lämmönvaraaja

A lämmönvaraaja, commonly translated as a heat accumulator or thermal storage tank, is a component used in heating systems to store thermal energy. Its primary function is to collect heat generated by a source, such as a boiler, solar collectors, or a heat pump, and release it gradually when needed. This storage capability allows for more efficient operation of the heat source by enabling it to run at optimal output for longer periods, rather than cycling on and off frequently.

The lämmönvaraaja typically consists of a well-insulated tank filled with water. The heat source transfers its energy to this water, increasing its temperature. When heat is required for space heating or hot water, the stored hot water is drawn from the tank and circulated through the heating system or a separate domestic hot water heat exchanger. By decoupling the heat generation from the heat demand, a lämmönvaraaja can reduce energy consumption and improve the overall performance of the heating system. It plays a crucial role in systems that utilize intermittent heat sources like solar energy, buffering the supply to meet the demand. The size and design of a lämmönvaraaja are determined by factors such as the heating load, the capacity of the heat source, and the desired storage duration.