Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are increasingly popular as a sustainable alternative to traditional heating systems. Yet, despite their growing adoption, several misconceptions still cloud the public's understanding of these innovative devices. In this blog post, we’ll tackle the top five myths about air source heat pumps and explain why they’re not just viable but a fantastic choice for many UK homeowners.
1. "Air Source Heat Pumps Don’t Work in Cold Weather"
The Myth: Many assume that because air source heat pumps extract heat from the air, they’re useless in colder climates. This misconception often stems from confusion with older technologies or a lack of understanding of modern advancements.
The Reality: Today’s air source heat pumps are marvels of engineering, designed to perform efficiently even in sub-zero temperatures. High-quality systems can operate in conditions as cold as -15°C to -20°C, making them perfectly suited to the UK climate. How do they do it? By leveraging advanced refrigerants and heat exchanger technology, they capture and compress ambient heat—even when it feels freezing to us.
Fun Fact: Countries like Sweden and Norway, which experience far harsher winters than the UK, have been successfully using air source heat pumps for decades.
Read another blog about weather difficulties and heat pumps in the UK
2. "They Can’t Heat Homes Properly"
The Myth: Heat pumps are often dismissed as inadequate, especially for older or larger properties that traditionally rely on powerful gas boilers.
The Reality: This belief usually arises from poorly installed or undersized systems. A well-designed heat pump system, installed after a thorough Heat Loss Survey, can heat your home to a consistent and comfortable temperature. In fact, heat pumps work best when paired with well-insulated homes, ensuring that the warmth they produce isn’t wasted.
For homes that require higher heat output, properly sized radiators or underfloor heating can ensure maximum efficiency. Pair this with professional installation and the result is a system that not only heats but does so with impressive efficiency.
Customer Tip: If you’re unsure about whether your home is suitable, a professional survey will identify any additional insulation or radiator upgrades you might need.
3. "Air Source Heat Pumps Are Noisy"
The Myth: Some imagine a heat pump chugging away noisily in the garden, disturbing the peace of their home and neighbourhood.
The Reality: Modern air source heat pumps are designed with quiet operation in mind. Typically, their noise level is comparable to that of a refrigerator or gentle background hum. UK legislation also requires heat pump installations to meet strict noise level standards under permitted development rights. These regulations ensure that the noise generated at the boundary of a property does not exceed 42 decibels, making them suitable for residential areas. Most units are placed outdoors and designed to minimise vibration and sound. Additionally, clever positioning—away from bedroom windows or neighbouring properties—can ensure you rarely notice them in operation.
What to Expect: During installation, your installer will advise on the best location for minimal disruption. Many customers find they hardly notice their heat pump at all once it’s up and running.
4. "They’re Too Expensive to Install and Run"
The Myth: Heat pumps are perceived as prohibitively expensive, with significant upfront costs and running expenses.
The Reality: While the initial installation cost can be higher than a traditional gas boiler, the long-term savings and environmental benefits make it a worthwhile investment. Government schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) in the UK now offer grants of up to £7,500 to offset costs, bringing the price of installation much closer to that of a conventional system.
Once installed, heat pumps are highly efficient, converting one unit of electricity into three or more units of heat. This efficiency reduces running costs, particularly when paired with renewable energy sources like solar panels. Over time, these savings can significantly outweigh the initial investment.
Cost-Saving Insight: Don’t forget the long-term benefits: lower energy bills, reduced maintenance needs, and the peace of mind that comes from using a system built for the future.
Top Tip: We have recently launched a new heat pump calculator tool to get a quick quote click here.
5. "Air Source Heat Pumps Aren’t Environmentally Friendly"
The Myth: Critics argue that because heat pumps use electricity, which may come from fossil fuels, they aren’t truly green.
The Reality: Heat pumps are one of the most energy-efficient heating solutions available. They don’t burn fuel directly, unlike gas boilers, which release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Instead, they extract renewable heat from the air. For every unit of electricity consumed, they can generate three to four units of heat, vastly improving energy efficiency.
As the UK transitions to cleaner, renewable electricity generation, the environmental benefits of heat pumps will only increase. Even today, they can reduce a home’s carbon emissions by up to 50% compared to a gas boiler, making them a key player in achieving the UK’s net-zero goals.
Pro Tip: Pairing a heat pump with a solar PV system can significantly reduce your reliance on grid electricity, making your heating much more self-sufficient and helping to lower both your carbon footprint and energy bills.
Conclusion: Why You Shouldn’t Be Put Off by Myths
Air source heat pumps are an efficient, reliable, and eco-friendly way to heat your home. While misconceptions may make some homeowners hesitant, the reality is these systems are built to meet modern heating needs, even in challenging conditions.
If you’ve been considering making the switch to a heat pump but feel uncertain, remember: knowledge is power. A professional consultation can answer your questions, assess your home’s suitability, and guide you toward a heating solution that’s both sustainable and cost-effective.
Ready to explore your options? Contact us today to book a professional survey and discover how an air source heat pump can transform your home’s heating system!
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