INTRODUCTION
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Electricity Prices rose up significantly in many Canadian Provinces and US states. This rising utility rates trend will continue in the future, since federal / local governments are gradually pushing citizens to consume less and less Energy by tightening energy efficiency requirements in every new version of building code. This is a major challenge for both home owners (or to be home owners), designers, contractors and equipment suppliers since they must come up with new products in order to meet up with the higher sustainability standard.
With many Canadians spending more time at home due to long winter, COVID-19 Pandemic and aging population, demand for natural light in indoor spaces is on the rise. More natural light means larger Fenestrated Building Envelopes which require more and more energy to provide an acceptable indoor living standard.
With Rising Energy Prices, tougher Environmental Regulations combined with demographic and living standard changes, Air to Water Heat Pumps are the most affordable answer to the previously listed requirements. Air to Water Heat Pumps are HVAC devices (called Mini Air Cooled Chillers in Europe) producing Chilled/Hot Water (or Water/Glycol Mixture) that can be used for Space Heating and Cooling as well as Domestic Hot Water (DHW) Heating. ATW Heat Pumps are equipped with a DC Inverter Compressor and the Split Configuration has the EVI (Enhanced Vapor Injection) technology, which make them able to operates at a temperature range from -25°C to 45°C
AIR TO WATER (ATW) HEAT PUMPS CONFIGURATIONS
Monoblock Air to Water Heat Pump
Monoblock ATW Heat Pump is comprised of one piece destined to be installed outside. When used in outdoor climates with peak winter temperatures below 0°C (32°F), a Propylene Glycol/Water Mixture shall be used as a heat transfer fluid to avoid freezing. Mixture Glycol Concentration % depends on lowest winter temperature. In most major Canadian Cities a 50% Water / Propylene Glycol Mixture is used.
Monoblock ATW Heat Pump requires external pump for pumping heat transfer fluid (whether Water or Water/Glycol Mixture). In Winter time, Monoblock ATW Heat pump goes into cooling mode (in other terms it draws heat from the indoor space) to defrost the ice accumulated on its evaporator. Monoblock Heat Pump requires an external heat source for its defrost operation in winter. Controller of this type of Heat Pump supports modulating speed pumps and is equipped with a PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control signal for controlling fluid circulation pump speed.
Split Air to Water Heat Pump
Split ATW Heat Pump is comprised of two pieces. One piece called the outdoor unit is destined to be installed outside and the second piece, called the indoor unit is destined to be installed inside. Split ATW Heat Pump does not require Water/Glycol Mixture in cold climates, since the link between indoor and outdoor unit is made by refrigerant copper lines (refrigerant is a fluid that does not freeze).
Split ATW Heat Pump controller is equipped with a PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control signal for controlling fluid circulation pump speed. Variable Speed Pump helps increasing the energy efficiency of the heat pump and improve summer performance when heat pump goes into humidity control mode. In Winter time, Split ATW Heat pump goes into cooling mode (in other terms it draws heat from the indoor space) to defrost the ice accumulated on its evaporator. It also requires an external heat source for its defrost operation in winter.
ATW Configurations Cost Analysis
Air to Water Heat Pump can be used to provide either Chilled Water or Hot Water and Pre-Heated DHW or Chilled Water and Hot Water and Pre-Heated DHW. In both cases price difference is driven by machine, glycol, pump and manpower individual prices.
Heating or Cooling with DHW Pre-Heating
Simultaneous Heating and Cooling with DHW Pre-Heating
The above schematics depict the 2 most common installations of Air to Water Heat Pumps. The one on the left is for places where simultaneous Cooling / Heating is rare, so one tank with indirect coil is used to preheat DHW to temperatures as high as 130°F (or 55°C) and the other tank is used for either space heating or space cooling. In the schematic on the right, One indirect tank is used for DHW pre-heating and space heating and the other tank is dedicated for chilled water.
When Heat Pump are used to serve largely Fenestrated Properties with a South and North Exposures, area beside the southern façade could have a cooling demand (even in mid-winter temperatures) and area beside the northern façade will have a heating demand.
Item
Monoblock HSS030V2LM
SPLIT HSS030V2LS
Heat Pump Selling Price
5,235
7,521
50% Glycol - 16 Pails - Selling Price (required to fill 2 x 40 US Gallons Tanks)
3,840
Manhours Cost for the Installation of Refrigerant Copper Lines Between Indoor and Outdoor Unit
480
Total Cost (CAD $)
9,075
8,001
CONCLUSION
Even though Monoblock Heat Pumps are cheaper than the split ones, Complete Installation of Split ATW heat pump is always cheaper to customer. Assuming that water is free to be used as a heat transfer fluid in Split Heat Pumps installations, the cost of buying a good quality glycol with proper inhibitor concentration as well as the cost of circulation pump make the Monoblock heat pump installation more expensive.
