Conventional heat pumps and refrigerators rely on compressors to bring a refrigerant to high pressures. Unfortunately, this process is associated with major energy losses. The development of compressors has come a long way since the 19th century, however, is now approaching the physical limits of the technology. To get to substantially higher efficiencies, a completely different technologic principle is required.

In a magnetocaloric heat pump or refrigerator, there is no need for a compressor nor refrigerant. The system requires a simple water pump and an electric motor to move the magnetocaloric material in and out of the magnetic field. Magneto developed a specially designed 3D-printed structure of its patented magnetocaloric material, that is optimized for efficient flow, drastically reducing the required pumping energy. The magnetocaloric effect is known for a very efficient energy conversion. These factors combined result in a system that is 30% more efficient than conventional heat pumps and refrigerators.

Our planet is expected to heat up 0.4 °C by 2100 just from refrigerant gasses that leak from heat pumps, air conditioners and refrigerators, if we keep on using the refrigerants that are used today. Therefore, the Kigali amendment was set into effect, to phase out refrigerants with a high global warming potential.

Common refrigerants have a global warming potential up to 14,800, meaning that it is trapping heat 14,800 times more effectively than CO2. However, there are no alternative refrigerants with a low global warming potential that are safe to use and provide an efficient system.

A magnetocaloric heat pump or refrigerator does not use any refrigerant, thus completely solving this problem. This makes installation and maintenance much easier and does not require specifically trained personnel.

Over 35% of the Dutch population worries about the noise of heat pumps when they will become widespread. Especially in crowded cities, this can be a bottleneck for the energy transition. Most of the noise is generated by the compressor in traditional heat pumps.

With no compressor and only a small water pump and outdoor unit fan, Magnetocaloric heat pumps produce a fraction of the noise generated by a compressor-based pump, making them ideal for urban environments where noise pollution is a concern.

Featuring fewer moving parts, which are also exposed to milder conditions, Magnetocaloric heat pumps require less maintenance and boast extended lifespans compared to vapor compression systems, ensuring highly reliable performance for a broad range of heating and cooling needs. Whether you want to keep your pizzas frozen or your home heated during the winter, a magnetocaloric system will be a reliable partner.

Vapor compressor systems require refrigerants to be compressed to high pressures, up to 200 bar. In combination with the wear of the components due to rotations and vibrations, there is a risk of explosion. In addition, some refrigerants, such as propane, are highly flammable, and cannot be used with more than 500 gram in a system.

Magnetocaloric heat pumps and refrigerators are safe by design. The magnetocaloric systems use water as heat transfer fluid and do not require any refrigerant. The pressure in the system is 2 bar at most, comparable to pressure of a water tap in the kitchen sink.

With high energy efficiency and reduced electricity costs, lower installation and maintenance expenses, and an extended lifespan, Magnetocaloric heat pumps offer a financially advantageous and environmentally friendly alternative. The better option for both the planet and your budget!