What are the Different Types of Air Source Heat Pumps?

There are two main types of air source heat pumps. They work on similar principles but extract heat from different heat sources. Before deciding which is best for you, it's best to do some research. Here are the main differences to consider:

Air Source Heat Pumps

Air source heat pumps use an outdoor heat pump unit to absorb heat from the outside air and deliver that heat to your home for heating.

1. Cheaper and easier to install than ground source heat pumps.

2. Higher operating costs than ground source heat pumps.

3. Relatively small outdoor heat pump unit (about the size of two washing machines).

4. Can operate in temperatures as low as -15°C.

5. Usually does not require planning permits.

6. Lasts approximately 20 years.

Ground source heat pumps

Ground source heat pumps use water circulating in underground pipes to extract heat from the ground and then use it to heat your home.

1. More expensive and more complex to install than air source heat pumps

2. Lower operating costs than air source heat pumps

3. Requires excavation of large outdoor areas (e.g., gardens) for piping

4. More efficient at lower temperatures

5. Lasts approximately 20 years

Hybrid Heat Pumps

Another common type of heat pump is the hybrid heat pump. These pumps primarily use air or ground source heat pumps but are equipped with a backup gas boiler that activates when additional heating is needed.

Final Summary

Regardless of the type you choose, you will be heating your home more sustainably than with a traditional gas boiler. In fact, if your electricity is zero-carbon, you will produce absolutely no carbon dioxide emissions during the heating process.