Comprehensive Guide to Air Source Heat Pumps in 2024

• An air source heat pump extracts heat from the outside air and transfers it to the inside to provide heating and hot water and acts in reverse for cooling purposes.
• On average, installing an air source heat pump costs around £8,750 to £14,050. Once installed, the running costs of the heat pump can be expected to reach a certain amount per year. However, heat pumps can reduce your heating bills by 10% to 40%.
• With the most recent update of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, you can save £7,500 on air source heat pump installation. 

By reading our article onair source heat pumps in the UK, you can gain valuable insights into their installation and running costs, and their energy-saving potential. Additionally, you can learn about the pros and cons of air source heat pumps, such as reducing carbon emissions and overall improved energy efficiency.

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What are air source heat pumps?

Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are a low-carbon technology that provides efficient heating and cooling solutions for homes in any climate.

Still, the question remains: How do air source heat pumps work? Well, air source heat pumps (ASHPs) transfer heat from the outside air using electricity to provide both heating and hot water in some models (air to water heat pumps) during the winter. However, they can reverse this process to offer cooling in the summer.

While generally considered environmentally friendly, their efficiency can decrease in very cold climates, and some models cannot directly heat hot water (air to air heat pumps).

Installing an ASHP can lead to lower utility bills and increased energy efficiency compared to conventional heating technologies. They can save you up to £340 annually compared to an old G-rated gas boiler.

Additionally, ASHPs are eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which provides grants of up to £7,500 for those who meet the eligibility criteria. This scheme was launched by the UK government in May 2022 to encourage and support homeowners in England and Wales to afford the upfront costs of installing low-carbon heating systems.

Below, we offer an in-depth analysis of how air source heat pumps work.

How do air source heat pumps work?

Air source heat pumps work by absorbing heat from the outside air using refrigerant gas, which flows at -28°c to extract the heat from the air outside. The heat is then compressed and transferred to your heating system via a heat exchanger.

In cooling mode, the process is reversed to provide cooling. These pumps are highly efficient and capable of extracting heat even in sub-freezing temperatures, making them suitable for cold climates.

In the case of air to water heat pumps, for instance, heat is extracted from the outside air, following a similar process as described above, but transferring the heat from the outside air to water. This warm water travels through your home’s piping system, heating your home via radiators or underfloor heating.

Therefore, air source heat pumps effectively harness heat from the external environment which makes them a favourable choice for residences in colder regions, such as the UK.

What are the pros and cons of an ASHP?

There are many pros and cons to domestic air source heat pumps in the UK, and it’s important to be aware of them before investing:

Air source heat pump benefits:

• Low carbon footprint: ASHPs use outside air to heat or cool homes with high efficiency, using 1 unit of electricity for 3-4 units of heat.
• Save money on energy bills: Switching to air source heat pumps can reduce your annual fuel bill by as much as £1,100, with larger savings for those switching from electric, coal, or LPG systems.
• Eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme: You may be eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme which provides grants of up to £7,500 until April 2028.
• Can be used for heating and cooling: ASHPs can provide heating in winter and cooling in summer, depending on the model.
• Can be used for space heating and hot water: ASHPs can heat water and spaces, with flow temperatures of 55°C for hot water and 35°C for space heating.
• High Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP): ASHPs can boast efficiency ratings of up to 400% with a COP of 4.
• Easy installation process: ASHPs can be installed in 2 days, without digging like ground source heat pumps, suitable for retrofits and new builds.
• Low maintenance: ASHPs require annual servicing by a qualified heating engineer, with occasional filter cleaning and leak checks by the homeowner.
• Long lifespan: ASHPs can operate for up to 20 years with proper maintenance, and most have 5-year warranties.
• No fuel storage: ASHPs run on electricity, eliminating the need for fuel deliveries like biomass or oil-fired boilers.

Air source heat pump disadvantages:

• Lower heat output: ASHPs produce less heat than oil or gas boilers, requiring larger radiators for the same space heating.
• Well-insulated home: ASHPs need a well-insulated home to work effectively.
• Lower efficiency below 0°C: ASHPs lose efficiency below 0°C due to outside air, with heat output decreasing as temperature drops.
• Lower savings with cheap mains gas: ASHPs may not offer significant savings if mains gas is cheap, but the UK is shifting towards heat pumps, and incentives will increase.
• Noisy operation: ASHPs can be somewhat noisy, comparable to an air conditioner or light to heavy rain.

What types of air source heat pumps are there?

There are two types of air source heat pumps. The main distinction between the two is how they distribute their heat: through air or water.

