Air source heat pumps extract heat directly from the air circulating around your house. It can then be used to heat radiators, underfloor heating or convectors as well as being used to heat water.
Air source heat pumps work in a similar way to fridges which source heat from the inside to leave the interior cold. A type of renewable energy technology, air source heat pumps are capable of working in air temperatures as low as -15°C.
Air source heat pumps fall into two categories: air to air systems and air to water systems.
Heat pumps still have some effect on the environment as they require electricity to run. However the heat they source from the air, as with heat sourced from the ground by ground source heat pumps, is renewable.
Installing an air source heat pump will cost between £6000 to £9000. As with ground source heat pumps, running costs will vary depending on what heating system you currently use and how well your house is insulated. One of the more well known manufacturers is Dimplex, but other manufacturers include Worcester (a member of the Bosch group), Daikin and BoilerMate. Air source heat pumps do tend to make a bit of noise, but only as much as a standard washing machine and you shouldn’t be able to hear it from within the house if you have adequate double glazing.
Installing an air source heat pump has considerable advantages over conventional fuel, including:
A buyers guide and a field trials report is available from the Energy Saving Trust for further information.
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