Blog, Renewables

Exploring air source heat pumps for energy efficient homes

3 minute read

Hassle-free efficiency and ease of installation make air source heat pumps the UK’s most popular energy efficient heating system. As the local go-to air source heat pump specialists with 25 years of experience in renewable energy, we can vouch for their popularity among the many satisfied customers we’ve installed them for since Lewington Renewables was established back in 2000. If you’d like to find out more about whether an air source heat pump will be the right solution for you, please call us on 01858 433333 or fill in our contact form.

In the meantime, read on to find out more about the many benefits of air source heat pumps and what’s involved in getting your brand-new sustainable system up and running.

What are air source heat pumps?

Air source heat pumps are renewable heating systems that extract heat from the outside air and use it to warm your home and provide hot water. By moving heat rather than generating it, air source heat pumps offer a significantly more energy-efficient way to heat your house compared to traditional systems like gas or oil boilers.

The simple installation process involves a unit around the size of a washing machine being added to an exterior wall on your house. Here in the UK, people often voice concerns that the system may not be as effective in cold weather, but the good news is  that air source heat pumps continue to work efficiently in temperatures as low as -15°C, meaning your air source system will continue to heat your home efficiently, even in the depths of winter.

The many benefits of air source heat pumps

Why should you invest in an air source heat pump? Here are some compelling benefits that have encouraged others to make the switch.

Energy efficiency

Air source heat pumps are among the most energy-efficient heating systems available for your home.  For every unit of electricity consumed, they can produce up to three units of heat. This means more warmth for less energy, even when compared to a brand-new modern boiler.

Reduced carbon footprint

Despite changing government green policies and the ever-rising cost of living, we are all aware of our responsibility to do what we can to reduce our personal contribution to global warming. By relying on renewable energy from the air, air source heat pumps significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based systems. You could even consider pairing them with a green electricity tariff for an even smaller carbon footprint.

Cost savings

There is no denying that installing an energy efficient heating system like an air source heat pump involves a significant initial financial investment. To help mitigate this cost, homeowners can take advantage of the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), to receive a generous grant towards the installation of a new renewable system, with the remaining cost currently being exempt from VAT.

The target of reaching net zero by 2050 is still some distance away, however these incentives mean that it is certainly worth considering an air source heat pump when the time comes to replace your existing boiler. For the latest information on the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, please visit our funding page.

When it comes to household bills, any savings will depend on where you live, the size of your house and the fuel you are replacing. However, the efficiency of air source heat pumps means they should have the potential to be cost effective in the long term.

Hassle-free longevity

As we’ve mentioned, installation is a relatively hassle-free process, and this is particularly the case when you choose our experienced team of renewables specialists. Once in place, your air source heat pump should last you around 20 years with minimal maintenance, although as with all forms of heating, we recommend an annual service to troubleshoot any potential issues, and ensure your pump is working at its optimal level.

Take the first step towards a greener future

Switching to air source heat pumps is one of the most impactful decisions you can make as a homeowner to future proof your home while contributing to a greener planet.

Whether you’re ready to make the switch or still weighing up your options, our experts are here to help you choose the right system for you, whether that’s a renewable system like an air source heat pump or a modern gas boiler. Call us today on 01858 433 333 or fill in our contact form to begin your energy-efficient transformation.