Aerothermal and thermodynamic: differences, benefits and which to choose for your home

Author: Araceli Buendia

Efitherma Marketing Department

Aerothermal and thermodynamic: differences, benefits and which to choose for your home

Author: Araceli Buendía

Efitherma Marketing Department

Aerothermal and thermodynamic

Differences and advantages of each system

If you’re looking for an efficient and sustainable system to heat your home, you’ve probably heard of aerothermal and thermodynamic heating. Both systems use renewable energy to heat and cool spaces, but they have key differences that may influence your decision. In this article, we explain in a simple way how they work, their benefits, which may be the best option for your home and you will also learn how to choose the best electricity rate with Hello Watt to obtain maximum savings.

What is a heat pump?

A heat pump is a device that transfers thermal energy from a low-temperature source (such as air, water or ground) to produce heating, cooling or hot water.

Heat pumps can be classified according to the heat source from which they extract energy and the medium to which they transfer that heat to heat spaces or heat water. Here is a general classification based on these characteristics:

Classification of heat pumps according to the heat source:

AIR-WATER: They extract heat from the outside air and transfer it to a water system, such as radiators or underfloor heating systems. Suitable for heating and producing Domestic Hot Water

WATER-WATER: Extract heat from a water source (such as a lake, river, or aquifer) and transfer it to a water system in the building. Efficient in areas where there is access to groundwater at a constant temperature.

AIR-AIR: They extract heat from outside air and transfer it to the indoor air. Common in climates where temperatures are not extremely cold.

EARTH-WATER: They extract heat from the ground or subsoil and transfer it to a water system. Very energy efficient due to the more stable temperature of the ground.

What is aerothermal energy and how does it work?

Aerothermal energy is a heat pump-based technology that refers to the use of air-water heat pumps. This type of heat pump uses the outside air as a source of thermal energy and transfers that energy to water. The heated water can be used for radiator heating systems, underfloor heating, or to provide hot water for sanitary use. So, when we talk about aerothermal energy, we are specifically talking about heat pumps that operate in the air-water configuration.

Aerothermal energy operating process

The heat pump captures thermal energy from the outside air, even at low temperatures.

2. This energy is transferred to a refrigerant gas which is compressed and increases in temperature.

3. The heat generated is distributed to the home’s heating system (low-temperature radiators, underfloor heating or fan coils).

4. In cooling mode, the process is reversed and the thermal energy inside is expelled to the outside.

Split and monoblock models

Split: Split heat pumps are divided into two modules. This option involves locating the fan, compressor, evaporator and expansion valve in the external module. The internal module contains a condenser, i.e. a heat exchanger, and may have an integrated or separate DHW storage tank.

Monoblock: Unlike split models, monoblock heat pumps have all the components necessary for their operation in a single module. These components are the compressor, the expansion valve and the evaporator, through which the refrigerant circulates. If there is a tank for accumulating DHW, it would also be integrated into the same module.

Installation modes of monoblock aerothermal energy

Double external connection

The system extracts energy from the outside air and also expels cold air to the outside. It is necessary to duct the air inlet to the equipment and the air outlet from the equipment.

Double internal connection

The system extracts energy from the indoor air of the home in an unheated area, whose dimensions and ventilation conditions allow it to be used as an energy source, and discharges the cold air into this or another area that allows it.

Indoor-outdoor connection

The system extracts energy from the interior air of the home in an area that is not heated, and the air is expelled to the outside through a ducted tube.

What is thermodynamics and how does it work?

Thermodynamics based on the aerothermal heat pump system (air-water), which is characterized by incorporating a thermodynamic panel that captures thermal energy from the outside air and solar radiation to transfer it to a cooling circuit. This circuit transports the heat to an exchanger, where it is transferred to the water contained in the storage tank or to the heating system.

Their operation is highly efficient, as they can operate even in adverse weather conditions and with low outside temperatures.

Thermodynamics working process:

A thermodynamic panel captures energy from the environment (air and solar radiation).

2. The refrigerant gas absorbs this energy and evaporates.

3. The compressor raises the temperature of the evaporated gas.

4. The heat is transferred to the water for the heating system or DHW.

Thermodynamic panel

Thermodynamic panels are an innovative solution for producing hot water for sanitary use and heating. The coolant contained inside circulates in a liquid state and evaporates when it absorbs heat from the environment. This gas is then compressed in a closed circuit to increase its temperature and transfer the heat to the water stored in a tank. In this way, hot water is produced efficiently and with reduced electricity consumption.

Operation without direct solar radiation: They can capture heat even in adverse weather conditions (fog, rain or snow).
Long service life: The roll-bond aluminium structure provides a durability of over 25 years, with practically zero maintenance.
Rain and wind: Elements such as rain help to renew the temperature on the surface of the panel, promoting heat absorption.
Adaptable: They can be mounted either horizontally or vertically, adapting to different spaces and needs.
Lightweight and versatile design: Weighing just 6.2 kg, the panels can be installed on a variety of surfaces without the need for structural reinforcements. estructurales.

Differences between aerothermal and thermodynamic

Characteristics	Aerothermal energy	Thermodynamics
Energy source	Outdoor or indoor ambient (wet areas such as: kitchen, bathrooms, etc.)	Outdoor ambient and solar radiation
Efficiency	High efficiency	Efficiency even in extreme temperatures
Installation	You may or may not need an outdoor unit depending on the heat pump model and its function.	Requires at least one thermodynamic panel installed outside.
Applications	Heating, cooling and domestic hot water	Heating and Domestic Hot Water
Electricity consumption	Low or very low (depending on the heat pump model)	Low or very low (depending on the heat pump model)

These devices are connected to the electrical grid, so it is essential to contract an appropriate electricity rate to optimize energy savings. Despite being sustainable and low-consumption systems, the activation of electrical resistors can increase energy expenditure, so choosing a rate here that favors the efficient use of electricity is key to maximize its performance and minimize operating costs.

Benefits of aerothermal and thermodynamic

Aerothermal energy

Energy efficiency: Pueden alcanzar un coeficiente de rendimiento (COP) de hasta 5, generando hasta 5 kW de calor por cada kW de electricidad consumido.

Versatility: Provides heating, cooling and DHW in a single system. It also has split and compact models.

Low environmental impact: Reduces CO2 emissions compared to traditional systems.

Thermodynamics

Make the most of energy: No depende solo de la radiación solar, lo que mejora su rendimiento en climas fríos y pueden llegar a alcanzar un COP de 7.

Versatility: They can be placed in various locations without the need for direct exposure to air

Low consumption: It can operate with very little electricity.

Durability: Requires almost no maintenance.

Which system to choose for your home?

The choice between aerothermal and thermodynamic depends on several factors:

Location and climate: If you live in an area with mild winters, aerothermal energy is an ideal option. However, in extremely cold climates, thermodynamics may be more efficient.

Energy needs: If you are looking for a comprehensive system for heating, cooling and DHW, aerothermal energy is the best option.

Available space: Aerothermal and thermodynamic heat pumps can be adapted to any home depending on several factors such as the model, function and available space. Efitherma leads the market in the manufacture of heat pumps that adapt to the needs of each project. Its rectangular footprint equipment allows for integration in any area of the home, and the minimalist design guarantees an elegant aesthetic.

Installation cost: Thermodynamics may have a higher initial investment, but it allows for greater savings in the long term. In addition, optimizing energy consumption is key, so it is advisable to first evaluate the best electricity rate according to the location and needs of the client. Access this comparison to find out more.