Is an Air Source Heating System Suitable for my Home?

Investors and environmental scientists often search for greener ways to generate energy. Though manufacturers are working on making boilers more energy efficient – they are no longer classed as the best way to run a heating system. An air source heat pump is a renewable, environmentally-friendly solution to cutting home heating costs, limiting maintenance, and enhancing performance.

If you are searching for a safer, more efficient solution to heating, air source heat pumps for cold climates could be the answer.

Is an Air Source Pump Right for You?

Air source heat pumps can provide hot water and heat to property owners. Although these systems run on electricity, they are highly efficient. In fact, many air source heating pumps have efficiency ratings of 300%. That means for every 1 unit of electricity used, the pump produces 3 units of heat. If you compare this to a boiler, which usually provides 90% efficiency, you can see why air source pumps are so popular.

An Air source pump is perfect for anyone who wants to lower their heating bills and give something back to the environment. Better still, individuals that install heat pumps can benefit from access to the Renewable Heat Incentive, which pays for each unit of heat produced.

Air Source Heat Pumps for Cold Climates

Since an air source heat pump works by absorbing heat from the air, many property owners feel unsure about whether these solutions are right for the UK climate. However, an air source pump can extract heat from temperatures as low as -15° C.

With that in mind, it is important to insulate any property that uses a heat pump thoroughly, as these systems work best in draught-free homes. It is recommended that property owners ensure:

  • Their lofts are insulated to an adequate depth;
  • Cavity insulation is installed wherever possible;
  • Draught excluders are used on doors, windows, and letterboxes;
  • Windows are equipped with double glazing.

Suitability of Air Source Pumps

Whether you’re looking at air source heat pumps for cold climates, or you simply want to ensure that a heat pump is suitable for your needs, the following questions may help. Be sure to ask yourself:

  • Where can the system be placed? An air source pump needs a unit to be fitted outside of your home, against a wall or on the ground. It needs plenty of free space around it to ensure a healthy flow of air. Sun-facing walls are ideal.
  • Has your home been properly insulated? An air source heating system works best when producing heat at a lower temperature than traditional boilers. This means that it’s important for your home to be draught-proof and insulated for efficiency.
  • What kind of heating system will you use? These heating solutions can work well with warm air heating and underfloor heating. They are not always as efficient when used with radiator-based systems.
  • What fuel will you replace? An air source heating system can pay for itself quickly when it’s used to replace an existing coal or electricity service.
  • Can the system be installed into a new development? Often, you can save money on your air source heating system by having the installation combined with other building work in a new structure.

Planning Permission Tip: If an air source system is being implemented into a new home, the developer will need to apply to the relevant authorities before starting work. Prior approval of government bodies is required for the use and external appearance of the heat pump. However, most organisations will be happy to support the use of heat pumps as a renewable and environmentally-friendly energy source.