Functionality of the Heat Pump

  1. Basic Principle
    The heat pump works based on the principle of heat extraction and heat release. It extracts heat from a source (e.g., air, water, or soil) and transfers this heat to another location (e.g., a living space).

  2. Main Components
    Evaporator: The refrigerant circulating in the heat pump absorbs ambient heat (e.g., from air, water, or soil) and evaporates. In this process, the refrigerant absorbs heat energy.

    Compressor: The evaporator transfers the gaseous refrigerant to the compressor, which increases the pressure and, consequently, the temperature of the refrigerant. This happens through compression, which causes the refrigerant molecules to become more densely packed.

    Condenser: The high-pressure, high-temperature refrigerant flows into the condenser, where it releases heat to the heating system (e.g., radiators or underfloor heating) and condenses, becoming liquid again.

    Expansion Valve: After the condenser, the liquid refrigerant passes through the expansion valve. Here, the pressure is reduced, which cools the refrigerant so that the cycle can begin anew.

  3. Temperature Ranges
    Heat pumps can use different temperature sources:
    – Air-source heat pump: Extracts heat from the outside air.
    – Water-source heat pump: Uses groundwater or surface water as a heat source.
    – Ground-source heat pump: Extracts heat from the soil (geothermal energy).

  4. Advantages
    – Energy Efficiency: Heat pumps are highly efficient, as they deliver more heat energy than the electrical energy they consume (e.g., COP value, which indicates how many units of heat energy are generated per unit of energy consumed).
    – Environmental Friendliness: They use renewable energy sources and contribute to reducing CO2 emissions.
    – Versatility: Heat pumps can both heat and cool, making them suitable for year-round use.

    Conclusion
    A heat pump is a sustainable solution for heating and cooling buildings, as it allows the use of renewable energy sources, reducing energy consumption and environmental impact.