Monoblock Heat Pumps are more popular among DIY customers because people think it's cheaper (before calculating the overall cost of the project) and is easier to install (plug and play device). Split ATW Heat Pump requires a professional for the installation and commissioning of the refrigerant copper lines which makes it not appealing to some DIY Customers.
Looking to heat or cool your space with a central heating and cooling system? Confused between air source heat pumps and mini-splits for your hvac system? Don't sweat it! We've got you covered. Let's dive into the pros and cons of these two options for whole home heating.
Air-to-water heat pumps have the upper hand when it comes to whole home heating. They can efficiently provide warmth to multiple rooms, making them ideal for open concept spaces. On the other hand, mini-splits work wonders in single rooms, delivering targeted temperature control. Both options are great for your HVAC system and heating system.
Installation considerations play a significant role too, especially when it comes to single zone heat pumps. While mini-splits, which are a type of single zone heat pump, are relatively easier to install, geothermal heat pumps, also known as source heat pumps, require more complex setup due to water connections. However, both options boast energy-saving capabilities that can keep your power bills in check for whole home heating.
So which one should you go for, air conditioners or home heating? It depends on factors like room size, desired temperatures, and operational costs. Consider these aspects before making a decision that suits your specific needs for an hvac system.
Air source heat pumps and mini-splits are both popular options for heating and cooling single zone houses. However, they have some key differences in terms of condensate and energy consumption. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision when choosing the right system for your needs.
One of the main differences between air source heat pumps and mini-splits is how they extract heat. Air source heat pumps work by extracting heat from the outdoor air and transferring it inside the house to provide warmth during colder months. This makes them a highly efficient option, as they utilize existing heat rather than generating it from scratch. The external unit of a central air source heat pump contains the necessary components to extract this condensate efficiently.
On the other hand, mini-splits are a great option for home heating or cooling. They transfer heat directly to indoor units without relying on extracting it from outside air. Instead, they use refrigerant lines to move warm or cool air directly into specific zones within a building. This allows for individualized temperature control in different areas, making mini-splits a great choice for multi-zone heating or cooling in a home.
Unlike air source heat pumps, which typically require ductwork to distribute conditioned air throughout a home, mini-splits are ductless systems. This means that they don't rely on a network of ducts to deliver warm or cool air in a home. Instead, each indoor unit is responsible for conditioning the air in its specific zone within a home.
This ductless air conditioning system design offers several advantages. It allows for greater flexibility in terms of installation since there's no need to retrofit existing ductwork or build new ones. It enables individualized temperature control in different areas of a building, allowing occupants to set their preferred temperatures independently. The use of air conditioners and heat pump systems with indoor air handling units is key to achieving these benefits.
While both mini splits and split units can provide cooling during hot summer months at home, there is a difference in their primary functions. Mini splits, also known as air source heat pumps, are designed to provide both heating and cooling, making them versatile options for year-round comfort.
Air source heat pumps, also known as mini splits or split units, can extract heat from the outdoor air even in freezing temperatures, making them ideal for colder climates. These efficient and cost-effective systems operate in reverse during summer months, extracting heat from inside and releasing it outdoors to cool the building. Homeowners looking to consolidate their heating and cooling systems should consider air source heat pumps.
In contrast, mini-splits are primarily used for cooling or supplemental heating in indoor air handling units. They excel at providing targeted cooling in specific areas or supplementing existing heating systems in cooler months with air conditioning. Mini-splits use air source technology and are a standard choice for efficient cooling.
Ductless mini-splits and air-to-water heat pumps are two popular options for heating and cooling systems in residential and commercial buildings. While both home systems serve the purpose of regulating indoor temperatures, they differ in their mechanisms and applications.
Ductless mini-split systems, also known as air conditioning systems, operate by using refrigerant to cool or warm indoor spaces. These systems, which include central air source heat pump and geothermal heat pumps, consist of an outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor units. This setup allows for zone control capabilities, where each indoor unit can be independently controlled for personalized comfort in different areas.
Mini-splits, also known as ductless air conditioning systems, are particularly suitable for smaller spaces or single rooms where a centralized air conditioning system may not be necessary. They offer flexibility in installation since no ductwork is required, making them a great option for retrofitting older buildings or adding climate control to specific areas. Mini-splits consist of indoor air handling units and an external air source heat pump unit, which can be powered by geothermal heat pumps.
On the other hand, air-to-water heat pumps work by circulating heated water through radiators or underfloor heating systems in a home. Instead of using refrigerant like mini-splits, these systems transfer heat from the outside air to the water that circulates within the building.
