With energy prices rising and environmental concerns growing, more and more UK households are looking for smart, greener ways to heat their homes. There are a couple of sustainable options readily available to tackle the future of sustainable energy, but there is one solution that stands out as the future of heating: air source heat pumps.
Efficient, low-carbon and long-term cost-effective, they’re fast becoming one of the key components in the shift toward making sustainable living accessible.
But what is a heat pump, and how do they work? We’ll explore everything about heat pumps and their role in reaching net-zero in this blog.
What is a heat pump?
A heat pump is an energy-efficient system that transfers heat from one place to another instead of generating heat by burning fuel. In the majority of residential installations, an air source heat pump is used to extract warmth from the outside air and use it to heat your home & water – even in cold weather.
The main advantage of heat pumps is that they can produce 3-4 times more thermal energy than they actually consume, making them one of the most efficient and sustainable heating systems available today.
How Do Heat Pumps Work?
The process behind air source heat pumps is similar to how a refrigerator works, but in reverse. Because they run on electricity, heat pumps are even more efficient and environmentally friendly when paired with renewable energy sources like solar panels and solar battery storage.
Here’s how it works step-by-step:
- The heat pump unit extracts heat from the outside air.
- The heat is absorbed into a liquid and passed through a compressor which raises its temperature again.
- The heat is then transferred into you home heating system including radiators, underfloor heating and hot water tanks.
- The cycle repeats, and works in low temperatures (sometimes down to -15°C!).
Benefits Of Heat Pumps At Home
Choosing heat pumps for you home offers a wide range of benefits:
Year-Round Comfort
Some air source heat pumps offer both heating and cooling, acting as both a heater in the autumn and winter, and an air conditioning unit in the summer.
Climate Change Prepared
Living in the UK, it’s uncommon to find an AC unit in the majority of households. However, with temperatures continuing to rise every summer due to climate change, the necessity to be able to cool down inside properties is becoming more apparent. Opting for a reversible heat pump unit will ensure that you’re well prepared for the years to come.
Long Lifespan
With proper maintenance, heat pumps can last between 15-20 years, sometimes even more.
Low Maintenance
Unlike traditional boilers, your heat pump will require minimal servicing and fewer repairs when installed properly by one of our experts here at Adept Renewables.
Reduced Carbon Footprint
Running solely on electricity, air source heat pumps cut your home’s carbon emissions dramatically, by up to % [insert figure here]. Opting for a heat pump in your home is a great way to contribute to the effort to reach Net Zero by 2050, aligning with Goal 7, Goal 12 and Goal 13 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
- Goal 7 – Affordable & Clean Energy
- Goal 12 – Responsible Consumption & Production
- Goal 13 – Climate Action
Low Running Costs
In addition to reduced emissions, heat pumps high efficiency can significantly reduce your annual energy bills in the long-term, especially if you’ve decided to replace an oil or LPG system.
Heat Pump Grants
If you’re concerned about the upfront costs you’re not alone, but help is available! Through the government Boiler Upgrade Scheme, homeowners in England and Wales could be eligible to receive up to a £7,500 grant towards the cost of an air source heat pump, making the switch to sustainable energy even more accessible.
Ready To Switch To Greener Heating?
As the UK energy landscape evolves, it’s become clear that residential heating needs to make the shift to cleaner alternatives to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower monthly bills and allow homeowners to take control of their energy future.
At Adept Renewables, we design and install bespoke air source heat pump systems fit to your lifestyle and energy goals. We provide quality renewable energy systems as well as full support with grants and paperwork. For expert tailored advice get in touch with our team on 01202 986 805, or use our online contact form to get a quotation for heat pump installation.
