Air source heat pump installation

Upgrade your home's heating and cooling system with an air source heat pump installation.

Introduction to air source heat pumps

Heat pumps have gained increasing popularity in the UK, with an emphasis on phasing out gas boilers for more sustainable sources.

An air source heat pump is a renewable heating system that uses the outside air to provide space heating and hot water. It works by using a compressor to transfer the heat from one place to another.

The blower compresses outside air to increase its temperature, passing it through a heat exchanger, transferring heat into the home.

Installing an air source heat pump in a home offers multiple benefits. This includes reduced carbon emissions and lower energy bills. It also provides a comfortable heating system for your home during the cold weather.

Preparing for installation

Prior to installing a new efficient heat pump, you’ll need to obtain an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). This is done through an accredited assessor.

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) provides information on energy efficiency, heating costs, and emissions of potential models. It can help in comparing and deciding on grants. If the property was recently purchased, it may already have a valid EPC. This can be checked on the government portal.

Once you have chosen an installer, they will come to your property to conduct an onsite survey. This is to check if the chosen model is suitable to install. They can safely remove any existing system, such as a gas boiler.

The onsite survey should notify the installer of any additional tasks that need completing. Allowing them to plan their services accurately ahead of installation.

Installation day

The installation process can be broken down into two components – outdoor and indoor units.

The outdoor unit is usually visible from the exterior of the property, where it sources outside air and compresses it into warm air.

It needs to be set up in an area with plenty of airflow with minimal obstructions. Ensure to carry out the necessary requirements specified by the manufacturer.

The second aspect involves connecting the indoor units to radiators, underfloor heating, or hot water pipes. This process requires careful consideration. The installer will need to determine which rooms require heat the most, to plan out the most suitable layout.

Post-installation considerations

Once your system has been installed, some finishing touches are needed to ensure it works efficiently. Firstly, it’s important to install sensors so that the pump can send temperature signals to the thermostat.

Additionally, it’s worth taking the time to understand the maintenance requirements of the system. Though heat pumps require low maintenance, they should still be checked regularly. For example, clogged filters or dust build up on fans.

Cost

An installation can be costly as it can be difficult to predict the exact amount required. However this isn’t always the case. The size of the system and the complexity of the work involved may affect the final cost.

Consider labour costs, as well as the materials needed such as pipes, radiators and other components. It's recommended to get a quote so you're aware of all the costs. There are government grants available in some cases to help with these costs.

Basic models start at around £11,000, but a full installation including labour can increase the total cost. Cutting corners or using an inexperienced fitter may lead to higher costs in the long term. As such, it’s necessary to hire a professional installer.

How long does it take to install an air source heat pump?

The installation of an air source heat pump is a complex job that requires attention to detail and careful planning. Depending on the size of the property and requirements, it can take a couple of days or longer to complete.

During the installation process, the installer will run tests to ensure everything is functioning properly. This can include checking refrigerant levels, securing electrical connections, and ensuring safety features are in place.

The duration of the installation may vary based on factors such as the need for excavation work or complex piping.

The installer can provide an estimate of the timeframe based on the specific needs of your home. Planning ahead can help avoid surprise delays or schedule changes during the installation process.

Professionals in air source heat pumps

Unitherm is your go-to source for quality heat pumps, design and training. We have an extensive selection of air source and ground source heat pumps, as well as a comprehensive range of training courses to help you get the most out of your product.

Our in-house bespoke design software is essential to ensure that your underfloor heating system, radiator system or the sizing of the heat pump meets regulations and industry standards. This allows us to accurately calculate the capacity and performance of each system, based on room size, insulation levels, building type and air tightness.

If you have any questions or need assistance finding the right solution for your home, feel free to reach out to us. You can give us a call at 01392 979450 or send us an email at enquiries@Unitherm.co.uk. We would love to hear about your project and help in any way we can.