As winter grips Finland and Sweden with its icy fingers, questions about the efficient use of heat pumps during severe cold spells have become increasingly relevant for building owners. Maintaining optimal heating while managing energy costs is crucial. First, we hope that everyone is comfy and safe during winter days. This article delves into expert insights and practical tips to help you navigate these chilly times effectively.
Weather information on 5.1.2024. Served by the Norwegian Meteorological Institute and NRK. The Debate on heat pump usage in extreme cold There's a split in opinion on whether to keep air source heat pumps running during intense cold weather. According to the Finnish Heat Pump Association, freezing isn't caused by the cold itself but by ice accumulation .
Experts' advice: Don't turn off your heat pump during cold weather Heat pumps over eight years old are generally effective up to -15°C, while newer models can handle temperatures as low as -30°C. Conversations in the heat pump community reveal that most heat pump owners have been able to heat their home without ancillary heat by up to -25°C outdoor temperatures. Jussi Hirvonen, the director of the Finnish Heat Pump Association, advises against switching off older pumps even at -15°C. He cites his own experience with three 17-year-old pumps, which have been operational throughout winters without issues.
Tip no 1: Don’t switch off your heat pump even when efficiencies drop. Remember that direct electrical resistors have always a efficiency factor of 1 while heat pumps generate heat with an efficiency factor of 1-4. Once you’ve invested in a heat pump, you can always be sure to be on the efficient side.
Tip no 2: Check that your heat pump permits resistors to go on! Some people may have optimized this in the past and don't remember that they have disabled resistors to switch on. You can easily check this on your heat pump dashboard.
Operational guidelines It's crucial to consult the user manual for specific operational limits and adhere to them. Importantly, regardless of the heat pump's age, avoid turning it off and then back on during extreme cold. This can shorten the pump's lifespan and potentially cause damage.
Tip no 3: Use Supplementary Heating Wisely : If your home has a fireplace or wood stove, use it to supplement your heat pump during extreme cold. This can reduce the strain on your heat pump and lower electricity consumption.
Tip no 4: Adjust Indoor Temperatures Thoughtfully : Lower the temperature in unoccupied spaces. Reducing the overall temperature by a few degrees during peak consumption times can lessen the load on your heat pump and save on energy costs.
Maintenance tips for your heat pump Regular maintenance is vital. Inadequate care, especially in winter, can lead to increased service calls. Jussi Hirvonen notes that while dry, cold air causes frost, it's the fluctuating temperatures around zero that lead to more significant ice accumulation. A well-functioning defrost system is key to preventing this.
Tip no 5: Monitor Your Heat Pump's Operating Limits : Check the manufacturer's guidelines for your heat pump's performance in cold temperatures. Ensure it is operating within its specified temperature range to maintain efficiency.
Tip no 6: Regular Maintenance is Key : Keep the outdoor unit of your heat pump free from snow and ice. Regularly clean or replace filters in the indoor unit to prevent blockages and maintain efficiency, as stated also in Motiva's guide for heat pump maintenance .
With Kapacity.io, you get the necessary tools to make your heat pump cost effective At Kapacity.io, our priority is to ensure that your heating systems, including heat pumps, operate efficiently and effectively. Our energy management systems integrate seamlessly with your existing setup, optimizing performance and reducing unnecessary energy consumption.
Tip no 7: Be Alert to High Electricity Price Hours : Stay informed about the hourly electricity prices (which you can check using apps like Fingrid's Tuntihinta app or Elmarknad’s Dagens Spotpris app ) and try to reduce or shift your energy consumption away from the most expensive hours, typically in the morning and late afternoon. You can also see hourly prices in Kapacity.io Cloud .
Tip no 8: Consider Demand Response Participation : By adjusting when and how you use electricity, including your heat pump, you can contribute to stabilizing the grid and potentially benefit from lower energy costs. This week, Fingrid has expressed a specific request to reduce electricity consumption due to low outdoor temperatures. By doing a small contribution you can help the whole society.
Tip no 9: Use Smart Controls if Available : If your heat pump has smart controls, use them to optimize its performance. This can include setting lower temperatures when you're not at home and programming it to run more during off-peak hours.
Prepare for the long run Winter comes every year. Although this week’s outdoor temperatures are rare, it’s good to prepare for the long run as well.
Tip no 10: Insulate and Seal Your Home : Ensure your home is well-insulated and free from drafts. This will reduce the heating load on your heat pump, making it more effective even during cold spells. See if your home is well-equipped in Motiva's checklist for home maintenance .
Tip no 11: Prepare for Emergencies : In case of a power outage or extreme weather, have a backup plan for heating your home. This could include portable heaters, extra blankets, or temporarily relocating to a heated space.
And finally, remember that as a heat pump owner your already are a rockstar Remember, the key to effective heat pump use in cold weather lies in understanding your system's capabilities and ensuring regular maintenance. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your building remains warm and energy-efficient, even during harshest winters. And remember, Kapacity.io is here to help you every step of the way.
Tip no 12: Stay Informed : Keep up to date with local weather forecasts and energy news. Being informed will help you make the best decisions for managing your heat pump usage during challenging weather conditions. Join Kapacity.io newsletter or social media to get up to date information about smart heat pump controls.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your heat pump operates efficiently, helps you save on energy costs, and contributes to the stability of the electricity grid during cold weather.
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