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Hitachi Launches CO2 Heat Pump Water Heaters with Solar Tariff Controls

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Hitachi Global Life Solutions has announced its new Y-series Eco Cute CO2 heat pump water heaters for the Japanese market, with sales beginning progressively in November 2026. The lineup includes the BHP-FV37YD (370-liter) and BHP-FV46YD (460-liter) fully automatic models featuring direct mains-pressure hot-water delivery. The 370-liter model targets households of three to five people, while the 460-liter unit suits four to six people.

Hitachi has not disclosed full efficiency specifications for the new models. Their predecessors, the BHP-FV37WD and BHP-FV46WD, hold JIS annual efficiency ratings of 4.2 and 4.1 respectively. The Y series appears to be an upgrade of the existing Eco Cute platform rather than a completely new heat pump design.

Key upgrades include expanded compatibility with Japanese electricity tariffs encouraging daytime consumption to align with growing solar generation. Owners can select supported contracts via the remote controller or configure others manually. The Y series also supports Hitachi's home energy management system (HEMS) through HEMS connection and wireless LAN adapters, continuing Echonet Lite compatibility and solar-powered water-heating operation. Hitachi is introducing a five-year manufacturer warranty covering the heat pump unit, storage unit, consumable components, remote controller, and adapters.