Parknasilla East Block has recently upgraded its heating systems to enhance energy efficiency, comfort, and environmental performance. This project utilizes advanced MasterTherm BA60i and AQ60ZHX heat pumps to provide reliable space heating and domestic hot water across multiple building zones, including guest rooms and the infinity pool.

Project Overview

The upgrade involved the installation of multiple MasterTherm heat pump units to serve space heating and domestic hot water (DHW) demands within the East and West wings of the hotel, as well as the infinity pool. The systems replace or supplement traditional heating infrastructure, significantly reducing carbon emissions while improving operational flexibility.

Scope of Works

• Installation of 2 × BA60i units providing space heating to 39 bedrooms in the East Block
• Installation of 3 × BA60i units and 1 × AQ60ZHX high-temperature unit serving the West Wing’s 60 bedrooms, supplying space heating via existing radiators and DHW systems
• Installation of 1 × BA60i unit dedicated to heating the infinity pool
• Integration of all units into a centralized PGDX intelligent control system for seamless operation and monitoring

Heat Pump System Overview

• East Block – Space Heating
• 2 × MasterTherm BA60is Inverter Heat Pumps
• Efficiently provide low-temperature hot water (LTHW) to 39 bedrooms
• Modulating inverter technology adjusts output in real time to meet demand, maximizing energy savings
• West Wing – Space Heating & DHW
• 3 × MasterTherm BA60is Inverter Heat Pumps
• Provide heating water to existing radiator circuits across 60 bedrooms
• 1 × MasterTherm AQ60ZHX High-Temperature Heat Pump
• Supports domestic hot water generation at elevated temperatures suitable for guest services and kitchens
• Infinity Pool Heating
• 1 × MasterTherm BA60i Inverter Heat Pump
• Supplies dedicated LTHW heating to maintain optimal pool temperatures year-round
• PGDX Intelligent Control & Monitoring
• At the heart of this installation is the PGDX control platform, providing sophisticated management and optimization of all heat pump units:
• Dynamic Load Balancing: PGDX continuously monitors heating demand across all zones and optimizes operation of individual heat pumps to ensure peak efficiency and comfort.
• Weather Compensation: The system automatically adjusts supply water temperature based on external weather conditions to maintain stable indoor temperatures with minimal energy use.
• Zonal Control & Scheduling: Enables custom temperature settings and time schedules for different areas (East Block, West Wing, pool), improving occupant comfort and reducing waste.
• Real-Time Monitoring & Diagnostics: Provides live data on performance metrics such as flow temperatures, energy consumption, and fault alerts accessible via a secure remote interface.
• Integration Capability: PGDX supports full Building Management System (BMS) integration, enabling centralized control and reporting within the hotel’s overall facility management framework.
• Energy Efficiency Algorithms: Employs predictive control strategies that adapt to occupancy patterns and usage trends, further lowering operational costs.

Project Results & Benefits

• Optimized Energy Use
• Inverter heat pumps modulate precisely with demand, minimizing energy waste
• PGDX controls optimize equipment cycling and temperature setpoints in real-time
• Enhanced Guest Comfort
• Consistent, zoned temperature control ensures guest rooms and pool areas remain comfortable
• Reduced temperature fluctuations through smart weather compensation
• Reduced Carbon Footprint
• Significant cuts in fossil fuel consumption by replacing or supplementing traditional boilers
• Supports Parknasilla’s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly hospitality
• Operational Efficiency & Reliability
• Predictive maintenance alerts and remote diagnostics reduce downtime and service costs
• Modular system design allows easy maintenance and future scalability

Tech Notes & Smart Control

• PGDX orchestrates multi‑zone operation across bedrooms, DHW and infinity pool; dynamic load balancing reduces cycling.
• AQ60ZHX covers elevated DHW temps; BA60i units run low‑temp radiator/UFH regimes for high SCOPs.
• Zone schedules align to occupancy patterns and housekeeping windows.

Guest Experience & Operations

• Fewer temperature swings in rooms; pool kept at steady comfort points year‑round.

Energy & Carbon (SEAI)

• Switching from fossil-fired plant to high-efficiency heat pumps reduces on‑site combustion (Scope 1) and cuts overall CO₂ per guest‑night.
• Heat recovery (where fitted) further lowers electrical input per kWh of useful heat or DHW.
• Aligned with SEAI guidance for decarbonising hospitality; suitable for EXEED‑style M&V and public‑sector style reporting where applicable.
• Benefits grow as the Irish electricity grid continues to decarbonise, improving the carbon intensity of delivered heat over time.