Air-to-water heat pump
Air-to-water heat pumps can be installed either alongside the existing heating system or as a full system.
Heat pumps for housing companies and large properties
Are you looking for an efficient way to cut the electricity bill of your housing company or your business property? Heating is the largest single cost item for a property, and it recurs year after year. A large property benefits most from an efficient heating system. It ensures optimal energy use and cost savings without compromising on comfort.
We supply heat pumps installed in Uusimaa and Kanta-Häme.
The work is carried out by Wirmax Lämpöpumput Oy (formerly Putkimaatti).
Why is investing in a heating renovation worthwhile?
A housing company or property usually changes its form of heating for one of three reasons: the current heating system is reaching the end of its service life, heating is too expensive, or a more ecological solution is wanted. Expensive heating usually means oil, direct electric heating, gas or high-priced district heating.
Costs under control
Pay for the investment with the savings achieved. Payback period from 3 years.
Security of supply and automation
Smart control ensures optimal warmth all year round, whatever the weather.
A future-proof property
Replace oil and expensive electricity. Improve the energy rating and the value of the property.
Heat pump options and services for large properties
Ground source heat
The larger the property, the more profitable ground source heat becomes.
Air-to-air heat pumps for large properties
Air-to-air heat pumps also provide efficient cooling and can be installed in any property.
Air-to-air heat pumps
An air-to-air heat pump is an affordable and easy way to add comfort and save on heating costs.
Maintenance services
We offer maintenance services for the properties where we have installed systems. Our popular upkeep and maintenance contract ensures worry-free heating for years.
Plans
We offer consulting and design services to builders of new properties for choosing heating systems.
Maintenance services and remote monitoring
We offer maintenance services for the properties where we have installed systems. After commissioning, the system can be monitored remotely, tracking the operation of the heating over the network and helping to detect deviations, such as reduced efficiency or a fault, before residents notice them.
This way maintenance can be scheduled proactively and the energy efficiency of the system maintained after commissioning as well. Our popular upkeep and maintenance contract supports reliable heating operation, and we service all heat pump brands, including those installed by others.
Ground source heat, air-to-water heat pump, hybrid and other solutions
A heat pump solution for a housing company or property is always chosen to suit the property. We compare the options impartially, because Wirmax Lämpöpumput delivers all of them and we do not sell just one solution to everyone.
Ground source heat
A ground source heat pump takes heat from the ground through boreholes drilled on the plot. It is an efficient and stable solution, because the temperature of the ground stays relatively even all year round. A large heating demand can improve the profitability of ground source heat, but the choice is always made case by case. The investment is often larger than the other options because it requires drilling, but the long-term savings potential is also large.
Air-to-water heat pump
An air-to-water heat pump takes heat from the outdoor air and transfers it to the property's water-based heating network. It is usually more affordable and quicker to install than ground source heat, because no drilling is needed. Suitability depends on factors such as the supply water temperature of the heating network, the heating demand of the property and the placement of the outdoor units. It can be installed either alongside the existing heating system or as a full system. Efficiency and heating output fall in severe frosts, when the output is supplemented automatically.
Hybrid
A hybrid combines an air-to-water heat pump with the existing heating. The best pairing is usually oil, gas or electric heating: the heat pump handles most of the heating affordably, and the old system covers the peak output on the coldest days. The investment is typically the smallest, because the existing system is put to use.
The profitability of a heat pump installed alongside district heating depends on factors such as the local district heating tariff, the basic and capacity charges and the property's energy use. The possibilities for heat recovery are also taken into account in the case-by-case comparison.
Benefits of a hybrid when the solution suits the property:
- A smaller investment than replacing the whole heating system.
- Lower risk, because the existing reliable heat source is kept for peak output.
- A quick benefit, because most of the heat is produced more affordably straight away.
- A flexible path from which you can later move to a more extensive solution.
A hybrid is often an intermediate step: if the aim is the largest possible saving and minimal emissions, replacing the whole heat source may be more profitable in the longer term. A hybrid is a good choice when the capacity to invest is limited, the current heat source is to be kept for security, or the heating system is renewed in stages. In the survey we assess whether to go straight to a full solution or via a hybrid.
Heat pump costs, suitability and operation
The following table summarises the differences between the three options. The comparison is indicative, and an exact comparison is always made case by case.
