Aerothermal energy has established itself as one of the most promising solutions in the world of domestic air conditioning, thanks to its Energy Efficiency , sustainability and the ability to provide heating, cooling, and domestic hot water from a single source. However, when it comes to installing this type of system in cold areas, questions begin to arise: Does it work well in very low temperatures? Is it still efficient, or does it need to be backed up with another system? The answer isn't so simple, but it is very clear if you analyze all the factors that influence its performance.
In this article you will discover in great detail how aerothermal energy behaves in cold climates, what type of equipment you need, the most common problems that can arise, how to solve them, and whether investing in aerothermal energy is really worth it under these conditions. In addition, you will learn about real-life user experiences, recommendations from specialized installers, and Key tips to maximize your performance even when the thermometer reads below zero.
What is aerothermal energy and how does it work?
Aerothermal energy is a technology that is based on the use of thermal energy contained in the outside air to generate heat (in winter), cold (in summer) and hot water (DHW) using an air-to-water heat pump. This system extracts heat from the air, even in cold temperatures, and transfers it to the interior of the home through a water circuit that feeds radiators, underfloor heating, or fan coils.
It works through a thermodynamic cycle It uses a refrigerant gas to absorb heat from the environment and transfer it, through compression and expansion, to the interior of the system. Thanks to its high efficiency, it can generate between 3 and 5 times more heat than the electrical energy it consumes. For a deeper understanding of other efficient heating systems, you can consult this article on efficient heating systems.
This efficiency is measured through the COP (Coefficient of Performance), which indicates how many thermal kilowatts are obtained for each kilowatt of electricity consumed. A COP of 4, for example, means that for every kW of electricity, 4 kW of heat are generated.
Another very similar index is the SCOP (seasonal COP), which takes into account temperature variations throughout the year, allowing for a more realistic assessment of the system's annual performance.
Under optimal conditions, some air source heat pumps can achieve COPs above 500%..
How does aerothermal energy perform in cold climates?
One of the biggest concerns for those living in areas with harsh winters is whether this system will remain efficient and useful when the outside temperature drops below 0°C or even -10°C or -20°C.
The good news is that Aerothermal energy continues to work in sub-zero temperaturesEven in environments where temperatures drop as low as -25°C, there are devices specifically designed to continue operating without losing power or efficiency. If you'd like to learn more about maximizing insulation in your home, check out this article on ecological insulating materials.
This is possible thanks to several Technological advances:
- Inverter compressors: They allow power to be adjusted according to actual thermal demand, improving energy efficiency.
- Dynamic defrost: Systems such as DDC (Dynamic Defrost Cycle) avoid unnecessary compressor stops, ensuring continuity in heating.
- Specific refrigerants: Some models use gases with very low boiling points, capable of operating in freezing environments.
- Steam injection: Improves refrigeration cycle performance even at extreme temperatures.
However, performance may be affected. depending on the home's insulation and the heat emission system used. For example, a poorly insulated home or one with conventional radiators and high thermal requirements will see a greater reduction in COP compared to an efficient home with underfloor heating. To optimize your heating system, consider the option of underfloor heating and aerothermal energy.
According to various field studies carried out in countries with cold climates such as Canada, the United Kingdom or Germany, The average efficiency of an air source heat pump in winter can be around a COP of 2,7, which is still higher than that of gas boilers or electric heaters.
Aerothermal energy can be used in cold areas, but only if the appropriate equipment is selected, an efficient installation is designed, and the actual climate context is taken into account. Technological advances have made it possible for this technology to remain valid, effective and cost-effective even at temperatures below -20°C.It's not just about choosing the cheapest equipment, but the most optimal one based on the use, the type of home, the emission system, and the insulation.
