Unipipe celebrates 25 years as NIBE heat pump partner

Reflecting on the transformation of the market over the years, managing director Paul O’Donnell said: “When we started, heat pumps were virtually unheard of in Ireland,” he explains. “It’s remarkable how far we’ve come”.

Unipipe supplies a wide range of NIBE heat pump technologies, including ground source and air-to-water systems. Recently, however, interest in NIBE’s exhaust air heat pumps has grown significantly. “Exhaust air heat pumps are becoming increasingly popular, not just in apartment buildings, but now also houses,” said O’Donnell.

While ground source heat pumps or air-to-water machines are often chosen for larger, standalone homes, exhaust air heat pumps are proving to be a strong competitor to these in many other settings.

O’Donnell highlights their unique advantage: “What many people don’t realise is that exhaust air heat pumps include ventilation as part of the system. This eliminates the need for a separate ventilation solution and can result in significant cost savings.”

Driving innovation in Ireland

Unipipe’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. NIBE has recognised the company’s vital role in opening up the Irish market for its systems.

Some twenty plus years ago, these NIBE exhaust air heat pumps were first used in apartments in Ireland.

“In Sweden, apartments are usually conn-ected to a city’s district heating, so NIBE’s exhaust air heat pumps are primarily sold to home builders constructing houses,” O’Donnell explains. “They hadn’t anticipated the demand we’ve generated here in Ireland. In fact, NIBE gave us an award for creating a market sector they never saw coming.”

With the advent of much more powerful exhaust air heat pumps, they are now proving increasingly popular in houses now as well as apartments. NIBE’s 7 kW machines are used in homes up to 220 m2 and the fact that there is no outdoor unit is also a bonus in reduced fitting time. There are also 4 kW output models for apartments. O’Donnell adds that unlike many other brands, those outputs are from the heat pumps’ compressor, not additional immersions, meaning lower running costs for the end user.

Unipipe’s success was far from guaranteed, however. Early on, resistance from engineers and architects posed a challenge. To overcome this, the company took a grassroots approach, reaching out directly to consumers.

“When we approached engineers and architects, we realised many were hesitant to take risks with new technology. (We had the exact same experience when we pioneered the use of underfloor heating in Ireland earlier again.) So, we attended events like the Self-Build and the Ideal Homes shows. We spoke directly to Joe and Mary, who were building bungalows, and they, in turn, brought their heat pump questions to their professionals,” O’Donnell recalls.

The personal touch

Although NIBE’s reliable technology forms the foundation of Unipipe’s offerings, the company has built its reputation on exceptional customer support.

“We don’t install heat pumps ourselves, but we offer extensive support to homeowners and professionals alike. This includes free training for any professional who wants to install a NIBE heat pump and a nationwide service department to assist our customers,” O’Donnell explains, adding that in conjunction with DKIT Dundalk, the company is also running official SEAI recognised heat pump installer courses too.

“Word of mouth has always been our greatest source of sales. Looking after the customer has been key to our success.”

Proven durability

O’Donnell said that the oldest heat pumps in Ireland are NIBE exhaust air heat pumps, a testament to their durability and reliability.

“These systems have been quietly working for decades, efficiently combining ventilation, heating, and hot water in homes across the country,” he said. “Their longevity, some 24+ years, demonstrates the robust design evolution and enduring performance of this innovative technology, which continues to gain popularity today.”

“After 25 years, Unipipe remains at the forefront of energy efficient heating solutions in Ireland. With a steadfast partner in NIBE, the company is committed to continuing to bring innovation and sustainability to Irish homes and businesses.