Comparison of heat pump solutions
Ground source heat | Air-to-water heat pump | Hybrid | |
|---|---|---|---|
Investment | Usually the largest (incl. drilling) | Usually mid-range | Often the smallest |
Savings potential | Large and stable; case by case | Large; depends on operating conditions | Case by case |
Space required | Boreholes on the plot and space for indoor units | Space for outdoor and indoor units | Space for the heat pump units in addition to the existing system |
Suitability | The plot allows drilling and the heat distribution suits the solution | Suitable water-based heat distribution and space for outdoor units | Alongside the existing heat source; profitability assessed case by case |
Operation in frost | The heat source temperature stays relatively even | Output and efficiency fall in severe frosts | A second heat source supplements the output |
Life cycle | Boreholes are long-lasting; heat pump service life separate | Depends on the equipment, use and maintenance | Depends on the condition of both the new and the retained equipment |
The lowest purchase price does not always mean the lowest total cost over the whole life cycle, nor does the largest investment automatically bring the greatest benefit. Ground source heat can produce a large and stable saving but often requires the largest investment and drilling. An air-to-water heat pump is lighter to install but needs support on the coldest days. A hybrid can be the lower initial investment solution when the whole heating system is not replaced at once.
The right choice is found by comparing the property's own figures: the current heating cost, the heating demand, the possibilities of the plot and whether the emphasis is on the smallest possible investment or the greatest long-term saving. The heat distribution method (radiator or underfloor heating), the supply water temperature of the heating network and the age of the property also affect the solution.
When ground source heat and when an air-to-water heat pump?
Ground source heat suits when:
- The boreholes fit on the plot (or they can be drilled at an angle)
- The property has a large heating demand and the largest and most stable saving is wanted
- Steady efficiency is wanted even in severe frosts
- The investment is viewed over a long life cycle
An air-to-water heat pump suits when:
- The plot is cramped or drilling is not possible or sensible
- A smaller initial investment than with ground source heat is wanted
- Space can be arranged for outdoor units and an additional source for peak output can be provided
The right solution does not necessarily mean choosing between ground source heat and an air-to-water heat pump. In many properties the best result comes from a combination in which the heat pump handles the base demand and another source covers the peaks.
Why is now the time to give up oil heating?
By giving up oil, a property moves from uncertain world market prices to predictable and self-sufficient energy production. The technical ageing of the equipment is also a significant financial risk for the property. Switching to modern heat pump technology is the most effective way to improve the property's cash flow and raise its market value immediately.
The investment is financially attractive for several reasons:
Huge savings potential
The efficiency of an oil boiler is always below 1, whereas the efficiency (COP) of modern heat pumps is typically 2.5–4. This means that heating costs often fall by 50–80%.
Significant public grants
Considerable grants are available for changing the form of heating, such as the ELY Centre grant (up to €4,000) or energy grants for housing companies. These grants shorten the payback period to a record low.
Sustainability
An ecological form of heating reduces the carbon footprint and ensures that the property meets tightening environmental standards.
Why is it worth upgrading electric heating to a heat pump?
Direct electric heating is carefree, but since the energy crisis its high running costs have become a risk. By switching to heat pump technology you cut the peaks in your electricity bill and improve the value of the property.
This is how you benefit from giving up direct electric heating:
Cut consumption to a third
The efficiency of electric heating is 1, whereas with heat pumps it is 2.5–4. So you save as much as 60–70% of heating electricity.
Add cooling and comfort
With the same system you also get energy-efficient cooling for the property, which is a direct selling point and comfort factor.
Make use of grants
Energy grants lower the threshold for investing in self-sufficiency.
Giving up district heating – is it worthwhile?
Although district heating is effortless, its price is rising and the expensive basic charges keep running in summer too. Your own heat pump system shifts power from the energy company to the property owner.
This is how you benefit when you switch to a modern heat pump as your energy solution:
No more basic charges
A heat pump eliminates the fixed monthly charges. You only pay for the energy you actually use.
Independence from pricing
You are protected from price increases by the local energy company. The savings potential is typically 30–60% a year.
Better energy efficiency
A modern ground source or air-to-water heat pump improves the property's energy certificate and its attractiveness on the market.
Air-to-water heat pump for a commercial property in Nummela
A commercial property in Nummela halved the energy used for heating by introducing Mitsubishi Electric air-to-water heat pumps alongside its gas heating.
Wirmax Lämpöpumput (then Putkimaatti Oy) carried out the installation. Read more on Scanoffice's website.
Heat pumps for large properties as a turnkey solution
A large property benefits most from an efficient heating system. A correctly implemented heat pump solution ensures significant savings – heating can account for as much as 20-30% of a housing company's annual maintenance costs.
We offer a comprehensive service from design to installation. We carry out a free energy survey in which we determine the energy solution best suited to your property, calculate the exact savings and help with grant applications.
