FAQs - frequently asked questions |
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 Welcome to our FAQs area. We have put together an overview of the most important questions relating to heat pumps.
Please contact us directly if you still have any unanswered questions after reading through the FAQs.
How does a heat pump work?
A heat pump basically works along the same principles as a refrigerator. With a refrigerator, heat is extracted from the internal storage area and discharged to the outside. In the case of a heat pump, the thermal process is the other way around: energy is extracted from the groundwater or the ground by using it to evaporate a refrigerant. The refrigerant absorbs the thermal energy in the process, which is then raised to a much higher level in a compressor (example: bicycle pump). This energy is then dissipated into the heating water through liquefaction of the refrigerant.
Will I also be able to cool my house during the summer?
Yes, and this is even possible without running the compressor. You will only need to run the economical recirculation pumps. We offer a cooling set for this purpose which is integrated in the brine circuit.
When does a heat pump need to be replaced?
The service life of a heat pump depends primarily on the service life of the compressor. Experience has shown that compressors can perform without problems for 20 years. Some compressors last even longer. Once the compressor does stop working it can be replaced. In this case it is not necessary to purchase a complete new heat pump.
Will my heat pump require maintenance?
No, just like a refrigerator a heat pump is basically maintenance-free. However, we do recommend having the refrigerant circuit checked every three years.
What heating costs can I expext with a heat pump?
Of course, it is impossible to give an accurate answer to this question without knowing the size of your house and its specific heating requirements. However, it is possible to state quite generally that, given an appropriate choice and layout of the heat source and heating systems, a heat pump can save around 50% to 60% in comparison to oil, gas or pellet heating systems. Apart from the layout, these costs also depend on the supply temperature (which should be as low as possible) and the way in which the heating system is used (room temperatures preferably not above 22°C).
Which heat source should I choose?
The answer to this question will depend on the conditions around your house. You will need to clarify the following issues: is there any groundwater, and if so, is the quantity and quality sufficient? If not, is there enough space for a surface collector in the garden? Information on the individual heat sources can be found below:
Groundwater: The most efficient heat pumps are operated with groundwater. This is a result of the fact that the annual average groundwater temperature is between 8° and 12° C. The warmer the heat source, the more efficient the heat pump can operate. Two well bores are required in order to use groundwater: one withdrawal well and one injection hole. The investment costs are low compared to other heat sources and also do not increase at greater heating output. Approval is required from the federal state government (water protection area). The groundwater needs to be analysed in terms of its suitability for use in heat pumps. The required volumetric flow of groundwater depends on the required heating output and is detailed in the technical data sheet.
Secondary circuit station: A so-called secondary circuit station can be used if the groundwater is dirty or too cold. Here, the groundwater is fed via a separate heat exchanger which is connected to the heat pump by means of a brine circuit.
Geothermal probe: The geothermal probe is an enclosed system in which brine (mixture of water and antifreeze agent) circulates. Depending on the heat requirements, the probes are sunk up to several hundred metres vertically into the ground. It is particularly important here that the probes are not designed too short. The investment costs for special drilling(s) are higher than for other heat sources. The higher the heating output, the higher the investment costs. If the heating output is doubled then the investments are also doubled.
Surface collector: In the case of a surface collector, PE pipes are sunk horizontally at a depth of around 1.5 metres (underneath the frost zone) in the garden. Brine (mixture of water and antifreeze agent) circulates in this enclosed system. The higher the heating output, the higher the investment costs. If the heating output is doubled then the investments are also doubled.
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