Heat pump technology also becomes feasible for larger and older homes

New: 16/20 kW monoblock air-to-water heat pump 

For years, WOLF Energy Systems has been known as a reliable supplier of heat pumps, which allow homes to be heated and cooled efficiently and energy efficiently. In 2019, it was also one of the first in the market to introduce a monoblock system with R290 refrigerant. "Our CHA monoblock air-to-water heat pump was developed very specifically with an eye on high efficiency, quiet operation and simple and safe installation," explains Heating Team Leader Maarten Ouwehand. "Initially started with heat pumps of 7 and 10 kW, an output of 16/20 kW will soon also be available. With this, we are once again leading the way in the market."

The commitment to monoblock systems is a logical one, according to Ouwehand, because due to changing laws and regulations, split systems are coming under increasing pressure. "Split systems must always be filled with refrigerant on-site. Also, connections must be made in the field, so there is always a (minimal) risk of refrigerant leakage. In today's time, where sustainability, environmental awareness, phasing out of F-gases and the transition to natural refrigerants are important topics, such a system no longer fits. With the CHA monoblock air-to-water heat pump, we have been anticipating this for several years, with the latest capacities providing interesting new
provide opportunities."

New opportunities

The CHA monoblock was initially available in capacities of 7 and 10 kW. "With these capacities, we have been capitalizing on the sustainability of new-build homes for several years," said Ouwehand. "Because the heat pumps can deliver a high supply temperature of up to 70°C, at an outside temperature of -10°C, they are also perfectly suited for renovation projects in which, for example, the outer shell is already post-insulated. With the 16/20 kW CHA monoblocks, we are now going a step further and heat pump technology is also becoming possible for larger and older homes that cannot meet the insulation values for new construction." Until recently, the only solution for these homes was to install heat pumps in cascade. "However, two 7 KW heat pumps involve higher costs than one 16 kW heat pump," Ouwehand knows. "With the CHA monoblocks of 7 and 10 kW, we could place up to five heat pumps in cascade. This meant that a heat pump capacity of 50 kW was the limit. Thanks to the CHA monoblock of 16/20 kW, this range also expands. This allows us to serve the small utility market even better."

Feast of recognition

Production of the 16/20 kW CHA monoblock is now underway, Ouwehand says. "During the third quarter, the heat pump will be available. And that's nice, because the interest in this heat pump is great. Our customers see very clearly the added value of the expansion with this new capacity. Especially since the control platform, installation and commissioning have remained unchanged. The new heat pump really is a feast of recognition. Installers can start using it right away!"

High efficiency, quiet operation, easy installation

The CHA monoblock 16/20 kW, like the other capacities in the series, is distinguished by very high efficiency, extremely quiet operation and easy installation, Ouwehand said. "In addition, the air-to-water heat pump uses the natural, environmentally friendly and future-oriented refrigerant Propane (R290, GWP = 3). With this we are in line, for example, with the European F-gases regulation, which aims to phase out the use of synthetic refrigerants step by step. R290 is free of restrictions for years to come. Also with regard to the upcoming CO2 tax, which makes an investment in propane increasingly interesting financially as well. If required, the 16/20 kW CHA monoblock heat pump can also be combined with our CHC heat pump center; in which a 300-liter hot water storage tank, expansion vessel, pump and all control technology work intelligently together." A nice added bonus are the aesthetic choices WOLF also made when developing this heat pump. Thanks to the gray color scheme, the outdoor unit blends nicely into the facade.