Aerothermal consists of extracting free energy from the outside air through a high efficiency heat pump and transferring it to another unit. Aerothermal systems use air-to-water heat pumps. These types of pumps extract the existing energy in the outside air and transfer it to the water that is supplied to the heating system and / or sanitary hot water. These pumps are designed and built to obtain maximum performance in severe weather conditions, whether summer or winter.
The Aerothermal systems are designed to be used in small and medium sized buildings that have space for outdoor units, such as single-family houses. The perfect combination would be to use a low temperature heating system, such as underfloor heating, and thermal solar panel systems.
How does the Aerothermal get heat from the air in winter?
The key is the heat pump. The air, even at low temperatures, contains energy absorbed by the refrigerant that circulates in the circuit between the outside and inside units. The outdoor unit acts as an evaporator (gives cold to the environment) in winter; the indoor unit acts as a condenser, transferring the heat to the water of the heating circuit and / or hot water heater.
Energy efficiency of Aerothermal equipment
Aerothermal heat pumps have high performance levels. The maximum COP (Coefficient of Performance) or operating coefficient is around 4 or 5, depending on the manufacturer. This means that for every electric kW-h consumed, Aerothermal equipment can produce 4-5 kW-h thermal in ideal operating conditions. Also, up to 75% comes from renewable energy (outdoor air) and only around 25% from electrical consumption (fan and compressor).
The systems are guaranteed to work even at - 20ºC. In case they cannot provide the correct temperature they integrate automatic support equipment. They can also work in combination with boilers, usually condensing. Like all heat pumps, the Aerothermal is an ideal system for moderate climates, as its performance decreases as the outside temperature decreases. At lower impulsion temperatures and higher outside temperatures, the COP increases. With impulsion temperatures of 30ºC (corresponding to an underfloor heating system in operating mode) and at an outside temperature of between 4 and 6ºC, the COP can reach approximately 3,80 to 4,40. Conversely, with lower outside temperature the COP decreases, although it can be maintained at a value of 2 even at very low temperatures.
What amount of savings on energy can be obtained with Aerothermal?
An Aerothermal system provides considerable energy savings compared to conventional systems of heat production and heating water, although it depends on the climate conditions of the area and of the heating system. Savings of up to 50 to 55% can be obtained by using underfloor heating systems, and of up to 15 to 20% by heating with radiators, compared to a conventional boiler system using diesel fuel. The amortization period ranges from 2 to 3 years. In combination with thermal solar power excellent results can be achieved.
Requirements of Aerothermal
- High initial investment compared to a conventional system.
- Installation of an outside unit (affects aesthetics and generates noise).
- In cold climatic zones the seasonal performance is reduced, making it advisable to carry out a thorough economic analysis before investing.
- It is advisable to have a low temperature heating system, such as underfloor heating or efficient radiators.
Advantages of Aerothermal
- High efficiency and low operating costs.
- Simple installation.
- Maximum savings with low temperature heating systems (underfloor heating or low temperature radiators).
- Adaptable to existing facilities.
- It is possible to obtain cold air-conditioning in summer by inverting the cycle.
- Clean energy, low CO2 emissions.
- It requires little space, it is the ideal solution if there is not a boiler room.
- It does not require a chimney to evacuate smoke.
- It is recommended in places where natural gas supply is limited or does not exist.
- Low to medium return periods.