Top Tips for Air Source Heat Pumps in the UK

To reach the UK net zero goal it is planned for an annual installation of 600,000 heat pumps a year in our homes by 2028. Air source heat pumps are a green way of heating your home, saving you money on energy bills and improving the energy efficiency of your property. This article will discuss the best ways to use an air-source heat pump if you have one already or are looking into getting one.

What is the Most Efficient Way to Run Heat Pumps in the UK?

Air source heat pump technology absorbs the hot air from outside and stores it within the system. It then turns it into a refrigerant, which creates heat for the home. The best way to think about it is by taking a look at your fridge, heat pumps work oppositely. Rather than cooling, they heat! It’s that simple.

Let’s explore Heat Pumps in depth:

1. Understand your Heat Pump:

Once you have a heat pump installed, it is important to understand it, like any new technology. A good start is learning how to understand its heating controls and how to integrate the system into your daily routine, ensuring you get the most out of it.

2. Cost-Effective Use of your Heat Pump:

The more your heat pump has to work, the more electricity it is going to use for operation. For the best results in cost-effectiveness, set your system to run at a lower heat over a longer time frame. This will use less electricity and slowly but surely warm your home.

3. Make Sure that your Heat Pump is Looked After:

Getting your heat pump serviced annually is a good way of making sure it is healthy! Doing this will allow it to work at its maximum capacity and any issues it may be facing will be dealt with promptly.

4. Maintain the Flow of Air to your Heat Pump:

There could be items that are obstructing the airflow into your heat pump. To keep a steady airflow, remove any large items such as plant pots, debris, and even snow that build up in the cooler months.

5. Make Sure Your Home is Correctly Insulated for your Heat Pump:

A fully insulated home is the perfect pairing to heat pumps. Make sure your home has insulation within its cavity or solid walls, loft, and underfloor to trap in the heat created. Closing doors and windows can also help. You could be eligible for free insulation with the Great British Insulation Scheme and you can click below to find out.

6. A Heat Pump with the Most Economic Electricity Tariff Can Be Beneficial:

If you are not already, being on an economic electricity tariff will ensure that whatever you are saving on your heating mirrors what you spend on your electricity bills.

What Help is Available for Heat Pumps in the UK?

If you are considering getting a heat pump, it is well worth knowing that the government offers grants to make buying one financially easier, and in some cases completely free! You could get help through schemes such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme or ECO4, making a heating upgrade accessible to everyone. Under ECO4, those who apply could also receive additional energy upgrades like solar panels and insulation.

If you or someone in your household receives a means-tested benefit, you will be eligible for the ECO4 scheme. If you do not receive any benefits, you could be eligible if your household earns under a total of £31,000.  

Summary

The overall results from heat pumps can help with less spending on energy bills and create an eco-friendly home. With the help of government grants, heat pumps begin to look more attractive to prospective installers due to their accessibility. This technology is a large part of the UK’s transition to renewable energy. With any large financial decisions, research and thought should be carried out before signing on the dotted line.