Astrid Madsen
If you’re considering an air to water heat pump for your home in Ireland, it’s essential to understand your options and what to look for.
The Rise of Heat Pumps in Ireland
At the turn of the millennium, the heat pump market in Ireland was still in its infancy. Only a few heat pumps were installed each year. However, the landscape has evolved significantly. In 2013, there were around 7,000 heat pump units in the Republic of Ireland (ROI), and by 2020, this number had soared to approximately 56,000. Heat pumps have now become the preferred heating system for new builds due to their cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, and compliance with building regulations.
The Dominance of Air Source Heat Pumps
While early heat pumps in Ireland mainly consisted of ground source or water source systems, air source heat pumps have taken the lead in both Northern Ireland (NI) and ROI. This shift is driven by their simplicity and affordability in installation, as they do not require ground or water loops. Additionally, recent improvements in heat exchanger efficiency have contributed to their popularity.
Types of Air to Water Heat Pumps
Air to water heat pumps offer both space heating and domestic hot water solutions. There are two primary types to consider:
Split Systems
Split systems consist of two components: an outside unit that collects low-temperature heat and an inside unit with the heat exchanger for water heating. Split systems are compact and quieter, making them suitable for urban or suburban settings. Some models can also provide cooling in the summer.
Monobloc Systems
Monobloc systems integrate heat capture and heat exchange functions within a single, larger outside unit. While they are cost-effective and easier to install than split systems, they require more energy to heat water outdoors and transport it into the house.
Integrated Systems
Some heat pumps are integrated into hot water cylinders, designed to scavenge waste air from areas like kitchens and bathrooms. These systems work efficiently when paired with mechanical ventilation heat recovery systems.
Air to Air Heat Pumps
Air to air heat pumps use outside air as a low-temperature heat source and supply tempered air into buildings. They are suitable for smaller dwellings and do not typically provide hot water, requiring an alternative water heating solution.
Sizing Your Heat Pump
Proper sizing is crucial for efficient operation. An undersized heat pump may struggle on the coldest days and can lead to freezing. Conversely, an oversized system can result in frequent cycling and overheating. Buffer tanks can help mitigate these issues, especially for homes with low flow temperature heating systems.
Fabric First Approach
Heat pumps perform best in well-insulated homes with low heat loss rates. Existing homes may require radiator replacement to accommodate lower water temperature output. Underfloor heating systems are ideal, but retrofitting can be costly.
Cost Considerations
While heat pumps are initially more expensive than traditional heating systems, undersizing to reduce costs can lead to inefficiency and higher operational expenses. The total installation cost depends on various factors, including sizing, hot water storage needs, and installation complexity. Obtain multiple quotes from reputable installers to compare specifications and costs.
Installation and Maintenance
Improper installation and lack of maintenance can lead to performance issues and higher costs. Common installation problems include electrical issues, wrong refrigerant selection, wrong sizing, unfavorable location, coastal exposure, and excessive noise. Regular servicing, especially for water source heat pumps, is essential for optimal performance.
Air to water heat pumps offer a promising heating solution for homes in Ireland. Understanding the types, sizing, cost considerations, and maintenance requirements will help you make an informed choice for your heating needs.
