An Air source heat pump is used to heat rooms and water. Its working procedure is very simple. The pump takes heat from the air outside and uses it to warm your home. You can use these heat pumps all year long.
Let us check all the basic details of the Air source heat pump here from its types to installation procedure and benefits. This will surely help you choose the right pump.
Types of Air Source Heat Pumps
There are two major kinds of these pumps air-to-air, and air-to-water.
The working procedures of both are almost similar. But air-to-water heat pumps are better for all your home’s heating needs. This is because they can heat both rooms and water. On the opposite side, aerial heat taps can warm your rooms.
Air-to-Water Heat Pumps
Air-to-water heat siphons need a wet-heating framework to work. This sort of framework is used in the majority of homes in the UK.
- These are highly efficient pumps. With the help of this framework, the water moves through radiators or underfloor heating to heat the space.
- One big advantage of these heat pumps is that you only need one system for both heating your rooms and your water.
- If you only need space heating, an air-to-air heat pump might be a better choice.
The foundation cost of the air-source heat pump is more than an elevated heat pump.
Air-to-air Heat Pump
These heat pumps are utilized to warm your rooms. They are not used to hot water. These systems are known for their dual functionality.
- Instead of using a wet system, they blow hot air into your home using fans. This helps in warming up the space directly.
- They also can cool your home.
The primary advantage of aerial heat pumps is that they are more reasonable to introduce.
Air Source Heat pumps: Upsides and Downsides.
Benefits
- Saves Money: Air-source heat pumps can lower your energy bills by reducing heating costs. They use electricity, but the heat comes from outside air.
- Heating and Cooling: These pumps can both heat and cool your home. So, you don’t need separate systems for each. This saves on installation and maintenance costs.
- Space and Water Heating: Air-to-water heat pumps can heat your rooms and your water. Assuming you just have to warm rooms, aerial heat pumps are a choice. Certain individuals favor the condensing boiler to warm water. So, you choose what suits you best.
- Eco-Friendly: These systems produce less carbon than boilers that burn fossil fuels. Likewise, they use power efficiently and create up to four times the energy they consume.
- No Fuel Needed: You don’t have to buy or store fuel. The system utilizes the heat from the air which is accessible and available free of cost.
- Low Maintenance: Other than a yearly service, these pumps don’t need much maintenance. Just check for wear and tear occasionally.
- Quick Installation: Some models can be installed in about two days. They don’t require major digging like ground source heat pumps.
- Eligible for Grants: Installing an air source heat pumpcan be expensive. But you might get financial help through schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. You can check for things like the Eco 4 grant.
- Works Year-Round: These pumps are effective in both cold and warm weatherSubsequently, they give warming and cooling consistently.
- Long-Lasting: They can last up to 25 years. Most users see around 20 years of use.
Disadvantages
- Less Efficient in Freezing Temperatures: They are less efficient when it’s below 0°C outside. This implies they utilize more energy to create a similar amount of heat. But your home will still stay warm.
- High Upfront Costs: The initial cost can be high. However, you can save money over time. Some grants can help with the cost.
- May Need Upgrades: To get the best performance, you might need to upgrade your heating system. You may have to add underfloor heating or bigger radiators. This can add to the cost. But can save money in the long run.
- Better in Well-Insulated Homes: They work best in homes with good insulation. Older homes with poor insulation may not see as much benefit.
- Some Noise: The fans can make some noise, more than a traditional boiler or air conditioner. You should think about it.
Expenses of an Air-Source Heat Pump
- An air-source heat pump can cost a lot of money. But it is usually about half the price of a ground-source heat pump. The last expense relies upon a few variables:
- Pump Size: The size of the heat pump you need will depend on your home’s size and heating needs.
- Pump Type: The cost can differ based on whether you choose an air-to-water or air-to-air pump.
- Installation Complexity: How easy or hard it is to install depends on your home’s design and layout.
- Home Upgrades: Additional costs may come from upgrades like new radiators or better insulation.
Is an Air Source Heat Pump Proper for You?
Air source heat pumps can be perfect. But they’re not for everyone. Here are signs you might benefit from one:
- Old Heating System: Your current system is unreliable or outdated.
- Save Money: You want to lower your heating bills.
- Eco-Friendly: You want to reduce your carbon footprint.
- Space for Installation: You have some outdoor space for the pump.
- Good Home Setup: Your home has a wet heating system and is well-insulated. Or you are willing to make upgrades.
Contact a specialist to help you find the best decision for your necessities. Our team at Eco4 Energy Support can help you in this regard.
Conclusion
Air-source heat pumps are an effective option in contrast to conventional heating. The initial cost and possible home upgrades might seem high. But grants and long-term savings make them worth considering. Get in touch with us now for more details about these pumps.
