Fo oncu: s HEAT PUMPS
Heat pumps perform best when allowed to operate steadily, avoiding frequent starts and stops. Excessive cycling not only reduces efficiency but also accelerates wear on the compressor, shortening system lifespan. Buffer tanks are a proven solution to this challenge. By storing excess thermal energy during periods of low demand and releasing it when required, buffer tanks help smooth system operation and maintain stable temperatures throughout the circuit. This stability reduces cycling, improves comfort and allows the heat pump to operate Stability through hydraulic control
Clean water, efficient heat transfer
Water quality remains one of the most overlooked aspects of heating system efficiency. In heat pump systems where lower operating temperatures are the norm, the impact of dirt and debris is magnified. Magnetite, limescale and general system contaminants can quickly accumulate on heat exchangers and pipework, acting as insulation and severely reducing heat transfer efficiency. Dirt and air separation is therefore essential. A properly specified dirt separator removes particulate matter from the system before it can
Example: 5516 Caleffi HED (high-efficiency deaerator) from Altecnic.
cause damage, while also preventing blockages that increase pressure drop and pump energy consumption. Modern magnetic filters combine multiple stages of filtration, capturing both ferrous and non-ferrous debris while minimising the risk of mesh clogging. Equally important is ease of maintenance. Accessories that allow cleaning without shutting down the system reduce downtime and encourage regular servicing, both of which contribute to long-term system health. For heat pump systems, maintaining consistent flow rates through filtration devices is critical, and adjustable bypass features can help ensure compatibility with the lower, more controlled flows typically required.
Example: Series 569 Buffer Tank for Heat Pump from Altecnic
closer to its optimal efficiency point. Correct sizing is crucial. Buffer tanks must be selected based on heat pump output, system volume and control strategy, ensuring sufficient thermal inertia without unnecessary oversizing. Modern buffer tanks offer multiple connection points, compact footprints and high levels of thermal insulation, making them suitable for a wide range of domestic and small commercial applications. As the heating industry moves towards low-carbon solutions, expectations around system performance are rising. End-users expect efficiency, reliability and comfort, while installers and specifiers are under pressure to deliver compliant, future-proof solutions. In this context, heat pump accessories should not be viewed as add-ons, but as integral components of a holistic system design. Anti-freeze protection, dirt and air separation, deaeration and thermal buffering all work together to protect the heat pump, enhance efficiency and extend system life. By investing time in correct accessory selection and installation, the industry can ensure that heat pumps deliver on their promise in real homes and buildings, year after year. Accessories for a full system strategy
Air trapped within a heating system is another silent efficiency killer. Micro- bubbles can lead to noise, corrosion, localised overheating and reduced circulation, all of which undermine system performance. Heat pumps, with their precise operating parameters, are especially sensitive to these issues. High- efficiency deaerators address this problem by removing air down to micro-bubble level, often achieving near-complete air Removing air for quiet, reliable operation
Example: Caeffi XF Heat Pump Filter from Altecnic.
separation on the first pass. Installed correctly, they protect the heat pump compressor, improve heat transfer and contribute to quieter operation — an increasingly important consideration in residential settings. Modern deaerators are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing installation on horizontal, vertical or angled pipework. Durable composite materials, advanced internal geometry and integrated safety features ensure long service life while maintaining consistent performance, even at lower temperatures.
For more information, contact Chris Reilly, Country Manager for Ireland: T: +353 (0)85 215 2288 - E: chris.reilly@altecnic.co.uk - www.altecnic.co.uk Want to know more?
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