Air source heat pumps are one of the technologies that can help us achieve this. They use energy from the air outside to heat your home and provide hot water, helping us move towards a more sustainable future.
What is an air source heat pump?
An air source heat pump is a heating system that takes energy from the air outside and uses it to heat your home. Unlike a traditional gas boiler, which burns fuel to create heat, a heat pump uses electricity to move heat from the outside air into your home. Even when it’s cold outside, the air still contains heat that can be used. The system brings this heat into your home to help keep it warm.
How does it work?
- Taking heat from the air
The outdoor unit draws in air and extracts the heat from it. - Making the heat warmer
The heat pump uses electricity to increase the temperature of the heat. - Heating your home
The heat is transferred into your heating system, helping to warm your home and provide hot water.
Why are we using air source heat pumps?
Air source heat pumps can help us make our homes more sustainable and energy efficient.
They produce fewer carbon emissions than traditional fossil fuel heating systems, particularly when powered by electricity from lower-carbon sources.
This supports our work to reduce the environmental impact of our homes.
What does this mean for customers?
If an air source heat pump is being installed in your home, we’ll provide information about how the system works and how to use it.
You may notice some differences compared with a traditional boiler, including:
- The system may run for longer periods to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
- It works best when heating your home steadily, rather than switching the heating on and off for short periods.
- The outdoor unit may make a gentle humming or fan noise when operating.
- Your heating controls may be different from those you have used before.
We’ll explain how to use your heating system and answer any questions you have.
Yes. An air source heat pump is designed to heat your home and can provide hot water. Your home and heating system will have been assessed to make sure the installation is suitable.
Yes. Air source heat pumps can take heat from the air even when outdoor temperatures are low. The system is designed to work throughout the year.
Yes. Air source heat pumps use electricity to move heat into your home. How much electricity you use will depend on your home, the system and how you use your heating.
A heat pump can be more energy efficient than some traditional heating systems. However, your bills will depend on your electricity tariff, how much energy you use, your home and the performance of your heating system.
We can’t guarantee that your bills will be lower.
Follow the guidance provided with your heating system. Heat pumps generally work best when maintaining a steady temperature, rather than being switched on and off frequently.
If your heating or hot water isn’t working, or you notice a problem with the outdoor unit, please report it to us.
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