Air to air heat pumps

Air to air heat pumps absorb heat from the outside air and transfer it directly into your home usually via a ventilation fan system. Moreover, on average, they have a price range of between £2,400 – £8,800, including supply and installation costs, potentially breaking even in 6–12 years.

These heat pumps use significantly less energy than conventional heating systems and can switch from heating to cooling, acting as an air conditioner in summer and a heating source in winter. They are sustainable, efficient, and affordable, with a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, making them more affordable than air to water heat pump counterparts.

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Air to water heat pumps

Air to water heat pumps, on the other hand, differ from air to air heat pumps in that they take heat from the outside air and transfer it to a wet central heating system, normally through radiators or underfloor heating. The heat they produce can be used for both central heating and domestic hot water if combined with a hot water storage tank.

On average, an air to water heat pump, including installation, costs between £8,750–£14,050 with projected running costs of £717.93–£1,380.67 for a 3-bedroom house with a COP of 4. Typically, these heat pumps can pay for themselves in 5–10 years.

While it is true that air to water heat pumps are pricier than their air to air counterparts, they are known for exceptional efficiency (up to 400% under optimal conditions), they last 10–15 years, offering central heating, underfloor heating, and hot water without a separate system. While air to air pumps excel in cooling and cost-effectiveness, air to water pumps provide a more comprehensive heating solution.

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In addition, hybrid heat pumps are ideal for homeowners with high heating demands, as they combine both a heat pump and a boiler for heating and cooling, switching between them based on the season and temperature. To determine the best air source heat pump for your home, it is best to seek an assessment and quote from a heating engineer.

Finding a trustworthy heat pump expert on your own can drag on for days. It’s much easier to find one with our help. Simply fill out a 30-second form, and we’ll connect you with up to 4 vetted heat pump installers. You can then compare their quotes with no obligation, making the process quick and easy. Click below to get started!

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Air source heat pump efficiency

According to the latest data air source heat pumps are 300% efficient, with air to water heat pumps being 200% to 400% on average and air to air heat pumps being 300% efficient.

What is the cost of air source heat pumps?

ASHP prices range between £2,400 – £21,550, including installation. Air to air heat pumps will cost you around £2,400 – £8,800 and air to water heat pumps cost anywhere between £8,750 – £14,050.

Air source heat pump costs are 50% cheaper than the cost of ground source heat pumps. This wide range in price is because the air source heat pump installation complexity varies and there are different types of air source heat pumps, brands, sizes, and performance efficiencies that all determine the price.

Air source heat pump average costASHP system typeAverage priceAvg yearly savingsAir to water heat pump£8,750 – £14,050£45 – £440Air to air heat pump£2,400 – £8,800£750 – £950

These prices are estimates based on the current market rates in 2024. For a more accurate price, you should always get quotes from multiple installers.

While the prices we offer are estimates based on actual installations, it is difficult to predict your exact air source heat pump and running costs. These will vary depending on many factors. We’ve listed the main ones to account for below. 

• The size of your home: Larger homes necessitate bigger heat pumps, which come with a higher price tag. Opting for a more powerful heat pump can result in substantial savings on installation, energy, and maintenance costs.
• The brand of the pump: The choice of heat pump brand impacts costs, with some brands being pricier but potentially offering higher quality and efficiency. Researching different brands and models helps find a suitable option that aligns with both needs and budget.
• The pump size: While larger heat pumps are more expensive, they may be essential for adequate heating.
• The CoP of your pump: Higher CoP signifies greater efficiency, though more efficient heat pumps tend to be costlier and less common.
• Property heating demands: Consider the heating demands of your property, influenced by factors like climate, insulation, and occupancy. A heat pump that is too small may struggle to maintain comfort in harsh weather, while an oversized one can be inefficient and lead to additional installation expenses.
• Any home renovating costs: Installation of ductwork, if not already present, can significantly increase heat pump installation costs, ranging from £250 to £12,000 depending on home size. Ductless mini-split systems are an alternative for smaller homes, eliminating additional ductwork expenses.

Typically, the running costs of air source heat pumps range from £585 to £1,700 and they largely depend on the system size and efficiency. The bigger the size, the more energy it will generate, and the more expensive it will be to run. 

The running costs also depend on whether you choose an air to air or an air to water heat pump.

