Low Energy Water Heater FAQ’s
What is Low Energy Water Heater (LEWH)?
LEWH is nothing but reverse air conditioner, the only difference is we use it for heating instead of cooling. As we use it in heating mode it is highly efficient.
Can we run LEWH continues for 24 Hours?
It’s not suggested. No heating equipment should be used 24 hours a day. If we run LEWH whole day, the life span will be reduced. Also LEWH is same as air Conditioner so it’s advisable to use around 8 hours so as to maximize the life. Clever use of a LEWH is using it as required.
How much is efficiency of LEWH?
LEWH is four to five times efficient as compared to electric heaters, boilers, oil or diesel fired equipments. It uses atmospheric heat which is heated by Sun and hence only little amount of electricity is required to run the compressor.
What is COP?
It is Co-efficient of Performance. This term is used to measure the energy efficiency of a LEWH system. For example - a COP of 4 indicates that for every kW of energy input to the LEWH system it will deliver 4 Kw of equivalent electrical energy out in the form of LEWH
How COP Varies with Different Atmospheric Conditions?
As ambient temperature increases the COP also increases. It is generally 4-5 at ambient temperature of 20 degree Celsius. It reduces to around 2.5 as temperature reaches to 0 degree Celsius. Also it is more when temperature difference between two heat-exchanging fluids is more
Which precautions needed for Installation?
- Use of strainer / filter is recommended as it will prevent choke up of heat exchanger
- Install LEWH where sufficient ventilation is available.
- Install LEWH near electrical connection (single phase/three phase as recommended)
- Use stabilizer if too much voltage fluctuation in your area.
- Use pressure regulator valve if required, use shut off valves to make it easy for servicing
- If Water is Hard or above 300 ppm then use softener at the inlet
- Install LEWH & controller preferably under shade to prevent fins and fan from choking due to leaf/garbage.
What is the maintenance and servicing schedule for LEWH?
A yearly or half yearly inspection of the installation is needed for safe operation, longer life and efficiency. Mainly servicing includes checking water pressure, pressure valves, shut off valves, Non return valves, Filter or strainer, control box and cleaning of Fins an Fan for any dirt. An inspection should be done from Experts, servicing people from Air conditioner field is advisable.
Can I use LEWH as Air Conditioner?
Yes, because at the exhaust of LEWH it gives cool air. But to divert cool air via duct is not much practical as it will include heat loss and the results will not be that much satisfactory.
What is “Defrost Mode”?
All LEWHs will perform a defrost cycle eventually when operating in cold winter conditions. The defrost mode removes ice build up from the outdoor unit in winter season sub zero temperatures. In defrost mode the LEWH stops heating for short periods.
Who are the Users?
Hotels – Because space is very important for hotels more over when it comes to terrace. Also hotels require hot water 24 hours 365 days, may it be cloudy/rainy or winter season. LEWH require very less space and it can even be kept inside or ground floor.
Swimming Pools - because no other technology is as successful as LEWH in heating swimming pool. Also there is lack of space to install solar to heat such huge quantity of water every day.
Metro cities – Main reason Lack of space, so only option is LEWH
High altitude areas/Northern Parts of India – The reason here is lack of radiation from sun, Also in winter season there is fog all over so almost no sunshine available. Hence LEWH is very cost effective solution.