Sustainability series: Air source heat pumps

Air source heat pumps are made available for building owners to heat and cool, as an alternative to traditional fuel-fired systems. While early indications show that air source heat pump systems help reduce the fire risk in buildings, there are a few areas worth looking at when evaluating the overall risk profile of a building.

Potential threats and risk considerations:

Water distribution networks can potentially leak at the connection point where pipes and tubes are installed, often in concealed spaces and areas not regularly or easily accessed by building personnel.

Considerations: Ensure pipework and associated support systems are well designed and installed in accordance with a recognised piping standard. In areas prone to seismic activity, ensure pipework is adequately secured to the building structure.

Refrigerants in air source heat pumps may be combustible. Commercial systems contain large quantities that, if released, pose significant fire hazard. Insulation for piping systems may also be combustible and therefore increase the overall fire load.
 
Considerations: Refrigerants and their associated systems should be carefully selected and properly installed. The heat pump systems and adjacent electrical equipment should be installed to recognised electrical standards. Good housekeeping practices are crucial to minimise and limit the risk of fire or explosion.

Air source heat pump systems may not provide enough heat to water distribution networks, in order to control the risk of legionella and similar pathogens.
 
Considerations: Regularly review the risk of legionella and install appropriate control measures. Perform chemical dosing, if needed.

Air source heat pumps installed externally are susceptible to damage from natural hazards.

Considerations: Consider protections such as a roof or enclosure and coil guards to prevent the air source heat pumps from getting damaged by natural perils.

Download the full loss prevention guide for air source heat pumps.

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