An air-to-water heat pump has been a popular choice for energy-efficient heating of homes and commercial buildings for years. However, more and more homeowners and businesses want not only efficient heating but also comfortable cooling during hot summer days. This raises the question: can an air-to-water heat pump cool?
The answer is yes, but it depends on the type of heat pump, the technology, and how it's integrated into your home or building's heating system. Modern air-to-water heat pumps combine smart inverter technology, environmentally friendly refrigerants like R290 or R32, and innovative control technologies to provide both heating and cooling.
At New Heating you will find a wide range of air/water heat pumps suitable for passive and active cooling , and suitable for new construction, renovation, or hybrid installations.
How does an air/water heat pump work?
An air-to-water heat pump works on the principle of transferring heat from a source (air) to water, which then feeds the heating system of a home or building. The main components are:
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Outdoor unit: Extracts heat from the outside air via a refrigerant circuit.
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Indoor unit: Distributes heat via radiators, underfloor heating or convectors.
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Compressor: Increases the temperature of the refrigerant and ensures efficient heat transfer.
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Inverter technology: Adjusts power to the current heat demand, preventing energy waste.
There are various designs: monobloc systems integrate all cooling technology into the outdoor unit, making installation simple and eliminating the need for F-gas certification. Split systems have separate indoor and outdoor units, offering flexibility for renovations or larger buildings.
For an overview of suitable heat pumps, please visit Revnu R290 heat pumps and ALSAVO 12.5 kW.
Can an air/water heat pump cool?
Yes, many modern air-to-water heat pumps can also cool. This happens via a reverse heat transfer process: instead of transferring heat from the outside air to the water in your system, heat is absorbed from the water and transferred outside.
Passive cooling
Passive cooling involves circulating cool water through underfloor heating or convectors to lower the indoor temperature. The system uses minimal energy, but its cooling capacity is limited and suitable for light cooling.
Active cooling
Active cooling uses the compressor to actively dissipate heat and significantly lower the indoor temperature. This is ideal for hot summer days or commercial spaces requiring constant cooling.
With an air-to-water heat pump, the water in the system can be kept at a controlled temperature, enabling both heating in winter and cooling in summer. See cooling options for air-to-water heat pumps for more details.
Passive vs. active cooling
The difference between passive and active cooling is crucial:
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Passive cooling: Energy-efficient, limited cooling capacity, suitable for light cooling via underfloor heating or low-temperature radiators.
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Active cooling: Complete cooling system integrated with the heat pump, suitable for intensive cooling of homes or offices.
Advantages of passive cooling
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Low energy costs
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No additional compressor load
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Quiet and sustainable
Benefits of active cooling
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Significant drop in temperature possible
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Individual temperature control per room
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Suitable for residential and commercial applications
For more information about energy-efficient cooling systems, visit New Heating air conditioning solutions.
Technology and features that enable cooling
Air/water heat pumps with cooling function contain advanced technologies:
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Inverter compressors: Adjust the cooling capacity to the actual demand.
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Smart thermostats and control technology: Precision cooling for every room.
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Integration with radiators and underfloor heating: For an even temperature.
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WiFi control and smart home integration: Control your heat pump remotely.
Popular models include smart air conditioning systems that both heat and cool, with automatic energy saving and advanced control options.
R290 and R32 heat pumps for cooling
Environmentally friendly refrigerants such as R290 (propane) and R32 enable cooling with minimal impact on the environment.
Benefits of R290
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Low GWP (Global Warming Potential)
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High energy efficiency
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Suitable for low temperatures and powerful cooling
Benefits of R32
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Improved performance in air/air and air/water systems
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Compatible with modern multi-split air conditioning solutions
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Lower environmental impact than older refrigerants
Learn more about environmentally friendly heat pumps on R290 heat pumps and R32 air conditioning .
Applications of cooling with air/water heat pump
Residential
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Bedrooms and living rooms
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Houses with underfloor heating and radiators
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Hybrid systems for gas-free homes
Commercial
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Offices and meeting rooms
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Small shops and catering establishments
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All-in-one solutions for heating and cooling
More applications can be found on air/water heat pump applications .
Benefits of cooling with an air/water heat pump
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All-in-one system: Heating and cooling with one installation
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Energy efficient: Saving on electricity consumption
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Environmentally friendly: Use of R290 or R32
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Comfort: Individual adjustment per room
Discover more energy-efficient heating and cooling solutions at New Heating energy-efficient systems.
Limitations and points of interest
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Maximum cooling capacity may be limited in large spaces
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Passive cooling may be insufficient at extremely high temperatures
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Maintenance is crucial for optimal operation
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Compatibility with existing radiators or underfloor heating required
Learn more about maintenance and optimal performance on air conditioning maintenance.
Subsidies and financial benefits
Many air-to-water heat pumps are eligible for ISDE subsidies , depending on the type and installation. This can significantly shorten the payback period.
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ISDE subsidy for hybrid or fully electric heat pumps
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Up to €3,400 possible with R290 systems
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Advice and guidance on subsidy applications available
More information can be found on New Heating subsidies
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can every air/water heat pump cool?
Not every heat pump offers active cooling; check the type and cooling capacity.
What is the difference between air/air and air/water cooling?
Air/air provides direct cold air via indoor units, air/water uses water as a transport medium for radiators, underfloor heating or convectors.
How quiet is the cooling?
Modern heat pumps have a noise level of approximately 40–60 dB(A), depending on the model and the distance.
More answers can be found on the air/water heat pump overview and energy-efficient air conditioning.
Conclusion
An air-to-water heat pump not only provides efficient heating but also offers a reliable cooling solution. With the right technology, such as inverter compressors, smart control technology, and environmentally friendly refrigerants like R290 or R32, your heat pump can provide year-round comfort.
Whether it concerns new construction, renovation, all-electric or hybrid systems, an air/water heat pump is a future-proof investment in energy-efficient living.
For advice, a quote, or installation, please contact New Heating – your partner for sustainable and comfortable heating and cooling systems.
