According to the Energy Saving Trust UK, switching to an air source heat pump could save you up to £340 a year on your heating bills. Interestingly, by installing an air source heat pump system, you also reduce your home’s carbon emissions and help the country achieve its net-zero carbon emission target. It’s like hitting two goals at once.
Even without looking at the savings and carbon emission stats, let’s be honest, the energy bills in the UK are at their highest. Forcing people to switch towards cheap, environmentally friendly, and renewable energy solutions.
Moreover, an air source heat pump system that gives warmth to your home by capturing the heat from the air has started to get attention. A homeowner can also receive up to £7,500 subsidy on air source heat pump installation under the latest Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
This heating system seems promising, but the question remains in mind, “Will they actually save you money or just be another myth?
MAK Energy, using its years of experience, research, and witnessing air source heat pump reviews, will be explaining to you the air source heat pump cost, its working principle, and, obviously, the savings.
How Does an Air Source Heat Pump Work?
The air source heat pump, unlike the gas boiler, absorbs the heat from outside and transfers it into the home. The working principle of a heat pump is just like a fridge, but in reverse order. However, homeowners often get confused about whether the system works well in winter or not.
Well, even in the coldest weather in the UK, Air heat pumps still manage to capture the heat from the air and then pump it into a radiator or underfloor heating, ensuring the home is warm. They run on electricity, but they are 3 times more efficient than the boilers. With a solar PV system, you can save more on your heating bills.
What are the two Different Types of Air Source Heat Pumps?
Air source heat pumps come in two different types. Air-to-air and air-to-water heating pump. The annual savings and installation cost air source heat pumps typically depend on the type you choose.
1. Air-to-Air Heat Pump
An air-to-air heat pump uses the fan system that is used to transfer both hot and cool air into your home. This system is cheaper to install and costs you between £4000 to £9,500, depending on the size of your home and output size range. However, it does not give hot water.
2. Air to Water Heat Pump
Mak Energy LTD is most popular for air heating systems in the UK. a complete and comprehensive solution. An air-to-water heat pump absorbs heat from the outside, which first heats the water, then it transfers to the radiator used to heat the room. The installation cost of an air-to-water heating system ranges between £9000- £15,000, including installation costs.
Cost comparison for air-to-air and air-to-water heat pumps
| Type of Air Heat Pump | Estimated Total Installation Cost | Heat Pump Size | Efficiency Rate | Estimated Annual Savings |
| Air to air | £4,000 – £9,500 | 7.5 – 11.5kW | 250% | £160 – £170 |
| Air to water | £9,000 – £15,000 | 4 – 16kW | 300% | £290 – £430 |
Are there any Grants Available for Air source heat Pump Installation?
Yes, the Government provides several subsidies/ grants for the renewable energy solution. People living in England and Wales can get £7,500 for an air source pump installation with the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
If you are living in Scotland, you can even get an interest-free loan or more grant for air source heating system installation.
Are They Efficient Enough to Heat Larger Homes?
Yes, but not for every house. A larger home with poor insulation might not get the best performance because of the heat leakage. But if your house is big and well-insulated too, an air-to-water heat pump can heat bigger spaces effectively.
But you may need to install the larger heating system, bigger radiators, or underfloor heating to get the full benefit.
How much can I save on my Energy bills after installing a Heat Pump?
The amount you could save depends on different factors, including the size, type, and whether you are replacing an old gas or boiler. On average, a home usually saves around £300 to £340 a year. For homes switching from electric heating, the savings are even higher.
However, if you have already installed the solar panels, you will save more by using the solar panels generated energy to power your heat pump.
On top of that, the system has a lifespan of 15 to 20 years with very low maintenance, so the long-term running cost of air source heat pump is cheaper too.
What Factors Affect the Savings on an Air Heat Pump?
The factors that can directly affect energy bills could be how much your home is insulated, your current heating system, electricity tariffs in your area, and the size of the pump. If you switch from electric heating, the savings are big. From a modern gas boiler, savings are smaller but still count in the long run.
Should I Get an Air Source Heat Pump for My Home?
If you are someone keen to lower your energy bills, reduce carbon emissions, and are eligible for the Government Grants, then yes, it’s worth considering for your home. Especially when we observe the higher energy prices in the country, but before you plan to install the heat pump, make sure your home is well insulated, and you pick the right type of heat pump as per your needs.
Conclusion
An air heating system can save you more than £300 a year. However, you will only be able to save that amount on your heating bills if your home is insulated, and you choose the right heat pump size. With the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, the Government subsidises the homeowner with up to £7,500. If you want to save even more, we recommend you get a solar PV system installed on your rooftop and use the free energy to power the heating pump.
FAQs
1. Do heat pumps work in older homes?
Yes, but not always straight away. Older homes in the UK usually don’t have the best insulation, and that’s where the problem comes in. An air source heat pump works best in a well-insulated property.
2. Do heat pumps work in cold weather?
Yes, an air source heat pump can still extract heat from the air even when the outside temperature is as low as -15°C.
3. Does a heat pump provide hot water?
Yes, if you go for an air to water heat pump. This type not only gives heating through radiators or underfloor pipes, but also provides hot water for your taps, showers, and baths.
4. Do I Need a Lot of Space for a Heat Pump?
Not really. The outdoor unit needs some clear space around it so air can flow freely. Normally, a few meters of clearance is enough.
5. How Much Electricity Does an Air Source Heat Pump Use?
A Heat Pump Uses Up to Three Times Less Energy Than a Traditional Gas Boiler. The electricity usage always depends on the room size, room temperature, and the pump type.
