Choosing Between Side Ventilation and Top Discharge for an All-in-One Heat Pump Water Heater

As homeowners and contractors worldwide continue to seek more efficient and sustainable water heating solutions, Forlssman has developed two distinct versions of its All-in-One Heat Pump Water Heater — one with Side Ventilation, optimized for the Australian market, and another with Top Discharge, designed to meet the needs of European homes.

This article explores how these two ventilation styles differ in terms of installation, efficiency, comfort, and climate adaptability.

1. Installation Space and Layout

The choice between side ventilation and top discharge often depends on where the unit will be installed.

• Side Ventilation Model (Australia): Designed for outdoor use, this version allows warm air to exit directly through the side, making it ideal for exterior walls, garages, or backyards. The installation is straightforward, especially in detached or semi-detached houses where open wall space is available.

• Top Discharge Model (Europe): Commonly installed indoors, in basements or utility rooms, the top discharge design directs airflow upward, aligning with natural convection. This setup saves wall space and is well-suited to compact or enclosed installations.

2. Airflow Design and Energy Performance

Ventilation design directly affects efficiency and operating stability.

• Side Ventilation ensures quick horizontal air discharge, preventing heat buildup and improving cooling around the compressor — a key advantage in warmer regions.

• Top Discharge, by guiding air vertically, reduces the chance of cold air recirculation and helps maintain steady performance in colder climates. It also enhances the system’s overall heating efficiency, especially under low ambient temperatures.

3. Acoustic Comfort and Environment

Noise level is an important consideration for both homeowners and installers.

• The Side Ventilation unit, when positioned near living areas, may produce noticeable airflow sound, although modern designs minimize this effect.

• The Top Discharge version directs airflow away from users and typically operates more quietly, making it suitable for indoor or noise-sensitive environments.

4. Maintenance and Installation Cost

From a practical perspective, both systems have their own installation advantages.

• Side Ventilation: Easier to install when exterior walls are accessible, requiring shorter air ducts and less modification.

• Top Discharge: More suitable for vertical duct layouts, simplifying airflow routing in multi-level or indoor systems.
  The overall cost difference largely depends on site conditions rather than the design itself.

5. Climate and Regional Adaptability

Forlssman’s dual product design reflects a clear understanding of climate variation across markets.

• Australia: With its generally warm, sunny, and coastal climate, outdoor installation is common. The Side Ventilation model performs well under high ambient temperatures, allowing rapid heat dissipation and stable operation.

• Europe: With colder winters and more indoor installations, the Top Discharge model ensures efficient heat recovery, reliable operation in low temperatures, and compliance with strict European energy regulations.

6. Comparative Overview

Both models are built with high-efficiency compressors, R290 refrigerant, and integrated water tanks to ensure consistent hot water supply while reducing power consumption. Each unit meets regional energy efficiency and safety standards, including AS/NZS for Australia and ERP/CE/EN14511 for Europe.

7. Making the Right Choice

When choosing between the two ventilation types, consider:

1. Installation space — is there more vertical or horizontal clearance?

2. Climate conditions — does the system need to perform efficiently in high or low ambient temperatures?

3. Noise sensitivity — is the unit close to living spaces or outdoors?

4. Regulatory standards — confirm compliance with local efficiency and installation guidelines.

By evaluating these factors, users can select the configuration that best matches their property and climate requirements.

Forlssman’s Commitment to Localized Innovation

Forlssman’s All-in-One Heat Pump Water Heater range demonstrates how smart engineering can adapt to different markets without compromising performance. Whether installed in a sunny Australian backyard or a European utility room, each unit delivers reliable, quiet, and energy-saving hot water solutions tailored to its environment.

Forlssman continues to provide tailored heating solutions for residential and commercial applications across the globe. To learn more about our Side Ventilation and Top Discharge All-in-One Heat Pump Water Heaters, or to discuss customized options for your market, contact Forlssman today and discover how intelligent heating design can elevate your next project.