Air to Water Heat Pump
We have explained air source heat pumps in many of our articles before, as it is one of our main products and expertises. Perhaps you have heard air to water heat pumps, and you might wonder what that is. Simply put, air-to-water heat pumps are a subcategory of air source heat pumps. There are air to air and also air to water heat pumps. Air to water heat pumps are a type of renewable heating system that works by extracting heat from the outside air and transferring it to water as a heating medium. Sometimes this produces hot water or even cooling in some cases. Air-to-water heat pumps are an efficient and eco-friendly way to heat water for both domestic and commercial purposes.
The benefits of using the heat pumps are many and all of them are very beneficial to their users. They are looking for efficient equipment with low emissions and space saving. They typically produce three to four units of heat energy for every unit of electricity consumed. This will also be able to reduce greenhouse gas emissions especially in facilities that store temperature-sensitive products..
Meanwhile, its compact design will not take up space wherever you install it. Ultimately, if you are looking for a heat pump that you can rely on for 20 to 30 years to come, then you can choose it. During its long service life, you will also save on operating costs.
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Types of Air to Water Heat Pumps
Air to water heat pumps work by extracting heat from the outside air and transferring it to water. You can then use it for space heating, domestic hot water, or a combination of both. There are several types of these heat pumps based on their function and design.
| Type | Structure | Heating + DHW | Installation Complexity | Space Saving | Cold Climate Performance | Ideal Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monoblock | All-in-one outdoor unit | ✔️ (with tank) | Low | ✔️ | ⚠️ May need backup | Small homes, easy installs |
| Split | Outdoor and indoor units | ✔️ (with tank) | Moderate | ✔️ (indoor flexibility) | ✔️ Better for freezing risk | Homes with indoor utility space |
| With Hot Water Tank | Tank integrated with unit | ✔️ | Moderate | ✔️ (combined unit) | ✔️ | Homes needing DHW + heating |
| Inverter-Controlled | Variable-speed compressor | ✔️ | Depends on base type | ✔️ | ✔️ (adaptive) | Areas with variable temperatures |
| Hybrid | Combined with boiler or heater | ✔️ | High | ❌ | ✔️ (uses backup source) | Cold regions needing backup |
Monoblock Air-to-Water Heat Pump
In a monoblock system, the entire heat pump unit will be outside the building. All components, including the compressor, evaporator, and condenser, are in one unit.
The advantage of a monoblock is the ease of installation because it does not require refrigerant pipes inside the building. The design is also compact and easy so it allows for residential and small commercial applications.
Split Air-to-Water Heat Pump
This system consists of an outdoor unit that houses the evaporator and compressor and an indoor unit that houses the heat exchanger and water pump. The advantage of the indoor unit is that you can place it in a more convenient location such as a basement or utility room.
This system can also be quieter indoors because the noisy components are outside. Meanwhile, this heat pump is ideal for situations where indoor space is limited or where there is concern about external noise.
Air-to-Water Heat Pump with Hot Water Tank
This pump includes a heat pump unit and an internal or split hot water storage tank. This system can provide both heating and domestic hot water. The advantage of using air to water heat pumps is that both space heating and domestic hot water are efficient because they come from one system. Sometimes the system is specifically designed to handle higher water temperatures such as for radiator systems.
This heat pump application is suitable for homes or buildings that require space heating and hot water.
Inverter-Controlled Air-to-Water Heat Pump
This heat pump uses inverter technology to control the compressor speed so that the system is more efficient and can adapt easily to changing conditions. This pump is very energy efficient because you can adjust it to your needs so that it consumes less power.
It is quieter in operation with more consistent performance. This pump is suitable for residential and commercial use especially in areas with varying temperature conditions.
Hybrid Air-to-Water Heat Pumps
Hybrid systems combine air to water heat pumps with another heating source, such as a gas boiler or electric heater. The system intelligently switches between the heat pump and the secondary heating source based on outdoor temperature and demand.
The advantage is that it can provide reliable heating in very cold weather when the heat pump may be less efficient. It also offers flexibility and increased efficiency by using the most appropriate heat source. Homes in areas with very cold winters or that require backup heating are well-suited to these heat pumps.
Air To Water Heat Pumps As A Sustainable Option
Many people think that air to water heat pumps will not be able to handle extreme temperatures below average. Somehow it is true for some older or low-spec units that may struggle in extremely cold weather. But many modern models are designed for efficient operation even in sub-zero climates. For example, LEGOM Heat Pump is designed to remain efficient even in temperatures down to -35°C, with a COP of 4.46 that ensures lower energy usage and optimal heating.
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Conclusively, air-source heat pump is a sustainable and efficient option for heating and hot water production. Then it offers environmental benefits and cost savings if you use it correctly. You can use air to water heat pumps as space heaters consisting of radiant floor heating, radiators, or underfloor heating. Then household hot water needs such as showers, sinks, and equipment can also use it. Meanwhile, heating pool water in swimming pools, and commercial needs in schools, offices, hospitals, and hotels will be more cost-effective because of this heat pump.