Heat Pumps Today

www.acrjournal.uk/heat-pumps 21 T R A I N I N G Di erent types of heat pumps Air source heat pumps are divided into two types: split and monobloc units. A split heat pump has both an outside unit (incorporating the heat exchanger and compressor with pipework containing refrigerant connecting to the internal hydrobox). A monobloc heat pump contains all the refrigerant components in the outdoor unit, leaving more space inside the property The benefit of this means monobloc units are easy to install and maintain. Features to consider Accurate control of any heating appliance is crucial to e‹cient operation, so ensuring appliances are sized to meet the correct load requirements of the building is the first step. Another point to mention here is hybrid heating systems. For larger installations, look for a model that can be combined with a suitable high e‹ciency boiler. In terms of e‹ciency, we also need to consider the COP (Coe‹cient of Performance) of a heat pump. This is achieved by dividing the output kW by the input Kw for example, if the output is 5kW and the input electricity is 2kW, then the COP for the system is 2.5. Simply put, the higher the COP, the more e‹cient the heat pump, which equals lower cost operation Controls are another important feature, particularly when it comes to unpredictable UK weather. A temperature change will aŽect the heat load required to warm up a building. Here, a heat pump with an inverter controller compressor will adjust accordingly and accurately meet the heat demand of a building. Refrigerant is also a vital component of a heat pump and is an important factor to consider when it comes to determining sustainability. There are a variety of refrigerants in use for heat transfer, but some are of questionable sustainability and raise environmental concerns. Heat pumps that use refrigerants with a low Global Warming Potential (GWP) should be a priority. The Tyneham range of heat pumps from Hamworthy Heating, for example, uses R32 refrigerant which has a very low GWP and a zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP), compared to other traditional refrigerants. Lastly, when it comes to specifying a heat pump, consider brand reputation and look for a manufacturer that provides backup and long-term reliable technical support and customer service. A step towards the future Despite short-term support measures from the government, fuel prices remain significantly higher than a year ago and the future is uncertain. However, what is clear is that this rise in energy prices, combined with the latest regulations will see many existing buildings, and most new builds requiring upgrades, particularly in terms of meeting the required energy e‹ciency standards set out by the government's 2050 deadline.