Solar Energy Mini-split Heat Pump Systems
How it works
- Heat pumps do not create heat energy - they simply transfer it...
- Heat pumps are versatile, acting as either an Air Conditioner in summer or Heater in Winter.
- Heat Pumps have become extremely efficient, with typical power consumption for a 9000 BTU unit less than 50% more than a full size fridge.
- Perfect supplement to existing wood stove heating in an off-grid situation
Heat Pump heating/cooling using Solar energy
Because a heat pump only transfers the heat energy between your home and the outside air, they are extremely efficient. At an ambient temperature of 10°C, the coefficient of performance (COP) of air-source heat pumps is typically about 3.3. This means that 3.3 kilowatt hours (kWh) of heat are transferred for every kWh of electricity supplied to the heat pump. Depending in size of home, a small heat pump can effectively heat and cool - even in an Off-grid situation with good sun exposure
Can a heat pump replace a fireplace?
- Heat pump can easily replace existing wood, electrical, Oil, natural gas or Propane heating systems in electric grid connected sites.
- Heat pumps not intended to fully replace wood fireplace in most off-grid situations.
- System well suited for supplemental heating / cooling off-grid applications in BC coastal climate when adequate Solar System capacity exists. Solar System capacity, location and orientation is critical
- Basic system start at under $3000 (fully installed) before available rebates
What about Propane?
- Upfront Installation cost similar to Heat Pump
- Higher operating costs for propane vs Heat Pump - even in absence of Solar Contribution
- Environmental concerns / emissions
- No air conditioning in summer
- No benefits from existing Solar Energy System
Heat Pump Components
System Components:
- Exterior Condensing Unit
- Interior Fan Unit
- Remote (Optional WiFi enabled)
Wall Mounted Interior Unit
- Most common interior unit when wall space available
Floor Mounted Interior Unit
- Good option when wall space is limited
Ceiling Mounted Cassette
- Popular option with new construction
Concealed Unit
- Wall mounted grill conceals interior unit
The real Plus - Air Conditioning in Summer and Free heating on clear cold days...
- Optimize Off-grid energy system in summer with daytime air conditioning and cooler nights when the sun goes down....