Heat Pumps

What are Air Source Heat Pumps?

Air source heat pumps are household heat pumps that can absorb heat from air outside to amplify and distribute inside. They do not need planning permission to install and are fully compatible with underfloor heating.  Our underfloor heating systems work perfectly with air source heat pumps, providing air-to-water heat transfer and further adding to your home's energy efficiency. If you're exploring the option of an air source household heat pump for your home or commercial project, our experienced team can assist you in exploring the options available to you.

The Heating Process

Heat is extracted from the atmosphere using a fan, passed through a heat exchanger, and into the system. This heat is then compressed to increase the temperature and supply sufficient heat for your home.

This system is highly rated in terms of efficiency, requiring minimal groundwork or additional upkeep afterwards, making them easy to install and maintain.

What is Better, a Ground or Air Source Heat Pump?

Ground source heat pump installations are more efficient heat sources than air source, especially in cold weather conditions. That said, they are more expensive than air source heat pumps. Both are fully compatible with underfloor heating. Other benefits of air source systems include:

• A lower-carbon way of heating the home, using electricity rather than gas.
• Easy to install and ideal for properties with limited space.
• Operate efficiently in temperatures as low as -15 degrees.
• Are covered under permitted development rights and do not typically need planning permission.
• Long lifespan, often outlasting standard boilers 2-3 times over.

Find out more about the best-rated heat pumps, heat pumps how it works, and heat pump running costs here.

Are Heat Pumps Better Than Boilers?

Heat pumps are more efficient at heating than gas boilers, and are ideal for use with underfloor heating and renewable energy. That said, gas boilers currently have the advantage of cheaper energy prices per kWh used.

In most instances, a heat pump is more effective than a boiler, thought to be around 3 or 4 times more efficient at heating your property. The benefits of a best-rated heat pump include:

• More efficient in their use of electricity compared to boilers are in their use of gas
• They are much lower in CO2 emissions than gas boilers
• Low maintenance after installation
• Safe to operate
• They are very quiet – you probably won’t even hear them running

Is a Heat Pump Good for Underfloor Heating?

Yes! A heat pumps installation works very well with underfloor heating. It can heat water to the optimal temperatures underfloor heating needs to function efficiently. In general, household heat pumps work better with underfloor heating than radiators.

To find out more about heat pump installations, check out the Energy Zone website or our blog here.

Where Should a Heat Pump be Installed?

A heat pump installation is best done at the back or secured side of a property at ground level for easy access. You should avoid placing the heat pump's outdoor unit near vegetation or places of poor airflow. If your area is at risk of flooding or heavy snowfall, the pump should be installed above ground level to prevent water and ice from damaging or disrupting the unit.

While air source heat pumps are very quiet, generating sound similar to fridges, some may find the sound bothersome. It is best to avoid placing them directly underneath bedroom windows or too close to a neighbour's property.