Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP): A heat pump that extracts heat from the outdoor air for heating and cooling indoor spaces.

Buffer Tank: A storage tank used in some heat pump systems to store heated or cooled water for later use, enhancing system efficiency.

Carbon Footprint: The measure of the total greenhouse gas emissions associated with the production and operation of a heat pump system.

Climatic Conditions: The local weather and temperature conditions that can impact a heat pump’s performance.

Coefficient of Performance (COP): A measure of a heat pump’s efficiency, calculated as the ratio of heat output to energy input.

Compressor: The component responsible for pressurizing and circulating the refrigerant, enabling heat transfer.

Condenser: Where the refrigerant releases heat into the desired space or hot water supply.

Decarbonisation: Refers to reducing the carbon dioxide equivalent emissions intensity  equipment and operation. 

Defrost Cycle: A function in heat pumps that removes frost buildup on the outdoor unit during cold weather.

Domestic Hot Water : Hot water generated by a heat pump for residential use.Heat pumps can efficiently heat water for various domestic purposes like bathing, cleaning, and cooking, often integrated with home heating systems.

Ductless Mini-Split: An ASHP that does not require ductwork, making it suitable for individual room heating and cooling.

Economizer: A component that allows a heat pump to use outdoor air for cooling during mild weather, reducing energy consumption.

Energy Efficiency : This term describes the effectiveness of a heat pump in converting energy (usually electricity) into heating or cooling output. A more energy-efficient heat pump delivers the desired temperature with less energy consumption, thereby reducing operating costs and environmental impact.

Energy Star: A certification program that identifies energy-efficient appliances and heat pump systems meeting specific efficiency criteria.

Energy transition: Shift from traditional fossil fuels to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and geothermal energy. 

Evaporator: The part of the heat pump where the refrigerant absorbs heat from the surrounding air or water.

Flow Rate : Refers to the volume of refrigerant or water circulating through the heat pump system per unit time. It’s typically measured in liters per hour (L/h) and is crucial for determining the efficiency and performance of the heat pump in heating or cooling a space.

Ground Source Heat Pump (GSHP): A heat pump that utilizes the stable ground temperature for heating and cooling.

Heat Exchanger: A component that transfers heat between two fluids (usually refrigerant and air or water) without them coming into direct contact.

Heat Output : The amount of heat a heat pump can deliver to a space. It’s a crucial measure of the heat pump’s capacity to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures, especially in colder climates.

Heat Pump Efficiency Mode: A setting that optimizes the heat pump’s operation for maximum energy savings.

Heat Pump Efficiency Standards: Government-imposed regulations and standards that dictate the minimum efficiency levels for heat pump systems.

Heat Pump Incentives: Government or utility-sponsored programs offering financial incentives to promote the installation of energy-efficient heat pumps.

Heat Pump Noise Rating (HSPRN): A measure of a heat pump’s noise level, important for maintaining a comfortable and quiet indoor environment.

Heat Pump Sizing: Determining the appropriate capacity of a heat pump to match a building’s heating and cooling requirements.

Heat Pump Water Heater: A device that uses a heat pump to efficiently heat water for domestic use, offering energy savings over traditional water heaters.

Heat Pump: A heating and cooling system that transfers heat from one location to another, providing energy-efficient heating and cooling for homes and buildings.

Hybrid Heat Pump: Combines a heat pump with a conventional furnace for enhanced efficiency and flexibility.

Inverter Technology: A technology that adjusts the heat pump’s compressor speed for precise temperature control and improved efficiency.

Kilowatt (kW): A unit of power measurement equivalent to 1,000 watts. It’s commonly used to indicate the capacity or energy output in heat pumps and HVAC systems. One watt represents a rate of energy transfer of one joule per second.

Kilowatt-hour (kWh): This unit measures energy consumption over time. One kWh signifies the usage of one kilowatt of power for one hour, equivalent to 3,600 kilojoules. It’s a standard unit for billing energy usage in homes and buildings.

Refrigerant Cycle: The continuous process of the refrigerant flowing through the heat pump’s components to transfer heat.

Refrigerant: A substance used in heat pumps to absorb and release heat as it circulates through the system, changing from a gas to a liquid and back again.

Renewables: These sources are sustainable and environmentally friendly, emitting little to no greenhouse gases.

Scroll Compressor: A 1990s innovation for heat pumps, featuring two spiral scrolls compressing refrigerant, enhancing efficiency.

Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP): An estimation of a heat pump’s efficiency over a year. It predicts the average COP, factoring in variations due to seasonal temperature changes.

SEER: Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, a rating that measures the cooling efficiency of heat pumps.

Smart Thermostat: A programmable thermostat that can be controlled remotely via a smartphone or computer to optimize heat pump operation.

Underfloor Heating: A system that heats a building through pipes or cables installed beneath the floor, providing even and efficient warmth.

Weather Compensator : A control system in heat pumps that adjusts the heat output based on external and internal temperature variations, optimizing the heating performance to suit the specific needs of the home.

Zero Carbon: A term indicating an activity or process that does not contribute any net carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions to the atmosphere.