Panasonic releases propane heat pump for residential applications
Panasonic has introduced the Aquarea K and L heat pump series, using R32 and propane (R290) as the refrigerants, respectively.
The propane L series is “ideal for retrofit applications when renovating a home with existing radiators,” Panasonic said in a statement. It noted that the series K is designed for new build applications. The propane heat pumps have a heating capacity of 5 kW to 8 kW, measure 996 mm x 980 mm x 430 mm, and weigh 98 kg.
They have a coefficient of performance (COP) of up to 5, according to the company’s datasheet. The air source temperature can range from -25 to 35 C for heat, and from 10 C to 43 C for cooling. The heat pumps can purportedly produce hot water up to 75 C.
Their seasonal coefficient of performance (SCOP) for heating water to 35 C in an “average climate” varies between 5.06 and 4.84, while the SCOP for 35 C applications in “cold climates” varies from 4.25 to 4.31. For 55 C applications, the SCOP is up to 3.67 and 3.33, respectively. The heat pumps are also “smart grid ready” for PV, according to Panasonic.
“The new Aquarea K and L generations benefit from a reduced sound level, up to 8dB(A) less than the previous models,” the manufacturer said. “This advantage makes the installation more flexible by offering more placement possibilities.”
The two models share the same design, with an outdoor unit in anthracite gray and a white indoor unit. The Aquarea K and L series became available in the spring.
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That sounds like a very tight house that can hit 9 kW as the top of dynamic range. A PC might add a couple kW if you had things warmed to 45 °F until you realized you hit 35 y.o….or like, had friends’ kids with.
Anyhow, you’re using that one when it’s 35 below out. SCOP? Thought it was SCIP… Of 5 versus 21. Makes you want to dig a ground loop for heat storage a bit to keep the 21 one in use?
Given that most gas boilers can produce 30kW+30kW in their two circuits, how can a mere 9kW from a heat pump be a drop-in replacement?
Because there are many houses that only need less than 9kw when a heat pump is used. My 1935 solid wall 3 bed semi for example. You do have to do things differently. Heat low and long instead of nuking it for 3hours a day.
Because a R290 ATW HP has a COP over 3!!
9 times 3 equals 27kw. It uses 9kw to make 27 kw that can be delivered to your house