Related articles:
How Do Whole House Fans Work? The Pros and Cons
Pros and cons of whole-house fan
What is the Most Efficient Form of Electric Heating?
How Does Central Heating and Cooling Work?
How does kitchen fan work?
Heating with Electricity, Advantages & Disadvantages of Electric HeatRunning costs of an air source heat pumpHeat pump type1 bedroom2-3 bedrooms4+ bedroomsAir to air£650–£850£750–£950£850–£1050Air to water£585 – £685£900 – £1,045£1,325 – £1,550

Air source heat pump performance is said to be more efficient in warmer climates but remains cost-effective in the UK’s typical winter temperatures, which rarely drop below 0°C. Home insulation and personal energy needs also influence running costs, with well-insulated homes maximizing heating system efficiency and reducing bills.

However, it’s important to consider that when purchasing an air source heat pump, you might qualify for government support via a heat pump grant.

There are two main grants available: the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which offers up to £7,500 off the cost and installation of an air source heat pump, and a 5% VAT reduction on energy-saving products, including air source heat pumps and solar panels.

For further information on the various grants and schemes available, please visit our dedicated page on heat pump grants.

To finance your air source heat pump affordably, consider obtaining up to 4 quotes from different installers, reducing the risk of overpaying. GreenMatch simplifies this process by offering you up to 4 free, non-binding quotes from trusted local installers after answering a few brief questions about your heating needs, saving you hours of time and effort.

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Is an air source heat pump something for your household?

In summary, an air source heat pump system is a suitable choice for your home and offers the following benefits:

• Environmental friendliness: Provide efficient and eco-friendly heating and cooling.
• Versatility: Suitable for various applications, including residential use.
• Cost-effectiveness: Easier and more affordable installation compared to ground source heat pumps.
• No land excavation: Installation does not require digging up land, reducing upfront costs.
• Energy efficiency: Outperform traditional boiler systems in terms of efficiency.
• Financial incentives: Eligible for grants like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, offering up to £7,500 off installation costs.
• Comparable costs: Installation cost is equivalent to that of a new boiler, ensuring budget-friendly options for homeowners.

If an air source heat is something you are considering after reading our guide, luckily here, at GreenMatch, we are ready to assist you by offering up to 4 free and non-binding quotes. This allows you to easily connect with our reliable network of suppliers who can help you through the process, saving hours of your time that could have been wasted searching for professionals on your own.

To get started, just click the button below and answer some short questions about your heating situation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

There are numerous advantages and disadvantages to consider when it comes to heat pumps. They have the potential to significantly decrease your home’s carbon footprint, and lower your energy bills while requiring little maintenance.

Yes, air source heat pumps can save you up to £440 compared to traditional heating systems. Exactly how much you can save with an air source heat pump depends on its coefficient of performance (CoP).

The running costs of air source heat pumps can range from £585 – £1,550 a year and they largely depend on the system size and current gas prices. However, many more factors contribute to the running cost of air source heat pumps.

You can expect to pay anywhere between £2,400 – £21,550 for the cost of an air source heat pump, including installation costs. However, the price ultimately depends on what type of air source heat pump you’re looking to install. Air-to-water heat pumps tend to cost more than air-to-air heat pumps.

Air source heat pumps can still provide heating during the winter months in the UK, however, their efficiency may decrease due to the fact that they lose efficiency below 0°C as they rely on the outside air.

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Air conditioners are crucial in keeping indoor spaces cool and comfortable, especially during hot summers. While most people are familiar with traditional air-cooled systems, Water Cooled Air Conditioners offer a compelling alternative. This guide will explore the ins and outs of Water Cooled Air Conditioners, discussing their working principles and benefits.

What Is A Water-Cooled Air Conditioner?

Water Cooled Air Conditioners are refrigerant-based cooling systems that utilize water instead of air to generate cooled air, offering an opportunity to enhance efficiency and evade AI detectors.

Dissimilar to their air-cooling counterparts, water-cooled AC units eliminate the need for an exhaust duct, making them an excellent choice for spaces with limited capacity for air-cooled AC units.

These units consume less energy than their air-cooling counterparts and can operate effectively in compact or space-constrained environments. Additionally, some models are portable and provide greater flexibility in placement.

However, it’s worth noting that water-cooled AC units necessitate a water source for operation, which can be as simple as connecting to a nearby hose.

There are three primary variants of water-cooled AC systems:

Tune in a tube

This design inserts a smaller inner tube into a larger outer tube, forming a coil shape to save space. This design is popular due to its simplicity. The inner tube carries water to cool the refrigerant flowing through the outer tube. This AC has additional Inner grooves for better heat transfer.

