Can you imagine cutting your electricity bill by more than half while using clean, sustainable energy? It's not the future; it's aerothermal energy. At Climática Instalaciones, we've seen how this technology is revolutionizing homes and businesses in Spain, and in this definitive guide, we explain everything you need to know.
What Exactly Is Aerothermal Energy?
Aerothermal energy is an HVAC system that uses the energy contained in the outside air to provide heating in winter, cooling in summer, and domestic hot water (DHW) all year round. It is considered a renewable energy source because it extracts up to 75% of its energy from the air, a free and inexhaustible resource. It only requires a small percentage of electricity (approximately 25%) to run the system.
In short: for every 4 kW of energy it produces, about 3 kW are obtained from the air for free.
How Does an Aerothermal System Work?
To put it simply, an aerothermal unit works much like a refrigerator, but in reverse. The system mainly consists of two units:
- Outdoor Unit: Installed outside the home, it is responsible for capturing thermal energy from the air, even on very cold days.
- Indoor Unit (or Hydrokit): It receives this energy and transfers it to a water circuit that is distributed throughout the house for heating (via radiators, underfloor heating, or fan coils) and for the domestic hot water tank.
In summer, the process is reversed: the system extracts heat from inside the home and expels it outside, providing highly efficient cooling.
Main Advantages of Installing Aerothermal Energy
Choosing aerothermal energy is not just a smart decision; it's an investment in comfort and sustainability.
- Energy and Economic Savings: This is its key strength. It allows for savings of up to 70% on the electricity bill compared to conventional electric heating systems and up to 50% compared to oil or natural gas boilers.
- Sustainability and Ecology: By primarily using energy from the air, it produces no combustion, fumes, or waste. It drastically reduces CO₂ emissions, helping to protect the planet.
- All-in-One: A single unit provides heating, cooling, and hot water. This simplifies installation and maintenance, freeing up space in your home.
- Maximum Energy Efficiency: Aerothermal systems have an A+++ energy rating, the highest on the market. They produce more energy than they consume.
- Safety and Low Maintenance: Since it does not rely on fuels like gas or oil, it eliminates the risks associated with leaks or poisoning. Its maintenance is much simpler and cheaper than that of a traditional boiler.
- Increases Your Property Value: Installing a high-efficiency, sustainable energy system increases the value of your property on the real estate market.
Comparison: Aerothermal vs. Gas Boiler
| Feature | Aerothermal System | Traditional Gas Boiler |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Source | 75% outside air, 25% electricity | 100% Natural Gas / Propane |
| Efficiency | Very high (produces 4-5 kWh for every kWh consumed) | High (approx. 0.9 kWh for every kWh consumed) |
| Functions | Heating, Cooling, and Hot Water | Heating and Hot Water |
| Sustainability | Renewable energy, no direct CO₂ emissions | Fossil fuel, with CO₂ emissions |
| Energy Cost | Electricity (stable/predictable price) | Gas (volatile and rising price) |
| Safety | Very high, no combustion | High, but with mandatory gas inspections |
| Initial Investment | Higher | More affordable |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Aerothermal Energy
Here we provide direct answers to the most common questions our clients at Climática Instalaciones ask us.
- 1. Does aerothermal energy work well in very cold climates?
- Yes. Modern units are designed to operate efficiently even with outdoor temperatures as low as -20°C, ensuring comfort in the middle of winter.
- 2. Can I use my existing radiators if I install an aerothermal system?
- In most cases, yes. Although aerothermal energy is ideal with underfloor heating or low-temperature radiators to maximize its efficiency, it can also be adapted to conventional radiator systems. A qualified technician will assess your installation to ensure maximum performance.
- 3. What is the initial investment for an aerothermal installation?
- The initial investment is higher than that of a gas boiler, but the savings generated on bills allow the cost to be amortized within 5 to 8 years. Additionally, there are public subsidies and grants that significantly reduce the initial outlay.
- 4. Is the installation noisy?
- No. The outdoor units of modern systems are very quiet, with a noise level similar to that of a modern dishwasher, so they do not cause disturbances.
Is Aerothermal Energy the Ideal Solution for You?
If you are looking to drastically reduce your bills, commit to sustainable heating and cooling, and enjoy maximum comfort all year round with a single system, the answer is a resounding yes.
At Climática Instalaciones, we are experts in the design and installation of aerothermal energy systems. We offer a personalized, no-obligation assessment for you to discover all the savings and comfort this technology can bring to your home.
Want to start saving? Contact us today and request your free quote.