Air source heat pumps (ASHP) - a new way to heat your home

How does an air source heat pump work?

• Air source heat pumps can replace or work in tandem and complement your existing boiler, also known as hybrid heating.
• An Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) works by transferring heat from outside air to an indoor space. This heat can be used to heat radiators, underfloor heating system or hot water in your home.
• We can explain everything in a lot more simple way and say that the ASHP works exactly in the same way as a fridge by extracting heat from its inside and warming the air instead of cooling it. Heat pumps are typically positioned on the side or rear walls of properties and have a near silent operation.
• Air source heat pumps can do all the things a boiler does. However, instead of relying on gas or oil as primary fuel sources, they run off electricity.

What are the benefits of an air source heat pump?

• The Air Source Heat Pump  can generate heat from air even when the temperature is as low as -15° C, which means that homes in the UK will benefit from this type of heating system throughout the year.
• Air Source Heat Pumps are more suitable for underfloor heating
• Air Source Heat Pump can provide Domestic Hot Water
• Combine your heat pump with solar support to increase your hot water savings. Due to the reduction of fossil resources, using renewable energy sources such as solar energy has become mandatory.
• If you want to make your home even more eco-friendly, you could install solar panels to supply the Air Source Heat Pump with electrical power to run. This will help you to reduce your energy bills and your carbon footprint.
• Air Source Heat Pumps tend to have longer lifespan than most boilers and will need to be replaced every 15 years if maintained correctly.
• Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) payments available

Are there any government incentives or incentives available for installing an air source heat pump?

England and Wales: Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)

BOILER UPGRADE SCHEME GRANT INCREASING TO £7,500 Starting on the 23rd of October 2023.

What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)?

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a program introduced by the UK Government in Spring 2022. It encourages homeowners in England and Wales to transition from conventional gas or oil heating to eco-friendly systems.

On the 21st of September 2023, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero released an amendment notice in compliance with BUS Regulation 13(4) to raise the grant amounts for air source heat pumps and ground source heat pumps.
From Monday 23 October 2023, installers will be able to apply for the newly increased grant amounts, the grants available are based on technology types as shown below:

Air source heat pumps: £7,500
Ground source heat pumps: £7,500
Biomass boilers: £5,000

How does the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) work?

The scheme is for property owners, both domestic and small non-domestic, who are looking to replace their traditional heating systems with more eco-friendly heating options like an air source heat pump, a ground source heat pump or a biomass boiler.

https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/environmental-and-social-schemes/boiler-upgrade-scheme-bus

How can I apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)?

As a homeowner, you are not able to apply for the grant directly. The MSC certified installer you choose to work with will submit an application on your behalf.

To apply you’ll need to:

Own your property (this can be a home or a small business property).

Have a property with an installation capacity up to 45kWth (this covers most homes).

Be replacing a fossil fuel heating system such as a gas boiler or oil burning system.

Have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Your EPC must not have any outstanding recommendations for loft or cavity wall insulation (unless you have an insulation exemption). If your EPC does recommend either of these, you must carry out the recommendation(s) and obtain a new EPC before you can apply for a BUS grant.

Approved MCS certified installer.

How much can you get for boiler upgrade scheme?

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme covers three types of heating systems:

Air source heat pump:  £7,500 off cost and installation.

Biomass boiler: £5,000 off cost and installation.

Ground source heat pump: £7,500 off cost and installation.

You can get only one grant per property.

To apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme please get in touch Contact Us

Get up to £7,500 off the cost of your new heat pump when you upgrade from your old fossil fuel heating system.

Scotland: Home Energy Scotland Scheme

Home Energy Scotland Scheme

In Scotland, homeowners now have the option to apply for a direct grant of £7,500 through the Home Energy Scotland Scheme for the installation of heat pumps. Previously, applicants were required to sign up for a loan before they qualified for this funding, but they can now access the money directly. Additionally, residents in rural areas will receive an additional £1,500. A standalone grant of £7,500 for energy efficiency improvements to homes is also available.

https://www.homeenergyscotland.org/funding/grants-loans/overview/

How does an air source heat pump compare to other heating and cooling systems?

An air source heat pump (ASHP) is an energy-efficient system that heats your home by taking warmth from the outdoor air in winter and cools it by releasing heat outside in summer. Here's how an ASHP compares to other heating and cooling systems:

Efficiency:

ASHPs are known for their energy efficiency. They can provide more energy output than the electricity they consume, making them highly efficient for heating and cooling.