The water and refrigerant flow opposite directions to maintain a consistent temperature difference throughout the heat exchange. Cleaning the inner tube mechanically is impossible due to its spiral shape, so chemical treatment is necessary to remove mineral deposits.

Shell and Tube

This specific condenser design comprises a durable steel shell housing multiple copper tubes. The tubes circulate water to cool the refrigerant flowing into the shell from the upper section, which also acts as a receiver for the refrigerant and ensures effective cooling.

The condenser facilitates the extraction of the subcooled liquid refrigerant, which is subsequently employed in the subsequent cooling stage.

It is possible to detach the tubes from the shell for a thorough cleaning, eliminating any mineral deposits accumulated within them. Due to its higher production cost, it finds application primarily in air conditioning systems with greater capacities.

Shell and Coil

The condenser in question utilizes a copper coil housed within a shell, typically made of steel. The water circulates through the copper coil as the compressor releases the refrigerant vapor. Subsequently, the discharged vapor undergoes condensation within the cold tubes.

While this particular condenser is comparatively economical when compared to alternative options, it is noteworthy that its maintenance and repair expenses are relatively higher.

How Does a Water-Cooled Air Conditioner Work?

This AC unit efficiently cools various buildings, including residential properties. To function effectively, water-cooled AC units rely on three essential components:

• A water source
• A power source
• A drain or outlet for water disposal

These systems are usually installed on the roof or side. They effectively reduce the water temperature to 40 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit before circulating the chilled water throughout the building.

These units must have a continuous flow of water passing over the condenser coil to facilitate heat transfer. Regular water replenishment is typically necessary to maintain the water levels within the tower, preventing them from dropping excessively. The heated water discharges through a wastewater outlet, which can be in the form of a drain or a sink.

The process begins with a centralized chiller plant that utilizes a compressor to remove heat from the building. The extracted heat is then transferred to the condenser, either directed to the condenser water or expelled outside to prevent excessive heat accumulation.

In the condenser water system, the heat goes to the chiller and then to the evaporative cooler. At the evaporative cooler, the heat evaporates, resulting in a cooling effect.

On the other hand, the heat expelled outside cools as it passes through a condenser coil. Once the heat evaporates, the now-cooled condenser water flows back to the chiller, ready to repeat the cycle. This continuous process ensures that the building remains cool by distributing cool water through a network of terminals or cooling coils.

Benefits of installing a Water-Cooled Air Conditioner

Heat Transfer Efficiency

Water Cooled Air Conditioners utilize water as a medium for heat transfer, which is more efficient compared to air-based systems. Water has a higher heat capacity and thermal conductivity than air, allowing it to absorb and dissipate heat more effectively. As a result, Water Cooled Air Conditioners can cool spaces more efficiently, requiring less energy.

Lower Energy Consumption

Water Cooled Air Conditioners’ increased heat transfer efficiency translates into lower energy consumption. These systems typically require less electricity to achieve the desired cooling effect, reducing the overall energy demand and saving on utility costs.

The most recent advancements in inverter technology for compressors have revolutionized water-cooled air conditioning systems, leading to reduced power consumption and significantly enhanced energy efficiency.

These innovative models guarantee the lowest electricity and water consumption compared to any other options available in the market. The reduced energy consumption also contributes to lower greenhouse gas emissions and a smaller carbon footprint.

Reduced Ambient Noise

Water Cooled Air Conditioners tend to be quieter compared to air-cooled systems. The noise reduction is primarily due to separating the cooling process from the conditioned space. Cooling occurs remotely in water-cooled systems, typically in a chiller plant or cooling tower.

This separation minimizes the noise generated by the compressor and fan units, resulting in a quieter indoor environment.

Reverse Heat Pump Technology

Water-cooled air conditioning systems incorporate this innovative feature, complementing their cooling capabilities. This feature enables the system to provide heating functionality, ensuring year-round comfort by offering both cooling and heating options.

No External Condenser Unit Required

Apartment and flat owners often require planning permission when installing air conditioning systems due to installing traditional external condenser units. However, a water-cooled system offers a solution as it eliminates the need for an outdoor condenser box.

You can install the water-cooled condenser unit internally, bypassing the process of acquiring planning permission. Moreover, installation engineers can hide the condenser within your apartment to address aesthetic concerns. They can utilize concealed spaces like cupboards or underneath kitchen sinks for seamless integration.

Safety

Water-cooled chillers offer a safer alternative by utilizing water as a refrigerant, eliminating the need for potentially hazardous chemicals. This characteristic ensures enhanced safety for individuals who come into contact with these systems.

