At a time when the Energy Efficiency and environmental sustainability have become priority issues for building owners and managers, aerothermal It's emerging as a key solution for heating and cooling buildings in a smart, economical, and environmentally friendly way. More and more residential communities and buildings are opting to modernize their heating and cooling systems with this technology, not only to save on their bills but also to improve residents' comfort and quality of life.
If you are part of a community looking to say goodbye to old boilers, reduce environmental impact and achieve a more attractive and enhanced building, here is the definitive guide on aerothermal solutions for residential communitiesYou'll find all the information you need to understand how it works, its advantages, installation types, and implementation process, as well as answers to common questions and practical recommendations to get the most out of this innovative system.
What is aerothermal energy and why is it ideal for residential communities?
La aerothermal It is a technology based on the use of energy stored in the outside air to heat, cool and supply domestic hot water (DHW) in buildings and homes. It works by means of a bomba de calor which extracts heat from the air, even at low temperatures, and transfers it to the interior of the building in a very efficient manner.
One of the great advantages of aerothermal energy is that it uses a renewable and inexhaustible source of energy, which significantly reduces electricity consumption and CO2 emissions. Therefore, it presents itself as a modern and sustainable alternative to traditional gas, diesel, or electric radiator boiler systems, which involve higher costs and create a larger ecological footprint.
In neighborhood communitiesAerothermal energy is especially attractive because it allows for the sharing of a single, efficient installation, optimizing resources and multiplying collective savings. Furthermore, this type of system can provide heat in winter, cooling in summer, and hot water to all homes, adapting at all times to the needs of residents.
Main advantages of centralized aerothermal energy in residential buildings
Install centralized aerothermal energy In a homeowners' association, it represents a qualitative leap forward compared to conventional air conditioning systems. The following benefits stand out, making it an increasingly popular option:
- Economic and energy savingsBy harnessing the free heat from the outside air, energy bills are significantly reduced. Current estimates indicate savings of between 50% and 70% compared to gas or diesel systems, making them much more cost-effective in the medium and long term.
- Maximum comfort all year round: Provides efficient heating in winter, cooling in summer, and hot water 24 hours a day, ensuring a stable and comfortable temperature in all homes.
- Sustainability and emissions reductionBy using renewable energy, they drastically reduce polluting emissions and dependence on fossil fuels, aligning with European decarbonization goals and efficiency regulations.
- Revaluation of the propertyBuildings with aerothermal installations (especially if integrated with other renewable energy sources) increase their value, improve their energy certification, and become much more attractive to future buyers.
- reliability and durabilityThese facilities have an estimated lifespan of 20 to 25 years and require basic, simple maintenance, making them a stable investment for the community.
- Integration with other renewables: It is possible to combine aerothermal energy with photovoltaic or thermal solar panels, which allows it to cover a large part of the building's energy demand and even charge electric vehicles or supply common areas.
- Increased levels of security throughout: By not using fossil fuels, the risks of leaks, explosions or poor combustion associated with other traditional technologies disappear.
How does a centralized aerothermal system work?
The community aerothermal installations They are mainly composed of one or more outdoor units (heat pumps) located on the roof, interior patio, or common areas, and a network of indoor units and pipes that distribute the thermal energy to each home. To better understand how they work, you can consult How aerothermal energy works in the home.
The heart of the system is the aerothermal heat pump, which extracts heat from the outside air and uses it to heat water which then circulates through radiators, underfloor heating, fan coils, or central air conditioning systems. In hot weather, the system can operate in reverse, cooling interior spaces. It also supplies domestic hot water (DHW) to all homes, ensuring comfort and availability.
One of the features most valued by owners is the possibility of individually measure and control the consumption of each neighbor, using specific meters for community aerothermal energy. Thus, the distribution of costs is fair and transparent.
Types of aerothermal systems in communities: centralized vs. individualized
When considering aerothermal solutions for a building or development, there are two main approaches to installation:
- Centralized: It consists of a single common installation, with higher-capacity heat pumps, accumulators, and a distribution network, serving the entire building. For more information, see Comparison between aerothermal energy and natural gas.
