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Are Air Source Heat Pumps Worth It In The UK?

In the UK, boilers heat the majority of homes. While they are a traditional option, they are not environmentally friendly. 

That’s why the UK government is encouraging homeowners to consider heat pumps instead. 

Heat pumps are more eco-friendly than gas boilers. And despite costing more upfront, they can save you money in the long run. 

One type of heat pump is the air-source heat pump, an energy-efficient option for heating your home and water. 

Air-source heat pumps are easier to maintain, use more advanced technology than boilers, and can help lower heating costs and carbon footprints. 

While they have yet to be widely used in the UK, they are an ideal, greener alternative to traditional heating systems. 

So, are air-source heat pumps worth it in the UK?

Let’s find out.

What is An Air-Source Heat Pump?

An air source heat pump is a versatile heating solution that captures heat from outdoor air to warm your home and supply hot water effectively. It operates on a principle similar to a refrigerator, but in reverse. 

In this system, a specialised liquid plays a crucial role by absorbing ambient heat from the air outside your house. 

The absorbed heat undergoes a compression process, which significantly increases its temperature. 

This amplified heat is seamlessly channelled into your home’s central heating and hot water systems, ensuring a comfortable and warm environment.

The installation process of an air source heat pump is straightforward. 

The unit comprises two main components: the external part, which is mounted on an exterior wall of your home, and the internal part, which is integrated with your existing heating and hot water infrastructure. 

This efficient and eco-friendly system offers a smart way to heat your home while potentially reducing energy costs and carbon footprint.

Why Are Air-Source Heat Pumps Worth It?

1. Cleaner and More Efficient

An air-source heat pump is a better and cleaner way to heat your home than oil or gas. 

It uses electricity more efficiently than other heating systems and can help you save money on your energy bills. 

In fact, it can be up to six times more efficient than gas boilers, which means you’ll use less energy to heat your home. 

Although electricity is currently more expensive than gas, gas prices are increasing rapidly, while electricity prices are expected to decrease. 

So, in the long run, an air-source heat pump will be a more cost-effective option. 

You can even use solar panels to generate power for your heat pump and other electricity needs. 

Overall, an air-source heat pump is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint.

2. Significantly Safer

Air-source heat pumps provide a safer alternative to traditional boilers or furnaces. 

Although gas boilers are generally safe, they still carry a risk of malfunction. 

This is because they burn fuel to produce heat, which can result in pressure and various issues. 

In contrast, air-source heat pumps are a great option for those who care about the environment and their health. 

Unlike fuel-based heaters, they don’t emit harmful substances like soot and carbon monoxide into your home or the environment. 

And since air-source heat pumps use electricity, you don’t need to worry about hazardous combustion. 

However, ensuring the system is correctly installed and maintained is crucial to prevent safety hazards.

3. Longer Lifespan, Longer Financial Benefits

Air-source heat pumps have a longer lifespan than traditional gas boilers, meaning you won’t have to replace them as frequently. 

Heat pumps typically last up to 20-30 years, while gas boilers last only 10-15 years. 

This makes investing in a heat pump smart as it will provide returns from the outset. 

For instance, an average air-source heat pump that costs between £7,000 and £13,000 can save you around £4,891 throughout its lifetime, with a payback period faster than electric, oil, or coal-fired heating systems. 

Heat pumps are also low-maintenance. You only need to clean them every few months and service them annually. 

Additionally, the UK government plans to phase out gas boilers sales by 80% by 2035. 

Hence, finding new gas boilers in the future may be challenging if you need to replace yours. 

Buying a heat pump now may also help you avoid future price increases and save money in the long run.

4. Government Support Incentives

Although the upfront cost may be high, grants are available for low-income families across the UK. 

The primary government grant for heat pumps is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which can subsidise the installation by £7,500. 

This means you could get a good quality machine for a lower price. 

However, our National Home Energy Survey shows many people are unaware of this scheme. 

Complete our short form for free quotes on switching to an affordable, greener heating system. 

We will also help you take advantage of government programs that make the switch easier.

Ready To Invest In Air-Source Heat Pumps In UK?

If you’re looking for a way to save money on your heating bills and help the environment, an air-source heat pump could be a great option. 

While they may cost more upfront than a gas boiler, air-source heat pumps last much longer and can save you money in the long run. 

Plus, with the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme, you can get financial help to make the switch more affordable. 

Air-source heat pumps are a more eco-friendly way to heat your home, and with gas boilers being phased out, they may become an even more popular option. 

If you need help determining whether an air-source heat pump is right for you, we’re here to help. 

Contact us to discuss your needs and book a consultation so you can enjoy a more comfortable home without breaking the bank.

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