What is a Solar Assisted Heat Pump?
A solar-assisted heat pump is a heat pump merged with a solar collector. They absorb heat directly from the sun and heat from the outside air which is stored inside a solar collector.
In comparison to other Solar systems, Solar Assisted Heat Pumps utilise Heat Pump and Solar principles, meaning they work both day and night to heat your hot water whenever it’s needed.
How does a Solar Assisted Heat Pump work?
A solar collector is usually fitted to the roof of a house where it absorbs heat from sunlight and the outdoor air.
As the solar collector can take on heat from the air this enables the system to heat water even when there isn’t any sunshine. Your SAHP could generate heat whilst you are asleep!
Know the difference! A solar collector is different from a solar panel. While solar panels produce electricity, solar collectors generate heating energy.
The heat is absorbed into a refrigerant liquid which is transformed into a gas. Next, it is compressed inside a thermodynamic unit where it turns into a hot fluid and passes through a heat exchanger.
This water can be use to heat radiators, showers, taps, underfloor heating etc.
Benefits of Solar Assisted Heat Pumps
Why should you consider upgrading your current heating system and installing a Solar Assisted Heat Pump?
Check out below the benefits you could start taking advantage of.
Generates Heat Day & Night
As a SAHP uses a solar collector it can use heat from the outside air. Unlike standard solar panels this means you can generate heat during the day and at night so you can maximise heat generation 24/7 and heat your home whenever you want.
They can still extract heat when air temperatures are as low as -15°C.
Solar Assisted Heat Pumps are a form of renewable energy as they generate heat by absorbing sunlight and outside air to heat your home.
This means you can greatly reduce your carbon footprint and your effect on the environment. You can improve your property’s EPC rating (Energy Performance Certificate).
Low Maintenance & Long Lifespan
SAHPs are less complicated as they have fewer moving parts than other heating systems meaning they are more reliable. Therefore they require little maintenance and have a lifespan of around 25 or more years.
Solitaire also offer other renewable ways to heat your home.
Ground Source Heat Pumps
Ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) use pipes that are buried in the garden to extract heat from the ground. This heat can then be used to heat radiators, underfloor or warm air heating systems and hot water in your home.
Air Source Heat Pumps
Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) absorb heat from the outside air to heat your home and hot water. They can still extract heat when air temperatures are as low as -15°C.
