Aerothermal energy has become one of the most efficient and sustainable solutions for heating and cooling numerous homes today, especially during the warmer months. But, have you ever wondered how the aerothermal system works in summer?
At Inditer, as a company specializing in providing products and industrial HVAC services, we offer you this post, where we explain the principles governing aerothermal energy and how it utilizes outdoor air temperatures to keep our homes cool and comfortable.
From its basic operation to its advantages compared to other systems, you will discover why aerothermal energy is an ideal option for summer.
What is Aerothermal Energy?
Aerothermal energy is a technology that uses air energy to provide heating, cooling, and domestic hot water efficiently and sustainably.
This system is based on the principle of heat pumps, which extract heat from the outdoor air and transfer it indoors, or vice versa, depending on the need for heating or cooling. Therefore, aerothermal energy is very efficient in summer, as it absorbs heat from indoors and expels it outdoors.
One of the most notable features of aerothermal energy is its ability to harness up to 75% of renewable energy from the air, using only 25% electrical energy for its operation.
This translates into high energy performance, with coefficients of performance (COP) that can reach values of 4 to 6, meaning that for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity consumed, between 4 and 6 kWh of thermal energy can be generated.
Furthermore, aerothermal energy is considered a renewable energy source, as it contributes to decarbonization and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals.
How Aerothermal Systems Work in Summer
During summer, aerothermal systems focus on cooling mode, where the system extracts heat from the indoor air and releases it outdoors, thus maintaining a cool environment in the home.
The aerothermal process in summer is based on a thermodynamic cycle that uses a refrigerant fluid. This cycle begins when the outdoor unit’s fan draws in warm indoor air.
The refrigerant absorbs this heat, and as it circulates through a closed circuit, the compressor increases its pressure and temperature. Then, the refrigerant flows to the indoor exchanger, where it cools, and the air is propelled into the rooms.
This process repeats continuously, creating a cycle of heat extraction and expulsion that allows for maintaining a pleasant temperature inside your home to provide coolness and comfort.
Advantages of Aerothermal Systems in Summer
Aerothermal systems in summer offer several important advantages, such as:
- Energy efficiency: As in winter, aerothermal energy is very efficient in summer, as it harnesses ambient energy to cool your home, significantly reducing your electricity consumption. Aerothermal systems consume less electricity compared to conventional air conditioning systems, which translates into a significant reduction in energy bills.
- Thermal comfort: It provides a cool and pleasant environment during the warmest months of the year. This system operates silently, which is especially beneficial at night or in spaces where low noise levels are required.
- Versatility: Aerothermal energy can be used for both heating and cooling, as well as for the production of domestic hot water, making it a comprehensive solution for your home’s HVAC and DHW needs.
- Environmentally friendly: As a renewable technology, it reduces your carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable and ecological future.
- Durability: Aerothermal systems in summer have a long lifespan.
Main Components of an Aerothermal System
If you are considering acquiring aerothermal heating and cooling units, it will be useful to know that an aerothermal system is mainly composed of the following elements:
- Outdoor unit: This is the part of the system installed outside the home. It contains a fan that draws in outdoor air, an evaporator where heat exchange occurs, and a compressor that increases the refrigerant’s pressure.
- Indoor unit: Located inside the home and generally connected to the existing heating and/or cooling system. It can be a fan coil, a radiator, or an underfloor heating system.
- Refrigerant circuit: This is a closed circuit through which a refrigerant fluid circulates, absorbing heat from the outdoor air or from inside the home, as needed.
- Buffer tank: This element is optional but highly recommended. It stores domestic hot water and helps optimize system operation, especially when complementary renewable energies like solar thermal are used.
Types of Aerothermal Systems
As mentioned earlier, aerothermal energy is based on the use of heat pumps that harness thermal energy from the outdoor air to provide heating, cooling, and domestic hot water.
However, you should know that there are several types of aerothermal systems, each adapted to different needs and installation configurations.
1) Air-to-Air Aerothermal Systems
This system uses outdoor air to heat or cool indoor air. It works by means of a compressor that extracts heat from the outdoor air and transfers it to the indoor air through an exchanger. It is common in HVAC installations such as split and multi-split systems, as well as ducted systems and VRF (variable refrigerant flow) systems.
2) Air-to-Water Aerothermal Systems
In this type of system, the heat pump extracts heat from the outdoor air and uses it to heat water, which can then be used for heating via radiators or underfloor heating. It is a very efficient system and is considered one of the most popular solutions for indoor climate control.
3) Aerothermal Systems for Domestic Hot Water (DHW)
This system is specifically designed to heat water for sanitary use. It can be of two types: compact, suitable for small amounts of hot water (up to 250 liters), and split, which consist of two separate units. These heat pumps are ideal for homes requiring a constant supply of hot water.
Recommendations for Using an Aerothermal System
To optimize the performance and efficiency of an aerothermal system in summer or at any other time of year, it is important to follow some key recommendations.
Here are some suggestions for its proper use:
1. Perform regular maintenance
Although aerothermal systems in summer require less maintenance than gas boilers, it is advisable to perform an annual review, as this ensures the equipment operates efficiently and prolongs its lifespan. During this review, potential problems can be identified and corrected promptly before they become major failures.
2. Use of buffer tanks
Installing buffer tanks can be very beneficial. These tanks help reduce the number of system on/off cycles, improving the Inverter’s modulation and ensuring a minimum water volume in the installation.
This step is especially useful during the defrosting of the outdoor unit, as it ensures that there is enough energy contained in the fluid to carry out this operation.
3. Temperature control
It is very important to set the thermostat to appropriate temperatures, depending on the time of year. Maintaining a constant and moderate temperature not only improves comfort but also reduces energy consumption. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid sudden temperature changes, as this can help maintain system efficiency.
According to specialists, the use of aerothermal systems in summer should involve a recommended temperature between 24 and 26°C to enjoy a comfortable environment in the home.
4. Heat distribution
If you use underfloor heating or fan coils, ensure they are well distributed throughout the home. This allows for better air circulation and uniform heat or cold distribution, improving system efficiency.
5. Home insulation
Good insulation in walls, ceilings, and windows is crucial, as it reduces heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, allowing the aerothermal system to operate more efficiently.
6. Efficient use of Domestic Hot Water (DHW)
If your aerothermal system also includes the function of producing domestic hot water, it is advisable to manage its use to prevent the system from prioritizing water heating over cooling. You should know that using a buffer tank can help maintain the cold water supply while the domestic hot water is being heated.
By following these recommendations, you can maximize the efficiency and performance of your aerothermal system in summer, ensuring a comfortable environment and optimized energy consumption.
If you have any questions or need professional assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.