Heat pumps and UFH help

struggling1

I'm having fun researching Heat Pumps as a potential option for new build.
Looking at UFH also as a more efficient means of heat transfer from the heatpump to the house.

Site has a lot of surface rock, so ground collector is not suitable. I guess I'm looking at Air Source as I expect a borehole would be much more expensive.

Questions (for those in the trade or anyone with experience of these systems themselves)


1. What is actually involved in a Heatpump commissioning, what would you insist on ... based on your own experience?

2. What is actually involved in underfloor heating testing/commissioning ?

3. if the supplier of ASHP goes out of business, who can service or repair them?


Many thanks

mike_2009

Not an expert by any means but from what I understand the UFH pipes should be pressure tested before the concrete screed is poured to check for any leaks. I'd be checking references of the company, the installers in particular. If the ASHP is not a monobloc model you'll have trouble maintaining it yourself as like Gas boilers, the refrigerant requires a certified engineer to maintain making self maintenance less of an option. Buy a well known make at least so there are other companies / installers who can service is your best bet, should one go out of business. Ask if the UFH pipes require any plastic underlay between them and foundation so there are no mistaken assumptions about who does what when they arrive onto site causing delays.

Not exactly what you asked for but I'm sure others will chime in soon.....

struggling1

Thanks mike_2009, didnt think about the plastic underlay.
Another item on my checklist

air

Ask for a pipe spacing of 100mm (150 seems to be standard).
This will reduce the necessary flow temperature which will boost efficiency.

Ask for a proposed pipe layout with every quote. In my experience plenty of big installers haven't the first clue how to lay them out.