ilmalähteestä

Ilmalähde is a Finnish term that translates to "air source" or "air source heat pump." It refers to a type of heat pump that extracts heat from the ambient outdoor air to heat a building or domestic hot water. These systems are a common form of renewable energy technology used for heating and cooling in many parts of the world, particularly in regions with moderate climates.

The operation of an ilmalähde involves a refrigeration cycle. A refrigerant circulates through an outdoor unit where it absorbs heat from the outside air, even at low temperatures. This heat-laden refrigerant then travels to an indoor unit where the heat is released into the building's heating system, typically through radiators or underfloor heating. In cooling mode, the process is reversed, with the indoor unit absorbing heat from the building and expelling it outdoors.

Ilmalähteet offer several advantages, including energy efficiency and lower carbon emissions compared to traditional fossil fuel heating systems. They are also relatively easy to install and can provide both heating and cooling from a single unit. However, their efficiency can be reduced in very cold weather, and supplementary heating may be required in such conditions. Maintenance typically involves cleaning filters and ensuring the outdoor unit is free from debris.