Cost savings:

Compared to traditional electric heating, ASHPs are more profitable, especially in regions with moderate climates. They are more cost-effective than electric heating systems and can even compete with natural gas or propane heating in terms of operating costs.

 Environmental Impact:

Heat Pumps are considered environmentally friendly because they don't directly produce greenhouse gas emissions. However, their environmental impact depends on the electricity source used to power them. In areas with renewable energy sources, ASHPs can be very eco-friendly. Traditional oil or gas heating systems release carbon emissions when in operation.

Heating and Cooling Combined:

ASHPs offer a dual-purpose solution for both heating and cooling, making them versatile year-round.

Installation and Space Requirements:

ASHPs require outdoor and indoor units. Installation can be complex, but they generally require less space than some other heating systems.

Climate Suitability:

ASHPs are most effective in areas with milder winters. They may struggle to provide sufficient heat in extremely cold climates without supplementary heating.

Maintenance:

ASHPs require regular maintenance, such as cleaning filters and checking refrigerant levels.

Upfront Costs:

ASHPs can have a higher upfront cost compared to some traditional heating systems, but they can provide long-term savings through lower energy bills.

What heat pump system is suitable for my home?

When installing a heat pump system in your home, we will consider your specific heating and cooling needs, your budget, the suitability of your home's infrastructure and suggest the most suitable ASHP for your needs.

Whether it's integrated into an existing heating system or serves as the primary source for underfloor heating, there are many options available:

Space heating with radiators. The ASHP generates heat, which is then distributed through radiators to warm your living space efficiently.

Underfloor heating system. Using an air source heat pump (ASHP) as the heat source for an underfloor heating system means that the ASHP warms the water or fluid that circulates through pipes beneath the floor, providing efficient and even heating for your home.

Providing hot water (via an external heat pump). Supplying hot water through an external heat pump means using a heat pump system to heat the water for domestic purposes, such as bathing and washing.

Independent hot water supply cylinder is a separate tank that works with systems like an air source heat pump to efficiently store and provide hot water for household use. This cylinder is distinct from the central heating system and is designed specifically to heat and store hot water for taps, showers, and other domestic hot water needs. It allows you to control your hot water separately from your heating system.

Paired with an Electric Boiler for Supplemental Heating: An electric boiler serves as a backup or supplemental heating source. When outdoor temperatures drop significantly or when you need additional heating capacity, the electric boiler can kick in to provide extra warmth.

Swimming Pool Heating: Heat pumps can also be used to efficiently heat swimming pools, extending the swimming season.

What are the best Air Source Heat Pumps for my home?

At Solar Save Renewables, we take pride in being DAIKIN approved heat pump installers because we believe their products are award-winning for a reason. DAIKIN offer several designs of heat pumps that will suit almost every property type and needs.

Air-to-water high-temperature heat pumps - You can replace easily your old heating and hot water system with the energy-efficient Daikin Altherma high-temperature heat pumps.

Air-to-water low-temperature heat pumps - Daikin Altherma low-temperature heat pumps can be used to efficiently heat, cool, and provide hot water to newly built homes.

Air-to-water mid-temperature heat pumps - Mid-temperature air-to-water heat pumps are an ideal replacement for your old gas boilers offering a renewable solution for heating, cooling and domestic hot water.

What makes Daikin a great choice?

DAIKIN stands out as one of the largest and most trusted suppliers high quality heat pump, air conditioning, ventilation, refrigeration and applied system in Europe. Due to their high quality and service, DAIKIN offer a 5-year warranty on new installations.

What size air source heat pump do I need for my home?

The size of the heat pump needed depends on the size of the home, generally, the larger the home the bigger the heat pump is required. Air source heat pumps are assigned a kW rating that indicates their heating output. For instance, if a heat pump has a rating of 10 kW, it means it can produce 10 kW of heat based on the outside air temperature. As an accredited Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) heat pump installer, we at Solar Save Renewables will be able to recommend the ideal air source heat pump size for you.

For a quick overview, the following should provide a clear idea of the sizes of air source heat pumps needed, taking into account the property size and the level of insulation.

What size hot water cylinder do I need for my home?

