Common Air Source Heat Pump FAQs by Edinburgh Residents

An air source heat pump uses cutting-edge technology far more efficiently than a gas or oil boiler and other traditional heating systems. During operation, the unit takes ambient-temperature air from its surroundings, using a refrigerant to deliver heat throughout your home.

An air source heat pump uses electricity to compress refrigerant, thus increasing its temperature. Then, it condenses the refrigerant and slowly releases it as heat energy. The heat pump system sends the hot water through your underfloor heating system or radiators to keep your home nice and warm. Generally speaking, it’s the same technology as a refrigerator – just in reverse, so you get hot water and air instead of cold. It’s surprisingly efficient and makes an excellent long-term investment, especially for your heating bills. 

Heat Pumps extract heat energy from an external source (air, water, ground or bedrock) and convert this free, natural, renewable energy into heating for your home. The principles involved are the same as in a domestic fridge: fridges absorb heat from inside the fridge and expel it into your kitchen; Heat Pumps absorb heat from the source and bring it into your home.

Essentially, an air source and a ground source heat pump utilise the same technology. However, there’s one major difference. Ground source pumps take heat from the ground through an underground pipe system, whereas air source heat pumps extract it from the surrounding air.

Choosing between a ground source and an air source heat pump involves a few different factors, including what you want for your home, the size of your property, and the project scope.

Don’t worry; we’ll make the installation process fast, affordable, and hassle-free. As a rule, air source heat pumps usually cost less than ground source units.

Yes it will. Thousands of these systems have been installed for many years in some of the coldest parts of the world.

Heat Pump technology was primarily developed in Sweden where the winters are long and harsh so heat pump systems can most definitely cope with British winters, which are relatively mild in comparison. The key to their success is the detailed design and specification process that ensures the system can produce enough energy for the application.

Both types of Heat Pump systems work in a similar method to refrigerators, except in reverse.  Air Source Heat Pumps can extract heat from the air even when temperatures are as low at -15 degrees centigrade. The ground stays at a relatively constant temperature throughout the year so Ground Source Heat Pumps are capable of working all year round.

To provide cooling, Heat Pumps can be reversed, extracting heat from the home and releasing it outside. If you have an Air-to-Air Heat Pump installed, Heat Pump cooling systems work similarly to air conditioning units. In the UK the default setting on a reversible Heat Pump would be heating. Reversible heat pump systems are designed to work adequately in both modes, however the efficiency is typically slightly less than two separately optimised pumps. If you are looking for an Air-to-Water Heat Pump system it would be necessary to install a fan unit inside your home to circulate cold air within the building.

Only some models of heat pumps can act as both heating and cooling units, so if you have this requirement please do let us know in your enquiry so that the right solution can be designed and installed for you.

No, they hum like a large refrigerator. The units we supply have had many years of research and development to minimise any noise.

GSHPs are quieter than ASHPs. This is because they have no need for a fan and there is a reduced compressor power capacity requirement because heat extracted from the ground is generally warmer than that from the air.

ASHP noise is only generated when it is in operation and has been compared to anything from a modern washing machine on a spin cycle to a chest freezer. Any noise generated will largely be minimised by double glazing.

Many customers ask us whether they’re better off with a traditional boiler or an air source heat pump installation.

While the ultimate decision is up to you, here are the advantages of having a heat pump installed over a conventional boiler:

• Long life span and heating system warranty
• Strong heat output
• Higher energy efficiency
• Fewer carbon emissions
• Renewable heat incentive scheme available
• Fast installation process

Another great benefit of choosing an air source heat pump is the minimal noise. Most are only about as loud as a large refrigerator. Ground source units are usually quieter than air source pumps, although they only make noise when they’re running. 

• A 2–3 bedroom home usually costs around £8,000–£10,000.
• Additional upgrades, such as improved insulation or hot water cylinders, may add to costs.
• The Scottish Government currently offers generous funding through the Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan Scheme, which can reduce upfront costs significantly.

• The system compresses the captured air to raise its temperature.
• The heat is transferred into your home’s central heating system, such as radiators or underfloor heating.
• It can also provide hot water through a compatible cylinder.

• Heat pumps are 3–4 times more efficient than traditional boilers.
• Well-insulated homes maximise savings, as less energy is wasted.
• Pairing a heat pump with solar panels can further reduce running costs.

• Efficiency is measured as the Coefficient of Performance (COP).
• Performance is higher in mild weather but remains strong even in winter.
• A well-designed system can significantly reduce energy costs.

• Compressors and key components are built to last for decades.
• Annual servicing helps ensure efficiency and prevent issues.
• Many manufacturers offer warranties of up to 7 years, with extended cover available.

• Performance is slightly reduced in extreme cold, but efficiency remains high.
• Proper system design ensures consistent comfort throughout the year.
• Backup heating is rarely required with a correctly sized installation.

• Grants of up to £7,500 are available for air source heat pumps.
• Rural households can claim up to £9,000.
• Interest-free loans are also available to cover remaining costs.

• Exceptions may apply in conservation areas or listed buildings.
• The unit must meet noise and placement regulations.
• Ground-mounted systems may have different requirements.

• Noise levels depend on the model and location.
• Proper positioning minimises any impact.
• Indoors, the system is virtually silent.

• Outdoor unit dimensions: typically 1m x 1m.
• Indoor space needed for water storage and controls.
• Must have good airflow around the unit for efficiency.

• Outdoor unit is installed first.
• Indoor hot water cylinder and controls are then connected.
• Final testing ensures the system runs smoothly.

• Annual servicing is recommended.
• Homeowners can clean filters and check outdoor units for debris.
• Professional inspections ensure optimal performance.

• Suitable for small and large properties.
• Works with radiators and underfloor heating.
• System design ensures year-round comfort.

• Large surface area heating (like underfloor) is most efficient.
• Standard radiators may need to be upsized for lower flow temperatures.
• Systems are flexible and compatible with most central heating setups.

• Boilers are up to 90% efficient, while heat pumps reach 300–400%.
• Heat pumps use electricity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
• Running costs can be lower, especially in well-insulated homes.

• Higher savings in larger homes.
• Pairing with solar panels speeds up payback.
• Grants reduce upfront investment.

• Renewable heating increases property appeal.
• Buyers value reduced running costs.
• Eco-friendly features are increasingly in demand.

• Solar provides free electricity to run the heat pump.
• Excess energy can be stored in batteries.
• Together, they create a near self-sufficient system.

• Heat pumps work best in well-insulated homes.
• Upgrades may include double glazing or loft insulation.
• Even older properties can benefit from renewable heating.

• Covers key components like the compressor.
• Annual servicing is usually required to maintain warranty.
• Hot water cylinders and controls may have separate cover.

• Ideal for compact, well-insulated homes.
• Outdoor unit must have proper airflow.
• Shared systems may be suitable for blocks of flats.

• Reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 60% compared to gas boilers.
• Support the UK’s net-zero carbon targets.
• Improve your home’s EPC rating.

• Supplies reliable hot water year-round.
• Works alongside central heating for full coverage.
• Cylinder size depends on household demand.

• Monthly repayment plans make heat pumps affordable.
• Savings on bills can offset repayments.
• Grants reduce upfront cost before financing.

• MCS certification ensures quality.
• Local expertise helps with Scottish climate conditions.
• Positive reviews prove customer satisfaction.