soojuspompad

Soojuspompad, or heat pumps, are devices that transfer thermal energy from a source of heat to a heat sink. This transfer can be used for heating or cooling. Heat pumps do not create heat; they move existing heat. They operate on the principle of refrigeration, utilizing a refrigerant that cycles through evaporation and condensation.

The basic 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 air, ground, or water, even at low temperatures. This heat is then absorbed by the refrigerant. The compressor increases the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant, sending it to the condenser. The condenser, located inside the building, releases the heat to the indoor air or water. The refrigerant then passes through an expansion valve, where its pressure and temperature drop, and the cycle repeats. For cooling, the process is reversed.

Soojuspompad are known for their energy efficiency. They can deliver more thermal energy than the electrical energy they consume, often with a coefficient of performance (COP) of 3 or more, meaning they can provide three units of heat for every unit of electricity used. This makes them an environmentally friendly and cost-effective option for climate control compared to direct electric heating or traditional combustion systems. Different types of soojuspompad exist, including air-source, ground-source (geothermal), and water-source heat pumps, each with varying efficiencies and installation requirements.