Air Source Heat Pumps - the pros and cons

Domestic heating accounts for roughly 14% of UK carbon emissions. Air source heat pumps are often promoted as a potential solution. The theory is that we need to use electricity produced by renewables, not gas or oil for our heating.

Here are some of the key questions often raised about air source heat pumps.

Can they cope with cold weather? - 60% of buildings in Norway and 40% in Sweden now use air source heat pumps. This is a fairly convincing argument that they can work in cold temperatures.

Are they more complicated than conventional boilers? - This varies depending on the type of property but for most older properties this is a fair statement. You need to carry out a survey room by room and the house insulation, types of radiators, type of pipework and water tank requirements all need reviewing. Most new developments are now fitted with air source heat pumps as they can address all these issues at the design stage.

Aren’t there horror stories? - A badly installed heat pump system can cause problems but nearly all issues relate to problems with the installation.

Are the running costs expensive? - Heat pumps are more efficient than gas or oil boilers but at the moment the price of gas and oil per kWh is much cheaper than electricity. This means the improved efficiency is often offset by the increased cost of electricity. The quoted running costs of heat pumps are often lower or on a par though this partly reflects the additional insulation that has taken place.

Are the installation costs high? - There is a £7,500 government grant for installing heat pumps. The total cost will depend on all the extra work required to ensure the overall system works.  Installing an air source heat pump in an average house is much more expensive than putting in a traditional boiler but you do get the government grant.

Are they noisy? - Some older models were noisy, but this is no longer true.

Do you need planning permission? - Heat pumps need planning permission if they are in the line of sight of other properties.

If you are thinking about installing an air source heat pump you need to ensure that your installer really knows what they are doing. There are a number of companies who are offering survey, design, own labelled heat pumps, installation and warranty as well as financing and they will sort out the grant and any planning permissions for you.