Air Source Heat Pumping: What you need to know

What are air source heat pumps? Air source heat pumps take heat from the air outside and use it to function radiators, hot water systems, underfloor heating and warm air convectors. Quite the opposite to refrigerators, air source heat pumps extract warmth to increase the temperature inside (rather than expel heat from the inside) and they still function well in a -15 degree environment. 

 

Two types of heat pumps

Air-to-air heat pumps – takes heat from the air outside, brings it into the home, and extracts it through a fan system, which then heats up your home’s interior. 

Air-to-water heat pumps – withdraws external air outside the home and brings it into the home, it is then filtered through your central heating system and generates hot water.

 

The benefits of air source heat pumps

• Saves money on energy bills
  
• *Renewable Heat Incentive – chance for UK Government income
• Reduction in carbon footprint
• No waiting for fuel deliveries 
• Heats your home and water
• Little maintenance required
• Easy to install
• Longer lifespans

 

*Renewable Heat Incentive – what is it?

Air source heat pumps have a low impact on the environment because they utilise natural, reusable resources to heat up systems, and so, the UK government is trying to encourage more users to turn to this eco-friendly solution, through the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme. 

RHI offers financial incentives to those who install these renewable heating systems into their homes. The UK Government suggests that RHI scheme in 2020 will account for 12% of heating systems throughout England, Wales and Scotland.  

The domestic RHI was introduced in 2014 and since, has worked to provide homeowners with eco-friendly systems that not only help to care for the environment, but also help to give back to individuals financially. 

 

How much can I earn through RHI?

You will receive quarterly cash payments for seven years but the amount you acquire will rely on many factors including: what you’ve installed, up-to-date tariffs and depending on circumstances, metering. If you’d like an estimate, you can use this link to GOV.UK.

 

What systems are supported by RHI?

• Air to water heat pumps
  
• Biomass pellet stoves 
• Biomass wood fuelled boilers
• Solar thermal panels 

 

How can I apply for RHI?

Apply for RHI through Ofgem’s website. Be sure to have the relevant information such as bank details, EPC number and your installation certificate number with you, and you should be able to receive an immediate result. If you are not able to apply online, call Ofgem’s support centre on: 0300 003 0744 or email any queries to domesticRHI@ofgem.gov.co.uk.

For a reliable, trusted and accredited service, call on A&D Plumbing. We provide a variety of comprehensive services including plumbing services, central heating services, boiler services, gas appliance installation, oil services and gas services. We also provide senior citizens discounts – so contact us and let’s see how we can help you. We offer our services to customers throughout Colchester, Cambridge, Chelmsford, Ipswich and the surrounding areas.