Thanks AndyD.
Spares backup is absolutely vital to the successful roll-out of heat-pumps. Depending on the quality of machine offered, the spares situation could become critical. A machine designed for a 10-15 year operating life, would typically work on around 1% spares holding for all units sold - this is a number based on experience with well-designed, robust RHVAC systems.
With some of the low-cost heat-pumps we see attempting to enter the SA market, the spares requirement may typically be a lot higher, with expected compressor lifetimes in the region of 2-3 years only. This is a critical factor to consider when purchasing heat-pumps. Also important is how long the heat-pump will be out of service should a component failure occur.
A decent supply chain should see the customer with minimal downtime & a solution provided within 24 hours of problem arising. The customer must not be inconvenienced & the backup service must manage this aspect carefully.
An additional question to our aspiring supplier:
How are units tested on arrival in SA, & before shipment to customer?
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