Explore the World of Sustainable Heating with a Heat Pump
A heat pump is an innovative solution for heating homes, extracting heat from the air, soil, or groundwater. Remarkably, a heat pump uses significantly less energy than electric heating without a heat pump.
The Reverse of Cooling: How Does a Heat Pump Work?
A heat pump works similarly to a refrigerator in reverse. Instead of removing heat, a heat pump transports heat from outside to inside, creating a comfortable temperature inside the home.
Types of Heat Pumps
There are two main types of heat pumps for heating homes: hybrid and fully electric. Good insulation is essential for optimal heat pump performance. Make sure your home is reasonably insulated before considering a hybrid heat pump, and well-insulated before opting for a full-electric heat pump.
Hybrid and Fully Electric: Which Heat Pump is Right for You?
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Air/water heat pump:
- Extracts heat from the outside air via an outdoor unit.
- Transfers heat to a refrigerant and passes it on to the indoor heating system.
- Suitable for almost all hybrid heat pumps.
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Water/water heat pump:
- Extracts heat from groundwater using two wells.
- Expensive to purchase and install; requires permits for drilling for water.
- Interesting for group homes or (large) commercial buildings.
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Ground/water heat pump:
- Extracts heat from the ground through pipes filled with liquid.
- Expensive to purchase, but offers the best return; can also cool without consuming much power.
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Air-to-air heat pump:
- Works with ventilation air and requires mechanical ventilation in the house.
- Not eligible for ISDE subsidy.
Sustainability and Cost Savings: Reality and Expectations
While purchasing and installing a heat pump involves initial costs, it offers significant advantages in terms of sustainability and cost savings. Reduced power consumption and the ability to cool without high electricity bills make heat pumps a promising choice for the future.
Conclusion: A heat pump is not only a technological marvel but also a sustainable investment in the future of heating systems. Discover which type of heat pump best suits your situation and enjoy the benefits of green energy and environmentally friendly heating.
