Published: 21/01/2026
How do heat recovery systems in compressors work?
While industrial compressors are busy supplying compressed air to power tools, they also generate a significant amount of heat energy as a natural by-product. What many don’t realise is that up to 94% of that heat is typically lost into the atmosphere as the air compressor runs. And given that an air compressor generally uses approximately 10% of a company’s energy usage, it’s not something that should be overlooked in light of the UK energy bills increase.
This is where a heat recovery system comes into play. Below, we’ll explain how heat recovery systems work and why you should be investing in one for your business in Manchester.
What is a heat recovery system for an air compressor?
When air is compressed, it squeezes air molecules into a small space. As the pressure increases and the particles collide, the air becomes hotter. Many industries choose to install cooling fans to disperse the heat, but this circulates the hot air back into the room, which essentially makes it a wasted energy source.
On the other hand, heat recovery systems capture and repurpose excess heat generated by an air compressor. The waste heat is transformed into valuable heat energy, which can be used elsewhere within the facility. Some examples include generating hot water for taps or heating radiators. Even if you own a small heat compressor, waste heat recovery is still possible.
How do compressor heat recovery systems work?
There are several key components in heat recovery systems for air compressor heat recovery. These include:
- Heat exchanger: Transfers the excess heat to another medium
- Ducting: Directs the heat to the attached medium
- Control systems: Regulate the flow and temperature of the recovered heat
Heat recovery systems intercept the thermal energy produced during compression and convert it into a usable form. Additionally, they also prevent the compressor from overheating. This reclaimed energy can be transferred for space heating or water heating via a heat exchanger. The process is carried out by a control system, which manages where the heat goes and at the correct temperature.
In theory, heat recovery works by transferring the excess thermal energy through ducting and into an additional medium that can be reused. In water-cooled systems, heat from the compressor’s thermal oil or cooling circuit is transferred into water for sanitation or a hot water supply. You may be surprised to learn that in this scenario, more than 80% of the heat generated is reused.
In air-cooled systems, the hot air released by the compressor can be redirected into indoor spaces (such as warehouses or production halls). As such, this reduces the need for conventional heating during the peak winter months. By capturing and reusing this energy, facilities can cut energy costs and intentionally reduce their environmental impact.
Cut down energy bills with air compressor heat recovery today
While your air compressor may be fulfilling your business needs, you’re losing a substantial amount of heat energy every minute that it’s running. Thanks to compressor heat recovery systems from Air Supply Manchester, you can cut down on energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint in the process.
We’re one of the UK’s industry leaders in air compressor heat recovery. If you have any questions about choosing a heat recovery system, then don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly team. Please call +44(0)161 5183440 or email sales@airsupplymanchester.co.uk.