Air source heat pumps

Air source heat pumps take heat from the outside air and use it to warm your home and provide domestic hot water. Alongside ground source systems, they are one of the main options for low carbon heating.

If you are weighing up a heat pump for your property, talk to us. We will look at your heat load, the space available and your existing heating system, and advise on the most appropriate solution.

How an air source heat pump works

An air source heat pump works on much the same principle as a refrigerator, but in reverse. A fan draws outside air across a heat exchanger, where a refrigerant absorbs the heat from that air. A compressor then raises that heat to a useful temperature and passes it to your heating system and hot water cylinder.

Because the system moves heat that is already there rather than burning fuel to create it, it can deliver several units of heat for every unit of electricity it uses. The outdoor unit needs a clear, unobstructed flow of air around it, and there is a small amount of fan noise when it is running.

Air source or ground source?

Both technologies work in the same broad way — the difference is where the heat comes from.

• Air source units are generally simpler and quicker to install, as there is no ground loop or borehole and therefore no significant groundworks. They take up little outside space.
• Ground source systems draw heat from the ground, which holds a far more constant temperature through the year. They typically achieve higher efficiencies, particularly in the coldest months when your heating demand is at its highest.

Which technology suits a property depends on the heat load, the ground conditions, the outside space available and the existing heating distribution system. There is no single right answer, and we are happy to talk both options through.

Things to consider

• Heat pumps work best in well insulated properties, so it is worth reviewing insulation first
• They run at lower flow temperatures than a boiler, so they suit underfloor heating or larger radiators
• The outdoor unit needs a suitable position with good air flow around it
• An electricity supply and space for a hot water cylinder will be required
• A heat loss calculation or SAP report is needed to size the system correctly

Talk to us about your project

Every property is different. If you are considering an air source heat pump, please get in touch or call our team on 01600 860 344 and we will discuss the options for your site.