We carry out the installation quickly and professionally with minimal disruption. We also look after your heat pump in the future. When serviced, a heat pump keeps its efficiency and works reliably for 15–20 years or longer. We service all heat pump brands – including those installed by others.
Make the best decision of your life and choose a heat pump from Wirmax!
We install heat pumps in Uusimaa, Kanta-Häme, Pirkanmaa and Central Finland.
In large properties the savings are the most significant – request a free survey.
Housing company decision-making and financing
Changing the form of heating is a decision for the general meeting, and it is worth preparing carefully:
- Initiative and preliminary study. The board or the property manager identifies the need and requests a preliminary survey.
- Survey and comparison. Wirmax determines the heating demand of the property and the plot, and prepares an impartial comparison of the options with property-specific figures.
- Board review. The board assesses the options, costs and financing and prepares a proposal.
- General meeting. The shareholders decide on the solution and the financing.
- Implementation and handover. The project is carried out on the agreed schedule and handed over with documentation.
The basis for the decision and financing
A good basis for the decision is an energy audit or condition survey that shows the property's heating demand and current condition. What matters is that the board receives a comparison based on the property's own figures rather than general examples.
The project is typically financed with a housing company loan, the cost of which is divided among the shareholders through a financing charge. Because the heat pump reduces heating costs, part of the increased charge is covered directly by the saving, which is worth presenting side by side in the calculation so that shareholders see the real effect on their monthly outgoings. Preparation takes time from the survey to the general meeting decision, so the project is worth starting in good time, especially if the current heating system is approaching the end of its service life.
How ordering and installing a heat pump works
Getting in touch
Contact us. You can leave a contact request, call or send an email, and we will arrange a free planning visit to your property.
Leave a contact request · 020 756 9360 · lampopumput@wirmax.fi
Quotation and acceptance
You receive a clear turnkey quotation with no hidden costs.
Planning the placement
Our expert chooses the optimal location for the unit with you to ensure the greatest benefit.
Installation
Our experienced installers carry out the installation neatly. The duration of the installation depends on the size of the property and the scope of the work, and the schedule is agreed case by case.
User guidance
We show you how to use the unit so that you get the most out of it from the very first day.
Ongoing support
Wirmax remains your partner after the installation too: we offer maintenance and technical support throughout the unit's life cycle.
What is Wirmax?
Wirmax is a modern building services group with a broad range of expertise. We offer heating, water, ventilation, electrical, automation and security services.
Frequently asked questions – heat pumps for housing companies and large properties
Which heating solution suits our housing company or property best?
The best heating solution depends on the size of the property, the current heating system, the space available on the plot and the budget.
Heating solutions suitable for housing companies and large properties are:
- Air-to-water heat pump: Quick to install, no drilling required, suits most properties. Works excellently alongside the existing system.
- Ground source heat pump: The best efficiency and very steady output. Profitability grows with the size of the property. Requires space for boreholes.
- Air-to-air heat pumps for large spaces: Particularly suited to commercial properties, industrial halls and open spaces. Also provide cooling.
We offer a free survey in which we determine the solution that best suits your property and calculate the exact savings for each option.
Can the heating system be changed in the middle of the heating season?
Yes, it can! When the heat pump is installed alongside the existing heating system (oil, gas, electricity), heating and hot water work throughout the installation. The old system keeps the property warm during the installation, and the new heat pump is only taken into use once it is fully ready.
Many of our customers have wanted the installation done during the heating season precisely so that they see the savings immediately. Others prefer a summer installation, when the heating demand is at its lowest. Both timings work well.
How much can a housing company save by switching to a heat pump?
The saving depends on the current form of heating and the size of the property. When switching from oil heating, energy consumption can fall by as much as 55-60%. For example, in one of our apartment building projects, with an oil consumption of around 15,000 litres a year (around 150,000 kWh), energy consumption fell by 55% during the first year. When switching from electric heating, the saving can be even greater - in one housing company, energy consumption fell from 70,000 kWh to 30,000 kWh, i.e. by more than 55%. The larger the property, the more significant the savings in euros. As much as 30% of a housing company's annual costs can go on heating.
Which is better for a housing company: a ground source heat pump or an air-to-water heat pump?
Both are excellent options, and the choice depends on the situation:
- Air-to-water heat pump: A lower purchase price, faster installation, no drilling required. Suits most properties excellently. Service life around 15 years.
- Ground source heat pump: Higher efficiency especially in severe frosts, steadier output all year round, longer service life (around 20 years). Requires sufficient space for boreholes.
