Our Complete Guide To Air Source Heat Pumps
Considering buying an air source heat pump? If so, it is important that you are fully aware of all of the main aspects of what an air source heat pump is, their cost and how they work to provide your home with heat.
In this blog post, we will provide you with a complete guide to air source heat pumps and everything you may need to make an informed decision about these systems.
What is an Air Source Heat Pump?
Air source heat pumps are a sustainable alternative to traditional heating systems such as gas, electric or oil boilers. Even in cold weather, they extract enough heat from the outside air to efficiently provide heating and hot water for your home.
The main components of an air source heat pump include:
- An outdoor unit with a fan that draws in air from the surroundings.
- An indoor unit.
- A refrigerant that circulates between the two units.
How Do They Work?
Air source heat pumps operate by extracting heat from the outside air, even in colder temperatures, using a refrigerant system. This heat is then compressed to a higher temperature and transferred to the home's heating system.
The extracted heat can be used to provide warmth through various heating systems, including radiators, underfloor heating, and hot water storage tanks. This versatility allows homeowners to choose the most suitable heating distribution method for their home.
What Are the Benefits of an Air Source Heat Pump?
These heat pumps have become very popular in recent years and for good reason, they provide a great number of unique advantages that make them worth the investment. Here are some of the benefits of air source heat pumps:
- Energy Efficiency: Air source heat pumps are highly efficient, often delivering more energy than the electricity they consume, sometimes up to 500% efficient.
- Lower Carbon Footprint: As a renewable energy source, they reduce your home's reliance on fossil fuels.
- Cost Savings: With proper installation, they can significantly lower your energy bills over time.
- Eligibility for Grants: In some regions, you may qualify for government incentives to offset installation costs. The government's “Boiler Upgrade Scheme” currently offers home owners a grant of £7500 towards Air Source Heat Pump installations, helping home owners to move away from fossil fuel heating.
How Much Do They Cost?
The cost of an air source heat pump varies depending on factors like the system's size, brand, and the complexity of the installation. On average, you can expect to pay between £2,400 up to £15,000, including installation.
While this upfront investment may seem high, the long-term energy savings and potential grants can make it worthwhile. There are plenty more cost factors that you must consider when looking to buy an air source heat pump, you can learn more about these in our blog post.
Are There Different Types of Air Source Heat Pumps?
Yes, air source heat pumps come in several types, each designed for specific applications and heating needs. Understanding the differences can help you choose the best option for your property. The three types are as follows:
Air to Water
Air-to-water heat pumps transfer heat from the air to your home's water-based heating system. They are ideal for underfloor heating or large radiators, providing efficient heating and hot water.
Air to Air
Air-to-air heat pumps use warm air to heat your home directly, making them a great option for properties without existing water-based systems. They can also provide cooling in the summer, offering year-round climate control.
Hybrid
Hybrid air source heat pumps combine a traditional boiler with a heat pump. This system automatically switches between the two, ensuring optimal efficiency and comfort while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Key Takeaways
- - Air source heat pumps efficiently extract heat from outside air to provide heating and hot water, even in cold weather.
- - They use a refrigerant system to transfer and compress heat, operating like a refrigerator in reverse to warm your home.
- - Key benefits include energy efficiency, low carbon footprint, potential energy bill savings, and eligibility for government grants.
- - Installation costs range from £2,400 to £15,000, but long-term savings and grants can help offset the initial investment.
- - Options include air-to-water (for radiators and underfloor heating), air-to-air (for direct air heating and cooling), and hybrid systems (combining a boiler with a heat pump).
Get in Touch Today!
Our team of expert heat pump installers has been able to help plenty of people in the Merseyside area with our services. If you are interested in having air source heat pumps installed, get in touch with the Liverpool Heating team today!