Solar-assisted heat pump
Heat pumps transfer heat from a lower temperature source to one of a higher temperature. This is the opposite of the natural flow of heat. They can be used domestically or commercially to provide hot water, space heating (either by providing hot water for under-floor heating or radiators, or supplying hot air) or other applications such as heating swimming pools.
A refrigerant fluid is run through the lower temperature source. The fluid ‘absorbs’ heat and boils. The resulting gas is then compressed, which further increases its temperature. The gas is passed into heat exchanger coils, where it condenses, releasing its latent heat. The process then repeats.
A solar-assisted heat pump (SAHP, sometimes referred to as a thermodynamic panel) combines heat pump and solar thermal technologies into an integrated system. Heat is typically absorbed by aluminium panels installed on an external wall or roof, generally 1 m x 2 m, although sizes can vary according to the building’s heat demand.
Compared to solar thermal systems, which are less efficient during winter months, the potential energy savings are greater.
If there is excess demand for hot water, back-up can be provided by connecting a boiler back into the system.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Absorption heat pump.
- Air source heat pumps.
- BSRIA domestic hot water heat pumps testing.
- BSRIA global heat pump market 2019.
- Domestic heat pumps and the electricity supply system.
- Exhaust air heat pump.
- Ground source heat pumps.
- Heat exchanger.
- Heat pump.
- Microgeneration Certification Scheme 2020.
- Renewable energy sources: how they work and what they deliver: Part 3: Electrically driven heat pumps DG 532 3.
- Renewable energy sources: how they work and what they deliver: Part 4: Solar thermal hot water systems DG 532 4.
- Room-based heat pumps.
- Solar thermal heating.
- Thermal labyrinths.
- Types of domestic boiler.
- Water source heat pumps.
Featured articles and news
Reasons for using MVHR systems
6 reasons for a whole-house approach to ventilation.
Supplementary Planning Documents, a reminder
As used by the City of London to introduce a Retrofit first policy.
The what, how, why and when of deposit return schemes
Circular economy steps for plastic bottles and cans in England and Northern Ireland draws.
Join forces and share Building Safety knowledge in 2025
Why and how to contribute to the Building Safety Wiki.
Reporting on Payment Practices and Performance Regs
Approved amendment coming into effect 1 March 2025.
A new CIOB TIS on discharging CDM 2015 duties
Practical steps that can be undertaken in the Management of Contractors to discharge the relevant CDM 2015 duties.
Planning for homes by transport hubs
Next steps for infrastructure following the updated NPPF.
Access, history and Ty unnos.
The world’s first publicly funded civic park.
Exploring permitted development rights for change of use
Discussing lesser known classes M, N, P, PA and L.
CIOB Art of Building 2024 judges choice winner
Once Upon a Pass by Liam Man.
CIOB Art of Building 2024 public choice winner
Fresco School by Roman Robroek.
HE expands finance alliance to boost SME house building
Project follows on from Habiko public-private place making pension partnership for affordable housing delivery.
Licensing construction; looking back to look forward
Voluntary to required contractors (licensing) schemes.
A contractor discusses the Building Safety Act
A brief to the point look at changes that have occurred.
How orchards can influence planning and development.