How do Heat Pumps Work?

Have you ever wondered how a pump works? We provide the answers you need for two of the most popular types of heat pumps on the market so you can make the best decision for you and your home. 

Contact Clean Heat Solutions on 07391473964 if you need an MCS Certified heat pump installer.

Air Source Heat Pumps 

A heat pump is an electrical device that transfers heat from one place to another. The heat pump is not a new technology; it has been used for decades in Sweden and around the world. Heat pumps are commonly found in refrigerators and air conditioners. 

Heat pumps transfer heat by cycling a substance known as a refrigerant through an evaporation and condensation cycle. The refrigerant is pumped between two heat exchangers by a compressor. The refrigerant is evaporated at low pressure and absorbs heat from its surroundings in one heat exchanger, the evaporator. The refrigerant is then compressed en route to the condenser, a heat exchanger where it condenses at high pressure. It releases the heat it absorbed earlier in the cycle.

Summary:

1. Absorption of Heat: The heat pump's evaporator coil absorbs heat from the outdoor air, even in cold temperatures.
   
2. Refrigerant Circulation: The refrigerant within the coil evaporates, turning into a low-pressure gas.
3. Compression: The compressor increases the pressure and temperature of the gas.
4. Heat Release: The hot gas passes through the condenser coil, releasing heat into your home.
5. Refrigerant Reversal: In summer, the process reverses to cool your home.

Ground Source HeatPumps

Ground source heating is solar energy that has been stored in the ground. As the sun begins to shine more brightly in the spring, energy is gradually stored beneath the soil's surface. The warmer it gets, the lower it is stored.   By the time autumn arrives, sufficient solar energy will have been accumulated to heat your home over the bitterly cold winter. 

Using a liquid-filled loop, also known as a collector, it is possible to collect solar heat that is stored deep in the soil, at the bottom of a lake or a few metres beneath your lawn. Your home's energy requirements, your heating system, and the nature of your property will determine the type of heat source that best suits your needs.

Summary:

1. Loop System: A loop of pipes buried underground circulates a mixture of water and antifreeze.
   
2. Heat Exchange: In winter, the liquid absorbs heat from the earth and carries it to the heat pump.
3. Compression: Similar to air-source heat pumps, compression raises the temperature for heating.
4. Distribution: The heated air is distributed throughout your home via ducts or a radiant floor system.
5. Refrigerant Reversal: For cooling, the process is reversed, expelling heat to the ground.

Benefits of Installing Heat Pumps

Smart Technology Integration 

For increased convenience and efficiency, smart technology is frequently integrated into modern heat pump systems. For example, smart thermostats optimise energy use by enabling remote temperature control. Certain systems enhance their efficiency by utilising machine learning algorithms to adjust to your heating habits. Investigating these technological integrations can enhance your heating system's sophistication and result in energy and comfort savings.

Grants

Numerous governments provide grants and incentives to promote the use of heat pumps and other renewable energy systems. Look into the programs that are offered in your area; they can help lower the initial costs associated with installing a heat pump. It becomes more financially feasible to adopt eco-friendly heating solutions with the help of these incentives, which could include tax credits, rebates, or low-interest loans.

Combines with Renewable Energy Sources

You may want to add some additional renewable energy sources to your heat pump system. One way to lessen your dependency on traditional energy sources is to incorporate solar panels to produce electricity for your heat pump. This two-pronged strategy improves the heating system's sustainability in your house while also contributing to the overall objective of lessening its environmental effect.

Hybrid heating systems bring together the advantages of several technologies. For instance, a hybrid heat pump incorporates a traditional boiler, giving you the freedom to select the energy source that works best for you depending on the outside environment. Improved energy efficiency is provided by hybrid systems, particularly in areas with erratic weather.

Learn about heat pump installations in Portsmouth, Southampton, West Sussex, and Hampshire. 

Clean Heat Solutions Limited goes above and beyond the basic installation of heat pumps; we ensure that your heating system is operating at peak efficiency and create effective heating systems for homes in West Sussex, Hampshire, Portsmouth, and Southampton. 

To schedule an installation of a heat pump in West Sussex, Hampshire, Portsmouth, or Southampton, please contact Clean Heat Solutions Limited at 07391473964 or via our contact page.