Advantages of Air Source Heat Pumps
In temperature control, air source heating offers a unique range of benefits. Because these systems work by moving heat instead of creating it, they are highly efficient and secure.
Following are just some of the benefits that an air source heat pump can offer to residential, and commercial buildings.
Improved Efficiency
Air source heat pump efficiency ensures a sustainable, and effective heating solution for property owners. For every 3Kw of heat that an air source heat pump produces, it uses only 1Kw of energy. This measurement is an example of Co-efficient of Performance, or “COP”. While the average COP for air source central heating is 3:1, traditional boilers only have efficiency rates of around 75-80%. At the same time, heat pumps also remove dependency on fuel deliveries – problematic to homeowners in winter.
Low Running Costs
One of the primary advantages of air source heat pumps, is that their running costs are often much lower than traditional solutions such as oil, electric, or LPG heating. Not only can you avoid the rising prices of oil because heat pumps are powered by electricity, but you can also enjoy more efficient energy production overall – reducing your bills.
Little or No Maintenance
Heat pumps are highly reliable and only require minimal maintenance. The average heat pump has a lifespan of approximately 25 years, compared to a standard boiler which has a usable lifespan of 12 years. What’s more, while a traditional boiler can lose up to 2% efficiency each year, air source heat pumps maintain incredible performance across their lifetime.
An Air Source Heat Pump Could Earn You Money
When you install an air source heating system, you could become eligible for the Renewable Heat Incentive Scheme, or RHI. Over 7 years this system pays benefits per kWh of renewable heat generated. There is a calculator available here that can help you to determine what you may be eligible for through the scheme.
Reduced Carbon Footprint
Compared with other forms of combustion-generated heat like oil and LPG, air source heat pumps have low carbon footprints. These systems use a natural source of energy – the air, and draws power from electricity. If that electricity is generated from a renewable source (such as wind or solar PV), then carbon emissions can be reduced to 0. Even without a renewable electricity source, compared to older electric storage heaters, an air source heat pump can save between 5-10 tonnes of CO2 emissions each year.
Versatility
Depending on the type of air source heating system installed, it is possible to heat water and properties at the same time. What’s more, these pumps can be used to generate hot air in the winter and cool air during the summer.
Improved Safety
Though often overlooked, safety is one of the main advantages of air source heat pumps. Conventional combustion-based heating systems can generate several problems as they begin to age. Heat pumps eliminate those problems because they don’t use volatile substances. From explosions, to carbon monoxide emissions that contribute to 200 hospital admissions per year, traditional heating can be very dangerous. Additionally, because air source heat pumps use lower heat temperatures than a standard boiler, they reduce risks of injuries due to burning and scalding.
Easy Installation
Though air source heat pumps are best installed in new-build homes, as part of a comprehensive system that includes underfloor heating – they can be used to replace or work alongside existing heating solutions too.
A Host of Benefits
Air source central heating offers a range of exceptional solutions to common boiler problems. Perfectly suited to the UK climate, the advantages of air source heat pumps make them an efficient and effective solution for property owners.
Contact us to learn more about what air source heating could do for you.
