Understanding Heat Pumps: Everything You Need to Know
After you have decided on a heat pump, the first step is to choose the right type. You can choose between an air-to-water or ground-to-water heat pump. The choice will depend on the heating and cooling requirements of the specific property.
• The installation itself will consist of:
location of the external unit
indoor unit installation
refrigerant pipe connection
electrical connection
plumbing works
control system settings
commissioning
When installing a heat pump, it is also necessary to consider how the new system will work with the existing heating system.
How a heat pump works in winter
Heat pumps work without problems even in the winter months, when temperatures drop below freezing. The pump extracts heat from the outside air even though it is cold. The second option is taking heat from the ground.
The refrigerant in the pump absorbs heat and compresses it.
As a result, the air temperature increases.
The refrigerant heated in this way is sent to the indoor unit and releases heat to the interior.
If the outside temperature drops more than -15°C, then the efficiency of the pump decreases. Therefore, it is ideal to choose a ground-water heat pump in an area with a cold climate.
What size heat pump do I need?
Several factors play a role in choosing the right heat pump. The most important thing is the size of the house. In general, it could be said that for an apartment with an area of up to 100 square meters, a pump with a power of 5 kW is sufficient. A house that has an area of 200 square meters will need twice as much. If the house has good insulation and proper air flow, then a smaller pump may be efficient enough. However, experts agree that it is better to oversize the heat pump than to undersize it.
How much electricity does a heat pump use?
Compared to traditional heating systems, heat pumps are more efficient both in terms of heat supply and financial costs. However, the exact amount of electrical energy consumed depends on many factors.
• It depends on:
electricity prices in the area
efficiency of a specific heat pump
your heating requirements
insulation of a heated house
It is ideal to consult with an expert on this issue, who will recommend a heat pump tailored to your requirements and the given environment.