Monobloc or split heat pump: the differences

Air-to-water heat pumps are made in two basic designs: monobloc and split. They differ in where the refrigerant circuit is and what runs between the outdoor unit and the house.

Monobloc

The whole refrigerant circuit is in the outdoor unit. Water pipes from the heating system run into the house.

• the refrigerant circuit is not touched during installation,
• it takes up less space in the house,
• the water pipes outside must be protected from freezing and well insulated,
• the outdoor unit should be as close to the house as possible.

Split

The system has an outdoor and an indoor unit connected by refrigerant pipes. The heating system water stays in the house.

• there are no water pipes outside that could freeze,
• the outdoor unit can be further from the plant room,
• the refrigerant circuit must be installed by an authorised technician,
• the indoor unit needs space in the house.

When to choose which

• Monobloc – if the outdoor unit is close to the plant room and you want a simpler installation in the house.
• Split – if the distance is greater or you do not want water running through the outdoor environment.

The decision also depends on the layout of the house, the space in the plant room and the water heating requirements.

Daikin Altherma

Daikin offers both monobloc and split variants in the Daikin Altherma range. An example of a monobloc is the Daikin Altherma 3 M, and of a split the Daikin Altherma 3 R F. We will propose a specific model according to the house – A Daikin heat pump for a family house: how to choose.

Write to us or see Daikin heat pumps.