In recent years, water source based heat pumps (WSHPs) have become increasingly popular in all over the world. WSHPs are a type of geothermal Heat pump {Värmepump} that uses water from a well, lake, or aquifer as a heat source or heat sink. In cooling mode, WSHPs can be up to four times more efficient than conventional air-source-based heat pumps. In heating mode, they are about 25% more efficient than air-source-based heat pumps. WSHPs also have a lower carbon footprint than other types of HVAC systems because they do not use fossil fuels.
There are many benefits to using WSHPs, including the following.
- Increased Efficiency: WSHPs are much more efficient than conventional HVAC systems. In cooling mode, they can be up to four times more efficient than air-source-based heat pumps. They are around 25% more efficient than air-source-based heat pumps for heating. This increased efficiency results in lower energy bills for homeowners and businesses.
- Lower Carbon Footprint: WSHPs do not use fossil fuels, so they have a lower carbon footprint than other types of HVAC systems. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, WSHPs can reduce your carbon dioxide emissions by 4,000 pounds per year when compared to an electric furnace with an annual fuel utilization efficiency of 55%.
- Reduced Noise: WSHPs operate quietly because the compressors are located inside the building. This is in contrast to air-source-based heat pumps, which have compressors that are located outside the building. The reduced noise level of WSHPs is a major benefit for businesses and homeowners who want to avoid the noise pollution that is typically associated with HVAC systems.
- Improved Air Quality: WSHPs improve indoor air quality because they do not recirculate dirty outdoor air as conventional HVAC systems do. This is especially beneficial for people who suffer from allergies or asthma. Since these heat pumps don’t circulate outdoor air inside your home or business, they can help reduce the amount of dust, pollen, and other allergens in your indoor air.
- Less Wear and Tear: Since WSHPs don’t have to work as hard as air-source-based heat pumps to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, they experience less wear and tear. This leads to fewer repair bills and a longer lifespan for your WSHP unit. Additionally, since WSHPs don’t rely on outdoor units, there’s no need to worry about inclement weather damaging your unit or repairs being needed due to corrosion from salt air if you live near the ocean.
- Rebate programs: Many utilities offer rebates for customers who install WSHPs. These rebates can help offset the initial cost of installing a WSHP system.
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The many benefits of water-source-based heat pumps make them an appealing option for those who are looking for an efficient and environmentally friendly way to heat and cool their homes and businesses. If you’re considering installing a water source-based heat pump system, be sure to check with your local utility company to see if there are any rebates or incentives available to help offset the cost of installation.