Heat pumps are now among the most popular heating solutions. One of the first questions we ask ourselves when considering a purchase is: split or monoblock heat pump? What is the difference? Which option will work better in specific conditions? We explain in practical terms and give useful tips.
Design and installation – what sets split apart from monoblock?
The basic difference between split and monoblock heat pumps lies in the design of the appliance and how it is installed. A split heat pump consists of two units – an outdoor unit (containing the compressor, evaporator and expansion valve) and an indoor unit with a heat exchanger. The outdoor unit is connected to the indoor unit by pipes that carry refrigerant. In a monoblock, the entire refrigeration circuit is enclosed in a single housing, which is installed outside the building.
For the investor and the installer this is an important difference – monoblock heat pumps do not require work on the refrigeration circuit and are not subject to the F-gas certification requirement. Installation is therefore simpler, faster and potentially cheaper because of lower labor costs and documentation.
Advantages of the monoblock – not only simpler installation
Although split appliances may at first glance appear cheaper, the calculation should include all costs related to installing and operating a heat pump: that is, the cost of installation, inspections, and service. Split heat pumps require regular leak checks of the refrigeration circuit, which may be performed only by installers with an F-gas certificate. Monoblock heat pumps have a hermetically sealed refrigerant circuit, so there is no such obligation.
An additional advantage of monoblock heat pumps is lower energy losses when transferring heat to the system. In this type of appliance, heat generated by the refrigeration circuit goes directly into the building’s heating system, without the need to pass through an extra indoor unit, as is the case in split systems. This design helps limit potential energy losses that result from a longer transfer path for the heating medium.
Is a monoblock an all-year-round solution?
A common question is whether a monoblock heat pump can cope in winter conditions and whether there is a risk of it freezing. In practice, modern appliances – such as Termet Heat Titanium Pro – are designed to operate even at very low temperatures. Of course, every outdoor appliance needs appropriate protection – for example a UPS backup power supply or the use of glycol instead of water in the circuit, which effectively eliminates the risk of freezing during short power outages.
Heat pump installation – what is worth knowing?
Monoblock heat pumps, thanks to their compact design, are easier to install and often take up less space than split systems, which also require an indoor unit to be fitted inside the building.
In addition, because of the hermetically sealed refrigerant circuit, their installation and service (provided there is no work on the refrigeration circuit) do not require F-gas certification.
Monoblock or split – which to choose?
There is no single universal answer – every case needs an individual assessment. For those modernizing a home, looking for a simpler solution in terms of locating and installing the appliance, or preferring fewer formalities – a monoblock will be the optimal solution.
Also, if the choice criterion is the refrigerant and the preference is for ecological propane, the choice is simple – a monoblock.
Thanks to a compact design, a low noise level, simple installation and fewer potential points of failure, monoblock heat pumps – such as Termet Heat Titanium Pro – are gaining popularity among investors and installers who put efficiency, ecology and operating safety first.
Summary: when is it worth choosing a monoblock heat pump?
Monoblock heat pumps are an attractive alternative to split systems – especially where simple installation, lower installation costs and the safety of the refrigeration circuit are key. It is also worth paying attention to the type of refrigerant – the most modern heat pumps use ecological R290 refrigerant (propane), which offers a high level of efficiency with a much lower environmental impact than fluorinated greenhouse gases (e.g. R32, R410A).
When choosing a heat pump, it is worth consulting a professional installer – preferably one authorized by the manufacturer. That way the investment in a heating system will be not only efficient, but also safe and convenient to operate for many years.
Learn more about heat pump design from Akademia Ciepła – Termet S.A. on YouTube:
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