ᐅ Air-to-water heat pump: Monoblock or split system? Is the installation location suitable?

Hello everyone,

I am currently looking into the heating system. We are getting a Daikin air-to-water heat pump with a water storage tank, and I am considering which configuration would be the most sensible. I prefer not to rely solely on one opinion (general contractor) and would like to hear your thoughts. I have attached a photo showing where the outdoor unit and indoor unit are planned to be installed. To shorten the "distance," the indoor unit could also be placed at position 2.

Now the question is: given the distance, would it be better to choose a split system? I spoke with a designer from an air-to-water heat pump manufacturer who said that if we choose a monoblock, the pipes only need to be well insulated. The losses would then be very low. The distance from the outdoor unit to the nearest neighbor is about 20 meters (65 feet), so noise should not really be an issue.

Thank you very much for your opinions.

Bauenaberwie schrieb:

So, the question is: should we choose a split system because of the distance?

And what advantage would that give you?

Bauenaberwie schrieb:

I spoke with a designer from an air-to-water heat pump manufacturer, and they said that the pipes only need to be well insulated if we go with a monoblock system.

Are you aware that the pipes of a split system also need good insulation? Even if the requirements are less demanding.

Bauenaberwie schrieb:

I spoke with a designer from an air-to-water heat pump manufacturer, and they said that the pipes only need to be well insulated if we go with a monoblock system. The losses would then be very low.

Exactly. And in your case, the pipes also run inside the house, not outside.

Why not simply change the location of the outdoor unit? Whether mono or split.
Besides, there are many good insulation options. For example, for monoblock systems, district heating pipes can be used.

Ok, thanks for the information. We will prefer the mono unit then. I wasn’t aware that insulation is also required for the split unit. That makes the decision even easier. Regarding the position of the outdoor unit, it has been chosen to ensure the greatest possible distance from the neighbor and to avoid any disturbance for us. This is the case on this side. But thank you very much for the help.

Bauenaberwie schrieb:

... air-to-water heat pump with water storage tank

A brief side note: If the "water storage tank" is for domestic hot water, that's fine. However, if it is intended as a heating buffer tank, it should be omitted.

Advantage of mono: There are already models available using R290 (propane) as the refrigerant. This is much better for both environmental impact and efficiency compared to any other options. For that reason, I would definitely choose a mono system. Additionally, a monoblock can be replaced by any heating technician, which might save costs down the line.

Deliverer schrieb:

Also, a monoblock can be replaced by any heating technician

... even by a (somewhat skilled) DIYer. Turn off the power, unscrew the supply and return pipes, remove the old unit, install the new unit, connect the wiring and screw it in ==> done.

Deliverer schrieb:

Quick side note: If the "water storage tank" is for domestic hot water, that’s fine. But if it’s meant to be a heating buffer tank, then please omit it.

Advantage of a monoblock system: You can already get models using R290 (propane) as the refrigerant. This is much better for both environmental impact and efficiency than other options. Therefore, I would definitely choose a monoblock. Additionally, a monoblock unit can be replaced by any heating technician, which can potentially save costs later on.

Yes, that’s exactly why I wanted a monoblock system. I was told that the person doing maintenance wouldn’t need a special refrigerant certificate. Also, the “noise” stays outside. The water storage tank is intended for domestic hot water, 250-300 liters (66-79 gallons) should be enough for 3 people. Many thanks to you all!