Lämmöpumput

Lämmöpumput, often translated as heat pumps, are devices that transfer thermal energy from a heat source to a heat sink. They operate by exploiting the principle of refrigeration, utilizing a working fluid that undergoes phase changes to absorb and release heat. The primary function of a heat pump is to provide heating or cooling to a building or space.

The fundamental components of a heat pump include an evaporator, a compressor, a condenser, and an expansion valve. In heating mode, the evaporator absorbs heat from an external source, such as the ambient air, ground, or water. This heat is then transferred to the working fluid, causing it to vaporize. The compressor increases the pressure and temperature of the vapor. The hot, high-pressure vapor then flows to the condenser, where it releases its heat to the indoor space, typically through a heat exchanger. Finally, the expansion valve reduces the pressure of the refrigerant, preparing it to re-enter the evaporator and repeat the cycle.

Heat pumps are categorized based on their heat source and sink. Air-source heat pumps extract heat from the outside air, while ground-source (geothermal) heat pumps utilize the stable temperature of the earth. Water-source heat pumps draw heat from nearby bodies of water. They are recognized for their energy efficiency, as they can deliver more heat energy than the electrical energy they consume. This makes them an increasingly popular choice for sustainable heating and cooling solutions.