An air source heat pump (ASHP) is a type of heat pump that can absorb heat from the outside of a structure and release it inside by the same vapor compression refrigeration process and practically the same equipment as air conditioners, but which is used in the opposite direction. In order to achieve net zero by 2050, the UK government intends to install 19 million heat pumps in new construction. With the increase in the deployment of heat pumps, the UK government's heat pump grants make this renewable energy source even cheaper to operate and reduce the cost burden of the source heat pump. Air source heat pumps have a long service life and, with the proper maintenance, they can work up to 20 years.
What's more, most air source heat pumps have 5-year warranties. With various technological developments, modern heat pumps can work efficiently for about 25 years before they need to be replaced. While air source heat pumps can operate at temperatures as low as -20 °C, they lose efficiency below 0 °C. This is because they rely exclusively on outside air and because the temperature drops, so does the total heat output that the pump can produce.
An air source heat pump is a low-carbon way to heat your home. They absorb latent heat from outside air and use it to increase the temperature inside the house. A heat loss report is an important part of the process of knowing how big you need to go, or even if an air source heat pump is enough. By switching to air source heat pumps, you can lower your energy bills by using outside air for your heating and cooling needs.
An air source heat pump takes heat from the air and raises it to a higher temperature by means of a compressor. Often used in moderate climates, electric air source heat pumps (ASHP) use the difference between outdoor air temperature and indoor air temperature to cool and heat your home. They are more suitable for larger radiators or water underfloor heating because the heat they produce is colder than that of a conventional gas or oil boiler. This type of heating has a lower heat supply compared to oil and gas boilers, so larger radiators may be needed.
For some, it may be useful to think of a ducted ASHP as a central air conditioner that also works in reverse to provide heating throughout the house in winter. With an air source heat pump, you can save money on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint compared to a gas or electric heating system. To reap the full benefits of an air source heat pump, you'll need a well-insulated home to begin with. Well, the good news is that out of all the available renewable energy heating systems you can install in your home, air source pumps are absolutely the most affordable option.
As much as it sounds like something you might find in a Harry Potter movie, the reality of this air-to-water heating system contains intelligent technical engineering. Maintain a constant temperature: Unlike a furnace or boiler, heat pumps don't save energy by turning them off when you're out and about or sleeping. An air source heat pump (ASHP) works by transferring heat absorbed from outside air to an indoor space.
