Blog>Expert Advice>Best air source heat pump: Your complete buying guide
Last updated: 27 November 2024
Best air source heat pump: Your complete buying guide
Want to upgrade your heating system with an energy-efficient heat pump? Our guide outlines the best air source heat pumps including benefits, costs and how to book a trusted tradesperson for the job.
If you're looking for a sustainable way to heat your home efficiently and cut your energy bills, an air source heat pump (ASHP) is a great idea
You can also get a grant towards the cost of a heat pump so it's no wonder more and more homeowners are making the switch to this renewable energy system.
Not sure where to start? Help is at hand!
Here you'll discover how to choose the best air source heat pump based on the size of your home, your heating needs and your budget.
We'll also help you find local heat pump installers who will do a professional job.
See the tradespeople we've checked and recommend for your job
What is an air source heat pump
An air source heat pump (ASHP) is a renewable energy system that absorbs heat from the outside air (using a special liquid or refrigerant) and transfers it to your home to provide heating and hot water.
Don't be put off by the cool UK climate, as ASHPs work efficiently even if the temperature is low outdoors. They can extract heat from temperatures as low as -15 degrees C.
There are two main types of ASHPs:
Air-to-water heat pumps: This is the most common model in the UK and works by taking heat from the air outside before transferring it your home's radiators, underfloor heating, or taps
Air-to-air heat pumps: Using a fan system, these pumps absorb warm air from outside and circulate it around your home. They can also be used for cooling but don't heat hot water. So you will still need a separate way to heat the water in your home
Air-to-water heat pumps are a great choice for UK homes.
There are two systems to choose from:
A monobloc system has all the components in one outdoor system with pipes taking water to the central heating system and hot water cylinder inside your property
A split system has components both inside and outside your home
Monobloc systems are cheaper and quicker to install and take up less space inside your home. However, they are considered less efficient than split systems.
Not only are air-to-water heat pumps a sustainable way of generating heating and hot water on demand, they are also supported by the government's Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
Depending on where you live, you may be eligible for a grant of up to £7,500 to help you switch from a gas boiler to a 'greener' air-to-water heat pump.
Find out more information about the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and how to apply.
Planning for an air source heat pump
Find out all you need to know when planning for an air source heat pump in your home.
Benefits of an air source heat pump
You'll get several benefits when you install an air source heat pump.
Here are some of the main ones:
Energy efficient heating solution: ASHPs are typically 200 - 400% efficient, meaning they produce far more energy than they consume
Lower carbon footprint: Heat pumps are a low-carbon heating system so your emissions are lower than if you were using a gas or oil boiler
Save you money: Replacing an older G-rated gas boiler with a heat pump can save you around £290 per year on your energy bills. Upgrading from old electric storage heaters can save you a whopping £1,200!*
Long lifespan: ASHPs can last up to 25 years if properly installed
Low maintenance: Heat pumps generally require very little maintenance
Comfortable home: Can provide heating and cooling and operate quietly with no on-site emissions
Financial help: Costs for air-to-water pumps may be eligible for a government grant
Increased property value: For all the reasons above, buyers will be more attracted to your home if you wish to sell, potentially leading to a higher sale price
(*Source: Figures taken from Energy Saving Trust and based on fuel prices as of October 2024)
You'll need to find and hire a trusted heat pump installer in your area who will have the technical skills, knowledge and experience to upgrade your home’s heating system safely.
Book a Checkatrade tradesperson by popping your postcode into the search bar below.
See the tradespeople we've checked and recommend for your job
How much does an air source heat pump cost
Air source heat pumps are typically more expensive than many traditional heating systems. But the benefit to the environment and reduction of ongoing energy bills is significant.
Here are some average air source heat pump costs:
On average, the supply and installation of an air source heat pump will cost around £2,000-£20,000
Air-to-wateris the more expensive option, costing an average of £15,000for supply and installation
Air-to-airon the other hand is around £3,000 for supply and installation
To help homeowners invest in green energy solutions, you can apply for a heat pump grant from the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). It's part of the government plans to cut emissions and swap your gas boiler for a low-carbon heat pump.
If successful, you can get up to £7,500 off the cost and installation of an air source heat pump.
Running costs
As well as the initial cost of an ASHP, you'll need to know how much they cost to run. On average, heat pumps cost around £1,540 to run per year*.
However running costs will vary from home to home, so ask your installer if they can give you any more information.
Your running costs will be affected by a number of factors, including:
How efficient the pump is: Look for a heat pump with a high coefficient of performance (COP). A heat pump installer can also calculate the seasonal performance factor (SPF) of a heat pump to show efficiency averaged across the whole year
Your electricity tariff: Higher energy tariffs are more costly
Your home's insulation: Good insulation will reduce heat loss and reduce heating costs because your heat pump needs to work less
Your preferred room temperature: ASHPs are designed to work at a temperature of 50 degrees C, so you'll get lower efficiency and higher running costs if you want higher temperatures
The temperature of where the heat pump is located: You'll get better efficiency if the pump is installed in an area with lots of sunlight and good airflow
(*Source: Energy Saving Trust, figures based on September 2024 energy prices, based on average sized 3 bedroom UK property)
The cost of running an air source heat pump is therefore quite variable. Don't forget to do your calculations for ongoing running costs before committing.
