FAQ
Heating
Q: What does "inverter" mean?
A: Inverter operation relates to the motor that is located in the outdoor unit. The inverter style maintains a set temperature by accelerating or decelerating the heating/cooling output required in a room. Daikin are proud to have the most advanced technology that utilise highly efficient magnets to make the compressor motor spin at variable speeds more efficiently depending on the heating required. As there are less moving parts with the revolutionary swing compressor the noise level is whisper quiet.
The Inverter operation means greater heating/cooling comfort levels to your home and reduced running costs. The motor in a conventional heat pump unit draws the most power upon start up. As the inverter model is always placing enough warmth/cooling in an area to maintain a set point by scrolling up or down, the motor is normally running at a lower level, which means greater comfort and lower running costs.
Q: Are all heat pumps reverse cycle?
A: Yes, all heat pumps are reverse cycle. Reverse cycle is referring to the reversing valve located in the outdoor unit of the heat pump either circulating warm air for heating or cool air for air conditioning. This gives you the option of operating the unit on either heating for winter or cooling for summer. Tasmania predominately uses a heat pump for heating unlike other states of Australia where the climate is warmer and they are used as air conditioners.
Q: Why does the outdoor unit of my heat pump have water running from it?
A: A heat pump operating in the heating mode will extract warm air from outside and utilising an ozone friendly refrigerant converts this heat and sends it inside via the indoor unit. Due to the cold air being drawn over the coils in the outdoor unit, the coils will ice over and be unable to deliver warmth inside. When this happens the unit will go into what is referred to as a defrost. With the Daikin brand being able to operate at low outdoor temperatures (-15 degrees C) defrosts will occur not as frequently as with other brands. The Daikin heat pump when in defrost mode, stops the fan in both the the indoor and outdoor unit, stopping any drafting effects or cold air being circulated around inside. When the heat pump is operating in the cooling mode the warm air from inside is being extracted and sent outside. Water will drain from a specially installed drain attachment on the indoor unit to an outlet outside the home.
Q: How often should I have my heat pump serviced?
A: Regular cleaning/washing of the filters on the indoor unit when in use is crucial. A heat pump's airflow is vital for distributing warm air to a room. If the filters on the indoor unit are dusty this will effect the performance of the unit and the amount of warm/cool air being distributed into the room. To maintain optimum operation we recommend the unit be serviced by a qualified tradesperson every 2 to 5 years to deodorise the coil in the indoor unit and remove dust build-up complemented by regular washing of the filters by the owner.
Q: Why purchase from Air Technology Tasmania Pty Ltd?
A: Our company is proud to be an authorised dealer and service agent for the Daikin and ActronAir brands of heat pumps. All heat pump installations are conducted by our company's own trained heat pump installers. This gives complete peace of mind to you the consumer with heat pumps having a 5-year warranty and our company complimenting this with a 5-year warranty on all installations.
Q: Why are heat pumps so efficient?
A: Heat pumps are efficient because they extract heat from the outside air. Even cold air contains some heat, heat pumps take this and, in a manner of speaking, magnify it by compressing it. Then it's a simple matter to pump this heat inside. The only costs are to compress and pump it. Heat pumps are 300% effecient.
Q: Which is the best type of heater?
A: It depends on how you use your heater. Heat pumps are the most efficient to run, but other types have lower installation costs. It's important to consider what type of heat you like, do you prefer 'radiant' heat or 'convection' heat? It's also important to think about the size of the area to be heated and how hot you like it and how often it's used. So you see, this simple question gets complicated very quickly. That's why we always recommend an in house consultation with our qualified staff, so we can give you the best possible advice.
Q: Is it possible to estimate how much it will cost to run my electric heater over the next year?
A: Yes, our staff are experts in their field, so we can give an estimate of running costs.
Q: Are heat pumps noisy in operation?
A: Modern heat pumps are not noisy. To see and hear for yourself simply drop in to our showroom and we'll gladly demonstrate our working models.
Q :Is electric heating cheaper to run than oil?
A: Yes, modern electric heaters are almost invariably more cost effective than oil. Our qualified staff will be happy to arrange an on-site appraisal to give you a more accurate idea of likely costs.
Q: Is electric heating cheaper to run than firewood?
A: Many variables exist, however you can expect to save approximately 25% of your firewood bill.
Hot Water Systems
Q: What rebates do the Government offer?
A: The Federal Government no longer offers rebates, but our systems generate Small-scale Technology Certificates (STC's) which can be redeemed as a point of sale discount.
Q: What system is best for me?
A: There are many variables when choosing the best hot water system for you. The best way to find out the most suitable system for your home or business is to call Air Technology Tasmania on 1300 744 767 and we can offer you a free, no obligation site assessment and quotation.
Q: Can I have a solar hot water system without an electric or gas booster?
A: No. There will be periods of the year where you will still need a booster to heat the storage cylinder above 55 degrees and remove any risk of harmful bacteria. No solar hot water system is a magic bullet, the system supplements your electricity or gas usage.
Solar Energy
Q: What rebates do the Government offer?
A: The Federal Government no longer offers rebates, but our systems generate Small-scale Technology Certificates (STC's) which can be redeemed as a point of sale discount.
Q: Do I have to be connected to the grid?
A: No, you can have a stand alone system using batteries, but we suggest you use the grid as your back-up where available. Your energy retailer may offer incentives for exporting power to the grid.
Q: How come some panels are more expensive than others?
A: The simple answer is "QUALITY". Some panels will show signs of delaminating after only 6 months, you may have noticed this as a yellowing of the solar panels.
Electrical
Q: What should I look for when looking for an electrical contractor?
A: All electrical contractors must be accredited by your state authority and must be able to produce their Electrical Contractor's Licence (ECL) number on request. All qualified technicians carrying out electrical work must have an A Grade electrical licence.
Refrigeration
Q: What qualifications should I look for when looking for a reputable refrigeration company?
A: All refrigeration companies that purchase, use or sell refrigerant must have a Refrigeration Trading Authority (RTA) number. Qualified mechanics carrying out refrigeration work and handling refrigerant must have a license.
