Should I Leave My Air Source Heat Pump on All the Time
In this article, we explore key questions such as why your air source heat pump might run continuously, whether heat pumps are designed to run non-stop, and if they need to be left on all the time.
The short answer? Yes—in most cases. However, as with many things regarding heat pumps, the reality is a bit more nuanced. Having installed hundreds of heat pump systems across Hertfordshire and Oxfordshire, Leomon knows exactly how to get the best performance out of your system.
1. Why heat pumps are most efficient when left on
Unlike older gas boilers that can rapidly release heat on demand, air source heat pumps are designed to operate steadily and continuously. Think of it as the difference between a sprinter and a marathon runner—a heat pump is like a marathon runner.
1) The science behind continuous operation
Do heat pumps need to run all the time? Well, yes—in most cases, they should. The reason is that heat pumps operate most efficiently when maintaining a constant temperature rather than frequently starting and stopping. Here’s why:
Energy efficiency improves when the heat pump maintains a comfortable temperature rather than having to work harder to heat the home up from a cold state.
Reduced wear and tear on system components means fewer breakdowns and a longer lifespan for the equipment.
Your home stays at a consistently comfortable temperature, eliminating the uneven heating often associated with older boilers.
2) What "always on" really means
When we say "leave it on," we don't mean it is constantly running and consuming electricity. Your heat pump only draws power when it actually needs to heat your home.
Think of it like your refrigerator: it is always "on," but the compressor only runs when it needs to maintain the correct temperature.
2. The Leomon Approach: Smart Temperature Management
1) Set it and forget it
Our recommendation: Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature (usually 19–21°C) and leave it there. Small adjustments of 1–2°C are fine, but avoid frequently changing the temperature setting.
2) Nighttime settings
If you prefer a cooler sleeping environment, you can set the temperature slightly lower at night (a drop of 2–3°C). Your heat pump will gradually adjust the temperature rather than shutting down completely. 3) Holiday Mode
Going away for more than 24 hours? Use the system's Holiday Mode or Frost Protection Mode. This mode typically maintains the temperature at around 15°C to prevent pipes from freezing while saving energy.
3. When to switch it off (rare exceptions)
Based on our 20+ years of experience, switching off the air source heat pump is justified only in very rare cases:
1) Taking a long holiday (over a week) during mild weather
2) No heating required during spring and summer
3) Major system maintenance (we will guide you through this)
4. Common mistakes made by homeowners
1) Mistake 1: Treating it like a gas boiler
* Issue: Turning it on for just a few hours each morning and evening.
* Result: Higher bills and uncomfortable indoor temperature fluctuations.
* Solution: Continuous, gentle heating that balances efficiency and comfort.
2) Mistake 2: Setting the temperature too high
* Issue: Setting the thermostat to 25°C, expecting rapid heating.
* Result: Excessive load on the system.
* Solution: Be patient with temperature adjustments—wait 24 hours before making further changes.
3) Mistake 3: Turning off individual radiators
* Issue: Closing valves in unused rooms.
* Result: System imbalance and reduced efficiency.
* Solution: Keep all radiators on, though you can slightly adjust the thermostatic valves if necessary.
5. What is the actual cost of running it continuously?
The fact is: letting the air source heat pump run steadily usually consumes less electricity than frequent switching on and off, for the following reasons:
1) No high-energy startup periods
2) Higher efficiency when operating at a constant temperature
3) Better overall system performance.
A real-life case study from a customer in Hertfordshire: they previously ran their heating twice a day, with monthly costs reaching £180. After switching to continuous heating, costs dropped to £145 per month, and comfort levels improved.
6. Maximize efficiency with Leomon's advice
1) Proper installation is crucial
* Flow temperature optimization: We configure your system to operate at the lowest effective temperature (typically 45–50°C). * Weather compensation: Automatically adjusts output based on outdoor temperatures.
* System balancing: Ensures even heat distribution throughout the home.
2) Regular maintenance
* Annual servicing maintains high efficiency and prevents a potential 25% increase in costs caused by poor maintenance.
* Check filters every few months to maintain good airflow.
* Professional monitoring of system performance.
7. Time-of-use tariffs: A game-changer
A practical tip for savvy Hertfordshire homeowners: If you are on a time-of-use tariff (such as Economy 7), you can configure your heat pump to provide more heating during off-peak hours while maintaining indoor comfort.
This doesn't mean frequently turning the unit on and off—it’s about optimizing its operation during peak demand periods.
8. Signs your "always-on" strategy needs adjustment
Consult a professional if you notice the following:
1) The air source heat pump runs constantly, yet the house never feels warm enough.
2) Electricity bills are much higher than expected.
3) The system frequently cycles on and off every few minutes.
4) Uneven temperatures throughout the home.
9. These issues usually indicate problems with installation or settings, rather than the "always-on" approach itself.
1) Why installation quality affects your "always-on" strategy
Improperly installed equipment cannot operate efficiently when running continuously, for the following reasons:
* Incorrect sizing means the system struggles to heat the home effectively.
* Poor system design leads to inefficient operation.
* Improper commissioning results in incorrect settings.
2) Leomon’s high-quality installation solutions are designed for efficient, continuous operation:
* Accurate heat loss calculations to ensure correct sizing.
* Professional system design leveraging hydraulic expertise.
* Comprehensive commissioning to achieve optimal efficiency.
* Clear guidance on best operating practices.
10. Keep your air source heat pump running continuously for:
1) Maximum efficiency and lowest operating costs.
2) Optimal comfort and consistent temperatures.
3) Maximum equipment lifespan and minimal wear and tear.
Trust Leomon’s experience—we have perfected this approach across hundreds of installations in Hertfordshire, Oxfordshire, and North London.
