The Benefits of Switching to an Air Source Heat Pump: Lower Bills, Cleaner Energy
As energy prices rise and climate change is labelled the defining issue of our times, homeowners are seeking ways to cut down on costs while still reducing their environmental impact. Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) offer an ideal solution for those looking to switch to a more sustainable heating option. But what exactly makes ASHPs so beneficial? In this article, Adlår will dive into the environmental and financial advantages of switching to an air source heat pump like our dual heat pump system, explaining how this innovative technology can benefit both your home and the planet.
The Environmental Benefits of Air Source Heat Pumps
Switching to an air source heat pump from a more conventional heating system – such as an oil or gas boiler – is a choice that directly benefits the environment, for the following reasons.1. Reduced Carbon Emissions
According to The Eco Experts, air source heat pumps can reduce a household’s carbon footprint by up to 44%, depending on the system being replaced. Here’s how:- Lower CO₂ Emissions – Traditional heating systems rely on burning fossil fuels to generate heat, which releases harmful carbon dioxide (CO₂) into the atmosphere. Instead of burning these finite, environmentally damaging resources, ASHPs convert warmth from the ambient air into heat for your home, producing far fewer carbon emissions in comparison.
- Using a Renewable Heat Source – By extracting and concentrating heat from the air outdoors, ASHPs utilise a renewable energy source that doesn’t deplete resources or contribute to deforestation, unlike fossil fuel extraction.
2. Contribution to Net-Zero Goals
The UK government has committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and transitioning to air source heat pumps supports this goal. Currently, heating the country’s 30 million buildings contributes to almost 25% of the UK’s CO₂ emissions. However, with a national shift towards heat pumps encouraged by the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme, the UK can do our part to mitigate the impacts of climate change by dramatically decreasing our emissions.3. Improved Indoor and Outdoor Air Quality
All ASHPs feature easily-cleaned air filters, which improve indoor air quality by removing many common allergens and pollutants before they enter your home. This can be particularly useful for families and individuals living with respiratory sensitivities. Air source heat pumps also contribute to cleaner air out of the house. While the combustion process for traditional heating systems causes the emission of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulphur oxides (SOx) into the atmosphere, both of which contribute to air pollution and respiratory issues, ASHPs do not, making them a healthier choice.The Financial Benefits of Air Source Heat Pumps
In addition to their environmental perks, ASHPs offer compelling financial benefits. While they require an initial investment, government incentives and long-term savings make them a wise choice for those looking to lower their energy bills.1. Significant Energy Cost Savings
One of the most attractive benefits of ASHPs is the potential for substantial energy cost savings. Due to their high efficiency, air source heat pumps can reduce heating costs by 20 – 40% for homes currently using electric, oil, or LPG heating systems. ASHPs typically produce 3 – 4 kWh of heat for every kWh of electricity they consume, which means that they are up to 400% efficient, with a correspondingly high Coefficient Of Performance (COP). Adlår’s dual heat pump system is an industry-leader, with a COP value of 380% at 50°C for hot water, and a heating SCOP of 415 – 489% efficiency, which can help to effectively lower your monthly utility bills.2. Government Grants and Incentives
To encourage the adoption of renewable heating, the UK government offers financial incentives for ASHP installation:- Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) – This programme provides grants of up to £7,500 to offset the installation cost of an air source heat pump, making the transition more affordable.
- No VAT on Heat Pumps – The government has also scrapped VAT on heat pumps until 2027, further easing the financial burden of the initial investment. After April 2027, VAT will return to the reduced rate of 5%.
3. Increased Property Value
Investing in sustainable technology like ASHPs can boost the market value of your property. With a growing number of buyers prioritising energy-efficient homes, an ASHP system can make your property more appealing and set it apart in a competitive real estate market. In fact, a recent joint report by ScottishPower and WWF UK found that an air source heat pump could increase your home’s value by between 1.7 to 3%. The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of your home may also improve with an ASHP, signalling lower utility costs and a smaller carbon footprint to potential buyers.Other Practical Benefits of Air Source Heat Pumps
Beyond the environmental and financial advantages, ASHPs offer several practical benefits that improve the comfort and convenience of your home.1. Year-Round Comfort
Many ASHP models, including Adlår’s dual heat pump system, offer both heating and cooling capabilities. In winter, they provide consistent warmth, while in summer, they can be reversed to cool the home. This versatility ensures a comfortable indoor climate regardless of the season, making ASHPs a valuable addition to homes in the UK, where temperatures vary considerably.2. Low Maintenance Requirements
Unlike traditional boilers, which require annual servicing, regular inspections, and occasional part replacements, air source heat pumps have minimal maintenance needs. To ensure continued efficiency, generally all that you will need is a yearly check-up by a qualified technician, and a quick clean of the air filters a few times per year.3. Extended Lifespan
Air source heat pumps typically last for 15 years, but can be expected to operate properly for over 20 years with proper maintenance. This durability reduces the need for frequent replacements and makes them a solid investment for long-term homeowners, particularly in comparison to traditional gas or oil boilers.Overcoming Common Misconceptions about ASHPs
While air source heat pumps provide a range of benefits, some misconceptions about their performance and practicality may cause hesitation. Here’s how ASHPs stand up to common myths:- “ASHPs Don’t Work in Cold Climates” – In fact, ASHPs are designed to operate effectively even in temperatures as low as -15°C. Advanced technology enables them to extract heat from the air, even in the UK’s frosty conditions.
- “They’re Noisy” – Most modern ASHP models are designed with noise reduction features and operate at a quiet hum, making them suitable for residential areas. Thanks to our ultra-silent quiet technology, the dual heat pump system from Adlår is whisper quiet.
- “Installation is Complex” – While ASHPs do require professional installation, many companies specialise in streamlined setups. For example, Adlår provides value to our customers with a 1 day install for our dual heat pump systems.
