What is an Air Source Heat Pump?

Benefits of Air Source Heat Pumps

Reduce your carbon footprint

Heating contributes around 31% of a household’s carbon emissions, making it a significant area to target for reducing your carbon footprint. Air source heat pumps provide an eco-friendly alternative to traditional heating systems, as they emit less carbon and are more efficient, offering a cleaner, more sustainable solution for home heating.

When compared to a new A-rated oil boiler, air source heat pumps can reduce carbon emissions by 2,900kg per year, and when compared to an older oil boiler, they can save as much as 4,400kg of carbon annually.

Cost savings

Air source heat pumps tend to be more efficient than traditional heating systems like gas and oil boilers – however the extent of your savings will vary based on the system you are replacing. In fact, a heat pump could save £261 per year in energy costs compared to a gas boiler.

Comfort

Air source heat pumps are excellent for keeping your home at an ideal climate. Unlike traditional systems that cause temperature swings, heat pumps provide a steady, even warmth throughout your space. This means no sudden blasts of hot air—just consistent, gentle heat that spreads evenly. Plus, their “low and slow” approach won’t dry out the air like other heating systems often do.

Factors to Consider Before Installing an Air Source Heat Pump

Space

One of the key factors to consider before installing an air source heat pump is the amount of space required for the outdoor unit. The unit needs to be placed in an area with good airflow around it to efficiently extract heat from the air. It’s also important that the outdoor unit isn’t obstructed by walls or plants, as this could impact performance. Additionally, indoor space for the heat pump’s components and potential insulation upgrades may also need to be factored into your plans.

Energy efficiency

Air source heat pumps are highly energy-efficient, but their performance is influenced by the climate and the thermal insulation of your home. If your home is poorly insulated, a heat pump may not be as effective, and additional insulation measures could be necessary. The Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP) rating is a useful metric when evaluating heat pumps, as it indicates how efficient the system will be over the course of a year. The higher the SCOP rating, the more efficient the system.

Upfront costs

While air source heat pumps can lead to long-term savings, the upfront costs can be significant. Installation can range from £7,000 to £15,000 depending on the size of your property and the specific system you choose. However, government grants and incentives, like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, can offset a large portion of these costs. It’s essential to weigh the initial investment against the long-term savings and benefits, especially when switching from traditional heating systems.

Air Source Heat Pump Funding

In recent years, addressing climate change has become a key political issue, leading to a surge in green legislation and funding.

For those interested in renewable technologies, this shift means significant incentives, such as smart export guarantees for solar and laws requiring 80% of new car sales to be zero-emission by 2030. Most notably, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) also offers up to £7,500 towards air source heat pump installations.

As of 21 September 2023, property owners can apply for the £7,500 BUS grant to cover the cost of air source heat pumps. Fortunately, reputable installers will handle the application process for you, deducting the amount directly from your bill.

Conclusion

Air source heat pumps offer a sustainable, cost-effective, and comfortable alternative to traditional heating systems. By reducing your carbon footprint and potentially saving on energy bills, they are an attractive option for environmentally conscious homeowners. While the upfront costs can be high, available funding options like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme can make the switch more affordable. With careful planning, an air source heat pump could be the key to a greener, more energy-efficient home.