How does it work?An air source heat pump is a space heating system. It consists of a single unit containing pipes filled with refrigerant, which is able to absorb heat. It works by extracting heat from the outside air and transferring it to your home through radiators or underfloor heating. Even at very cold outside temperatures, the air source heat pump is able to extract enough heat from the outside air to heat your home. What are the benefits?An air-source heat pump is an energy-efficient system, and can provide on-demand heating all year round. It is a cheaper form of space heating than oil, LPG and electric storage heaters but more expensive than gas. As it takes its heat from the air, it does not require land space to lay underground pipes, and does not require a boiler. How much does it cost?Prices for an air source heat pump unit start at about £3,000, plus the price of the heating system (radiators or underfloor heating). What grants are available?The Low Carbon Buildings Trust is not currently offering any grants towards this technology but may do so in the future. Useful Links
The UK Heat Pump Network: http://www.heatpumpnet.org.uk/ |