heat pump technology


Building a renewable future


Addressing the need to lower the carbon footprint of architectural buildings through the use of heat pump technology


By Stephen Andrews, Technical Manager at Danfoss Heat Pumps


It is unthinkable now to specify a heating system without due consideration of energy efficiency and sustainability. With this in mind, specification of ground and air source heat pumps has risen dramatically over the last few years and this is set to continue, with the funding which will be available shortly through the Renewable Heat Incentive.


A


ll heating systems, including heat pumps, work best with a high level of insulation and where there are no


draughts within a building. A good heat distribution network is also essential – and this is why underfloor heating systems are so widely specified with heat pumps. Ground source heat pumps are most often chosen, because as a rule, they offer higher system efficiency. They source their energy through either horizontal ground loops laid in trenches which are around 1-1.5m underground, or if space is restricted, through vertical bore holes sunk to around 120 metres deep - the ground is a fairly constant temperature all year round. However, the new generation of air source heat pumps offer much higher efficiencies and better seasonal performance than ever before. They can work effectively and deliver comfortable consistent heating and hot water


at temperatures down to -20oC. They also have benefits in terms of lower running noise and improved aesthetics for the exterior unit, which is increasing their appeal. Many specifiers who are new to the


technology undertake our introductory training modules, which give an overview of how the technology works. For new builds, heat pumps are an obvious


choice, because underfloor heating systems can be used which provide optimum distribution of heat, but specifiers are also recognising the opportunity to upgrade the heating system for refurbishments too and enhance a building’s sustainability. In this type of application, it is possible to use elements of an existing radiator system and we can advise on how this can be achieved. Domestic applications of air source heat


pump technology are rapidly increasing, within both the social and private housing sector. One recent example was a housing association in the Outer Hebrides which proved just how effective the technology is, as the heat pump worked effectively during the recent cold winter. The properties had their heating systems upgraded as many of the residents were on solid fuel, which was proving very expensive and forcing 85 per cent of people into fuel poverty. After fitting the heat pump to provide space heating and


hot water, the percentage of residents in fuel poverty was reduced down to 10 per cent – showing just how cost efficient air source heat pumps are! For many building owners and occupiers, it is


very satisfying to know they are producing their heat from a renewable source underneath their land or from the air outside their building. Even more so when they realise that they can also make significant savings on their heating bills. Heat pumps can also be used for both space


heating and hot water in large installations and can be cascaded to meet larger requirements, which also means there is no over-reliance on any single system. With a master - slave arrangement, heat pumps (ranging from 6-160 kilowatts) can be sized to meet the requirements of the project. An increasing number of building designers


are specifying renewable energy for sustainability reasons and to enhance the Code for Sustainable Homes and BREEAM rating of new builds. However, it is important to recognise that the operational benefits and the carbon savings are huge. There are also significant energy savings that can be made, which contribute to a more sustainable building with lower running costs. 


Telephone: 0114 270 3900 Website: www.uk.heatpumps.danfoss.uk


Architects Choice 41


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