A typical domestic household will use around 35 to 45 litres of water for every person, which means that 4-person household will need a hot water cylinder that can provide around 200 litres daily. However, in some cases you won’t necessarily need a 200-litre capacity hot water cylinder, as some heating systems may partially reheat water throughout the day.

What is the cost of installing an air source heat pump?

Heat Pumps typically cost between £7,000 and £13,000 to buy and have professionally installed. You can reduce the final cost by £7,500 from 23 October 2023 via the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS).

How much does an air source heat pump cost to run?

For an average UK home, the running costs for a heat pump should be the same as of running a gas boiler. However, you can reduce the running costs significantly by using renewable energy sources like solar panels to power your ASHP. This can reduce the environmental impact and long-term costs.

What maintenance does an air source heat pump require?

Heat pumps are low-maintenance. To keep them running efficiently, it's advised to have an annual check-up with your installer or service provider. This will involve standard checks and a thorough cleaning of the unit and filters.

Regular maintenance for an air source heat pump involves:

Cleaning: Keep both indoor and outdoor units clean by removing debris, dust, and obstructions. Periodically clean fan blades and coils as necessary.

Changing Filters: We advise to check and replace air filters every 1 to 3 months to maintain proper airflow and system efficiency.

Refrigerant Level Inspection: Ensure that the refrigerant levels are sufficient. If there's a leak or low refrigerant, it should be addressed by a qualified technician.

Thermostat Check: Verify that the thermostat is working correctly and set to the desired temperature.

Professional Maintenance: Schedule annual maintenance with a qualified technician for more comprehensive inspections and to address any issues you may have missed.

How efficient are air source heat pumps?

The good news is that air source heat pumps are quite robust and have been known to perform well even in extremely cold conditions, with temperatures as low as -25°C.  Given that the UK typically experiences temperatures below 0°C only for short periods, you shouldn’t have much issues.

Can an air source heat pump be integrated with existing heating systems?

Yes, heat pumps can be linked to both existing and new radiators. If you already have radiators in your home, high-temperature heat pumps can easily connect to them and use the existing piping without the need to replace the radiators or additional installation works.

What is the lifespan of an air source heat pump?

Heat pumps are long-lasting. An air source heat pump typically lasts between 20 to 25 years, but its lifespan can vary depending on factors like maintenance, climate, and installation quality.

Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) vs. Biomass Boiler Comparison

The choice between an ASHP, and a biomass boiler depends on factors such as your heating needs, environmental considerations, availability of fuel, budget, and local incentives. ASHPs are more energy-efficient and generally have a lower environmental impact, while biomass boilers can be a suitable choice if you have access to a sustainable biomass fuel source and the space required for storage and installation.

Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP):

Initial Cost: Generally higher upfront cost due to the equipment and installation. If you're comparing the upfront cost of installing an air source heat pump to that of a gas boiler, it's clear that boilers require less initial investment. However, it's crucial to consider that heat pumps are highly efficient. If you're replacing an old and inefficient oil or electric heating system, you will save money on your ongoing running costs.

The prices can vary, but as a rough guide, including parts and labour, these are the average prices:

Air source heat pumps: £7,000 to £13,000

Ground source heat pumps: £14,000 to £19,000

Additionally, the government's Boiler Upgrade Scheme provides a grant of £5,000 for homeowners to install an air source heat pump (or £6,000 for ground source heat pumps).

Efficiency: In terms of efficiency, heat pumps are the clear winners. More efficient, especially in the long term, as it can extract heat from the air, even in colder weather.

Measure efficiency using Coefficient of Performance (CoP). CoP of 3 equals 300% efficiency. Air source heat pumps usually have CoPs between 2.5 and 4.5.

Fuel Source: Relies on electricity, which can be more expensive than oil but may offer savings on operational costs. However, combining an Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) with solar panels is an excellent way to increase the energy efficiency and sustainability of your home. Solar panels generate electricity from sunlight, which can power your ASHP and significantly reducing your reliance on grid electricity or other energy sources.

Environmental Impact: Environmentally friendly, as it produces lower carbon emissions compared to oil boilers.

Space Requirements: Requires outdoor and indoor units, which can take up space in your yard and home.

Maintenance: Requires regular maintenance, including filter cleaning and occasional professional servicing.

Eligible for Incentives: Eligible for The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) program and £5,000 grant.

Long-Term Savings: Potential for long-term savings on heating costs, particularly if replacing an inefficient oil boiler.

