The size needed for a plant room where a heat pump is being fitted can vary depending on several factors, including the capacity and type of heat pump, the specific requirements of the installation, and the available space.

Compact solutions, such as the Daikin altherma 3 integrated heat pump, are designed to minimize the space required for installation. However, it’s important to note that the exact dimensions and space requirements will depend on the specific model and configuration of the heat pump.

The majority of heat pumps Energywise Ireland fit do not require buffer tanks All our domestic heat pumps have inverter controlled compressors that can modulate their output based on the heating or cooling demand by adjusting the compressor speed to match the load requirements. By continuously adjusting the output, inverter heat pumps can precisely deliver the necessary heating or cooling without the need for thermal storage in a buffer tank. This can result in improved overall energy efficiency and reduced energy consumption.

Buffer tanks typically require additional space for their installation, and eliminating the need for a buffer tank can free up space in the mechanical room or plant area. This can be advantageous, especially in situations where space is limited.

The decision on whether to include a buffer tank with an inverter heat pump should be based on a thorough evaluation of the specific requirements, load profiles, and characteristics of the system, and it is recommended to consult with a Heat pump professional or system designer to determine the most suitable configuration for your particular needs.

The first step is to determine the heating load of the home, which is the amount of heat required to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature during the coldest expected outdoor conditions. Factors considered in this calculation include the size of the home, insulation levels, air leakage, orientation, windows, and local climate data. This information provided by the Ber assessor is also utilised in this process.

Based on the heat load calculation and desired system efficiency, the appropriate heat pump capacity is determined. Heat pump capacity is typically measured in kilowatts (kW). The capacity should be sufficient to meet the heating load of the home while also taking into account factors like climate, temperature extremes, and preferences of the homeowner.

It is recommended to involve an experienced Heating professional who can perform a detailed assessment of the home, review the load calculations, and consider any additional factors specific to the installation site. They can help ensure that the heat pump is properly sized and selected for the specific needs of the home, optimizing its performance and energy efficiency

The retrofit project will involve a reassessment of the radiators throughout the building. If the existing radiators are not properly sized for the updated heating requirements, replacement or resizing may be necessary. This is particularly relevant when transitioning from a fossil fuel-based high temperature system to a low-temperature system like a heat pump, where larger heat emitters may be required.

In some retrofit projects, the replacement of radiators may be driven by aesthetic considerations. Homeowners or property owners may wish to update the look of their radiators to align with their design preferences or interior decor. This can involve replacing outdated radiators with more modern, stylish options.

It’s important to note that not all retrofit projects require the replacement of radiators. If the existing radiators are in good condition, appropriately sized, and compatible with the new system, they can often be retained, provided they are functioning efficiently.

Deciding between a heat pump-only grant or a one-stop shop grant application for a retrofit project depends on various factors. Assess the overall scope of your retrofit project. If your project involves multiple energy efficiency upgrades beyond just installing a heat pump, such as insulation improvements, window upgrades, or ventilation enhancements, a one-stop shop grant application might be more suitable. This allows you to access funding for the entire project under a single application, simplifying the process and potentially maximizing the financial assistance you receive.

A heat pump only grant may be the best option if your home needs minimal upgrade work. The six thousand five-hundred-euro grant provides a significant financial incentive to help offset the upfront cost of installing a heat pump. By reducing the initial cost burden, the grant can make it very feasible for homeowners to transition to a more sustainable and energy-efficient heating system. As a very experienced company in retrofitting heat pumps and also an SEAI registered One Stop Shop, Energywise Ireland will be happy to assist you in assessing which is the most suitable journey for you. Whether it’s solar pv panels ev chargers or a heat pump or deep retrofit you are considering, take a step into the future and visit our state of the art showroom in Holly mount industrial estate in cork city for your free consultation.