Cleaver-Brooks Unvelis Air-to-Water Heat Pump for Hydronic Heating

Why It Matters

The ClearAir pump offers a high‑temperature, efficient alternative to traditional boilers, accelerating the shift toward low‑carbon heating in large‑scale buildings. Its integration flexibility makes retrofits and new constructions more cost‑effective.

Key Takeaways

• Generates up to 80 °C water, avoiding system upgrades
• 103 kW output with COP 2.7 improves efficiency
• Supports BACnet and Modbus for BMS integration
• Compatible with hybrid boiler setups for peak demand
• Compact monobloc design fits retrofits and new builds

Pulse Analysis

The heating landscape is rapidly evolving as building owners seek carbon‑neutral solutions that do not compromise performance. Air‑to‑water heat pumps have emerged as a viable alternative to fossil‑fuel boilers, especially in regions with moderate to cold climates. Cleaver‑Brooks’ ClearAir unit enters the market at a time when demand for high‑temperature hydronic systems is rising, offering a bridge between legacy infrastructure and modern, electrified heating strategies.

Technically, the ClearAir delivers 103 kW of thermal power with a coefficient of performance (COP) of 2.7, positioning it among the most efficient large‑scale heat pumps available. Its ability to produce water at 80 °C means it can directly replace conventional boilers without costly pipe‑sizing or radiator upgrades. The monobloc construction simplifies installation, while the integrated controller’s BACnet and Modbus support enables seamless integration with existing building management systems, providing real‑time monitoring and demand‑response capabilities.

From a strategic perspective, the pump’s hybrid compatibility allows facilities to retain backup boiler capacity for extreme cold snaps or peak loads, mitigating the risk of over‑reliance on a single technology. This flexibility is particularly attractive for campuses, hospitals, and multi‑family complexes that require redundancy and scalability. As utility incentives increasingly favor electrified heating, the ClearAir’s modular design and retrofit‑friendly footprint position it as a compelling choice for owners aiming to lower operating costs while meeting stricter emissions standards.