Air-to-water heat pumps are commonly used in larger buildings and homes where centralized heating is preferred. They can efficiently provide warmth throughout multiple areas by utilizing a network of radiators or underfloor pipes. This type of system, including mini splits and split units, is often favored in colder climates as it can generate consistent and comfortable heat even during extreme weather conditions.
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While both air conditioning systems and mini splits have their advantages, it's important to consider the specific needs of your home when choosing between them. Here are some key factors to consider for your air source heat pump.
Size and Application:
Ductless mini-splits: Ideal for smaller spaces or individual rooms with a heat pump system or air conditioning system. These systems are a great alternative to central air source heat pumps or geothermal heat pumps.
Air-to-water heat pumps are not as well-suited for smaller homes that only require heating and cooling in a single zone. These systems are better suited for larger buildings, such as commercial spaces or multi-unit residences, where multiple zones need to be heated or cooled efficiently. In these cases, mini splits may be a more suitable option for home use.
Zone Control:
Ductless mini-splits: Offer independent control in each area of your home with separate indoor units. This is a great alternative to a central air conditioning system or a central air source heat pump.
Air-to-water heat pumps, also known as mini splits, are typically used in homes. These systems have centralized units that can serve multiple areas within the home.
Energy Efficiency:
Both mini splits and air source systems can provide energy-efficient heating and cooling solutions for your home.
Air-to-water heat pumps, especially geothermal heat pumps, are known for their high efficiency and environmental friendliness in both home and mini split applications.
Installation and Retrofitting:
Ductless mini-splits: Easy installation without the need for ductwork in your home. Upgrade to an air source heat pump for efficient heating and cooling.
Mini split air-to-water heat pumps: May require more extensive installation in a home, particularly if retrofitting an existing building.
Ductless mini-split systems offer a remarkable advantage for home owners over air-to-water heat pump systems. With mini-splits, users can enjoy independent temperature control in different zones of their home by using separate indoor units. This means that each room or area in the home can have its own customized comfort level based on specific needs.
In contrast, air-to-water heat pump systems generally rely on centralized controls that regulate the temperature throughout multiple areas simultaneously. While this approach ensures uniformity in temperature distribution, it lacks the flexibility and personalization offered by mini-splits' zone control capabilities.
The ability to have single-zone control with air source ductless mini-splits is particularly beneficial for households or commercial spaces where different areas have distinct heating or cooling requirements. For example, in an office building, employees may prefer cooler temperatures in the workspaces while maintaining warmer conditions in meeting rooms or common areas. With air source mini-splits, each zone can be adjusted accordingly to accommodate these preferences.
Moreover, with the use of air source mini split systems, zone control allows for energy efficiency improvements as well. By only heating or cooling occupied spaces rather than the entire building, energy consumption can be significantly reduced. This not only benefits the environment but also leads to cost savings on utility bills.
Families often have varying comfort preferences based on individual preferences and activities taking place within different rooms. Air source heat pump mini-splits with zone control capabilities excel at providing tailored comfort solutions for such scenarios. For instance, parents may want their bedroom slightly cooler for better sleep quality while keeping their child's nursery at a comfortable warmth during cold winter nights.
Ductless mini-split systems, also known as air source heat pumps, are highly versatile. Each indoor unit of these systems can be easily mounted on walls or ceilings without requiring extensive modifications to existing structures. This flexibility enables homeowners and businesses alike to install air source heat pump units exactly where they are needed most within each zone.
Installing an air source ductless mini-split requires mounting indoor units on walls or ceilings and connecting them to an outdoor unit via refrigerant lines. This setup allows for individual temperature control in different rooms, making it ideal for smaller spaces or areas with varying heating and cooling needs. The installation process typically involves the following steps.
Determine the location of indoor units for your split heat pump or air source heat pump. Depending on the layout of your space and your specific requirements, you'll need to decide where to mount the indoor units. These mini split units can be placed high on walls or even suspended from ceilings, providing flexibility in terms of placement.
Connect indoor and outdoor mini split units: Once the indoor mini split units are mounted, they need to be connected to the outdoor mini split unit using refrigerant lines. These lines transport the heated or cooled air between the two mini split components.
Electrical connections: Proper electrical connections are crucial for ensuring optimal performance and safety of your mini-split heat pump system. This involves wiring the indoor and outdoor units together as well as connecting them to a power source.
On the other hand, air-to-water source heat pump systems require a slightly different approach during installation. Instead of multiple indoor units, these mini split systems rely on a central unit that connects to radiators or underfloor pipes throughout the building. Here's what you can expect during installation.
