An air source heat pump (ASHP) is a device that transfers heat from the outside air to the inside of a building, (or vice versa if it’s set up for cooling).

Unlike a traditional heating system that generates heat through combustion, heat pumps move existing heat from one place to another. This process makes them incredibly energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

This flexibility makes an air source heat pump system a popular choice for both new builds and retrofits.

Heat pumps are 3-5 times more efficient than gas boilers and immediately cut carbon emissions by up to 70%. They are safer, lead to better health outcomes and overall comfort.

For most households they are already the most economical option.

The economics of buying a heat pump for most homeowners has improved with an available grant of £7,500 towards the cost of the installation, making the transition more affordable and reducing the average upgrade cost from £12,500 – £15,000 down to £5,000 – £7,500.

An air source heat pump works by transferring heat from the outside air to the inside of a building using a refrigeration cycle.

It absorbs heat from the air, compresses it to increase the temperature, and then releases it inside to heat your home.

No, air source heat pumps are generally not expensive to run.

They are highly efficient, often providing three to five times more heat than the electrical energy they consume, which translates into lower energy bills.

With the correct additional system components, air-source heat pumps can cool your home.

In the summer, the system can reverse its operation, extracting heat from inside your home and releasing it outside, effectively acting as an air conditioner.

Benefits include high energy efficiency, low carbon emissions, dual heating and cooling capability, and potential long-term savings on energy bills.

An air source heat pump is generally easier and less expensive to install than ground source heat pumps. However, ground source heat pumps can be more efficient in extreme temperatures. The best choice depends on your specific needs and location.

Most UK homes are suitable for air source heat pumps.

The best start to determine the heat loss of your home. This means working out all the fabrics and insulation values of the building and how much energy is required to heat the home when it’s minus degrees outside.

This is where only well-trained engineers can visit to carry out a heat loss survey to determine the suitability of a heat pump.

It is essential to make sure the pipework and radiators are large enough to deliver enough heat to the rooms in your home.

Vaillant and Viessmann are the two main manufacturers we install as they provide excellent performance, simple user controls and quiet operation.

Regular maintenance includes checking the system for any debris, ensuring the refrigerant levels are correct, and having a professional service the system annually to keep it running efficiently.

ASHPs have a lower environmental impact compared to traditional HVAC systems, because they use renewable heat from the air and produce fewer carbon emissions. They contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly home heating solution by using renewable energy.

Glycol is a gloopy, viscous liquid which, even when mixed with water, can reduce the efficiency of a heat pump. Adding glycol to the system will mean the heat pump needs to work harder to move the liquid through the system.

We don’t use Glycol in our installations. We prefer alternatives methods of frost protection such as anti-freeze valves designed to protect the outdoor heat pump unit.