An air source heat pump (ASHP), as the name suggests, takes energy from the outside air and using a thermodynamic process, releases this energy as heat indoors, to run central heating systems and provide hot water.
Once installed and commissioned, air-source heat pumps require very little maintenance or attention.
Air source heat pumps are usually better suited to more modern, well insulated properties with smaller heating demands. They are quick to install, cheaper than ground or water source systems and take up minimal space outside.
There are two types of air-source heat pumps; “Monobloc” units, which comprise a single outdoor unit connected to a dedicated hot water cylinder, and “Split” models which comprise two parts; an outdoor and an indoor unit.
Monobloc systems are more widely opted for, due to their simplicity and lower installation cost, however a heating system must be designed to operate with the lower temperature produced by the unit making them favourable for new-build properties and self-builders.
Split units are capable of providing higher flow temperatures (due to the two-stage compression process) making them more suitable for retrofit to existing central heating systems which may have been operating with a fossil-fuel boiler. The outdoor units can be sited further away from the property than a Monobloc system, however consideration must also be given to the space required for the indoor unit.
- Ideal for properties with underfloor heating, or other low temperature heating systems
- Eligible for the Renewable Heat Incentive (link to RHI page) – a new-build 4-bedroom home could claim approximately £1,250 PA at current tariffs.
- Efficiencies up to 4:1 achievable