I recently came across a social media post about a product called Zeus Articulated Mounting Feet. This product is designed to provide flexible mounting and support for heat pumps, particularly in situations where the ground is uneven. The feet feature a 0-15 degree articulated mounting head and adjustable height, allowing heat pumps to be mounted level even on challenging surfaces.
The feet are made from recycled SBR rubber and include two seats for spirit levels, an M8 fixing screw and height adjustment. With a load rating of 500Kg, they offer a versatile mounting solution.
To better understand the significance of installing air source heat pumps ASHPs level, I reached out to Secon Renewables. Nick Eastwood, Technical Manager – Heat Pumps, provided detailed explanations on why proper levelling is crucial for the effective operation of heat pumps.
Efficient Defrosting and Prevention of Ice Build-Up
One key reason for level installation is related to the defrosting process of the heat pump. The base pan beneath the evaporator coil typically contains one or more drain holes. During cold weather, when the heat pump operates in heating mode, the refrigerant within the coil lowers in temperature to absorb energy. This causes moisture in the air to freeze upon contact with the coil, leading to ice formation on the evaporator.
When the evaporator temperature reaches a certain point, the unit triggers a defrost cycle, reversing the refrigerant flow to melt the ice. The resulting water drains through the base pan’s condensate drain hole. If the unit is not level, water can accumulate in the base pan, potentially freezing and causing ice build-up over time. This can hinder proper defrosting and may interfere with the fan blades, especially in harsh, cold environments. Such issues can reduce the heating efficiency of the unit, making it essential to ensure that the heat pump is installed level for optimal operation.
Protecting the Compressor
The compressor, a critical component of the heat pump, also requires level installation to function properly. Compressors, particularly scroll compressors, contain several moving parts. In a scroll compressor, a shaft runs through the centre with bearings at each end. The top of the shaft, which is offset, is connected to the orbiting scroll. As the shaft rotates, it is naturally out of balance, so weights are installed to counteract this imbalance.
If the compressor is not level, it can increase the imbalance, leading to added wear on the bearings and shaft surfaces due to increased friction and heat. Over time, this can also cause wear on the scroll itself, potentially leading to premature compressor failure. Improper levelling can also affect the lubrication within the compressor, as excessive heat may break down the oil, further accelerating wear and tear.
Maintaining Oil Levels in the Compressor
In extreme cases, severe misalignment can cause the oil within the compressor to escape if the unit is not level or is improperly oriented. This can result in a lack of lubrication, causing significant damage to the compressor.
Aesthetic Considerations
Lastly, Nick pointed out the importance of aesthetics. Heat pumps are a significant investment, and homeowners generally prefer a neat and professional looking installation. A unit that is not level can be visually unappealing and detract from the overall appearance of the property. Ensuring a level installation is therefore also a matter of maintaining the aesthetic value of the system.
