What Exactly Is an Air Source Heat Pump?

What Are Air Source Heat Pumps and How Do They Work?

Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs) are becoming increasingly popular in the UK, and for good reason! These clever, eco-friendly systems help keep your home warm during the winter and cool in the summer—using the air around you as a sustainable energy source. Let’s dive into how these pumps work, why they’re so efficient, and why they’re becoming a go-to option for eco-conscious homeowners.

What Exactly Is an Air Source Heat Pump?

An Air Source Heat Pump is a type of renewable heating system that extracts warmth from the outside air, even on cold days. It transfers that warmth into your home to heat your space and hot water. ASHPs work much like a refrigerator, but in reverse: rather than removing heat, they take heat from the outdoor air and bring it inside, making them an ideal solution for the chilly UK climate!

How Do Air Source Heat Pumps Work?

Despite sounding high-tech, ASHPs operate on a simple principle:

Absorb Heat from the Air
The ASHP has an outdoor unit with a fan that draws in air. Within this unit, the heat is absorbed by a refrigerant (a special fluid that has a low boiling point, so it can easily change between liquid and gas). Even when it’s chilly outside, there’s enough heat in the air for the refrigerant to absorb.
Compress to Increase Temperature
The refrigerant, now holding the absorbed heat, is compressed by the pump, which increases its temperature. This is where the “magic” happens—the compression process raises the temperature significantly, making it hot enough to heat your home and water.
Transfer the Heat Indoors
The heated refrigerant flows through a heat exchanger, transferring its warmth to your home’s heating and hot water systems. After it transfers the heat, the refrigerant cools down and cycles back outdoors to repeat the process.
Provide Year-Round Comfort
ASHPs aren’t just for winter! In summer, some ASHP models can reverse their process to keep your home cool, working almost like an air conditioner.

Types of Air Source Heat Pumps: Monobloc vs. Split System

ASHPs come in two main types:

Monobloc Systems: A single outdoor unit that’s usually easier to install, making it a popular choice for straightforward installations.
Split Systems: These systems have both an outdoor and an indoor unit. They’re often slightly more efficient but might require more setup.

Each type has its pros and cons, but both offer an efficient, environmentally-friendly way to heat your home.

Why Are Air Source Heat Pumps So Efficient?

One of the biggest benefits of ASHPs is their efficiency. For every unit of electricity they use, they can produce up to three or four units of heat. That’s an efficiency rate of 300-400%, which is far beyond what conventional heating systems like gas or electric heaters can achieve! This efficiency means lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint, aligning with the UK’s push for cleaner, greener home heating.

Benefits of Installing an Air Source Heat Pump

Lower Carbon Emissions
ASHPs generate heat using a renewable resource (the air!), reducing reliance on fossil fuels and helping the UK meet its carbon reduction goals.
Potential Savings on Energy Bills
While ASHPs require electricity to operate, their efficiency can lead to significant energy savings over time—especially if you’re replacing an older, less efficient heating system.
Eligible for Government Grants
There are currently government-backed schemes, like the Energy Company Obligation (ECO), that may cover part or all of the cost of installing an ASHP. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme also offers grants specifically for homeowners wanting to switch to low-carbon heating solutions.
Low Maintenance
Once installed, ASHPs require very little maintenance and can last up to 20 years with minimal upkeep, making them a reliable choice for long-term home heating.
Year-Round Comfort
Some ASHP models can provide cooling in the summer, keeping your home comfortable all year long.

Considerations Before Installing an Air Source Heat Pump

While ASHPs offer many benefits, there are a few things to consider:

Outdoor Space: ASHPs require outdoor space for installation, and the unit will need sufficient airflow to function efficiently.
Upfront Costs: ASHPs can have a higher upfront cost than traditional heating systems, but government grants can help, and the long-term savings can offset the initial investment.
Insulation Matters: For maximum efficiency, it’s best if your home is well-insulated. ASHPs work best in homes that retain heat well, so adding insulation (which we can also help with!) is often recommended.

The Great British Warmup: Your Trusted Partner in Eco-Friendly Heating

At The Great British Warmup, we believe in making renewable heating solutions accessible to everyone. Unlike some companies, we don’t just focus on selling products; we’re here to help you access the government grants available to make ASHPs and other eco-friendly heating solutions affordable. We’re also committed to giving back to the community—each installation we complete contributes to a local charity in your area.

Ready to explore if an Air Source Heat Pump is the right fit for your home? Get in touch with us today, and let’s take a step toward a warmer, greener future together.