Vesiilmalämpö

Vesiilmalämpö, which translates to "water-air heat" in English, refers to a type of heat pump system that utilizes water as the source medium for absorbing or releasing heat. Unlike air-source heat pumps that directly extract heat from the ambient air, vesiilmalämpö systems typically tap into a body of water, such as a lake, river, or well, or even use geothermal loops buried in the ground.

These systems work on the principle of transferring thermal energy. In heating mode, the heat pump extracts heat from the water source, even when the water temperature is relatively low. This extracted heat is then amplified and transferred to the building's heating system, often through an air distribution network or radiant floor heating. In cooling mode, the process is reversed, with the heat pump absorbing heat from the building and releasing it into the water source.

The efficiency of a vesiilmalämpö system is often higher than that of air-source heat pumps, especially in colder climates, because water temperatures tend to be more stable than air temperatures throughout the year. This stability allows the heat pump to operate more consistently and at a higher Coefficient of Performance (COP). Installation involves a water intake or geothermal loop, a heat pump unit, and the distribution system within the building. While the initial installation cost can be higher than for simpler heating systems, the long-term energy savings and environmental benefits make vesiilmalämpö a compelling option for sustainable heating and cooling.