An air source heat pump (ASHP) is a system that transfers heat from the outside air into your home for heating or reverses the process for cooling. It works like a refrigerator in reverse, using electricity to move heat rather than generate it.

ASHPs are best suited for well-insulated homes and areas with moderate winter temperatures. They can still work efficiently in colder climates with the right system and backup heating.

Yes, an air source heat pump (ASHP) can heat an entire home, provided it is correctly sized for your property's specific needs and the home is well-insulated.

Yes. Modern ASHPs are designed to operate efficiently even at temperatures as low as -15°C (5°F) or lower. However, efficiency and output can decrease extreme cold, and a backup heating system may be beneficial.

There are two main types:

• Air-to-air heat pump: Heats the air inside your home directly

• Air-to-water heat pump: Heats water that circulates through radiators, underfloor heating, or a hot water cylinder.

Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are significantly more energy-efficient than gas boilers, with efficiencies of 300-500% compared to a gas boiler's 90-95%.

Efficiency is measured as the Coefficient of Performance (COP). For every 1 kWh of electricity used, an ASHP can produce 2.5–4 kWh of heat, making it 200–400% efficient under ideal conditions.

Yes. Many models are reversible, meaning they can work like an air conditioner in summer by transferring heat out of your home.

• Higher upfront cost compared to traditional systems

• May require improved home insulation to be efficient

• Performance can drop in very cold weather

• Outdoor unit may produce some noise

Yes, you can use an air source heat pump with solar panels, and they work very well together by using solar-generated electricity to power the heat pump, making your heating more sustainable and potentially reducing electricity costs. Solar panels provide electricity during the day, which can be used directly by the heat pump, but you will need to draw from the grid or a battery storage system at night or on cloudy days.

 How they work together

• Direct power: Solar panels generate electricity during the day, which can be used to power the heat pump's electricity needs in real-time.

• Reduced grid reliance: This direct usage means you draw less electricity from the grid, making your heating eco-friendlier and reducing your bills.

• Battery storage: To use solar power when the sun isn't shining, you can pair your solar panels with a battery storage system to store excess energy for use at night or on cloudy days.

• Year-round power: Even when solar generation is low in winter, the heat pump is still an efficient way to heat your home, and the system can draw from the grid when necessary. 

Typically, 15–20 years, depending on the model and maintenance. Regular service helps maximise lifespan and efficiency.

If you have large or low-temperature radiators and good insulation, you might not need major changes. However, ASHPs work best with underfloor heating or larger radiators that operate efficiently at lower water temperatures.

Modern units are relatively quiet, typically 40–60 dB, comparable to a refrigerator or light rainfall. Placement of the outdoor unit helps minimise noise impact.

Yes, but maintenance is minimal:

• Clean or replace filters

• Check refrigerant levels

• Keep outdoor unit clear of debris and snow

• Annual professional service is recommended