What Are Air Source Heat Pumps?
Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are an energy-efficient heating system that can help cut your energy bills in half. They extract heat from the outside air and transfer it inside your home to provide warmth. They work all year round, providing heating in the winter and some also cooling in the summer.
ASHPs come in two types.
Air-to-air and air-to-water. Air-to-air systems distribute heat via a fan system, while air-to-water systems use water-filled pipes to distribute heat to radiators or underfloor heating systems.
How Does an Air Source Heat Pump Work?
ASHPs work by absorbing heat from the outside air and transferring it inside your home. They use a refrigerant that circulates between outdoor and indoor units. The outdoor unit contains a compressor, compressing the refrigerant and increasing its temperature. The refrigerant is then sent to the indoor unit, which expands and cools, releasing heat into your home.
To work effectively, an ASHP needs to be installed in a well-insulated property with good air-tightness. It also needs to be correctly sized for the property to ensure it can provide adequate heating or cooling.
The Benefits of Air Source Heat Pumps
There are several benefits to installing an ASHP in your home:
Reduced Energy Bills
ASHPs are highly energy-efficient and can reduce your energy bills by up to 50% compared to traditional heating systems such as oil boilers. This is because they use renewable energy from the outside air, which is free and abundant.
Lower Carbon Emissions
ASHPs are low-carbon heating system that produces fewer carbon emissions than traditional heating systems. This is because they use renewable energy rather than fossil fuels.
Versatile
ASHPs can provide both heating and cooling, making them a versatile option for year-round comfort. They can also be used with other heating systems, such as solar panels, to reduce energy bills.
Low Maintenance
ASHPs require little maintenance and have a long lifespan. They don’t have any moving parts, meaning fewer components to break down or wear out.
Eligible for Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI)
Homeowners who install an ASHP are eligible for the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI). This is a government scheme that pays homeowners for the renewable heat they generate. This can help offset the initial cost of installation and provide ongoing savings.
The Costs of Air Source Heat Pumps
The initial cost of installing an ASHP can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the property and the type of system required. However, the cost is generally higher than traditional heating systems such as gas boilers.
It’s worth noting that while the initial installation cost may be higher, the long-term savings from reduced energy bills and the RHI scheme can offset this cost over time. Additionally, many ASHPs come with a warranty of up to 10 years, which can provide peace of mind and further reduce costs.
Is an Air Source Heat Pump Right for Your Home?
If you’re looking to reduce your energy bills and lower your carbon footprint, an air source heat pump (ASHP) may be the right choice for your home. However, before making a decision, it’s important to consider several factors to determine if an ASHP is a right fit for your home.
Location and Climate
ASHPs work best in locations with mild to moderate climates. They extract heat from the outside air and use it to heat your home, so if you live in an extremely cold environment, an ASHP may not be able to provide enough heat during the coldest months of the year.
However, modern ASHPs are designed to operate effectively in temperatures as low as -15°C, so even in colder climates, they can still provide some heating.
Insulation and Air-Tightness
To ensure that an ASHP operates effectively, your home needs to be well-insulated and air-tight. This means that heat will not escape from your home and that the ASHP can provide adequate heating or cooling without overworking. If your home is poorly insulated or draughty, you may need to invest in insulation upgrades before installing an ASHP.
Property Size
The size of your property will also affect the suitability of an ASHP. Larger properties may require a more powerful ASHP, which can increase the cost of installation. However, if your property is well-insulated and air-tight, you may be able to install a smaller ASHP and still achieve effective heating.
Current Heating System
If you’re considering an ASHP, it’s essential to consider your current heating system. Air source heat pumps work best in properties not connected to the gas grid or relying on oil or electric heating. If you currently have a gas boiler, consider a hybrid system that combines an ASHP with your existing boiler to maximise your energy savings.
Invest in an Air Source Heat Pump System Today!
Air source heat pumps are an energy-efficient and low-carbon heating system that can help cut your heating bills in half. They provide year-round comfort and require little maintenance, making them a versatile and cost-effective option for homeowners.
While the initial cost of installation may be higher than traditional heating systems, the long-term savings and eligibility for the RHI scheme make ASHPs a smart investment for any homeowner looking to reduce their carbon footprint and energy bills. Contact the Edinburgh Boiler Company for a free quote for your air source heat pump installation today!
