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Best Air Source Heat Pumps in the UK (2024)
- The best overall air source heat pump in the UK this year is the Samsung Eco Heating System.
- The Viessmann Vitocal is the most efficient heat pump on the market.
- LG’s Therma line is the most affordable option for the average household.
When choosing an air source heat pump, it's crucial to consider various factors such as cost, efficiency, power, performance, heat pump size, warranty, availability with heat pump installers in the UK, and the size of your home. We’ve considered all these points when compiling our comprehensive guide to the best air source heat pump options on the market.
The cost of high-quality air source heat pumps ranges anywhere from £2,800 to £11,000, so they can be a significant investment. The best air source heat pumps available in the UK are:
| Heat Pump Model | Category | Available Outputs | Efficiency Rating | Estimated Cost | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung Eco Heating System | Best overall | 4 - 16kW | A+++ | £2,800 – £9,000 | 2 - 7 years |
| LG THERMA V | Most affordable | 5 - 16kW | A++ | £2,600 – £6,400 | 3 - 5 years |
| Viessmann Vitocal | Most efficient | 4.2 - 16kW | A+++ | £4,500 – £10,500 | 2 - 7 years |
| Hitachi Yutaki | Most powerful | 4.3 - 24kW | A+++ | £3,000 – £9,900 | 5 years |
| Daikin Altherma 3H Ht | Best for colder regions | 4 - 18kW | A++ | £5,000 – £11,000 | 3 - 7 years |
| Mitsubishi Ecodan | Best warranty | 4.5 - 14kW | A++ | £3,500 – £7,000 | 7 years |
| Vaillant aroTHERM | Best for high temperatures | 5 - 15kW | A++ | £3,500 – £8,500 | 2 - 7 years |
| Panasonic Aquarea L Series | Best for smaller homes | 5 - 9kW | A+++ | £3,400 – £8,000 | 7 years |
We’ve carefully selected these air source heat pumps to help you find the appliance that best suits your specific needs. We looked over the most popular brands and compared their offers in terms of price, heat pump efficiency, range of outputs, noise levels, and features such as water tank options, additional units, and type of refrigerant.
Additionally, if you decide to install an air source heat pump, we can help you get the process started in no time. Simply click below, fill in our 30-second form, and we will send you up to 4 free heat pump quotes from certified installers in your area. Avoid spending several hours researching, calling installers, and collecting quotes yourself by clicking below to get started.
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The best air source heat pump review process
To determine which air source heat pump is the best, we looked at the following metrics:
- Price: Heat pumps are a big investment, which is why finding one with a reasonable price is extra important.
- Efficiency: How much it costs to generate warmth and cooling is an important measure of whether a heat pump will be worth it.
- Operating temperatures: How high the system operates can be important for homes with higher heating needs, while how low a temperature the heat pump can operate at can be a good measure of how well it deals with colder environments.
- Extra features: Additional features like good connectivity, low-noise operation, and more sustainable refrigerants can be important for certain buyers.
- Professional reviews: Reviews are a good indicator that a heat pump is worth investing in. We looked at reviews from various heating information outlets.
- Customer feedback: What customers think is equally important in determining whether a heat pump has made their home more comfortable.
After analysing and reviewing several models, we put together the following list of the best heat pumps this year by the best air source heat pump manufacturers. Whilst it doesn’t include all the available options, it can definitely help you find out which heat pumps are currently the best in the UK.
Here are our 8 picks for the best air source heat pump models:
Best overall - Samsung Eco Heating System
This versatile heat pump range is one of the best heat pumps in the UK. This is because of its impressive power output capacity, high efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. It slots into most homes, providing various price options and sizes that suit the needs of most of them.
| Available outputs | 4 - 16kW |
| Efficiency rating | A+++ |
| Estimated cost | £2,800 – £9,000 |
| Warranty | 2 - 7 years |
Some other features of the Samsung Eco Heating System air source heat pump are:
- 3 unit types available: mono, split, and TDM plus.
