The air around us is full of energy. Air source heat pumps use the freely available heat in the ambient air to provide efficient heating and hot water at air temperatures as low as -25°C.
Air source heat pumps have the advantage of low installation costs and minimal space requirements - and our relatively mild winter temperatures in the UK mean excellent levels of efficiency and performance are achieved all year round.
In fact, up to 75% of the energy needed by the heating system is extracted from the environment - the only energy required is electricity needed to drive the heat pump compressor.
Heating all year round
Air source heat pumps can be used for heating all year round between +35°C and -25°C - which makes them ideal for the UK - and because they use the outside air as a fuel source, you'll have an always available and inexhaustible source of heat.
Unlike a ground source heat pump, their small footprint means that they're easy to install, and there's no need for expensive ground works. This makes them ideal for both new build properties or retro fit applications - especially where space is limited.
Air source heat pumps can be used for both heating and cooling, as well as domestic hot water and swimming pools. They can be connected to radiators, underfloor heating, or a wall-mounted controllable fan unit.
How an Air Source Heat Pump works
- The outside air warms up the liquid in the heat pump
- The heat pump is connected to the mains which provides around 25% of the energy needed
- The heat energy from the air is then transferred to the refrigerant within the evaporator, causing it to turn to gas
- The refrigerant gas is compressed by the heat pump, reducing it's volume but causing it to raise in temperature
- A heat exchanger (condenser) then transfers the heat from the refrigerant to a hot water supply
- The refrigerant turns back into a liquid and is able to absorb energy from the environment, allowing the cycle to begin again
At first I was a bit puzzled by the whole idea but my fears were quickly allayed by the clear explanation given by Mr. O'Connor. His advice and patience were much appreciated as was the competitive quotation which I received"
Harry Kennar, Aberporth
Low running costs
Because heat energy is being extracted from the air, there are considerable running cost savings over fossil fuelled heating systems and, arguably more importantly, you are future proofed against energy price increases.
But fuel costs are only part of the story.
Unlike gas and oil based systems, heat pumps require no costly regular maintenance or annual safety inspections. And because a heat pump has a reasonable life expectancy of 20 - 25 years (typically twice that of a boiler), the investment costs over the working life of the system are demonstrably lower.
Speak to one of our team to find out more. Call 01239 613 423 now for a free consultation.
