In recent years, aerothermal energy has gained popularity as an alternative Management y sustainable financing model to conventional heating systems. However, one of the main doubts that arise is whether it is possible to install aerothermal energy without changing the radiators traditional. Many homes already have systems radiators and owners are looking for a way to take advantage of them without having to carry out a complete renovation.
The answer to this question is not simple, as it depends on several factors such as the type of radiators, the sizing of the installation and the level of efficiency that is desired. Next, we will explore in depth how aerothermal energy works with radiators, what alternatives exist and whether it is really feasible to maintain the existing radiators without compromising the performance of the system.
How does aerothermal energy work with radiators?
Aerothermal energy uses a bomba de calor to extract heat from the outside air and transfer it to the water in the heating system. This hot water is distributed throughout the home via radiators or underfloor heating. The key to determining whether existing radiators can be used is the temperature at which the aerothermal system operates.
Traditional heating systems – such as gas or oil boilers – usually heat water to temperatures between 70 y 80°CHowever, aerothermal energy works optimally with lower supply temperatures, generally between 35 y 55°CThis means that conventional radiators may not be as efficient with a low temperature heat pump as they are designed to work with hotter water.
Types of radiators compatible with aerothermal energy
Depending on the type of radiator you have installed in your home, the efficiency and performance of aerothermal heat pumps can vary. Let's look at the different types of radiators that can work with an aerothermal heat pump.
Traditional radiators made of aluminium or cast iron
These radiators are designed to work with higher supply temperatures. Although it is possible to use them with aerothermal energy, their performance will be lower because they will not be emitting the same amount of heat. To improve their efficiency, more elements could be added to the radiator to increase the surface area in contact with the air.
Low temperature radiators
They are radiators specifically designed to work with lower supply temperatures (35-45°C). They have a larger heat emission surface and, in some cases, have Fans which improve the distribution of hot air. These radiators are the best option if you want to make the most of the energy efficiency of aerothermal energy.
fan coils
The fan coils They work with a ventilation system that distributes heat evenly throughout the room. They are an efficient alternative to conventional radiators, as they can use water at lower temperatures without losing heating capacity.
Is it feasible to use aerothermal energy with old radiators?
The feasibility of using aerothermal energy with old radiators depends on several key factors:
- Home insulation: The better the insulation, the less need there is to heat the water to high temperatures.
- Radiator dimensions: If the radiators are small, they probably won't be enough to heat the room at lower temperatures.
- Heat pump type: There are high-temperature heat pumps that can reach 70°C, although they are less efficient than low-temperature ones.
- Flow rate and power of the installation: Depending on the system design, a more powerful circulation pump may be required to ensure adequate water flow.
Is underfloor heating more suitable?
Underfloor heating is the most efficient heat emission system to combine with aerothermal energy, as it works with very low supply temperatures. However, its installation requires considerable work, which is why many people prefer to use existing radiators.
Although underfloor heating provides more uniform and comfortable heat, aerothermal heating with radiators can be a viable alternative in homes where renovations are not desired.
Cost of installing aerothermal energy without changing the radiators
The price of an air source heat pump installation with radiators will depend on several factors, such as the type of heat pump, the size of the home and whether it is necessary to adapt the existing radiators. In general terms, costs can range from:
- Aerothermal energy with existing radiators: Between 8.000 y 12.000 Euros.
- Aerothermal energy with low temperature radiators: Between 9.000 y 14.000 Euros.
- Aerothermal energy with underfloor heating: Between 12.000 y 18.000 Euros.
In addition, in many autonomous communities there are aid y subsidies which can significantly reduce the cost of installation.
Deciding whether to install air source heat pumps without changing the radiators will depend on the characteristics of each home and the efficiency expectations. While underfloor heating remains the most efficient option, conventional radiators can still be a valid alternative if they are correctly sized and combined with a high-performance heat pump. A prior study of the installation will ensure that the best decision is made.