HEATING & PLUMBING
PANASONIC’S PUSHING FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
The demand for sustainable energy solutions has meant manufacturers have had to up their game, as Will McGill discovers.
A
s the building sector is being pushed to achieve net-zero targets, the demand for sustainable energy solutions to replace traditional
heating systems is growing rapidly across the residential and light commercial properties. Recent advances in sustainable heat pump technology demonstrate superior energy efficiencies compared to gas or oil-fired boilers and it is worth considering the options available through the merchant channel. Paul Taylor, head of UK Heating Solutions for Panasonic Heating & Cooling Solutions, says: “Modern heat pumps allow some systems to operate at higher temperatures and connect to existing heating and hot water infrastructure, therefore minimising installation disruption.
“Manufacturers like Panasonic continue to develop flexible solutions tailored to the unique demands of these buildings, in alignment with the constantly evolving building efficiency requirements. Its wide range of K, L and M Series Aquarea heat pumps offer solutions to new residential applications, retrofit installations and light commercial buildings.”
To address the growing demand for gas boiler replacements across various building types, manufacturers have expanded their product portfolios to meet the ever-evolving building expectations.
Taylor explains: “The Panasonic range of Aquarea air-to-water heat pumps is an industry gamechanger, with expanded capacities following the release of the new M Series, offering residential and light commercial applications in capacities nine, 12, 16, 20, 25 and 30kW.
“The Panasonic Aquarea L and M ranges use the low-GWP R290 refrigerant and boast an A++ energy class with improved energy performance and efficiency ratios, at lower operating costs.
“Buildings with long pipe runs, shared spaces, and complex layouts often require higher temperatures and costly infrastructure upgrades.
“However, the Panasonic M Series heat pump addresses these issues by delivering 75°C flow temperatures even at 0°C outside temperatures, reducing the need for extensive internal modifications. Suitable
for applications facing varying weather, the Aquarea heat pump ranges boast market- leading SCOP, SEER and DHW COP figures. For extreme weather, the K and M Series Aquarea units provide high capacity using TCAP technology.”
Changing landscape He adds that in-branch training can be a key component in equipping engineers and installers with the latest information. With the advent of new and rapid integration of alternative heating solutions, the role of engineers has assumed heightened significance, and education, training, and upskilling is vital. “Professionals in the heating and cooling sector need to remain attuned to shifting technologies, safety protocols, and emerging best practices,” comments Taylor. “Recognising this, manufacturers place great
September 2024
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net
importance on supporting engineers in the pursuit of knowledge, offering comprehensive online and hands-on accredited training as well as in-branch support. For example, Panasonic has increased the number of its training centres across the UK to empower engineers with the skills required to handle this transition.” Awareness of the benefits of switching to air source heat pumps is equally beneficial for merchants in the industry to stay up to date with the leading technologies. Taylor concludes: “Some manufacturers will arrange tours of merchant branches, bringing demonstration units to fully explain the products. Panasonic, for example, is launching the Heat Pump Roadshow, a mobile van operated by team members who will demonstrate Panasonic’s wide range of innovative heat pump solutions at exhibitions and events.”. BMJ
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