A guide to Air Aource Heat Pumps

In this series of ‘understanding retrofit measures’ blogs, we’ll be exploring different ways to improve the energy efficiency of homes – reducing energy usage, cutting energy bills and carbon emissions, and making your home more comfortable all year round.

We’ll explain how these measures work, which homes they’re best suited for, what installation looks like, and more. In this post, we’re focusing on air source heat pumps (ASHPs).

What is a Air Source Heat Pump?

Air source heat pumps absorb heat from the air outside to heat your home and hot water. They do use electricity, but because the heat output is much higher than the electricity input, they’re a highly efficient and low-carbon option for heating.

This makes them a great choice for cutting both your carbon footprint and your energy bills.

How do Air Source Heat Pumps work?

Air source heat pumps extract heat from the air, even when it’s cold outside. The heat is absorbed into a fluid, which then passes through a compressor to raise the temperature. The higher-temperature heat is then transferred to your home’s heating and hot water systems.

There are two main types of ASHPs:

• Air-to-water pumps: These transfer heat into water, which is then distributed via a central heating system. This is the most common type in the UK and is ideal for homes with radiators or underfloor heating.
• Air-to-air pumps: These systems use fans to circulate warm air around your home, but they don’t provide hot water.

What types of home does an Air Source Heat Pump work for?

Air source heat pumps work well in homes that:

• Have enough space outside for a unit to be fitted to a wall or placed on the ground. If you have larger grounds, you might also want to consider a ground source heat pump.
• Already have an existing central heating system, like radiators or underfloor heating.
• Are well-insulated and draught-proofed to minimise heat loss. Insulation is key to getting the most out of your heat pump.

If you’re unsure whether an air source heat pump is right for your home, we recommend working with a retrofit professional to assess your property. Our Whole House Plan service is a great place to start – it looks at your entire home to help you plan improvements effectively, ensuring you get the best results from your heat pump.

You may also need planning permission depending on your property and local regulations, which we can help you navigate.

Real-life example: Hook Norton retrofit

One of our many success stories is the retrofit of an end-terrace cottage in Hook Norton. We replaced its old oil-fired boiler with an air source heat pump, significantly improving its energy efficiency. You can read our case study to see how the switch worked for this home and the benefits the homeowners have enjoyed since the upgrade.

What are the expected costs and savings?

According to the Energy Saving Trust, typical installation costs for an air source heat pump range from £9,000 to £11,000. However, savings will depend on your current heating system.

• Biggest savings: If you’re switching from electric storage heaters, you’re likely to see the most significant cost reductions.
• Smaller savings: If you’re replacing a gas boiler, the financial savings might be smaller, but the carbon savings will be substantial – an important factor if you’re motivated by sustainability.

If you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint and create a more comfortable home for the future, an air source heat pump could be the perfect solution.

Will a heat pump work for you?

If you’re looking to refurbish your home and live in Oxfordshire, our team of experts can help you explore your options. With our Free Plan Builder advice service, you can start building an energy efficiency plan for your home in just a few minutes.

Enter your postcode, and you’ll see details about your home’s current energy efficiency based on existing data. Then, set your budget and priorities, and the Plan Builder will create a draft retrofit plan – ready for you to adjust as needed. Let’s make your home cosy for all seasons!