The differences in heating costs in use are small. The larger the property, the more profitable ground source heat becomes. We help you choose the best solution in our free survey.
How much does an air-to-water heat pump cost for a housing company?
The price is always determined case by case according to the size of the property, the number of apartments and the heating demand.
The investment nevertheless pays off well:
- Small housing companies (3-10 apartments): The investment starts from a few tens of thousands of euros
- Medium-sized and large properties: The price is determined by the heating demand and the units required
- Commercial properties and industrial halls: Tailored solutions according to the needs of the property
The price includes the equipment, installation and the necessary modification work. Business Finland support and other grants reduce the costs significantly. The payback period is typically 5-10 years depending on the current form of heating, but the savings start immediately. We always offer a free survey and quotation in which we calculate the exact costs and savings for your property.
Do air-to-water heat pumps work in severe frost?
Yes, they do. Modern air-to-water heat pumps work efficiently even in severe frost. In the hardest frosts, output is supplemented automatically by an electric heating element or the existing heating system. It is important to understand that severe frosts last only a few days or weeks a year in Finland. Most of the heating demand falls between -10 and +10 degrees, when the heat pump works very efficiently and produces 2-4 times more heat than it consumes electricity. On an annual basis the savings are significant.
How is an air-to-water heat pump sized for a housing company?
Sizing is based on the heating demand of the property, which is calculated taking into account the size of the building, the number of apartments, the level of insulation and the ventilation. Large properties often need several heat pump units or more powerful property heat pumps. The system is sized to cover 70-90% of the heating demand, and an additional heat source is reserved for the hardest frosts. Incorrect sizing is expensive - a system that is too small does not produce sufficient savings, and one that is too large costs money unnecessarily. We always make an exact sizing calculation as part of our free survey.
Can an air-to-water heat pump be installed alongside oil heating?
Yes, it can, and this is often the most recommended solution in large properties. Air-to-water heat pumps can be installed alongside oil, gas or electric heating as a fully automatic whole. The heat pump handles most of the heating, and the old system helps out in the hardest frosts. The saving in energy costs is typically 40-50% when installed alongside the existing system. For example, in one of our commercial properties an air-to-water heat pump was installed alongside gas heating, which produced a significant annual saving. Installing alongside the existing system is a more affordable option than renewing the whole system.
How much electricity does an air-to-water heat pump consume in a housing company?
Electricity consumption depends on the size of the property and its heating demand. For example, in an apartment building where the previous oil consumption was 15,000 litres a year (around 150,000 kWh), the air-to-water heat pump consumed around 65,000 kWh of electricity a year. In another property, where electric heating consumed 70,000 kWh a year, the air-to-water heat pump brought annual consumption down to 30,000 kWh. An air-to-water heat pump typically produces 2-4 times more heat energy than it consumes electricity.
How long does installing an air-to-water heat pump take in a housing company?
The installation time depends on the size of the property:
- Smaller properties: A few days
- Housing companies: 1-2 weeks
- Large commercial properties: 2-4 weeks
We plan the installation so that the disruption to residents' everyday life or to business is as small as possible. Heating and hot water work throughout the installation. The installation can also be scheduled for the summer, for example, when the heating demand is at its lowest. Our customers have given feedback on our fast, professional and tidy work. For example, in one commercial property the installation was done in two days and operations continued normally the whole time.
What are the most common problems with air-to-water heat pumps?
With a correctly sized and professionally installed air-to-water heat pump there are very few problems. The most common challenges relate to incorrect sizing or installation errors. In large properties sizing is especially important - several outdoor units or a more powerful system are often needed. We use only high-quality equipment suited to large properties and always make a thorough heating demand calculation. When serviced and used correctly, a heat pump system works reliably for decades.
What grants can a housing company get for a heat pump project?
Housing companies and businesses can apply for several grants:
- Businesses and commercial properties: Business Finland typically supports energy efficiency projects with 15-20% of the purchase price. For example, in one of our commercial property projects Business Finland supported the project with 15 per cent.
- Housing companies: ARA grants energy assistance in its renovation grant rounds, but the appropriations have decreased significantly in recent years.
- Those giving up oil or gas heating: A grant from the ELY Centre is available.
We are happy to help with grant applications and make sure you get all the support available.
Request a quote from us!
It does not commit you to anything yet, but you get a competitive quotation tailored just for you.
Ask more or request a quote for a heat pump
Do you have questions or would you like a quotation? Get in touch using the contact form below and we will contact you as soon as possible.
Contact person
