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Air Source Heat Pumps
Efficient, low cost heating for the modern home
Award Winning Installer | Trustmark Approved | All-in-One Energy Experts | Nationwide Coverage
The future of home heating - cheaper to run and better for the environment.
If you're looking for a smarter way to heat your home, an air source heat pump (ASHP) could be the upgrade you’ve been waiting for. Whether you want to cut your energy bills, move away from gas or oil, or reduce your carbon footprint, heat pumps offer an efficient, future-proof alternative to traditional boilers.
This page covers everything you need to know — how heat pumps work, how they compare to conventional heating, what installation involves, and whether they’re right for your property.
What is an Air Source Heat Pump?
An air source heat pump captures heat from the air outside (even when it’s cold) and uses it to warm your home and hot water.
An air source heat pump takes heat from the air outside and uses it to heat your home and hot water. It works by using a fan to draw in air, then a system inside the pump captures the heat and increases it to a useful temperature. This heat is then sent through your radiators, underfloor heating, or water tank. It runs on electricity but uses much less than traditional heating systems, making it an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly way to heat your home.
There are two main types:
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Air-to-water (the most common): connects to radiators, underfloor heating, and hot water cylinders.
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Air-to-air: functions more like an air conditioning unit in reverse (less common in the UK for whole-home heating).
The systems we install are air-to-water, which can fully replace or supplement a traditional heating system.
How efficient are they?
Very. For every unit of electricity a heat pump uses, it can produce 3 to 4 units of heat — that’s up to 400% efficiency. Compare that to even the best gas boilers, which max out at around 90–95% efficiency, and it’s easy to see why heat pumps are becoming so popular.
Are Air Source Heat Pumps expensive to buy and install?
Installation costs vary depending on the size of your home and whether additional upgrades (like radiators or a hot water cylinder) are needed. In general, a full installation ranges from £8,000 to £14,000.
However, government incentives or grants (like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme or ECO4) can significantly reduce or cover the cost for eligible households.
How do Air Source Heat Pumps compare to traditional heating?
Running costs depend on your electricity tariff, home insulation, and heating controls. Well-insulated homes with off-peak or smart tariffs tend to see the biggest savings.
| Feature | Air Source Heat Pump | Gas Boiler | Oil/LPG Boiler |
|---|---|---|---|
| Efficiency | 300–400% | 90–95% | 85–90% |
| Fuel Type | Electricity (low carbon) | Natural Gas | Oil or LPG |
| Running Costs | Lower over time* | Moderate | High and volatile |
| Maintenance | Low | Medium | High (plus fuel delivery) |
| Lifespan | 15–20 years | 10–15 years | 10–15 years |
| Carbon Emissions | Very low | Moderate | High |
Will a Heat Pump work on my home?
Most homes are suitable for an air source heat pump — but a few things matter:
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Insulation: Good insulation helps heat pumps work efficiently. If needed, we can advise on upgrades.
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Outdoor Space: You’ll need space for a unit roughly the size of a washing machine — usually mounted on an outside wall.
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Radiators or Underfloor Heating: Your current system may need upgrading to larger radiators for maximum comfort.
We’ll assess all of this during a free home survey.
Are They Noisy?
Not really. Modern heat pumps are surprisingly quiet — comparable to a fridge or dishwasher (typically 40–60 decibels). They’re usually installed at the side or back of your home, and most people don’t even notice them once they’re running.
Do I Still Need a Boiler?
No — a well-installed air source heat pump can handle both heating and hot water. However, in some homes (especially larger or older properties), a hybrid system combining a heat pump with a traditional boiler may be the best solution. We’ll always recommend what’s right for your needs.
How Long Do Heat Pumps Last?
With proper maintenance, an air source heat pump can last 15 to 20 years — often longer than a standard boiler. Servicing is minimal and doesn’t require gas safety certificates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is an air source heat pump?
It’s a low-carbon heating system that extracts heat from the air outside and uses it to warm your home and hot water — even in cold weather.
Are heat pumps efficient in the UK climate?
Yes. Modern heat pumps are very efficient, even in winter. They work best in well-insulated homes and can significantly reduce energy use.
Can I replace my gas boiler with a heat pump?
Yes — heat pumps are a great alternative to traditional boilers. We’ll assess your home to ensure it’s suitable and recommend any insulation needed.
How much does a heat pump cost?
Costs vary depending on the size of your home, but funding is available through schemes like ECO4 and the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
Do heat pumps require maintenance?
Heat pumps are reliable and need very little maintenance. We recommend an annual check to keep them running efficiently.
Will it work with my radiators?
In many cases, yes. Sometimes larger or new radiators are needed to ensure maximum efficiency — we ’ll advise as part of your assessment.