The Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) has installed a new heat pump as part of its sustainable technology programme.
It will monitor the effects of the air source heating system and show visitors to the centre in Machynlleth in Wales how the technology can work in homes.
According to CAT, the heat pump is more energy efficient than other systems and uses carbon dioxide as the refrigerant. This, CAT’s David Hood, explained, is better for the environment as other heat pumps often use more potent greenhouse gasses that are up to 1,500 times more damaging than CO2.
“Carbon dioxide also has the potential to operate at higher temperatures, which fits in better with the way we use heat in our homes,” he added.
“Heat pumps have been around for some time, but the technology has been evolving to make it more energy efficient,” Mr Hood said.
Last year the Energy Saving Trust conducted a trial into 83 ground and air source heat pumps and found that installers must be given more training if the technology is to become a successful renewable technology solution.
Posted by Emily Thomas
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