How does a heat pump work?

Energy optimization is a priority for many households. The heat pump (PAC) is positioned as an effective solution to reduce energy bills and meet ecological challenges. In 2022, more than 1.1 million heat pumps have been installed in France, an increase of nearly 100% compared to 2017, illustrating the significant rise of this technology in French homes. In addition to providing better efficiency on a daily basis, the connected heat pump allows intelligent control of its consumption. This article explores in detail how a heat pump works, the benefits of its connectivity, the steps to install one, and many other essential points to make your decision.

General operating principle of a heat pump

One heat pump extracts calories from the air, soil, or water to transfer them to the inside of your home, warming the space. This process uses little electrical energy, making the CAP very efficient. For every kilowatt of electricity consumed, the heat pump can produce 3 to 4 kilowatts of heat, which explains its increasing success in homes.

The key components of a heat pump

A heat pump includes several key components:

1. the compressor

2. the evaporator

3; the condenser

3. the regulator

These components work together to capture outside heat, compress it to increase its temperature, and then redistribute it inside the house. This process is constantly being optimized to ensure optimal performance.

The principles of aerothermics and geothermics

Aerothermy: capture of energy in the air

Aerothermal energy uses the calorific energy present in the outdoor air, even in cold weather. An aerothermal heat pump recovers this energy using a refrigerant that vaporizes at low temperature. Then, the steam is compressed to increase its temperature, thereby transferring the heat to a heating circuit. This technology is appreciated for its ease of installation and reasonable operating costs. It offers optimal heating efficiency while reducing primary energy consumption.

Geothermal energy: capture of energy in the ground

Geothermal energy, unlike aerothermal energy, draws on the heat stored in the ground, a thermal reservoir that is stable throughout the year. A geothermal heat pump uses buried collectors, whether horizontal or vertical, to capture this energy. This is then transferred via a heat transfer fluid to the home. This energy capture and transfer system requires a more complex and expensive installation, often several meters deep. However, it offers a very high efficiency, especially in cold climates, thanks to the thermal stability of the soil.

Difference between an air-to-air heat pump and an air-to-water heat pump

Air-to-air heat pump: operation and use

The air-to-air heat pump extracts calories from the outside air to distribute them in the form of hot air inside the home, through fan coils. This system is mainly used to heat rooms, but it does not produce domestic hot water.

Air-water heat pump: operation and use

The air-water heat pump, on the other hand, captures heat from the outside air to transfer it to a water circuit. This circuit can then supply a central heating system, such as radiators or underfloor heating, and produce domestic hot water. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for many households.

The advantages of a connected heat pump

The connectivity allows users to control their pump remotely via a smartphone or tablet. They can adjust the temperature to suit their needs and lifestyles, whether for vacation, travel, or work. This flexibility not only improves comfort, but it also generates real savings.

In addition, connected systems analyze the heat pump's energy consumption in real time. They automatically adjust settings to optimize efficiency. It is also possible to consult the history of consumption in order to identify peaks. All this information makes it possible to avoid unnecessary overconsumption!

Most heat pumps work all day long, without taking into account changes in electricity prices.
Your smart heat pump MySmartHeating uses the thermal inertia of your home. It works primarily when electricity is very cheap and avoids price spikes.

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The steps of installing a heat pump

Installing a heat pump in your home is a process that requires several key steps to ensure that it works properly and is energy efficient. Here is an overview of the typical steps in a PAC installation.

1. Initial home assessment

The first step is to complete a comprehensive assessment of your home. A professional will analyze the characteristics of your home, including its insulation, floor area, and existing heating systems. This evaluation makes it possible to determine the type of heat pump best suited to your specific needs, as well as the power required to ensure optimal thermal comfort.

2. Choice and sizing of the CAP

Once the assessment is complete, it is time to choose the CAP. Sizing is crucial: a heat pump that is too powerful will lead to overconsumption of energy, while an undersized heat pump will not be able to heat the home effectively. The professional will help you select the most suitable model, taking into account your preferences and the specifics of your home.

