Air-to-water heat pumps work by transferring heat from the outside air to water, which is then used to heat your home.
Understanding the Process
An air source heat pump, specifically an air-to-water type, doesn't generate heat; instead, it moves heat from one place to another. Here's how it works:
- Heat Extraction: The pump has a component (an evaporator) that absorbs heat from the outside air, even in cold weather.
- Refrigerant: This heat warms up a refrigerant, a fluid that boils at low temperatures.
- Compression: The now gaseous refrigerant is compressed, further increasing its temperature.
- Heat Transfer: This hot refrigerant passes through a heat exchanger, transferring its heat to water.
- Distribution: The heated water is then circulated through your home's heating system (radiators or underfloor heating) or stored in a hot water cylinder for your hot water needs.
- Refrigerant Cycle: The refrigerant cools, condenses back into a liquid and the cycle starts again.
Key Components of Air-to-Water Pumps
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Evaporator | Absorbs heat from the outside air. |
| Refrigerant | A fluid that transfers heat efficiently. |
| Compressor | Compresses the refrigerant, increasing its temperature. |
| Heat Exchanger | Transfers heat from the refrigerant to the water. |
| Circulating Pump | Pumps the heated water through the heating system. |
| Hot Water Cylinder | Stores heated water for later use in taps, showers, and baths. |
Practical Applications
- Home Heating: Air-to-water pumps are used to provide central heating by warming water that circulates through radiators or underfloor heating systems.
- Hot Water: They can also heat water for your daily needs, stored in a hot water cylinder.
- Energy Efficiency: These pumps are a more energy-efficient way to heat your home, as they use heat from the air, a renewable resource, and require less electricity compared to traditional electrical heaters.
Advantages of Air to Water Heat Pumps
- Renewable Energy: Utilizes heat from the air.
- Energy Efficiency: Reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
- Versatility: Provides heating and hot water.
In summary, air-to-water heat pumps extract heat from the outside air and use it to warm water which then heats a building and its hot water supply.