Factors that influence air source heat pump cost
There are some other things that will influence air source heat pump cost, such as:
Type of air pump you install
Air-to-air heat pumps are more cost effective than air-to-water heat pumps but you'll need a separate heat source for hot water.
Radiators
ASHPs work most efficiently at low flow temperatures. That means you might need to increase the size of your radiators to maximise the surface area for heat.
Servicing and maintenance
Air source heat pump servicing typically costs between £150 - £300 and is recommended annually. However, many providers will offer a heat pump service plan, typically between £10 and £20 per month.
Take a look at our guide to heat pump servicing and repair costs for more information.
Installation
The average cost to install an air-to-water heat pump is £8,000.
But the cost of air source heat pump installation is also influenced by:
The size of your property
Whether you live in a new or old property
How much work is needed to adapt your exiting heating system for a heat pump
Air source heat pump costs in the UK [year]
If you’re looking for a clean way to heat your home while saving money on your energy bills, then an air source heat pump could be for you. Keep reading to find out more about the average air source heat pump cost in the UK.
You can get a more reliable quote if you post a job with your specific requirements. We will forward it to heat pump installers in your area and they will send you their quotes.
See the tradespeople we've checked and recommend for your job
Choosing the best air source heat pump for your home
As we've already outlined, there are many factors to consider when buying an ASHP.
When it comes to your own home, look at things like:
Efficiency
Find a heat pump with a high coefficient of performance (COP) to make sure it's efficient and can save you energy. This can depend on outdoor temperature and the size of your radiators.
Size and temperature
The right size heat pump will ensure efficient heating. You will also need to look at the difference between high, medium and low temperature heat pumps to work out what you need.
An experienced heat pump installer in your local area can help,
Noise
The outdoor units of an ASHP can be noisy. So look for a heat pump with a low decibel rating - especially if it's near a bedroom.
For more information, head to our guide: Are air source heat pumps noisy?
Budget
ASHPs are a big investment. Before you commit work out how much you have to spend, whether you will benefit from reduced energy bills and if you're eligible for a government grant.
If you have a large garden or outdoor space a ground source heat pump might be a good option. These tend to be more efficient than air source heat pumps but are considerably more expensive to install.
Check out our blog on the differences between a ground source heat pump and air source heat pump to help you make the best choice for your home.
Do ground and air source heat pumps add value to my house?
Discover how renewable heating systems can add value to your property through this guide.
Hiring a trusted installer
It's essential to hire a professional MCS accredited heat pump installer. They will have the skills and knowledge to upgrade your heating system safely and efficiently.
They can also:
Assess your current heating system and recommend the best heat pump for your home and budget
Find faults, diagnose an issue and repair a heat pump if necessary
Conduct routine servicing and maintenance checks
Ensure all work meets national health and safety regulations
Have knowledge on various brands including Zodiac and Worcester Greensource ASHPs
FAQs
What is the lifespan of an air source heat pump?
Heat pumps are long-lasting, so you shouldn’t have to replace them often. A modern heat pump can have a lifespan of up to 25 years with proper maintenance and repairs.
Are air source heat pumps noisy?
Air source heat pumps aren't overly noisy. The average noise level of an ASHP ranges between 40-60dB, depending on the make and model of the unit you choose. That's similar to the noise of a fridge.
To ensure noise interference is kept to a minimum, you installer will look at the proximity to bedroom windows and neighbouring houses when they recommend the best spot for your air source heat pump.
Current building standards state that your ASHP must only generate 45dB if it's one metre from a neighbour's window.
Can I use an air source heat pump in the winter?
Yes, heat pumps are still efficient in the winter and in cold weather.
Even in temperatures as low as -25°C, ASHPs can still provide enough heat for a home's heating and hot water.
However, heat pumps may not be as efficient in cold weather (below 0°C) as they may have to work harder and use more electricity.
Do I need planning permission for an air source heat pump in the UK?
No, air source heat pumps don’t usually need planning permission. But always check local regulations and run the project by your local council before committing to anything.
How do I know if my home is suitable for an air source heat pump?
You'll need to look at things like heating needs, insulation, your current heating system and the type of property you live in. Also, whether you have space for an outdoor unit.
We recommend reaching out to certified local installers who can assess your property and advise on any changes that might be required.
Ready to upgrade your heating system? Book a trusted air source heat pump installer today with Checkatrade.
See the tradespeople we've checked and recommend for your job
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