Heat Pumps
There are two main types of air source heat pumps:
- Air to air heat pumps, which absorb heat from the outside air and then transfer it directly into your home via a fan system to heat a room.
- Air to water heat pumps, which absorb heat from the outside air and then transfer it via your central heating system to provide hot water heating, radiator, or underfloor heating in an indoor space (or all three).
How does it work?
An air source heat pump (ASHP) works by transferring heat absorbed from the outside air to an indoor space. This works via the wet central heating systems to heat radiators and provides domestic hot water. Heat pumps work similarly to a refrigerator: they absorb heat and transfer it to another medium.
Certain air source heat pumps can also work as a cooling system in the summer months. Most commonly they are placed outside of a building where there is adequate space for the installation.
Is an air source heat pump right for me?
There are a few things to consider when deciding whether an air source heat pump is a suitable choice for your property.
How big is an air source heat pump?
The external unit in domestic air source heat pumps is no larger than a washing machine, and can be located anywhere where there’s a decent flow of fresh air (or ambient air flow) and a bit of breathing room. To keep installation costs down, the heat pump can be connected to the buffer tank inside via an existing flue (a vent or outlet for steam on the outside wall of your home), but if you’re worried about aesthetics, the box can also be wall mounted to the back of the garage or hidden away in the garden.
Are you eligible for FREE heat pumps?
- Jobseekers Allowance
- Employment & Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credits
- Universal Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Pension Credit Savings Credit
What are the advantages of ground source heat pumps?
There are numerous benefits to using heat pumps. With an air source heat pump, you can save money on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint compared to a gas or electric heating system. One of the key advantages of air source heat pumps is their versatility and affordability. An ASHP can work for either heating or cooling purposes and can be used for space heating or water heating.
A few more potential benefits for households with heat pumps are:
Air source heat pumps are designed to have minimal environmental impact even during a spell of low temperature, unlike HVAC and air conditioners.
