Air source heat pumps are the most common heat pumps installed in homes and offices. You can choose from different types of air source heat pumps according to your preference. But before you decide on an air source heat pump installation, knowing how an air source heat pump works is important. This article tells you all about what is an air source heat pump, how it works, and if it can help reduce heating costs in your office.
What is an Air Source Heat Pump?
An air source heat pump is an air-to-water heat pump that uses air to transfer heat to the water. Radiators and underfloor heating of air-source heat pumps warm your office.
“What temperature does an air source heat pump work?” is a common concern when getting an air source heat pump. The pumps usually work in temperatures from -4°F (-20°C) to 68°F (20°C). They might work at lower and higher temperatures but with reduced efficiency.
These pumps are more efficient than gas boilers and use natural resources (i.e., wind) to produce warm water. Air source pumps are typically placed outside the building in an airy space with ample open area. It also helps to reduce energy consumption.
How Does An Air Source Heat Pump Work?
An air source heat pump works counter to a refrigerator that dissipates heat. Instead, it absorbs the heat from the outside that helps warm up water.
The heat from the air is absorbed by the fluid that moves into the heat pump, which warms it up and transfers the heat to the water. Here’s a detailed description of how does an air source heat pump work:
- A tube network draws the outside air and circulates it at -28°C to extract heat from the air.
- The gas/ fluid then passes through a compressor, which heats it into a hot liquid.
- Lastly, the compressed liquid moves to a heat exchanger that heat the water to supply to your taps and radiators.
The pump does not make much noise in mild conditions or sound louder than a refrigerator. However, the noise may differ in freezing weather.
Types of Air Source Heat Pumps
Now that you know how an air source heat pump works, you might wonder if there is more than one type of air source heat pump. There are three common types of air-source heat pumps. You must talk to your air source heat pump supplier to choose the right one for your office.
Air to Water Heat Pumps
They are among the most widely used air source heat pumps that transfer the heat to a wet heating system that forms hot water to keep your office warm.
Air to Air Heat Pumps
Contrary to air to water heat pumps, these pumps transfer heat from the external air to the air in your rooms. They are typically a part of air conditioning units. However, air-to-air heat pumps cannot provide hot water in taps.
Hybrid Air Source Heat Pumps
Hybrid air source heat pumps have a boiler connected that helps warm up the water quickly in cold weather. These pumps are particularly beneficial for colder areas.
Will a Heat Pump Save Me Money on My Energy Bill?
Many people are looking to replace the heating system in offices with an air-source heat pump to reduce costs. But does it save money on energy bills?
The answer to this question is not explicitly yes or no, as it depends on various factors. It depends on your existing heating system and the pump you wish to install. Different manufacturers and designs may lead to lower energy bills.
The Bottom Line
An air source heat pump is a common domestic and commercial level heating equipment known for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Most people think, “How does an air source heat pump work?” when they are planning to save energy and reduce commercial building costs. We recommend you hire an expert to visit and go for it. This system works like an inside-out refrigerator that takes in the air, extracts the heat, and heats water or air from the extracted heat. You can choose from air-to-water, air-to-air, or a hybrid air source heat pump for your office.
Jason is the Marketing Manager at a local advertising company in Australia. He moved to Australia 10 years back for his passion for advertising. Jason recently joined BFA as a volunteer writer and contributes by sharing his valuable experience and knowledge.