- Individualized: This involves installing a separate air-source heat pump in each home. It gives the user independence, direct control over their consumption, and eliminates potential energy losses in transportation. However, it usually entails a higher overall cost and may be less efficient in large buildings.
La centralization It is, in most cases, the preferred option in communities, as it simplifies management, reduces the space occupied, and optimizes energy production. For more details, check out energy efficiency in buildings.
Aerothermal modalities: air-to-air, air-to-water and hybrid
La air-water aerothermal energy It is the most common type of heating system in residential communities, as it allows heating, cooling, and DHW to be generated through a single system connected to radiators, underfloor heating, or fan coils. For more information on its applications, see High-temperature aerothermal energy, operation, costs and applications.
On the other hand, there are facilities of air-to-air aerothermal energy, more common in single-family homes or in temperate climate zones, which function as an advanced air conditioner, providing both cold and heat through splits or air ducts.
La hybridization Using gas boilers or existing systems is a valid option in extreme climates or when the building's energy demand is particularly high. Integrating these technologies can optimize costs and performance.
Integration with photovoltaic and other renewable energy
Combining aerothermal energy with solar panels Multiplies the benefits for the community. The generated electricity can power the heat pump, reducing electricity costs to almost zero, and supplying common services such as lighting, elevators, or electric vehicle charging. To better understand these synergies, see Integration of aerothermal energy with solar panels and underfloor heating.
Furthermore, this integration allows for greater eligibility for subsidies, compliance with advanced energy certification requirements, and the acceleration of the transition toward self-sufficient, zero-emission buildings (the European goal for 2030-2050).
Step by step to install aerothermal energy in a community of neighbors
When assessing the installation of aerothermal energy in buildings, it is key to follow a series of phases to ensure success:
- Technical and energy study of the buildingCurrent consumption, the condition of the facilities, and the savings potential are analyzed. It is important to have specialized professionals to properly size the system.
- Personalized design: The type of aerothermal system, the location of the equipment, the integration with other technologies, and the power distribution system are all decided. For a more in-depth look at the design, visit .
- Management of permits and aidCurrently, there are European grants and funds (such as Next Generation) that can cover a large part of the investment. It's essential to manage them properly.
- Installation and commissioning: The works are carried out with minimal disruption to residents, taking advantage of existing infrastructure (pipes, radiators, etc.), which speeds up the process.
- Monitoring and maintenance: Digital tools are implemented to monitor performance and consumption, facilitating optimal management and individualized control for each user.
Furthermore, the decision to undertake the installation requires the agreement of the majority of the owners according to community regulations, as well as defining an equitable distribution of costs, taking into account possible public aid and financing options.
Frequently asked questions and real opinions about community aerothermal energy
Among the most common doubts is the initial cost of the investmentAlthough the installation entails a significant outlay, the availability of subsidies and the rapid payback thanks to energy savings make the investment recoverable in just a few years. The fact that the cost is shared among all owners also facilitates its viability.
Other common concerns include reliability in very cold climates and fair distribution of consumption. The latest technological advances in heat pumps allow for efficient operation even in sub-zero temperatures, and individual meters prevent billing conflicts.
Users who have already opted for aerothermal energy in their community usually highlight the convenience, savings and improved comfort as the main positive points, highlighting that the difference with older systems is noticeable from the first month of operation.
System maintenance and durability processes
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The community aerothermal systems They require minimal maintenance: an annual technical inspection to ensure the heat pump is in good condition, filter cleaning, and periodic checks. The system's simplicity translates into fewer breakdowns and a longer lifespan than other conventional systems.
Legally, installations typically come with two- or three-year warranties, although experience shows they can operate efficiently for more than twenty years without major problems.
If you have any questions or experience any issues, it's always advisable to contact experienced installation companies who can ensure both proper initial setup and long-term technical support.
La Aerothermal energy is revolutionizing energy management in residential communities., allowing the transformation of old buildings into modern, safe, sustainable properties with a much higher level of comfort. Taking advantage of subsidies, integrating renewable energy, and opting for centralized systems is key to maximizing the benefits. With a well-planned installation process and specialized professionals, any community can make the leap to the air conditioning of the future and benefit from the savings, sustainability, and peace of mind this technology offers from day one.