To maximize efficiency with air source mini split systems, it's important to strategically plan where radiators or underfloor pipes will be installed within your building. This will ensure effective heat distribution throughout each room.
Install central unit: The heart of an air-to-water system is its central unit, which is responsible for generating hot water that is then circulated through radiators or pipes for heating purposes. The central unit must be properly installed and connected to both a power supply and a water source.
Connect air source radiators/pipes: Once the central unit is in place, it's time to connect air source radiators or underfloor pipes to the system. This involves running the necessary piping and ensuring proper insulation to prevent heat loss.
The complexity of installation for both air source split heat pump systems can vary depending on factors such as the size of the building and the desired heating and cooling setup. Larger buildings may require more units or a more intricate piping network, which can increase installation time and cost.
Ductless mini-splits and air-to-water heat pumps are two popular options for heating and cooling residential and commercial spaces.
Ductless mini-splits are renowned for their exceptional energy efficiency, thanks to their advanced technology like air source inverter compressors. Unlike traditional HVAC systems, mini-splits allow you to cool or heat specific areas as needed, ensuring energy is not wasted on unoccupied rooms or unused spaces. By adjusting their output based on the desired temperature, mini-splits result in significant energy savings.
On the other hand, air-to-water heat pumps utilize water as a medium to provide efficient heating throughout a building. These systems extract heat from the outside air and transfer it to water, which is then circulated through radiators or underfloor heating systems. The use of water as a heat transfer medium enables air-to-water heat pumps to achieve high energy efficiency ratios (EER) even in colder climates.
When comparing operational costs between ductless mini-splits and air-to-water heat pumps, several factors come into play. Firstly, electricity rates vary depending on your location. Higher electricity rates will naturally increase your overall energy bills regardless of the system you choose. Climate conditions also impact the performance of both systems. Mini-splits may be more efficient in moderate climates where extreme temperatures are less frequent.
Insulation levels within the building also affect operational costs. Proper insulation helps retain heated or cooled air within the space, reducing the workload on both systems and ultimately lowering energy consumption.
Installation cost is another consideration when evaluating operational costs. Ductless mini-split systems tend to have lower installation costs compared to air-to-water heat pumps since they do not require extensive ductwork or water piping. However, it's important to note that installation costs can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the specific requirements of your building.
In conclusion, when considering heat pump air to water vs mini-split systems, it's important to understand the key differences and factors that can influence your decision.
Firstly, air source heat pumps and mini-splits differ in their functionality. Air-to-water heat pumps transfer heat from the outside air to a water-based system for heating and cooling, while mini-splits directly cool or heat individual rooms without ductwork.
Comparing ductless mini-splits and air-to-water heat pumps, it's crucial to consider zone control capabilities versus unit control. Mini-splits offer independent temperature control for each room or zone, providing personalized comfort. On the other hand, air-to-water systems typically have centralized control over multiple areas.
Installation considerations play a significant role in deciding between mini-splits and air-to-water systems, both of which are options for source heat pump installation. Mini-splits, which require no ductwork but may need additional electrical work, are easier to install. On the other hand, air-to-water systems often necessitate professional installation due to their complex setup involving both indoor and outdoor components.
Energy savings and operational costs are essential considerations when choosing between mini-splits and air source heat pumps. Both options offer energy-efficient solutions; however, mini-splits tend to be more efficient on a per-room basis due to their zone control capabilities. It's advisable to evaluate your specific needs and usage patterns before making a decision on which type of air source heat pump to install.
To make an informed choice between these options, take into account your unique requirements such as desired comfort levels, budget constraints, available space, and long-term energy savings potential with an air source heat pump.
In summary, understanding the differences between heat pump air to water vs mini-split systems is crucial when selecting the right solution for your heating and cooling needs. Consider factors like zone control capabilities, installation requirements, energy efficiency, and individual preferences before making a final decision.
For expert guidance tailored specifically to your situation, consult with HVAC professionals who can provide personalized recommendations based on your home layout and requirements for air source heat pump.
Mini-splits with air source heat pump tend to be more energy-efficient on a per-room basis due to their zone control capabilities. However, the overall efficiency of air source heat pumps may vary depending on factors such as climate and usage patterns.
While it is possible to install an air source heat pump mini-split system yourself, it is recommended to hire a professional for proper installation and optimal performance.
No, air-to-water heat pumps do not require ductwork. They transfer heat from the outside air to a water-based system for heating and cooling without the need for ducts.
In older homes with limited space, air source heat pumps, also known as mini-splits, are often a favorable choice due to their compact size and flexibility in installation.
Both mini-splits and air-to-water heat pumps require regular maintenance, including cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting components. It's important to follow manufacturer guidelines and schedule professional servicing when necessary.
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