Suitability: Well-suited for well-insulated homes and areas with milder winters.

Lifespan: Well-maintained heat pumps can endure for 20-30 years, which is potentially 25-50% longer than the lifespan of a gas boiler! Moreover, heat pumps typically don't need expensive parts to be replaced during their lifespan.

Biomass Boiler:

Fuel Source: Uses organic materials, such as wood pellets, logs, or agricultural residues, as fuel. Biomass is considered renewable but may require sourcing and storage.

Efficiency: Biomass boilers typically have an efficiency range of 70% to 90%. This range can vary based on the type of biomass fuel used, the combustion technology employed, and the quality of the boiler itself. Typically, they are less energy-efficient than ASHPs.

Environmental Impact: Biomass is considered a renewable energy source, but emissions depend on the sourcing and sustainability of the fuel. It generally produces more carbon emissions than ASHPs.

Space Requirements: Requires space for fuel storage, such as a wood pellet silo. The boiler itself may also require a larger installation area.

Maintenance: Biomass boilers need regular cleaning and maintenance of the combustion chamber and flue systems, which can be more labour-intensive than ASHP maintenance.

Installation Cost: Generally lower upfront cost compared to ASHPs.

Government Incentives: Eligible for The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) program and £5,000 grant.

Long-Term Savings: Savings can be achieved over time, particularly if biomass fuel costs are lower than other heating fuels.

Suitability: Well-suited for areas with access to a consistent and sustainable biomass fuel supply and larger installation areas.

Oil Boiler:

Initial Cost: Generally lower upfront cost for the boiler and installation. Gas boilers: £2,000 to £4,000

Efficiency: Lower efficiency compared to ASHP, especially in terms of energy usage and carbon emissions. Typically expressed as a percentage, with modern boilers at 85% to 95% efficiency. Again, the actual efficiency can vary depending on the specific model and its maintenance.

Fuel Source: Uses heating oil, which can be more affordable than electricity but has higher long-term operational costs.

Environmental Impact: Produces higher carbon emissions compared to ASHP, making it less eco-friendly. An oil boiler furnace releases more than six tonnes of carbon dioxide for every 20MWh of energy it generates. This amount is higher than the emissions produced by ten flights between London and New York.

Space Requirements: Requires less space as it's typically installed indoors.

Maintenance: Needs regular servicing to maintain efficiency and prevent breakdowns.

Incentives: Not eligible for the same government incentives as ASHP.

Long-Term Costs: Higher long-term heating costs due to less efficiency and the cost of heating oil.

Suitability: Can work well in homes with existing oil heating systems but may not be as efficient in the long run.

Lifespan: Gas boilers typically have a lifespan of around 10 years, but with proper care, they may last up to 15 years. Annual boiler servicing is essential.

 Heat Pumps  vs Biomass Boilers vs Oil Boilers

Request a no-obligation survey and ASHP quotation Contact Us

Air Source Heap Pump (ASHP) Installation Carmarthenshire

Incorporating an Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) with a solar PV installation is an excellent approach to improve your self-sufficiency and lower your energy bills.

We will install the most sufficient heat pump for your requirements based on an energy assessment of your home. 

You will find us installing air source heat pumps across Carmarthenshire as well as Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion, Swansea and Mid Wales.

See our customer case study if you want to learn how we helped our customer to achieve their sustainability goals by installing a fully integrated system consisting of solar PV, battery storage and an air source heat  pumps (ASHP).

Real-life examples: Air Source Heat Pumps 

Solar PV ~ Battery storage ~ Air Source Heat Pump - This is a 4 kWp ground mounted system composed of 10 x 400W solar panels, 5.8kWh battery storage and a DAIKIN Altherma H HT (high temperature) air source het pump in Trapp, Llandeilo.

Things to consider when installing a heat pump system

While ASHP brings many benefits to a home heating system, there are few things to consider when looking to install this system.

• Available outdoor space
• How well your home is insulated
• Existing plumbing pipe work and radiators may need to be upgraded
• Proximity to neighbours. Modern air source heat pumps make about the same amount of noise as the hum of a fridge, which makes sense because they are essentially conducting a refrigeration cycle in reverse. However, air source heat pumps (ASHP) are usually quieter than fossil fuel boilers.
• Complimentary heating systems during cold weather should be considered
• Offsetting electric use with solar panels