Question 1

What is an air source heat pump?

Accepted Answer

An air source heat pump (ASHP) is a system that extracts heat from the outside air (even in cold weather) and transfers it indoors to provide heating and hot water.

Question 2

How does an air source heat pump work?

Accepted Answer

It works like a refrigerator in reverse:
1. The pump absorbs heat from the outside air into a refrigerant.
2. The refrigerant is compressed to increase its temperature.
3. The heat is transferred to your home’s heating system (radiators, underfloor heating, or hot water tank).
4. The refrigerant cools and repeats the cycle.

Question 3

Can it work in cold weather?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Modern ASHPs can extract heat from the air at temperatures as low as -15°C to -25°C, although efficiency decreases in very cold conditions.

Question 4

How efficient are air source heat pumps?

Accepted Answer

ASHPs are typically 300–500% efficient (COP 3–5).
 That means for every 1 kWh of electricity used, they produce 3–5 kWh of heat.

Question 5

Is my home suitable for a heat pump?

Accepted Answer

You’ll get the best performance if your home:
 • Is well insulated and draught-proof
 • Has underfloor heating or large radiators
 • Has space outside for the unit with good airflow
Our professional survey can confirm suitability.

Question 6

What’s the difference between air-to-water and air-to-air heat pumps?

Accepted Answer

• Air-to-water: Heats water for radiators, underfloor heating, and hot water.
 • Air-to-air: Heats (and cools) air directly, similar to an air conditioner.

Question 7

How much does an air source heat pump cost?

Accepted Answer

• Installation cost: £7,000–£14,000 (UK average)
 • Running costs: Often cheaper than oil or electric heating, slightly higher than gas (depending on tariffs).
 • Maintenance: Around £150–£250 per year.

Question 8

What are the environmental benefits?

Accepted Answer

• Uses renewable energy from the air.
 • Can cut CO₂ emissions by 40–70% compared to fossil fuel heating.
 • Works well with solar PV to reduce electricity costs further.

Question 9

Can it be combined with solar panels or batteries?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Pairing with solar PV or home batteries can make your system even more energy-efficient and reduce grid dependency.

Question 10

What maintenance does an ASHP need?

Accepted Answer

• Clean filters and outdoor unit (remove leaves/debris)
 • Annual service by a qualified engineer
 • Check refrigerant levels and performance

Question 11

Are there government grants or incentives?

Accepted Answer

In  the UK there are incentives such as:
 • UK: Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) – up to £7,500 grant.

Question 12

Are air source heat pumps noisy?

Accepted Answer

Modern models are relatively quiet (typically 40–60 dB), similar to a refrigerator or quiet conversation. Proper installation reduces noise further.

Question 13

How long do air source heat pumps last?

Accepted Answer

With regular maintenance, the lifespan is typically 15–20 years.

Question 14

Can a heat pump completely replace my boiler?

Accepted Answer

Yes — for most homes. However, in older or poorly insulated properties, you may need supplementary heating or upgraded radiators.

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