The Grant Aerona R290 Heat Pump: Meeting Ireland’s climate needs

As local authorities across Ireland work to meet climate targets and improve the energy efficiency of housing, choosing technology that can perform consistently in our uniquely damp and variable climate is essential.

Grant’s latest innovation, the Grant Aerona R290 air source heat pump, has been specifically designed with Irish weather conditions in mind, offering those designing and building new homes and larger scale developments, and those planning deep retrofit projects, a reliable, low-carbon heating solution.

Designed for Irish weather conditions

The Aerona R290 has been developed through a €2.4 million research and development investment to perform in high-moisture environments typical to Ireland and was recognised for its outstanding innovation at a recent industry awards.

Commenting on the design of the heat pump, Grant’s R&D Manager, Peter Darcy says: “When designing the Aerona R290, we listened closely to installers, homeowners, and contractors. We focused on efficiency, acoustic performance, and reliability to create a system that delivers long-term value and comfort.”

The Aerona R290 delivers dependable, year-round performance even during prolonged spells of low temperature and increased moisture conditions that can significantly reduce the efficiency of conventional heat pump systems.

Some air source heat pumps when operating in high moisture / wet conditions can face challenges in their performance and may struggle to extract enough heat, especially when frosty. In wet and foggy conditions, moisture in the air can freeze on the heat pump’s outdoor coils when the temperatures drop. This frost then can require frequent defrost cycles, which use extra energy and can ultimately lower overall heating performance.

The design and rigorous testing of the Aerona R290 heat pump in challenging climate conditions has ensured that models in the range can continue to work at peak performance in high moisture and cold weather, which is reassuring for those in the construction industry and homeowners alike.

Meeting housing needs sustainably

Available in outputs from 4kW to 16kW, the Aerona R290 range is a suitable choice for individual homes to larger housing schemes. It uses the environmentally friendly natural refrigerant R290 and can achieve A+++ energy ratings at 35°C flow temperature, making it one of the most energy efficient heat pump systems on the market. This is particularly valuable for councils and local authorities working toward NZEB (Nearly Zero Energy Building) compliance and improving BER ratings across public housing.

Built for long-term performance and value

For local authorities seeking solutions that ensure optimum efficiency, the Aerona R290 offers several key advantages:

• Climate-proofed operation: Can avoid excessive defrost cycles common in Ireland due to frosty and cold foggy conditions.
• Improved affordability: High efficiency leads to lower energy bills, helping address energy poverty.
• Low visual and acoustic impact: Compact, discreet, and quiet – suitable for high-density housing environments.

Supporting sustainable housing strategies

As efforts to decarbonise housing and meet required energy targets ramp up, heat pumps like the Aerona R290 present a scalable, proven and reliable technology. Whether for new build social housing, deep retrofits, or community-led sustainable developments, the Aerona R290 heat pump offers a future-proofed approach that supports environmental goals.

Think Heating. Think Grant.  

W: www.grant.ie for more information on the Grant Aerona R290 and Grant’s innovative heating solutions.

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