How do air source heat pumps work?
Air source heat pumps work by extracting heat from the outside air and using a refrigerant cycle, including coils and a compressor, to convert it into usable heat. In this helpful guide, we’re going to explain in more detail how air source heat pumps work, the advantages and what makes them an increasingly popular choice for modern heating systems.
What is an air source heat pump?
An air source heat pump (ASHP) is a system that is designed to capture heat from ambient air. Its design consists of a condenser, evaporator, expansion valve and compressor, which work together to extract, amplify, and transfer heat into the home.
There are a few key differences between a gas boiler and an ASHP. Unlike traditional gas boilers, which burn fuel to create heat, air source heat pumps draw heat from the surrounding outside air. Instead of producing heat directly, they use a refrigeration cycle to upgrade low temperature heat into usable warmth for your property.
How do air source heat pumps work?
If you’re looking for air source heat pumps explained, then here’s everything you need to know about how they function.
Air source heat pumps work through a continuous cycle of heat transfer using a refrigerant, with coils and a compressor enabling the process. First, the system draws in outside air through a fan, similar to a traditional air conditioning unit. This air passes over a heat exchanger containing a refrigerant liquid, which absorbs the heat and turns into a gas, even at freezing temperatures.
Next, the refrigerant is compressed. The compression process raises its temperature, creating heat energy. The heated gas then passes through another heat exchanger inside the home.
At this stage, the heat is transferred into your heating system, such as radiators, underfloor heating or hot water cylinders. As the heat is released, the refrigerant cools and condenses back into a liquid.
Finally, the cycle repeats seamlessly and the refrigerant returns outside to absorb more heat from the air, ensuring a steady and efficient supply of warmth.
Types of air source heat pumps
Air to water heat pumps
Air to water heat pumps transfer heat into a water based system. They supply heating to radiators, underfloor heating and hot water cylinders, making them suitable for whole home heating. These are the most common option for replacing traditional boilers in UK homes.
Air to air heat pumps
Air to air heat pumps deliver warm air directly into rooms through indoor units. They do not provide hot water, but they can also work in reverse to provide cooling during warmer months, offering a dual heating and cooling solution similar to many ASHP models.
What are the benefits of air source heat pumps?
Air source heat pumps offer a range of advantages, from improved efficiency to lower emissions. They are also quieter than many traditional heating systems and may be eligible for government grants, making them an increasingly attractive option for homeowners.
Lower energy consumption
Compared to traditional gas boilers, ASHPs are highly efficient. Since they transfer heat rather than generate it, they use less electricity than would be required to produce the same level of heat directly. This can also result in lowering your energy bills.
Sustainability
Since they use renewable heat from the air rather than relying on fossil fuels, ASHPs offer a more environmentally responsible method for heating your home. They require less energy to operate, which helps reduce carbon emissions.
Reliable heating
Air source heat pumps provide consistent heating, creating a more comfortable indoor environment. They are also quieter in operation, which makes them suitable for residential areas where noise levels matter.
How much do air source heat pumps cost?
The upfront cost of an air source heat pump is typically higher than that of a traditional boiler, but it can offer lasting financial benefits. Government incentives, such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, can also help reduce the initial cost.
Running costs can be lower over time due to improved efficiency, particularly in well-insulated homes. Maintenance is generally straightforward, and systems are designed to operate reliably for many years.
The future of air source heat pumps
Changes in legislation are encouraging greater adoption of ASHPs. As the UK is committed to achieving its net zero target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, low carbon heating solutions are being integrated into new builds.
With support schemes such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme helping to offset upfront costs, more people are gaining access to efficient heating solutions. This is particularly relevant in residential sectors such as social housing and new build developments, where energy performance and long term cost savings are a key priority.
This shift is shaping the future of new build heating, with air source heat pumps becoming a preferred option for meeting modern efficiency standards. At the same time, they are playing an important role in heating for social housing, offering a scalable and lower carbon solution for large residential developments.
What Intergas are doing
As trusted experts in heating solutions, Intergas offers a vast range of advanced heating systems, including our Xceed Monobloc heat pump. We specialise in everything from high-efficiency condensing boilers to hybrid heating systems, helping property owners transition to more sustainable and future ready heating solutions.
FAQs: How heat pumps work
Are air source heat pumps noisy for neighbours?
No. Heat pump noise is comparable to standard HVAC units. When properly installed, they are unlikely to cause disturbance to neighbours or impact comfort within the home.
Are air source heat pumps louder in winter?
Air source heat pumps in winter have to work harder in colder weather, but their noise level is only slightly increased. Modern systems are designed to operate efficiently year round, so any change in noise is typically minimal.
What’s the difference between air source heat pumps and hybrid heat pumps?
ASHPs extract ambient air to produce heat and run solely on electricity, while hybrid systems combine a heat pump with a boiler for added flexibility. Learn more in our guide: hybrid or heat pumps.
What’s the difference between heat pumps and gas boilers?
The key difference between heat pumps and gas boilers i s how they generate heat. Heat pumps transfer heat from the air and depend on electricity. Gas boilers rely on burning fuel to produce heat directly. If you’re having difficulty deciding between a gas boiler or heat pump, read our helpful guide.
