Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are a low-carbon technology that provides efficient heating and cooling solutions for homes and businesses. Learn everything you need to know about ASHPs in this comprehensive guide, including how they work, benefits, costs, and installation.
Introduction:
Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are a type of heat pump that uses the outside air to extract heat energy. This heat energy can then be used to heat your home or business. ASHPs are a highly efficient and environmentally friendly way to heat and cool your property.
How do ASHPs work?
ASHPs work by using a refrigerant to absorb heat from the outside air. The refrigerant is then compressed, which increases its temperature. The hot refrigerant is then passed through a heat exchanger, which transfers the heat to the water that circulates through your central heating system or underfloor heating.
Benefits of ASHPs
There are many benefits to using ASHPs, including:
- Efficiency: ASHPs are highly efficient heating and cooling systems. They can produce up to 4 units of heat for every 1 unit of electricity they use.
- Environmental benefits: ASHPs are a low-carbon technology. They do not produce any direct emissions of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases.
- Running costs: ASHPs can help you to save money on your energy bills. They are typically more efficient than gas boilers and electric heaters.
- Longevity: ASHPs have a long lifespan, typically around 20 years.
- Government grants: The UK government offers a number of grants for homeowners who install ASHPs.
Costs of ASHPs
The cost of an ASHP will vary depending on the size and type of system you choose, as well as the installer you use.
ASHP installation
ASHPs can be installed by qualified heat pump installers. The installation process typically takes around 2 days.
Types of ASHPs
There are two main types of ASHPs:
- Air to water ASHPs: Air to water ASHPs transfer heat from the outside air to the water that circulates through your central heating system or underfloor heating.
- Air to air ASHPs: Air to air ASHPs transfer heat from the outside air to the air inside your home.
ASHPs for hot water
ASHPs can be used to heat hot water as well as space heating. This is done by connecting the ASHP to a hot water cylinder.
ASHPs for central heating
ASHPs can be used to heat your central heating system. This is done by connecting the ASHP to your boiler.
ASHPs for underfloor heating
ASHPs are ideal for use with underfloor heating systems. This is because they can provide a low and steady temperature, which is ideal for underfloor heating.
ASHPs for new builds
ASHPs are a popular choice for new build homes. This is because they are efficient and environmentally friendly.
ASHPs for retrofit
ASHPs can also be installed in existing homes. However, it is important to have your home assessed by a qualified installer to make sure that an ASHP is suitable for your property.
ASHPs for businesses
ASHPs can also be used to heat and cool businesses. They are a popular choice for businesses that are looking to reduce their energy costs and carbon footprint.
ASHP noise
ASHPs produce a low level of noise. However, the noise level will vary depending on the type and size of ASHP you choose.
ASHP maintenance
ASHPs require very little maintenance. However, it is important to have your ASHP serviced by a qualified installer every year.
ASHP troubleshooting
If you have any problems with your ASHP, you should contact a qualified installer.
Conclusion
ASHPs are a highly efficient and environmentally friendly way to heat and cool your home or business. They offer a number of benefits, including reduced energy bills, a long lifespan, and government grants.
List of different ASAP.
- An air source heat pump
- Air to water ASHP
- Air to air ASHP
- ASHP for hot water
- ASHP for central heating
- ASHP for underfloor heating
- ASHP for new builds
- ASHP for retrofit
- ASHP for businesses