An air source heat pump works by extracting heat from the outside air in the very same way a fridge does. The only difference is that it uses an external heat exchanger to heat the refrigerant. As heat naturally flows from a warmer place to a cooler place, heat pumps use refrigerant that constant evaporates and condenses in a closed circuit. This closed circuit is controlled by valves and a compressor in order to reverse this natural process. They can be used to heat the radiators and under floor heating systems as well as the water in your home.
Heat pumps are not completely green as they use electricity to run, however the heat that is extracted is constantly being renewed naturally. Compared to other electrical heating options heat pumps use less electrical energy than the energy they create, so they are still a greener option. Using an air source heat pump can lower your fuel bill, reduce your carbon footprint and there is no need for fuel delivery. You will be providing space heating and hot water.
There are two types of systems; one is an air to water system which distributes heat via your central heating system. They tend to work at the most efficient at lower temperatures compared to a standard boiler system. The other system is an air to air system which produces warm air which can then be circulated around fans to heat your home. However these systems do not provide hot water, so if you want a system that offers both you need to go for the air to water system.
If you're interested in having an air source heat pump installed in your home you need to find a place to store it. They go outside your house and can be fitted to a wall or can be self standing. Your home should be well insulated as they work better at low temperatures, keeping a constant temperature. With homes that are not properly insulated, this heat will not be enough keep your home warm, plus any heat generated will be lost.
You may wonder if you will need planning permission for installing air source heat pumps in domestic homes. But as with any renewable energy technology you don't need permission. But it is always best to double check with your local planning department to be on the safe side.
The costs for installing can be quite expensive. Between £6000 and £10,000 is about average currently. They are becoming more and more popular in the UK and have been in other established EU countries for some time. There is plenty of information about heat pumps on the energy saving trust website. Plus many central heating companies are now turning towards renewable energy and are installing these and other green systems.
Northern Gas Heating - the UK's local supplier of new cetnral heating including renewable energy systems such as Air Source Heat Pumps and Solar Heating systems.
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