Air Source & Ground Source Heat Pumps

The two types of equipment available, each harnessing the earth’s sources, are:

1. Ground Source Heat Pumps

2. Air Source Heat Pumps

Both will be welcomed by many Local Authorities now insisting on “renewable energy” heating systems for compliance with new building design requirements. Furthermore, these provide an ideal alternative for supplying LPHW to Calorex Air Handling Units.

Ground Source Heat Pumps

This method utilises heat collector pipework which absorbs energy from beneath ground level. Heat collector pipework is buried within the earth’s strata; either horizontally in relatively shallow excavations, or vertically within circular bore holes. For both versions, this heat collector pipework is connected to efficient water-to-water heat pump(s), where the absorbed energy is considerably upgraded and transferred to the LPHW circuit. This provides a constant supply of hot water.

Air Source Heat Pumps

Air-to-water heat pumps have successfully been installed for many years, especially for providing efficient pool water heating. This equipment absorbs energy from the external air rather than from the earth’s strata; therefore eliminating the need for heat collector pipework. Again, the absorbed energy is considerably upgraded and transferred to the LPHW circuit using efficient heat pump technology.

Heating System Options

Both ground and air source equipment can either be installed for sole provision of LPHW heating (known as a Monovalent system), or in conjunction with more traditional heating methods such as boilers, known as a Bivalent system – see schematic illustration (below). A “buffer” tank is often needed to assist with the demands of the hot water system. The LPHW can also be upgraded in temperature, if necessary, by independent heating (by others). Typical LPHW temperatures available from both Ground Source and Air Source Heat Pumps range from 35degC – 55degC, although 65degC can be achieved with Air Source units (under certain conditions).