Air Source Heat Pumps: Advantages and Disadvantages

They are sustainable technology that could improve the efficiency of your home and also help lower your energy costs. Since air source heat pumps don’t emit carbon dioxide while operating, they’re more eco-friendly as compared to oil and gas boilers, with the added benefit of lower operating cost.

But since most UK homeowners have depended on gas boilers throughout the course (if but not the entire) all and are now being asked to change to a totally new heating technology is an enormous task. If you’ve got an old gas heater that is in need of replacement and you are looking to determine whether you should change it out with a brand fresh gas or air-source heat pump should aid you in making your choice.

This article explains the advantages and disadvantages, as well as what you can expect to pay for an air source heat pump price.

What is an air source heat source?

Heating systems that are air-source take energy from air that is outside of your home. For an air-to-water heat pump, it is a huge fan is mounted outside of the house to draw air. The heat that is naturally present in the air can be compressed by pressing it to raise the temperature of the air, and then the generated heat is then transferred into the water cylinder. The water that is heated is ready to feed your taps and to be used in central heating systems that use wet heat. Heat pumps that are air-source are able to generate heat even at temperature as low as -25 degrees Celsius in certain instances.

Air source heat pump advantages

Lower energy bills

The air source heating pumps can be high efficient heating systems and have the potential of reducing your energy costs based on the heating system you currently have.

Earn money with the RHI

The Renewable Heat Incentive pays homeowners who have invested in renewable technology. It is possible to receive payments quarterly over 7 years . This could lead to you earning the cost of your initial investment. .

Are eligible to apply for green homes grants. Green Homes Grants scheme

The air source heating systems are part of the Government’s Green Homes Grant scheme which allows you to apply for a voucher worth as much as 5 000 £ (or £10,000 for low-income households) to pay for two-thirds of the installation cost.

Green heating solution

In contrast to gas boilers, an air-source heat pump doesn’t generate carbon while it is in operation. It requires a tiny amount of electricity to operate it, however, this can be reduced even more with the addition of solar PV systems to ensure that it operates on clean power. Also, you should consider changing to a green energy provider.

Operates all year round

It is possible to use an air-source heat pump throughout the year because many models are capable of operating in extremely low temperatures. In the summer, an air to air heat pump can be utilized to circulate cold air around the house to help the temperature to be lowered for everyone.

Easily maintained

They are commonly referred to as ‘fit-and-forget technology since they require minimal maintenance and can be left to provide heat for your home. It’s suggested to be serviced every year to ensure it’s functioning properly.

The length of life

The life expectancy of an air source heating pump is different dependent on the model that you are using however, many last as long as 20 years some of them even going up to 25 years.

Air source heat pump disadvantages

Although the air-source heat pump may save you a substantial amount of money per year due to lower energy costs but there are some negatives to an air source heat source to take into consideration.

Retrofit installation isn’t always easy.

Based on the type of house you live in depending on the type of property you have, it might be difficult to set up an air source heating without major changes that can be expensive and disruptive. Certain properties, such as flats that do not have a garden, or aren’t equipped with hot water cylinders are not suited with air source heaters.

A few operating noises

The air source heaters may generate some noise while they are running, however it should be noted that this is not usually thought of as an issue for homeowners in areas with heating systems. If you’re concerned about noise concerns you should have your installer capable of installing the heat source in a location that is away from living spaces and bedrooms.

It is more expensive to operate than boilers that are A-rated.

Heating systems that are air-source consume only a tiny amount of electricity to operate, however electricity is three to four more costly than gasoline for the same unit. If you own an A-rated boiler that is running well and you want to replace your boiler by an air-source heat pump may even increase your energy costs.

In winter, efficiency is reduced.

The colder the weather outside, the more the heat pump must do its job to draw heat. This is why heat pumps consume more power in winter, which makes them less efficient.

Your home should be well and insulated

Because air source heat pump generate hot water at lower temperatures than boilers, the home must be well-insulated for a more efficient system.

Could require new radiators or even underfloor heating.

Lower temperatures of water will also mean that lots of homeowners will require more powerful heaters, or even underfloor heating systems to increase the area of the heat distribution system.

Requires outside space

It is essential to have outdoor space for the heat pump with plenty of room around the unit in order to ensure it gets sufficient air flow. Also, you will need room for the large hot water tank inside your home. When the unit outside is situated near a spot that will receive plenty of sunlight, the ASHP will not be working as difficult.

How much will an air source heating pump set you back?

A heat pump installation cost can be between £10,000 and £14,000. It might sound like a lot, however when you consider it will be able to efficiently heat your home for 20 years and reducing energy bills, it’ll quickly begin to pay for its own.

Are you sure that an air source heating system the right choice to your house?

Owners of an existing home who decide to install an gas boiler with a rating are at ease knowing that they benefit from a reliable heating system capable of heating their home in high temperatures. Modern boilers are more efficient in energy usage than those that were built at least 10 years ago or an air-source heating system can be more costly to operate. When you install a boiler, you’ll be able to avoid having to replace radiators with bigger models, as well as underfloor heating.

But, by installing gas boilers, you will still contribute carbon dioxide to the atmosphere. However, however, you will not be able to take advantage of RHI payments as well as your boiler will not last for as long as an air source heating system.

If you’re planning to move to a new home or home that is well-insulated, or you’ll be upgrading your insulation as well by setting up an air source heater, it can be a good long-term investment that could reduce your energy bills and carbon emissions hit an all-time low.

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