Heat Pumps

About Heat Pumps

Heaters, as well as coolers, require a source of energy and the proper generating/delivering system in order to work. One way to make the process as efficient as possible is to take advantage of the surrounding locations. 

Heat pump systems are based on such logic and designed to use temperature differences between environments. Air source heat pumps utilise the outside air and water-compression technologies. During cold seasons, the pipes from the underwater/underground systems transfer the warmth from these sources to the nearby buildings. 

Heat Pump Elements

• Condenser: The segment that turns gas into a liquid. 
• Evaporator: Reverses the condensation process by turning liquid back to gas, making the material absorb heat from the surroundings.
• Expansion Valve: Designed to control the flow of supplies injected into the evaporator.
• Compressor: Controls the amount of refrigerant flowing through the system.
• Refrigerant: The gas/liquid moving through the system.

Types of Heat Pumps

The heat pumps can be categorised into three primary groups:

• Air to air
• Underwater/Underground
• Hybrid

Air To Air Heat Pumps

As the name implies, air-source heat pumps work by transmitting the external heat to the interior of a building. Most models are reversible and capable of both air heating and cooling, using vapour compression or hot water.

• The vapour-compression based models work similarly to air-conditioners or refrigerators. The delivery unit is placed indoors and connected through pipes to the outdoor system. 
• Reverse cycle chillers use water instead of a vaporised refrigerant. Heated water is then travelling through internal radiator systems.

There are two standard designs of air to air heat pumps:

• Ductless air pump: Also known as a mini-split heat pump, this model is designed for use in buildings that have no ducts, mostly those formerly using radiators or various hot water heaters or radiators. Up to four ductless air pumps can be mounted on walls, floors, or ceilings, up to 15 meters away from the single outdoor unit.
• Exhaust air heat pump: Ducted heat pump systems use the exhaust from a building to maximise the effects of evaporation to the condensation method.

In general, air-source heat pumps are energy-efficient and more cost-effective in the long run than other systems, such as electric heaters or infrared heaters. They are also considered healthy due to the fact that no burning and carbon emissions are involved in the process. 

Underwater/Underground Heat Pumps

This type of pump is based on the advantages of the more stable in-depth temperatures, using them to operate more efficiently. Some models use a dual-line system, with two pipelines connected to the exchange box. One line runs between the source and the exchange box, while the other attaches it to the indoor unit. 

• Underwater heat pumps: Designed to use the benefits of deep water sources proximity, water-based heat pumps employ them as a medium for heat exchange. Many versions also use refrigerant, turning water into gas and then back into the water again. The water loop system is able to create the optimal temperature inside the structure, whether cool or warm. Due to the relatively stable temperatures on the source, underwater heat pumps can be efficiently used in more extreme climates. 
• Ground-source heat pumps: These systems are also known as Geothermal Heat Pumps.Similarly to the water-based models, they use stable temperatures from the depths to heat or cool structures. However, ground-source pump systems allow for a number of configurations, including vertical loops, horizontal network of u-shapes, or radial patterns. 

Hybrid Heat Pumps

Most conventional pump types face the same challenge: efficiently providing necessary heat levels in very cold climates. The systems that can't deliver consistently require costly support for extreme cold seasons. Hybrid heat pumps are designed to assist in the heating process by using alternative power sources. Such models include:

• Gas-fired heat pumps: SImilarly to other gas heaters, these units use natural gas as the power source. Some designs can work as coolers, too, using the ammonia-water refrigerate process.
• Solar-powered heat pumps: Sunlight is one of the most reliable sources of heat, whether used directly or through solar panels as a source of power.

Additional Features

• Timers offer the possibility of programming the system inside 12-, 24-, or 48-hour intervals, as well as weekly.
• Air direction control is a handy addition, particularly for small heat pumps. 
• Some units offer active and advanced air purification.
• Dehumidifying is useful for eliminating excess moisture from the air in order to prevent issues that come with condensation. 
• Inverter Powerful function maximises the unit's capacity during specific time intervals, typically up to 20 minutes. 

Maintenance

All systems require some level of essential maintenance in order to keep functioning properly. Some of the methods include:

• Regular cleaning of filters and changing per need
• Regular cleaning of the fans
• Periodic cleaning of outdoor coils.
• Performing various maintenance tasks stated in the manufacturer's instructions.
• Cleaning the surrounding areas to remove any potentially troublesome particles, weeds or debris.

Many professional services are available to perform through semi-annual and annual maintenance of the entire system.

Things to Consider Before Buying Heat Pumps

Each pump system type and design bears specific advantages:

• Highwall heat pumps are affordable, efficient, and easy to install.  
• Floor console units are discreet and can be conveniently placed inside a room. 
• Ducted systems are almost invisible and also quiet.
• Ceiling cassette units are fit for the broadest range of locations and can cover extensive areas.

The ratio of electricity and heating/cooling capacity can indicate the operation costs. The higher number indicates a more cost-effective unit, while the lower heat output suggests a higher efficiency level.

If you need assistance to find the right heat pumps for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.