The aerothermal system is designed to provide heating in winter, cooling in summer and domestic hot water throughout the year, extracting the environmental energy contained in the air through a thermodynamic cycle. It is considered a clean energy source with multiple benefits for you and the environment. The aerothermal installation You may have several questions that we will address below, starting with how this system works.
What is aerothermy
Aerothermal energy is a technology that uses the energy contained in the outside air through a heat pump system. It has become an efficient alternative to traditional air conditioning systems such as boilers or air conditioning systems. This system uses an air-water heat pump, designed to extract up to 100% of the energy from the air. 75% of its energy from outside air, requiring only 25% of electrical energy to operate. This is possible through a thermodynamic cycle that exploits the temperature difference between the outside air and the system to produce heating, cooling and domestic hot water. With the advancement of technology, aerothermal energy has proven to be an efficient option not only for new constructions, but also for renovations or installations in existing homes. It offers an all-in-one solution to adapt air conditioning and domestic hot water in a single system.
How aerothermal works
Aerothermal energy operates in five key stages, using mainly three components: evaporator, compressor and condenser. This thermodynamic cycle is crucial to capture heat from the outside air and transfer it to the interior of the home. Here, we summarize the process step by step so you understand how it works:
- Heat collection: Firstly, aerothermal energy takes heat from the outside air through the evaporator. Even at temperatures below 0 ºC, this system can take advantage of the ambient energy in the air.
- Compression: Once the heat is captured, the refrigerant gas in the system is compressed, increasing its temperature and pressure.
- Heat transfer: The hot gas is sent into the home, where it transfers its energy to a distribution system, which may include radiators, underfloor heating or even an air conditioning system.
- Decompression: After releasing the heat, the gas is decompressed in the condenser, cooling and restarting the cycle.
- Cycle restart: The refrigerant gas returns to the evaporator to begin the heat capture process again.
Depending on the needs of the home, aerothermal energy can provide heating in winter, cooling in summer and hot water throughout the year, maximising efficiency with a single system.
Where is the aerothermal installation made?
The installation of aerothermal energy is well suited to both new constructions and renovations and rehabilitations. However, it is essential to correctly choose the location of the system to maximize its efficiency. The outdoor unit must have sufficient ventilation and not be exposed to adverse climates. A common option is to install it on terraces, gardens, facades or roofs. As for the elements of the system inside, aerothermal units are usually installed discreetly, taking up little space. In addition, it is advisable to consider a buffer tank, which allows the system to avoid on and off cycles, increasing its useful life. This tank is especially useful in extreme climates, as it optimizes energy performance. Another important aspect is the integration of the aerothermal system with other air conditioning systems, such as low-temperature radiators, underfloor heating or fan coils. By working at low temperatures, around 45-55 ºC, aerothermal energy optimizes energy savings in combination with these systems.
Requirements to install aerothermal
Before installing an air source heat pump system, it is necessary to evaluate certain factors. These are the most important requirements:
- Space evaluation: You must have enough space outside for the air-water unit, as well as enough space inside for the DHW tank if your system includes the domestic hot water option.
- Heat distribution system: Depending on the type of heating you are looking for, it is necessary to adapt or install a distribution system such as low-temperature radiators, underfloor heating or fan coils.
- Permissions: If you live in a building, it may be necessary to request permission from the community of owners before installing an air source heat pump in common areas, such as a façade or roof.
In addition to these requirements, if you are considering installing in an already built home, you must ensure that the current electrical and heat distribution system is compatible with the new air source heat pump installation. If not, you may need to make additional adaptations.
How much does the installation of aerothermal energy cost?
The price of an aerothermal installation can vary depending on several factors. half price A complete installation, including heating, cooling and hot water, ranges between 7.000 and 24.000 €The initial investment may vary depending on the size of the home, the type of system chosen and the complexity of the installation.
For more economical installations, one option is to choose only a heating system or only the production of domestic hot water (DHW), which usually costs between €2.000 and €3.000. In addition, in some regions there are subsidies for the installation of renewable energies, which can significantly reduce the total cost. These grants can cover between €500 and €3.000, depending on the autonomous community or the type of home. Therefore, it is advisable to investigate whether your installation can benefit from any state or regional subsidy. A well-sized installation adapted to the household consumption can pay for itself between €XNUMX and €XNUMX. 5 and 8 years due to savings on energy bills.
If we compare aerothermal systems with other methods, such as natural gas or traditional electric systems, the energy savings are significant. Aerothermal equipment extracts up to 75% of the energy from the air, which translates into lower electricity consumption compared to other systems. Bills can be reduced by up to 50-70% in some cases, with even greater savings if combined with solar panels to power the electrical part of the installation.
Aerothermal energy is considered one of the most efficient and sustainable systems available today. Although the initial outlay may seem high, the long-term savings on electricity and gas bills, coupled with its durability, make this investment profitable in most cases. Its low maintenance and long lifespan ensure that recurring costs are minimal.