Heat pumps are a popular choice for sustainable heating and cooling, but with different types available, it can be difficult to determine which one is best for your situation. In this blog, we will explain in a simple way the differences between air-to-air, air-to-water and ground-source heat pumps. We use the Golden Circle method to make the choice easier:
1. Why choose a heat pump?
Heat pumps offer an environmentally friendly way to heat and/or cool your home. They use renewable energy sources, such as air or ground heat, and reduce your dependence on fossil fuels. This translates into lower energy costs and a smaller carbon footprint.
2. How do heat pumps work?
All heat pumps extract heat from a natural source (air or ground) and transfer it to your home via a coolant and a heat exchanger. What differs is the way they use this heat source and how they deliver the heat.
3. What are the differences?
A. Air/air heat pump
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What is it?
This type of heat pump extracts heat from the outside air and blows it into your home as warm air via an indoor unit. -
For whom?
Ideal for homes or rooms without a central heating system. -
Pros:
- Low installation costs.
- Can also be used as air conditioning.
- Suitable for small spaces.
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Negatives:
- Less efficient at very low outside temperatures.
- Only heats air, not water (so no hot tap water).
B. Air/water heat pump
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What is it?
This heat pump extracts heat from the outside air and transfers it via water to an underfloor heating system, radiators or a buffer tank. -
For whom?
Suitable for larger homes with a central heating system. -
Pros:
- Suitable for heating and hot tap water.
- Works well with underfloor heating.
- Relatively simple installation.
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Negatives:
- Higher costs than air/air heat pumps.
- Efficiency drops at very cold temperatures.
C. Ground-based heat pump
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What is it?
This system uses heat from the ground via a network of underground pipes. There are horizontal (superficial) and vertical (deep) systems. -
For whom?
Ideal for new-build homes or large projects with sufficient garden space. -
Pros:
- Highly efficient, even in extreme cold.
- Consistent performance all year round.
- Can cool in summer.
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Negatives:
- High installation costs.
- Requires a lot of space or deep drilling.
4. Which heat pump suits you?
Selection criteria:
- Budget: Air-to-air is the cheapest option, while ground-based systems are the most expensive.
- Space: Ground-mounted systems require yard space for the pipes.
- Goal: Do you also want hot tap water? Then choose an air/water or ground-based system.
- Climate: For areas with severe winters, ground-based systems perform better.
5. Conclusion
The right choice depends on your budget, living situation and needs. An air/air heat pump is ideal for simple applications, while an air/water or ground-based system offers a more sustainable solution for heating and hot tap water.
Need advice on choosing the right heat pump? Contact our team of specialists at New Heating . Together we will find the perfect solution!
