Water-to-water heat pumps extract heat from groundwater or other water sources and transfer it to heating and domestic hot water. They are considered to be very efficient, but require special licences and well installations.
The groundwater is extracted via a production well and channelled through a heat exchanger, which transfers the heat to the refrigerant. The refrigerant vaporises, is brought to a higher temperature level by the compressor and transfers the energy to the heating water. The cooled water is returned via an absorption well. The constant water temperatures ensure high efficiency and reliable heating performance.
The heat source is groundwater, the heat is transferred to heating and domestic hot water. The efficiency is very high and the technology is suitable for new builds and renovations, provided that sufficient water of a suitable quality and quantity is available. Permits for well drilling are required and the installation costs are relatively high. The output is constant and independent of air temperatures, and the heat pump delivers high heating outputs. At the same time, the cost of licences and well construction must be taken into account, as must the water quality. It is best used in combination with well-insulated buildings and modern heating technology.
