Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) Glossary
| Term | Definition |
| ASHP | Air Source Heat Pump |
| COP | Coefficient of Performance |
| EER | Energy Efficiency Ratio |
| Evaporator | A device that extracts heat from a substance, such as air or water. |
| Condenser | A device that transfers heat from a substance, such as air or water, to another substance. |
| Refrigerant | A fluid that undergoes a phase change (liquid to gas and vice versa) to absorb and release heat. |
| Compressor | A device that increases the pressure of a gas. |
| Indoor Unit | The part of the ASHP located inside the home, responsible for transferring heat to the heating or cooling system. |
| Outdoor Unit | The part of the ASHP located outside the home, responsible for extracting heat from the air. |
| Defrost Cycle | A process that removes ice or frost from the evaporator coils, ensuring efficient heat transfer. |
| RHI | Renewable Heat Incentive |
| BUS | Boiler Upgrade Scheme |
| ASHP Installer | A qualified technician trained to install, maintain, and service ASHPs. |
| Scroll Compressor | A type of compressor commonly used in ASHPs, known for its quiet operation and efficiency. |
| Desuperheater | A device that extracts heat from refrigerant vapor before it enters the condenser, increasing the efficiency of the ASHP. |
| Ground Source Heat Pump (GSHP) | A type of heat pump that extracts heat from the ground, offering a more stable source of heat compared to ASHPs. |
| Air-to-Water Heat Pump | A type of ASHP that transfers heat from the air to water, primarily used for domestic hot water heating. |
| Air-to-Air Heat Pump | A type of ASHP that transfers heat from the air to air, primarily used for space heating and cooling. |
| Hybrid Heat Pump | A system that combines an ASHP with another heating source, such as a gas boiler, to provide more efficient and reliable heating. |
| ASHP Maintenance | Regular upkeep of ASHPs to ensure they are working efficiently and safely, including cleaning, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting components. |