Air Source Heat Pumps

Air source heat pumps (ASHP) absorb heat from the outside to heat buildings. It is even possible for air source heat pumps to extract useful heat from air at temperatures as low as minus 15°C.

For every unit of electricity used to power the pump, 3-4 units of heat are produced, making it an efficient way of heating a building.

How much will you save?

How does it work?

In the same way that a fridge uses refrigerant to extract heat from the inside, keeping your food cool, an air source heat pump extracts heat from the outside air, and uses it to heat your home and hot water. An air-source heat pump has three main parts:

* The evaporator coil absorbs heat from the outside air;

* The compressor pumps the refrigerant through the heat pump and compresses the gaseous refrigerant to the temperature needed for the heat distribution circuit;

* The heat exchanger transfers the heat from the refrigerant to air or water.

In an air-to-water system the heat produced is used to heat water, which can be used to pre-heat water in a storage tank or circulate through underfloor heating or radiators. Heat pumps produce hot water that is a lower temperature (typically 35-45°C) than standard boiler systems, which makes underfloor heating the most effective option. In an air-to-air system this heat is used to produce warm air, which is circulated by fans to heat a building.

What options are available?

There are two types of air-source heating systems. Air-to-air systems provide warm air, which is circulated to heat the building. Air-to-water systems heat water to provide heating to a building through radiators or an underfloor system.

How much does it cost?

A typical 5kW domestic system, suitable for a well insulated detached property, costs in the range of £6,000 to £8,000 installed (ex VAT).

Is it suitable for my home?

What to keep in mind when considering an air source heat pump.

* You will need space on an external wall outside your house to fit the evaporator coil.

* An air source heat pump should cover the heating requirements of a well insulated property. Due to the lower temperature compared with traditional boilers, it is essential that your home is insulated and draught proofed. These measures will lower your heat demand and make the system more effective.

* Consider what fuel is being replaced: if it's electricity, oil, Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) or coal, the payback will be more favourable than gas. Heat pumps are a good option where gas is unavailable.

* The type of heat distribution system. Air source heat pumps can be used to heat water that is circulated through radiators but under floor heating is more effective due to the lower temperature of the air/water produced. Air-to-air systems require a ventilation system with fans to circulate the warm air.

* Is the system for a new building development? Combining the installation with other building works can reduce costs.

* If you want to further reduce your home's CO2 emissions you can purchase a green electricity tariff or install solar PV or some other form of renewable electricity generating system to power the compressor and pump.