- TDM plus design is exclusive to Samsung.
- Only includes low-temperature heat pumps.
- Some units use the R32 refrigerant (which is more cost-effective and has a lower carbon footprint).
- Work in temperatures as low as -25°C.
- Possible to combine air source heat pump and solar panels.
- Indoor units with integrated hot water tanks are available.
- Includes units with a quiet mode to reduce heat pump noise.
- Multiple fuel sources: Samsung’s EHS works well with third-party domestic hot water tanks and combined with pre-plumbed Samsung tanks. It can take multiple inputs into account, making it easier to install.
- Good app connectivity: The SmartThings app works with over 1,000 different smart devices. Users can monitor the status of the heating system, adjusting the energy usage as it goes along.
- Low noise operation: The quiet mode works well and can ensure less intrusive heating.
- MIM kit sold separately: Without a Samsung water tank, some of the additional remote control features will be inaccessible.
The Samsung Eco heating system is great for homes that need a lower to mid-range heat pump from a reliable company. They integrate easily with existing Samsung heating appliances and can manage the heating needs of most households.
Most affordable - LG THERMA V
The THERMA V range includes units that can operate in temperatures as low as -25°C and heat water to a maximum of 65°C. On the other hand, the hot temperature heat pumps in the range can heat water up to 80°C. These come in split and monobloc options. What sets this model apart from other air source heat pumps is its excellent price-quality ratio.
| Available outputs | 5 - 16kW |
| Efficiency rating | A++ |
| Estimated cost | £2,600 – £6,400 |
| Warranty | 3 - 5 years |
Some other characteristics of this air source heat pump include:
- The THERMA V range includes high-temperature pumps capable of heating water up to 80°C.
- Some units will still produce heat in outdoor temperatures as low as -25°C.
- Split and monobloc units are available.
- Includes units which use the R32 refrigerant.
- All units require a separate hot water tank for domestic hot water making it less viable for combined underfloor heating air source heat pump systems.
- Great for 2 to 3 bedroom houses: The heat pump is ideal for the average-sized home looking for something with decent low-temperature operating.
- Remote access and voice control: The connectivity features LG provides are quite handy, with useful apps that make heating control easier.
- Long lifespan: Consumers and reviews report a lifespan that can go up to 20 years with low degradation in quality.
- Less suitable for hot water: The separated hot water tank can make things more expensive on top of the price of the heat pump.
- Customer service issues: Some customers have noted that LG’s response time to queries and issues is not ideal.
As stated above, the LG Therma heat pump is ideal for 2 to 3-bedroom homes, especially those with higher temperature needs, and a long-lasting heating system.
Most efficient - Viessmann Vitocal
The Vitocal range features some of the most compact outdoor units on the market and is the most efficient heat pump on this list. You can also combine an air source heat pump from this range with a boiler to cover your home’s heating demands and improve the efficiency of your central heating system. With its A+++ ErP efficiency rating, this is a great option for an efficient heating system with minimal noise.
| Available outputs | 4.2 - 16kW |
| Efficiency rating | A+++ |
| Estimated cost | £4,500 – £10,500 |
| Warranty | 2 - 7 years |
Some additional features of the Viessmann Vitocal are:
- All units in the range have advanced acoustic designs for quiet running.
- Some units use the R32 refrigerant, which is more environmentally friendly than other refrigerants.
- Only includes medium and low-temperature heat pumps.
- Indoor units with built-in hot water storage tanks are available.
- Ensures the lowest carbon footprint.
- Efficiency lowers bills: While the initial cost is high, the Viessmann heat pump’s efficient operating costs can cut energy bills.
- Environmentally friendly: With lower carbon emissions per kWh, it can be the most environmentally friendly option.
- Good extendable warranty: The 7 year warranty is quite extensive and ensures a level of efficiency over the heat pump’s lifespan.
- Costly: The overall costs can be very high.
