2023-07-13 08:47:36
For some time, we only hear regarding heat pumps. The air/water heat pump is indeed put forward by the State as an efficient heating device. But if its air/air cousin – which is none other than reversible air conditioning – receives less media coverage, it is just as real a success.
According to Uniclimathe sector union, some 837,629 air-to-air outdoor units were sold in 2021, compared to a market of less than 334,000 in 2012.
Efficient and economical, this equipment consists of an exterior block and one or more splits inside which allow the temperature to be regulated throughout the year.
Mature your project
As Angèle Leydier, air conditioning brand manager at Thermor“many customers buy an air/air heat pump for their summer comfort but end up using it also in winter, abandoning their old heating system”.
These devices have indeed a “very good energy efficiency” which allows them to consume a minimum of electricity to restore cold or hot air depending on the season. But before equipping yourself, you still have to ask yourself the right questions.
Reversible air conditioning involves installing a unit outside the dwelling, knowing that its connection with the interior splits is generally limited to 20 meters. However, the exterior blocks are noisy. It is therefore necessary to avoid placing them on the side of your terrace but also near that of the neighbour!
Reversible air conditioning, an ally of choice in summer and winter – iStock
Next, “ask yourself how many rooms you want to cool, in order to properly size your system. This is the key in terms of comfort and energy savings,” says Angèle Leydier.
This very standardized calculation is carried out by a professional, whose use is mandatory to install an air/air heat pump. Volume of the room, geographical position of the accommodation, outdoor reference temperature or number of openings are taken into account here to determine the heating and cooling capacities required.
Make the right choices
Once in possession of this information, several devices are possible. Wall units are the most common, in a monosplit or multisplit system (several indoor units for a single outdoor unit).
For rooms with a low ceiling height, you can also opt for console-type units, resembling a radiator.
You can opt for console type units, resembling a radiator – iStock
But the must of the must is the ducted indoor unit (necessarily more expensive) hidden in the attic or the false ceiling and which circulates the air in all the rooms thanks to ducts connected to very discreet blowing grilles .
At the time of choice, the expert from Thermor advises to “take a good look at the energy label of the appliance so that it is as economical as possible” (up to A++ for the most efficient), but also to “check your sound level”, knowing that the indoor units oscillate between 19 dB (almost imperceptible) and 35 dB (the equivalent of a whisper).
Likewise, theEcological Transition Agency (Ademe) recommends opting for Inverter technology which makes it possible to “reduce the electricity consumption associated with air conditioning by up to 40%” thanks to continuous and progressive operation, without alternating on/off cycles.
A range of options
In the era of connected devices, air/air heat pumps offer different functionalities adapted to your needs.
In the era of connected devices, air/air heat pumps offer different functionalities adapted to your needs – Thermor
A presence detector can in particular make it possible to slightly lower the temperature when there is no one in the room, in order to save energy, while a remote control will give you the right hand to program different ranges. heating or air conditioning schedules according to your daily habits.
As for people allergic to pollens or grasses, they can turn to a model equipped with an air purifier which stops impurities thanks to a filter. Some devices even incorporate a ray of UV light inside the box to eliminate bacteria and viruses.
What cost?
It takes between €1,200 and €3,500 for a monosplit air/air heat pump and up to €10,000 for a multisplit system.
UFC-Que Choisir recently estimated the cost of the operation (equipment and installation) at €100 per square meter heated. And, good news, this equipment is eligible for the energy saving certificates (EEC) system.
“The air/air heat pump makes it possible to claim a premium of up to €800 for a split, depending on the heated surface of the house, the region and the applicant’s resources”, details Nicolas Moulin, founder of Primesenergie.fr , one of the sites approved to finance the work of individuals.
Remember to request help before accepting the quote, knowing that the craftsman must be labeled RGE (recognized guarantor of the environment).
Similarly, the installation of this device benefits from a reduced VAT rate of 10%. However, the air/air heat pump is not eligible for MaPrimeRénov.
Advice: the correct use
We can never repeat it enough: the air/air heat pump is only economical if it is used correctly! Remember that the recommended heating temperature is 19°C in winter, and that it should not exceed 20°C.
Similarly, in summer, the air conditioning should only be activated above 26°C in the accommodation, knowing that it should not drop below 7°C in relation to the outside temperature. Beyond that, you risk throat irritation, headaches or even thermal shock that can lead to loss of consciousness.
Remember to direct the airflow towards the ceiling rather than directly at people to cool the room evenly and avoid blockage of the neck.
Finally, the filters of an air/air heat pump must be cleaned and changed regularly.
Good to know: since 2020, the law requires maintenance by an approved professional every 2 years for any air/air heat pump from 4 kW.
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