Installing an Air-Water Heat Pump in a Paris Apartment: Feasibility, Constraints and Subsidies
The Air-Water Heat Pump (Air-Water HP) is the most efficient and state-encouraged central heating system for decarbonization. It replaces your old gas boiler and uses outdoor air calories to heat your radiator water and domestic hot water.
Yet, installing an Air-Water HP in a Paris apartment is a high-wire project. It involves space, noise constraints and, above all, the complex condominium agreement. At Réseau Tubulure, we're experts in multi-energy solutions in collective housing.
Air-Water HP vs Air-Air HP (Reversible Air Conditioning)
Don't confuse the two systems:
- Air-Air HP (Reversible Air Conditioning): Produces hot air (heating) or cold (air conditioning). Requires indoor units (splits).
- Air-Water HP: Produces hot water. Connects to your existing radiators (or underfloor heating) and replaces the boiler. This is the system targeted for "comprehensive renovation".
The 3 Major Challenges of Air-Water HP in Condominiums
1. Outdoor Unit and Building Manager (Aesthetics)
The HP outdoor unit is the most critical part. It's often bulkier than an AC unit.
- Common Areas: If you want to place it on the roof, in an interior courtyard or on a non-visible facade, you need General Assembly authorization (vote by absolute majority under article 25 of the 1965 law).
- Noise: We select "low acoustic consumption" (silent) HPs to minimize sound impact on neighbors (less than 40 dB at 5 meters).
- Condensation: The HP releases water (condensate). Its drainage to wastewater must be planned, requiring connection.
2. Connection (Technical Challenge)
The HP works ideally with "low temperature" emitters (oversized radiators or underfloor heating).
- Old cast iron radiators: If well flushed, they're often powerful enough to work with an HP.
- Mandatory Flushing: Any HP installation must be preceded by complete circuit flushing, otherwise the HP exchanger will clog and fail prematurely.
3. Defrosting
In winter, the outdoor unit freezes. It needs to defrost by drawing energy, temporarily reducing performance.
Discover our HP installation rates
Aid
Air-Water HP is the flagship energy renovation device.
- MaPrimeRénov': Amount varies by income (up to several thousand euros).
- Energy Saving Certificates (CEE): A premium paid by energy suppliers.
- Zero-Rate Eco-Loan (Eco-PTZ): To finance the remainder without interest.
Our Role: We're Recognized Environmental Guarantor (RGE). This certification is mandatory for you to receive these subsidies. We help you prepare administrative files for CEE and MaPrimeRénov'.
Important certifications for choosing a plumber
Conclusion: Tomorrow's Heating, Today
Switching to Air-Water HP is a fundamental decision requiring impeccable technical and regulatory expertise. Trust only an RGE heating plumber who knows how to manage Parisian condominium constraints.
Réseau Tubulure - Plumbers and proud of it! 🔧
