Renewable energy sources: how they work and what they deliver: Part 3: Electrically driven heat pumps (DG 532/3)

This Digest describes the different types of heat pump system and how they operate. Installation requirements, including integration with the building’s heating system and the steps that should be taken to ensure their safe and efficient operation, are also discussed and methods for estimating their annual energy performance are identified. Reference is made to European Standards and certification schemes relevant to heat pump systems to indicate the assurances that system owners and operators should expect. Financial incentives are also outlined.This is one in a series of four related BRE Digests focusing on renewable energy technologies commonly used in domestic buildings. The other technologies covered include photovoltaics, wood fuels and solar thermal hot water systems. These publications complement an earlier series of BRE Information Papers that cover the installation of renewable energy technologies.