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Most powerful - Hitachi Yutaki
Hitachi’s Yutaki range was designed to be high efficiency and high quality. At the same time, this range has the best heat pump in terms of power output capacities, which range from 4.3 to 24kW. A few other key features of this air source heat pump are:
| Available outputs | 4.3 - 24kW |
| Efficiency rating | A+++ |
| Estimated cost | £3,000 – £9,900 |
| Warranty | Warranty5 years |
Hitachi developed its Yutaki heat pump range to be as energy efficient as possible. At the same time, this range has the best air source heat pumps in terms of power output capacities, which range from 4.3 to 24kW. A few other key features of this air source heat pump are:
- The Yutaki range includes units capable of heating water up to 80°C.
- All units operate at temperatures as low as -15°C, with some operating at -25°C.
- Indoor units with integrated hot water tanks are available.
- All outdoor units have an exclusive smart defrost cycle, which improves energy efficiency.
- Compact dimensions: The heat pump won’t take up much space once installed. This can be great for smaller homes with less outdoor space.
- Easy to use and install: The setup wizard takes 5 minutes to get going and can be easy to use. The heat pump parts are self-contained, so it is also easy to manage.
- Price: Hitachi technologies can be more expensive even for lower output heat pumps. There are cheaper systems within the same power range.
Ultimately, Hitachi heat pumps are great for homes that need more power to meet their energy needs. Thus, it can be ideal for homes that experience vast temperature changes.
Best in the cold - Daikin Altherma 3
The Daikin Altherma 3 range consists of a low-temperature range (Altherma 3 R) and a high-temperature range (Altherma 3 H HT). Altherma 3 R air source heat pumps include monobloc and split models that are also compatible with low-temperature radiators and underfloor heating.
| Available outputs | 4 - 18kW |
| Efficiency rating | A++ |
| Estimated cost | £5,000 – £11,000 |
| Warranty | 3 - 7 years |
Additionally, this range is impressive because it can still generate heat in temperatures as low as -25°C, making it a great option for colder climates. Some other key characteristics of this heat pump include:
- The Altherma 3 range includes high-temperature and low-temperature pumps.
- Heat is still generated in outdoor temperatures as low as -25°C.
- Includes units compatible with solar power.
- All units in the range use the R32 refrigerant.
- Includes both split and monobloc units.
- Indoor units with integrated hot water storage tanks are available.
- Includes units with a low sound mode for minimal disturbance.
- High and low-temperature options: Daikin’s product portfolio offers a variety of systems for different environments, whether cold or hot.
- Good installer network: Customer reviews have shown that Daikin’s customer service is quick and responsive.
- Costly: The heat pump can be a bit pricey, coming in at about £5,000.
The Daikin Altherma is best for homes in colder regions, such as the Northern areas of the UK. It can operate at lower temperatures without losing much of its efficiency.
Best for warranty - Mitsubishi Ecodan
The Ecodan range by Mitsubishi includes a variety of air source heat pumps tailored to different needs. For instance, if you live by the coast, you can opt for one of their Coastal Protection units. These are less likely to degrade under coastal climate conditions.
If your air source heat pump does suffer any damage, you’ll be happy to know that the Ecodan range has one of the best warranties on the market. Its standard 5-year warranty can be extended to 7 years.
| Available outputs | 4.5 - 14kW |
| Efficiency rating | A++ |
| Estimated cost | £3,500 – £7,000 |
| Warranty | 7 years |
Other features of the Ecodan heat pumps include:
- The Ecodan range includes units which use the R32 refrigerant.
- Ultra quiet models are available.
- Includes special units for use on coastal properties.
- Some units will produce heat at outdoor temperatures as low as -20°C.
- The range only includes low-temperature heat pumps.
- Great lower temperature operation: Operating at -20°C, it can be a good option for colder regions.
- Quiet operation option: Less noisy and intrusive than standard models on the market.
- No high-temperature options: While it works well in the cold, it has a low high-temperature ceiling. It will be ideal for maintaining a good temperature but has upper limits.
