LG’s advanced heat pump was unveiled; Production of 75 degrees water in an environment of 28 degrees below zero
LG has unveiled new 7 and 9 kW air-to-water heat pumps (AWHP) models called Therma R290 Monobloc and will be exhibiting them at IFA 2024, which will be held in Berlin from September 6 to 10 (16 to 20 September). LG introduced heat pumps with capacities of 12, 14 and 16 kilowatts at last year’s IFA exhibition.
The new Therma V models are equipped with a new compressor whose higher efficiency and more complex design make them integrate with the surrounding environment.
With the mandatory implementation of NZEB standards across Europe, AWHP models have been developed with a focus on reducing carbon emissions and managing energy supply instabilities. For new buildings, models with medium and small capacity are more suitable. LG says it is building an air solutions research and development lab in Frankfurt, Germany, to develop high-performance air conditioning solutions tailored to Europe’s various local climates.
Due to strict F-gas regulations and Europe’s preference to change traditional boilers to AWHP, LG has chosen R290 refrigerant for the Therma V R290 Monobloc heat pump. This natural refrigerant has a global warming potential (GWP). (Global warming potential, which is also referred to as carbon dioxide equivalent, is a component for calculating the amount of infrared radiant heat that a greenhouse gas added to the Earth’s atmosphere can absorb in a certain time).
The new A-rated refrigerant reduces carbon emissions by 79% compared to conventional boilers and provides its energy from the heat of the air.
According to LG, the company’s AWHP heat pump uses an advanced compressor to achieve new levels of energy efficiency and performance in colder climates. The lower position of the compression process helps ensure more stable performance and lower energy consumption. LG says that its new heat pump can bring the output water temperature to 75 degrees Celsius; Even when the outside temperature is -28 degrees Celsius.
Thanks to the new compressor, the noise produced by both AWHP models with a capacity of 7 and 9 kW is 49 dB and 50 dB, respectively. The Shaft Through structure increases stability and reduces friction, thereby minimizing noise and vibration, especially when operating at low revs.
The Therma V R290 Monobloc is a single fan that LG claims blends in with the exterior of buildings. The outer cover of LG’s latest AWHP product uses black color, which complements other colors. The integrated grille features a distinctive wavy pattern and a dark gray finish. LG’s new heat pump has a compact design to fit under most windows.
LG says its new heat pump integrates with various indoor units thanks to simple installation, greater flexibility and customization options. The Koreans say the device’s simple design ensures a more efficient and hassle-free setup. Building Energy Control Cloud (BECON) allows the installer or service provider to update their software remotely, saving time and energy. LG’s new products support the company’s smart home platform (ThinQ).
Liu Jae Cheoldirector of LG’s Home Appliances Division, says: “LG’s Therma V R290 Monobloc model offers Europeans a wider range of functional options while increasing performance and user comfort. “LG will continue to leverage its distinct competitive advantage in high-efficiency energy technologies and key component solutions to deliver a portfolio of products tailored to the region’s needs.”