What Are Air Source Heat Pumps and How Do They Work?

With energy prices on the rise and the UK’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions, many homeowners are exploring greener heating options.

Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are becoming a popular choice, offering energy-efficient warmth and hot water while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. But how exactly do they work, and could they be the right solution for your home? Let’s explore:

What Are Air Source Heat Pumps?

An air source heat pump is a low-carbon heating system that extracts heat from the outside air and uses it to warm your home and water. Remarkably, these systems can operate even when outdoor temperatures drop as low as -15°C, making them suitable for the often-unpredictable Norwich weather.

Instead of generating heat by burning fuel (like a gas or oil boiler), an ASHP transfers existing heat. This makes it an energy-efficient alternative and aligns with the UK government’s push for cleaner, greener heating solutions under schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and the drive to reach net zero by 2050.

How Do Air Source Heat Pumps Work?

Air source heat pumps use a simple, yet effective process based on well-established thermodynamics. Here’s how it works:

1. Heat Absorption
   Even on cold winter days, there’s heat energy in the air. The ASHP draws in outside air and passes it over a refrigerant-filled coil. This causes the refrigerant to absorb the heat and turn into a gas.

2. Heat Compression
   The warm refrigerant gas is then compressed, which increases its temperature further. This is the key stage where small amounts of electricity power the pump to generate much more heat energy.

3. Heat Transfer
   The heat from the refrigerant is transferred into your home’s central heating system, whether that’s radiators, underfloor heating or a hot water cylinder.

4. Recycling the Refrigerant
   Once the refrigerant has released its heat, it cools back into a liquid and the process starts again.

Types of Air Source Heat Pumps

For UK homes, there are two main types of air source heat pumps:

• Air-to-Water Systems
  These provide heat via your existing wet central heating system and are ideal for homes with underfloor heating or larger radiators, which work well with lower flow temperatures.

• Air-to-Air Systems
  These systems heat your home by circulating warm air through fans, making them a good option for properties without a traditional central heating setup.

Benefits of Air Source Heat Pumps

Air source heat pumps offer several advantages tailored to homeowners:

• Energy Efficiency
  For every unit of electricity consumed, an ASHP can produce up to three units of heat, making it significantly more efficient than traditional boilers.

• Lower Carbon Footprint
  By relying on renewable energy from the air, ASHPs help reduce your home’s carbon emissions. This is particularly relevant in the UK, where homes account for nearly 20% of carbon emissions.

• Future-Proofing Your Home
  With gas boilers set to be phased out in new-build homes by 2025, investing in an air source heat pump now ensures you’re ahead of upcoming regulations.

• Year-Round Comfort
  While mainly used for heating, some systems can reverse the process to provide cooling during hot summer days—a handy feature as UK summers grow warmer.

Are Air Source Heat Pumps Right for Your UK Home?

Air source heat pumps are most effective in well-insulated homes with energy-efficient heating systems, such as underfloor heating or large radiators. Older homes with poor insulation may need some upgrades to achieve the best results.

It’s also worth noting that electricity prices in the UK are currently higher than gas, so while running costs are lower due to efficiency, the savings will depend on your energy tariff and usage.

Ready to go green? Smart Heating is now fully qualified to install energy-efficient air source heat pumps for your home!

Are you based in Norwich or the surrounding areas? Get in touch with us today on 01603 457009 to find out how we can help future-proof your home’s heating system.