The Ecodan is a reliable heat pump that offers a generous warranty. It would be best for homes that want long-term coverage for their heating and cooling needs.
Best for high temperature - Vaillant aroTHERM
The aroTHERM air source heat pump range includes 2 types of outdoor units: the aroTHERM plus and the aroTHERM split. The former is a high-temperature air source heat pump that can be connected to an existing wet central heating system. The aroTHERM plus model can reach up to 75°C flow temperature, making it ideal for homes with high heating and hot water demands.
| Available outputs | 5 - 15kW |
| Efficiency rating | A++ |
| Estimated cost | £3,500 – £8,500 |
| Warranty | 2 - 7 years |
In addition to these characteristics, this air source heat pump also has the following features:
- The aroTHERM range includes high-temperature and low-temperature units.
- Monobloc and split units are available.
- Some units use the R290 refrigerant, which has a very low global warming potential.
- Indoor units with integrated hot water storage tanks are available.
- UK-based benefits: As a UK-based installer, costs can be lower due to regional production and lack of import prices.
- Great temperature output: Built for homes with higher temperature needs, the AroTHERM is a great option. It can supply temperatures up to 75°C.
- The app can be difficult to use: Customers have reported difficulties with app compatibility.
If your home needs higher temperatures, the aroTHERM will do the job. This can be great for efficient heating in homes that need that extra temperature output.
Best for small homes - Panasonic Aquarea L Series
This new generation of Aquarea Panasonic heat pumps is highly reliable even at low temperatures and can perfectly complement your home if you choose either an indoor or outdoor unit. This range has a lower power output capacity, which means that it might not be suitable for all homes. However, it can be one of the best and affordable air to water heat pump options for smaller homes in the UK.
| Available outputs | 5 - 9kW |
| Efficiency rating | A+++ |
| Estimated cost | £3,400 – £8,000 |
| Warranty | 7 years |
A few other features of this heat pump are:
- Uses the natural refrigerant R290.
- Offers a hydraulic connection between the indoor and outdoor unit.
- The 7-year warranty is one of the best on the market, rivalling the Mitsubishi Ecodan.
- Provides water outlet temperatures of up to 75°C and down to -10°C.
- Domestic hot water up to 65°C without a heater for tank sterilisation.
- Has a reduced sound level, up to 8dB(A) less than previous models.
- Can integrate your Wi-Fi module into the indoor unit.
- Highly efficient: The Panasonic Aquarea series displays an excellent SCOP (Seasonal Coefficient of Performance) of up to 5.12, making it far more efficient than a lot of other heat pumps on the market.
- Great connectivity options: Along with the easy Wi-Fi integration, the cloud connection can allow installers to remotely configure the heat pump for better performance if needed.
Great for renovations: While the K-series is ideal for new builds, the L-series is great for renovations. This series integrates better with pre-installed radiators. - Great integration with underfloor heating: This air to water option is also easy to incorporate with water-based appliances like underfloor heating.
- Low energy output: While it can be great for smaller homes, larger ones may need a high-power system.
- Narrow selection: This line of models offers fewer output options, so meeting your exact needs may be difficult.
This heat pump is best for 1 to 2-bedroom homes, allowing for a good balance of output and price. With high efficiency performance, it can help decrease bills and allow for sustainable living.
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What criteria did we use to compare the heat pumps?
When compiling our list of the best air source heat pumps in the UK today, we considered criteria such as each model's price-quality ratio, power output, efficiency levels, warranty periods, and air source heat pump reviews from professionals and customers.
- Cost
Since air source heat pump costs can be quite high, the models we selected for our list have been chosen for their good price-quality ratio. This way, you can have the peace of mind that the air source heat pump you spent your money on will be a worthwhile addition to your home. In conjunction with power, this helps us determine the best value for money.
You can expect to pay between £3,000 to £6,500 for a high quality air source heat pump, but some great cheaper models are also available.
