German heating technology manufacturer Vaillant has launched the aroTherm perform, a monobloc air-to-water heat pump designed for large residential buildings, renovation projects and small commercial properties. The series is available with heating capacities of 15 kW and 20 kW and uses propane (R290) as its refrigerant.
Vaillant says the 20 kW model can provide heating and domestic hot water for new buildings of up to 1,200 m², renovated buildings of up to 750 m² and non-renovated properties of up to 500 m². The system can deliver water temperatures of up to 75 C at an outdoor temperature of -10 C without auxiliary heating. At -15 C, it can provide temperatures of up to 70 C, according to the company.
In technical data for the VWL 205/8.1 A S2 Q variant, Vaillant reports a heating capacity of 11.2 kW and a coefficient of performance (COP) of 5.66 at an outdoor temperature of 7 C and a water supply temperature of 35 C. At -7 C outdoors and a 35 C water supply, the unit delivers 19.6 kW with a COP of 2.6.
The series has an A+++ energy efficiency rating at a 55 C supply temperature. Under average climate conditions and at 35 C, the reported seasonal coefficient of performance is up to 5.44 for the 15 kW model and 5.35 for the 20 kW model.
The outdoor unit measures about 1,230 mm × 1,890 mm × 788 mm, weighs around 310 kg and requires a 400 V three-phase supply. Vaillant gives the 20 kW model a sound power level of 50 dB(A) under ErP rating conditions and a maximum level of about 63 dB(A). Its Sound Safe System and night mode are intended to reduce noise; the company says night mode can cut emissions by up to 10 dB(A).
Vaillant has also included its Flexible Space Function to offer more options for positioning the outdoor unit near windows and doors, subject to applicable installation requirements for propane heat pumps. The iQconnect control platform includes a 7-inch touchscreen, commissioning assistant, connectivity gateway and system controller, as well as over-the-air updates and remote access through the myVaillant app.
The platform supports integration with energy management systems and rooftop photovoltaic installations to help increase the use of locally generated electricity. Up to six units can also be connected in a cascade for buildings with higher heating requirements.
Sources: pv magazine.