Are Air Source Heat Pumps Any Good?
Yes, air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are a useful solution for providing homes with efficient heating, but are they right for your property? Every home is unique, so whether it will benefit from an ASHP will depend on a few factors. In this helpful guide, we’ll review how they operate, along with the advantages and potential drawbacks of ASHPs, so you can decide whether they’re right for your home.
What is an air source heat pump?
An air source heat pump is a home heating system that takes heat from the air outside, even in cooler temperatures, and uses it to warm your home and hot water. For additional information, check out our blog on ‘How do air source heat pumps work?’
How do air source heat pumps work?
These systems work by pulling in outside air and passing it over a heat exchanger filled with a refrigerant. This refrigerant absorbs heat from the air and turns into a gas. That heat is then transferred into your home’s heating system. This cycle is repeated, providing your home with efficient heating.
Advantages of air source heat pumps
High efficiency
The most notable advantage of an ASHP is their efficiency. They don’t generate heat in the same way a traditional boiler does. They extract heat from the outside air and absorb its warmth using a refrigerant fluid and a compressor. This means ASHPs can deliver more heat energy than the electricity it consumes.
Lower carbon
As we referenced earlier, since heat pumps use less electricity, this results in fewer carbon emissions than traditional gas boilers. This becomes even more beneficial as the UK continues to shift towards cleaner, renewable electricity, helping reduce the overall environmental impact of heating your home.
Lower running costs
Running costs can be lower, especially in well-insulated homes. While electricity is typically more expensive than gas per unit, the high efficiency of a heat pump helps balance this out. Over time, many households see stable or reduced heating bills.
Government grant available
There is financial support available through programmes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which can significantly reduce upfront costs. Along with the long-term savings they can provide, you may be eligible for immediate relief for the upfront costs. Learn more about the ‘Heat Pump Government Grant’ in our helpful blog post.
Long lifespan
A well-maintained ASHP can last 15 to 20 years, even longer with proper maintenance. That is often longer than a traditional boiler, making it an excellent investment in your home’s long-term energy bills.
Potential drawbacks of air source heat pumps
Not suitable for every home
Heat pumps work best in homes with good insulation and enough space for the system. Older or poorly insulated properties may need upgrades before a heat pump can perform at its most efficient.
Suitable outdoor space is required
An air source heat pump requires an external unit to capture heat from the air. It is important to have enough space for this, but in most cases it does not take up a large area. The unit is typically compact and can be positioned against a wall or in a garden, as long as there is sufficient airflow around it.
Are heat pumps efficient in the UK climate?
Yes. One of the reasons heat pumps are so widely heralded is their ability to work effectively in colder climates like the UK. Their advanced design allows them to extract heat from the air even when temperatures are close to freezing. While efficiency can dip slightly in very cold conditions, a well-maintained system will still provide reliable heating throughout the winter months.
Are air source heat pumps suitable for your home?
Overall, air source heat pumps are advantageous for everything from newer builds to social housing. It’s important to assess the size of your property, how well insulated it is and whether you have suitable outdoor space for the unit. In some homes, small upgrades, such as insulation and double glazing, may be recommended to get the best results.
They can be less effective in poorly insulated homes or where space is limited, but with the right setup, most properties can still benefit from their efficiency and steady heating.
FAQs: Air source heat pumps explained
Are air source heat pumps expensive to run?
No. While overall performance depends on how well insulated a property is, air source heat pumps can still heat your home efficiently and are often a cost-effective alternative to traditional boilers.
Do air source heat pumps work in winter in the UK?
Yes, they are designed to still perform efficiently even during UK winters. Performance remains reliable when systems are properly specified and professionally installed.
How much does an air source heat pump cost in the UK?
This varies depending on the size of your home, the type of system and whether any upgrades are needed, such as new radiators or insulation. The complexity of installation may also affect the overall cost. On average, you can expect to pay between £7,000 and £13,000, but with long term energy savings and available government grants, there are ways to make the overall cost more manageable.
Are air source heat pumps noisy?
No, an air source heat pump produces the same amount of noise as most modern air conditioning units. For a clear understanding of how much noise they generate, read our guide on ‘Are air source heat pumps noisy?’
Will I need new radiators for a heat pump?
This will depend on the size of the radiators. Not every home needs a full replacement but it’s important to consult with professionals beforehand.
So, are heat pumps any good?
Now that you have gained a better understanding of the advantages and drawbacks of air source heat pumps, you can decide whether they’re right for your home. At Intergas, our focus is on helping homeowners make confident, informed decisions. If you have any enquiries, fill out our contact form, call us on 01527 888000 or email us at info@intergas-heating.co.uk.