- Power
The power output of air source heat pumps is a crucial factor to consider when selecting an air source heat pump. All the models on our list of best air source heat pumps have a wide range of power output capacities. We’ve selected these to help you find the best one for you based on the size of your home and your household’s energy needs.
For the average 2 to 3-bedroom house, a 4 or 5kW heat pump will work just fine. Homes with larger space may need something more powerful or colder regions may need a high-temperature model, so keep these factors in mind.
- Efficiency
We’ve only selected air source heat pumps with high efficiency ratings for our list. With ErP ratings ranging between A++ and A+++, these models are guaranteed to generate energy for your home without wasting the resources that they run on.
What this means for you is that you will be able to maximise the comfort of your home with any of the air source heat pump models we’ve listed. Energy efficient heat pumps can (typically) be more expensive but they make up for it in savings costs. By investing in a heat pump in the UK, you can save up to £1,200 on your yearly heating bills.
- Warranty
A good warranty period is important for any purchase you make. So, you’ll be glad to know that all the air source heat pumps on our list have great warranties, as most come with a 5-year warranty period. Considering that the lifespan of an air source heat pump is around 10-15 years, this means that your warranty can cover your appliance for about half of its life expectancy.
The warranty can also be indicative of the durability and lifespan of the heat pump. In this regard, a great lifespan can be anything over 15 years.
- Reviews
We also considered air source heat pump reviews when making our selection of the best options in the UK today. Our choices were determined by how highly-regarded the heat pump manufacturers are and how reliable the models are reported to be by satisfied customers.
We also took into account additional features such as low-noise operation, connectivity, and types of refrigerant. These all contribute to quality of life and eco-friendly operation.
We made sure of quite a few important details before picking our finalists, such as ensuring popularity and availability. The brands we picked are well-known and can provide great service. The heat pumps they have are recognised as reliable by professionals and reviewers. They also have a wide reach across the UK, being provided by many installers.
Best air source heat pump brand in 2024
Our research indicates that Samsung is the best heat pump brand in the UK based on its long, extendable warranties, wide price range with affordable options, and various models, including mono, split, and TDM plus.
| Samsung Eco Heating System specs | |
|---|---|
| Available outputs | 4 - 16kW |
| Efficiency rating | A+++ |
| Estimated cost | £2,800 – £9,000 |
| Warranty | 2 - 7 years |
The company’s heat pumps also integrate very well with existing systems and allow for multiple fuel sources. With an A+++ efficiency rating, they can ensure a decrease in energy consumption and heating costs with eco-friendly systems.
Samsung products are also widely available, so it’s fairly easy to find a heat pump installer approved by the company, and you can get a 7-year warranty on your installation.
Which air source heat pump is the best fit for your home?
The best air source heat pumps for your home can vary based on your home size, budget, and heating needs. We recommend the Samsung Eco Heating System, Panasonic Aquarea, LG Therma V, and Hitachi Yutaki, all for different reasons.
The Samsung Eco Heating System provides the most balanced performance, but your needs may vary. For smaller homes, Panasonic Aquarea can be a great option, while larger homes may benefit from a higher power output system such as the Hitachi Yutaki. Colder homes may benefit from the Daikin Altherma with its superior heat output. Affordable options include the LG Therma V which is on the cheaper side but may not suit larger homes.
If costs still seem high, there are government programs that can help. Grants like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme can cut full installation costs by £7,500. We also have resources dedicated to heat pumps in Wales, heat pumps in Scotland, and heat pumps in Northern Ireland that you can go over for regional information.
Looking through air source heat pump reviews is a good start but ultimately, you will need to talk to a professional who can advise you properly.
Instead of spending hours searching for local installers on your own and wasting your precious free time, you can reach out to up to 4 professionals in just 30 seconds! Simply fill in a short form and you’ll receive free, non-binding quotes for a new air source heat pump. Click below to start looking for the best air source heat pump for your home today!
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