinders, making upgrades straightforward.
Reclaim systems are ideal for medium to large households where hot water demand is high, ensuring all bathrooms and appliances receive sufficient hot water simultaneously. They are particularly suited to homes that prioritise reliability and consistent water temperature, regardless of weather conditions.
Apricus Heat Pump Systems
Apricus focuses on combining energy efficiency with environmental responsibility. Many Apricus units use CO₂ refrigerant, which has a significantly lower global warming potential than traditional refrigerants. This makes Apricus systems a strong choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
Additional benefits include:
- High energy efficiency: CO₂ refrigerant systems are effective even at lower outdoor temperatures.
- Integration with solar PV: Apricus can work alongside solar panels to further reduce electricity costs.
- Smart features: Adjustable temperature settings and timers improve convenience and energy management.
Apricus systems are well-suited for households that value sustainability, energy savings, and modern technology. They are also a solid choice in New Zealand’s variable climate, where consistent performance in colder months is essential.
EcoSpring Heat Pump Systems
EcoSpring systems are designed with compactness and simplicity in mind. They are energy-efficient, reliable, and ideal for small to medium-sized homes with limited space. Key features include:
- Ease of installation: Compact design makes placement easier in tighter spaces.
- Low maintenance: EcoSpring units are straightforward to service, with fewer mechanical complexities.
- Energy savings: While slightly less efficient than Reclaim or Apricus, EcoSpring still offers significant savings over traditional electric cylinders.
EcoSpring is perfect for homeowners seeking a practical, reliable, and cost-effective heat pump solution without the need for complex installation or extensive space.
Key Comparison Factors
| Feature | Reclaim | Apricus | EcoSpring |
|---|---|---|---|
| Efficiency | High | Very High (CO₂) | Moderate–High |
| Maximum Temperature | Up to 65 °C | Up to 65 °C | Up to 60 °C |
| Environmental Impact | Low | Very Low (CO₂) | Low |
| Household Size Suitability | Medium–Large | Medium–Large | Small–Medium |
| Installation Flexibility | Good | Good | Excellent |
| Maintenance Requirement | Moderate | Moderate | Low |
Making the Right Choice
When selecting a heat pump system, consider:
- Household size: Larger families benefit from Reclaim or Apricus due to high hot water demand.
- Environmental priorities: Apricus’s CO₂ refrigerant reduces carbon emissions, appealing to eco-conscious homeowners.
- Available space: EcoSpring is compact and ideal for homes with limited installation options.
- Energy savings: Apricus often delivers the lowest running costs due to high efficiency and CO₂ refrigerant use.
- Budget vs value: Reclaim provides reliability and performance, EcoSpring offers cost-effective simplicity, and Apricus combines efficiency with environmental benefits.
Installation and Maintenance Considerations
Professional installation is critical for heat pump systems to ensure safety, compliance with NZ plumbing standards, and optimal performance. Proper sizing and placement of the cylinder and unit affect efficiency and longevity.
Maintenance is generally straightforward for all three brands, but heat pumps require periodic checks of:
- Compressors and refrigerant systems
- Water temperature settings and timers
- Pressure and safety valves
Routine servicing maximises efficiency, prolongs system life, and ensures reliable hot water year-round.
Why The Cylinder Guys Are NZ’s Heat Pump Specialists
At The Cylinder Guys, we help Kiwi homeowners navigate the choice between Reclaim, Apricus, and EcoSpring systems. Our team:
- Assesses household water usage to recommend the best system for your needs
- Installs systems professionally to ensure compliance and optimum performance
- Provides maintenance services to keep your heat pump efficient and reliable
- Advises on integrating heat pumps with solar PV or other energy-saving technologies
Whether your priority is energy efficiency, sustainability, reliability, or space efficiency, we ensure your heat pump system meets your specific household requirements.
Contact us today to discuss which heat pump system — Reclaim, Apricus, or EcoSpring — is right for your home. Let us help you achieve reliable, efficient, and eco-friendly hot water for years to come.