PHAM NEWS | MARCH 2026 Heat Pumps
Expanding portfolio in 50th year
Stiebel Eltron has expanded its heat pump portfolio, adding MCS-approved renewable heating products to increase choice and accessibility for domestic projects. The update focuses on extending the company’s hpnext series and related components to address a wider range of property types, electrical supplies and project requirements. New models include the HPA-O
13.2 Trend HC 230, which will replace the WPL-A 25 ACS and is positioned as part of the hpnext range in both Trend and Plus configurations. The Trend range now includes 5, 7 and 13kW units at 230 V, alongside the existing 10kW 230 V model. The Plus range has been extended with a 10kW 230 V model, supplementing the existing 7kW 230 V model and 10 and 13kW 400 V units. Later in the year, all four Plus models will be available in both white and anthracite finishes. A new SBB 200 Trend domestic
hot water cylinder has been introduced as a lightweight accessory and as part of reconfigured heat pump packs
that combine compatible components into a single solution. These packs help to simplify system specification and installation for installers. The portfolio update builds on
the hpnext platform launched in 2025, which includes air and ground source heat pumps and integrated internal air source heat pumps with mechanical ventilation and heat recovery. The range is designed to address performance, acoustics and comfort, with multiple output sizes and pre-configured system options to support a broader set of installation scenarios. John Felgate, MD at Stiebel
Eltron, says: “As we mark five decades of heat pump manufacture, it’s fitting that we unveil more products within our current portfolio. All of these have been designed to give customers more options and deliver efficient, sustainable alternatives to conventional heating systems. “This update does more than
just build on our existing offering – it gives customers more choice, helping to showcase how heat pumps make a practical and attractive solution for various homes. We look forward to another five decades of success in the heat pump sector.” ◼
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25
Revised guidance removes restrictions for an easier fit
Following updates to its Ecodan R290 air source heat pump range, Mitsubishi has revised guidance on R290 protection zones to make installation clearer and more practical. The manufacturer has amended the Ecodan R290 ASHP Installation Manual after a technical and safety review, removing certain restrictions that were previously applied within the protection zone. The changes remove unnecessary barriers that installers have highlighted when working with flammable refrigerant systems. Under the revised guidance, features such as grooves, waste- water systems, inlets in sewers and waste-water shafts, and downpipes are now permitted within the protection zone. Restrictions are now limited to building openings or entrances to basements, including windows, doors and ventilation openings within 300mm from the base. This clarification is intended to remove ambiguity for installers when assessing site suitability, particularly on constrained plots, terraced housing and retrofits. Installers are also reminded that Ecodan R32 is being phased
out, with one year remaining before it is withdrawn from the range. Installers are encouraged to transition fully to R290 systems now, ensuring future- proof installations aligned with tightening environmental regulations and refrigerant requirements. To further support adoption, Mitsubishi has announced a £200 reduction on the list price of the Ecodan R290 5kW unit. ◼
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