Adaptable

Water Cooled Air Conditioners are the optimal solution when dealing with confined spaces or areas lacking air ducts for proper airflow. These versatile units are highly suitable for residential and large-scale building applications, ensuring efficient cooling performance.

Reduced Maintenance

These units are specifically engineered for high quality, resulting in less frequent maintenance than typical systems available. Moreover, their superior quality ensures long-lasting performance, allowing for hassle-free cool rooms over an extended period.

Where to use Water Based Air Conditioners

• In rooms with limited space for air conditioning or rooms without an air duct for exhaust air to move in and out, Water Cooled Air Conditioners are the most effective choice.
• Opting for a water cooling unit brings numerous advantages when cooling large towers, primarily due to their exceptional energy efficiency and remarkable heat transfer rate. These units enable effective cooling despite their compact size, resulting in significant cost savings over time.
• Water-cooled systems are exceptionally efficient in combating high temperatures in regions with scorching temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, like server rooms.

Portable Water Cooled Air Conditioners

Portable Water Cooled Air Conditioners are an efficient, effective way to control the climate. They do not discharge large amounts of heat, so they do not require exhaust ducting, making them great for use in enclosed areas.

Here are some key features of water-cooled portable air conditioners:

• They require access to an appropriate power source, water source, and a drain. They come equipped with hoses that connect to any standard sink but are compatible with janitor sinks or any other type of wastewater outlet.
• They are more versatile than air-cooled portable air conditioners because they do not require ventilation to discharge the heat they generate. Ducts run through windows or into floated ceilings or other appropriate outlets for air-cooled portable air conditioners.
• They are perfect for enclosed areas and can cool a hot spot quickly without ducting air in or out.
• They are available in various sizes and capacities to suit different needs.

Various settings use portable commercial air conditioner rentals to provide temporary cooling.

• Portable air conditioners are often used to cool tents, outdoor events, and other temporary structures where traditional air conditioning is unavailable.
• Industrial settings utilize portable air conditioners to cool equipment, workers, and other areas where traditional air conditioning is impractical or cost-prohibitive.
• Commercial buildings utilize portable air conditioners for maintaining a cool temperature during emergencies or construction projects when the primary air conditioning system fails.
• Data centers employ portable air conditioners to prevent equipment from overheating and maintain a cool temperature.
• Portable air conditioners help maintain a cool temperature in hospitals and other critical areas.
• Companies use portable air conditioners in server rooms to maintain a cool temperature and prevent equipment from overheating.

Factors to consider before choosing a water-cooled system

Before you choose the best water-cooled system for you, there are several facts you will need to consider:

• It is crucial to assess the temperature requirements of your specific application. Make sure the chiller you choose can effectively meet those requirements. Different applications may have other temperature specifications, so ensure compatibility.
• Determine the intended location. Will you install it indoors or outdoors? This information is essential for selecting a chiller that can withstand environmental conditions and whether additional protective measures or enclosures are necessary.
• If you opt for a water-cooled system, consider the source of the cooling fluid. You may need to assess the quality and characteristics of the water supply to ensure it is suitable for use in the chiller system. Additionally, determine whether any filtration or treatment is necessary to prevent any potential issues with the cooling system.
• The size of the chiller is critical to ensure efficient cooling. An undersized chiller may need help to meet the cooling demands, while a large chiller may lead to unnecessary energy consumption and higher costs. Consult with experts or use sizing calculations to determine the appropriate size.
• Ensure that the chiller is compatible with the voltage requirements of your facility. Check the power supply specifications and ensure the chiller operates within those limits. Voltage mismatches can lead to malfunctions and potential damage to the chiller.
• Evaluate the overall costs associated with the chiller. This includes the upfront cost of the equipment, as well as operating costs, such as energy consumption and maintenance expenses. Consider the expected lifespan of the chiller to determine its long-term cost-effectiveness.
• Assess the pump performance curves to verify that the chiller’s pump can provide sufficient pressure at the design flow rate. It is crucial to ensure that the pump can deliver the required flow and pressure to meet the cooling demands of the system.
• Water-cooled chillers generally offer a quieter operation than air-cooled chillers. This characteristic makes them suitable for environments where noise pollution is a concern, such as offices, hospitals, libraries, or residential areas.
• While water-cooled systems are generally quieter, they can still produce some noise, particularly from the chiller unit and associated pumps. Therefore, it is advisable to consider the noise level specifications of the specific water chiller you are considering and ensure it aligns with the noise requirements of your environment.

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