The Ultimate guide to Air Source Heat Pumps
A heat pump, what is it? This is a system that is used to regulate temperatures inside a building. The system transfers heat from inside a building to the outside or the other way round. At times, they are called reverse cycle air conditioners. These systems use less power and don’t pollute the environment.
The technology used is similar to that used in a refrigerator. The pipe at the back of the fridge gets hot as the inside gets cold.
I have taken it upon myself to let you know why you should install one at home or the office. Here are some factors worth looking at that makes air source heat pump ideal.
Which Type Of Heat Pump Do You Want?
You have a chance to choose. Why? There are two types of air source heat pumps (ASHP). The first one is the air-to-water heat pump and the other is air-to-air heat pump.
The air-to-water heat pumps absorb heat from the outside and transfer it to the inside. The pump transfers the heat to the central heating system. These pumps heat water and also keep the rooms heated.
Air-to-water heat pumps are best suited for new constructions. The system is easy to install in new buildings since the pump could be part of the construction detail. Doing so is better than having to fit underfloor thus heating systems later.
The air-to-air heat pump system cannot produce hot water. The system transfers hot air from outside into your house through fans. This type of air source heat pump can be used to heat and cool the house depending on the season.
What size of heat pump do you need?
It is no brainer to say that the bigger the house, the bigger the pump that you require. The size of the heat pump will also depend on other factors such as house insulation and heat loss, number of rooms, their sizes and use.
To solve this maze, use the manufacturers’ specifications on extended performance tables. These tables help in determining the size of the pump on heating and cooling loads. The minimum capacity is as important as the maximum capacity.
That is why; the best air source heat pump is one that has adequate turn-down for low load performance during the mild weather conditions. Remember, winter will go and summer will come some day.
Why Go For Air Source Heat Pumps
Unlike the traditional fuel driven systems, the ASHPs are power efficient and environment-friendly. Even when compared to other heating systems that use electricity. Again, little amount of income is used to run the machine. The good thing is that the air heat pumps also work on the reverse mode to keep the house cool. Moreover, the air source heat pump also heats and defrosts pipes in winter.
Is that all? No. An air source heat pump has an installation process that is cheaper compared to conventional heaters.
Consider The Maintenance
Like all other machines, proper maintenance of the air source heating pump is key to the optimum performance of the system. The difference between a well-maintained heat pump and a poorly maintained one is about 20%.
That’s a significant figure considering the machine might run for more than six months in a year.
Also, remember to consider the cost of a professional who will check your pump annually for routine maintenance. A professional will make sure your heat pump is good for heating and cooling seasons.
You will also need to clean your filter at least once in a month. This takes care of air flow since reduced air flow reduces the efficiency of your heat pump.
If you are good at DIY, you may as well consult experts from Btrendie who can guide you to do stuff on your own.
Conclusion
As days are changing, technology keeps growing. With these air source heat pumps, you can be sure that you will save some cash and save the environment too. You need to contact professionals who can replace the former heaters and install the air source heat pumps.
Depending on your preferences, you may choose the air-to-water or the air-to-air pump.
Also, don’t forget that heating is as essential a cooling. So, as you go looking for one consider the maximum and minimum operating capacities.