Ilmalähde

An ilmalähde, literally meaning "air source" in Finnish, refers to a type of heat pump that utilizes the outdoor air as its primary heat source for heating or cooling. These systems are a popular choice for residential and commercial buildings due to their efficiency and relatively straightforward installation compared to geothermal systems.

The fundamental principle behind an ilmalähde is the transfer of thermal energy. In heating mode, it extracts heat from the ambient outdoor air, even at temperatures below freezing, and transfers it indoors. This process involves a refrigerant that circulates through an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the outdoor air, is compressed, and then releases the heat indoors. In cooling mode, the process is reversed, with heat being extracted from the indoor air and expelled outdoors.

Modern ilmalähde systems are known for their energy efficiency, often achieving coefficients of performance (COP) significantly greater than one, meaning they can deliver more heat energy than the electrical energy they consume. This makes them an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional heating and cooling methods. Installation typically involves an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, connected by refrigerant lines. Maintenance is generally minimal, usually involving cleaning of filters and periodic professional checks.