3. Preparing the installation site

Before installation, it is necessary to prepare the site. This may include work to improve insulation, creating space for the outdoor unit (in the case of an air-to-water or air-to-air heat pump), and connecting to existing heating systems. This step ensures that the heat pump will be installed in optimal conditions, thus maximizing its performance.

4. Installation and connection

The actual installation of the heat pump involves setting up the outdoor unit and the indoor unit, as well as connecting the heat pump to the heat distribution systems (radiators, heated floors, etc.). The professional will ensure that all components are properly installed and that there are no leaks or problems with refrigerant circulation.

5. Start-up and settings

Once the heat pump is installed, it is time to proceed with commissioning. This includes adjusting operating parameters to optimize the performance of the heat pump according to the energy needs of the household. Tests are carried out to verify that the heat pump is working properly, and the professional will explain to you how to use and maintain your new equipment.

6. Post-installation follow-up and maintenance

After installation, regular monitoring is necessary to ensure the longevity of your PAC. This includes periodic checks to verify its proper functioning and maintenance operations, such as cleaning filters and checking the refrigerant level. Regular maintenance maintains the effectiveness of the heat pump and extends its lifespan.

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Prices and assistance available for installing a heat pump

How much does it cost to install a connected heat pump?

The cost of installing a connected heat pump varies according to the type of system selected (air-air, air-water, aerothermal or geothermal). It also depends on the size and characteristics of the home. The prices are generally between 8,000 and 20,000 euros, labor included. The complexity of the installation and the possible adaptations to integrate the heat pump into the existing heating system can also impact the overall cost.

What help is available to install a heat pump?

In France, several financial aids are available to facilitate the installation of a heat pump. Among them, we find MaPrimeRénov', which offers subsidies adapted to household income, as well as the CEE bonus (Energy Savings Certificates), accessible to all without any resource requirement.

VAT reduced to 5.5% for energy renovation work and the Eco-loan at zero rate (eco-PTZ) are also available. The eco-PTZ allows you to finance the rest at your expense without interest. These helpers, which are cumulative, aim to make installation more affordable while encouraging the transition to sustainable energy solutions. To find out more, contact an approved installer in your region and your town hall, who will be able to provide you with information on all the help available.

Frequently asked questions about connected heat pumps

Is a connected heat pump compatible with all existing heating systems?

Not yet, but we're working to make sure that's the case.

Our system is compatible with most major brands of air-to-water heat pumps and the majority of air-to-water heat pumps at Airwell, Atlantic, Daikin, Hitachi, Hitachi, LG, LG, LG, LG, Mitsubishi and Panasonic

What energy savings can I expect with a connected heat pump?

By subscribing, you benefit from -30% on the electricity that mylight150 provides you with the first 10 years for your heat pump, i.e. -30% on the price per kWh. This discount is included in your contract.

For September 2024, this gives:

€0.1448/kWh during off-peak hours (compared to the regulated rate of €0.2068/kWh)

€0.189 /kWh during peak hours (compared to the regulated rate of €0.2068/kWh)

Note that the price of your subscription remains the same as that of the regulated rate, and depends on your subscribed power.

Are connected heat pumps difficult to use?

No, connected heat pumps are designed to be easy to use. They are generally controlled via an intuitive mobile application, allowing simple adjustment and monitoring of consumption in real time.

Should we take the plunge?

Choosing a connected heat pump is a wise investment both economically and environmentally. The benefits include a significant reduction in energy bills. At mylight150, we optimize the consumption of your heat pump to avoid peaks where electricity is the most expensive. To succeed in this, we ask you to define a target temperature around which we will allow a variation of 1 degree maximum. For example, if you set 20 degrees, you will be assured of a temperature between 19 and 21 degrees.

In France, the adoption of PACs is growing rapidly, with an annual increase in installations, which underlines their growing popularity. The future of home energy optimization seems promising, with increasingly intelligent technologies that integrate harmoniously into the connected home of tomorrow.

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