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Air Source Heat Pump Installation Guide (December 2024)
- Depending on the complexity of the installation, a heat pump takes about 2 - 5 days to install on average.
- An air source heat pump installation will cost anywhere between £2,400 and £14,050.
- Once installed, air source heat pumps require minimal checks and maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
Looking to reap the benefits of an air source heat pump installation but have no clue where to start? You’ve come to the right place. You might know how a heat pump works, but what is the installation process? In this guide, we’ll give you a full rundown so you can know exactly what to expect.
Simply put, there are 3 stages of installing a heat pump. These are:
- The pre-installation process: Onsite assessments of the suitability of your home.
- The installation: Indoor and outdoor units are fitted.
- The post-installation checks: The installer checks that the heat pump functions optimally. This also involves ongoing maintenance of your heat pump throughout its lifetime.
With the UK government’s recent focus on encouraging energy-efficient heating systems and banning gas boilers, it makes sense to consider a heat pump installation. To make the most of your new air source heat pump system, you will need to find a reliable installer to work with. However, looking for a professional on your own can be a pain - after hours of googling, you might still come up empty-handed.
With our help, you can avoid any stress and frustration. All you need to do is fill in our 30-second form and we’ll connect you with up to 4 local air source heat pump installers.
You can then easily compare figures to secure the best deal on an air source heat pump installation. All quotes are non-binding and completely free.
Simply click below to get started now!
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The process of installing an air source heat pump
The process of installing a heat pump can be broken down into the following steps:
- Choosing the right installer: You must carefully consider which installer you will work with. It’s good to compare several professionals before committing to one.
- Onsite inspections: The installer will conduct an inspection of your home to ensure that it’s suitable for your chosen heat pump installation.
- Removing existing heating system: Before installing the air source heat pump, the installer will remove your old heating system. They are trained to safely remove systems, such as gas boilers, and dispose of them for you.
- Indoor and outdoor units installed: The outdoor unit will be installed in an area with ample airflow and minimal obstructions. The indoor units are also installed at this stage.
- Units are connected to heat distributors: Whether you have an air to air or an air to water heat pump, the indoor units will be connected to provide you with vented heating or heating and hot water (which will mean connecting existing radiators or underfloor heating).
- Remaining wiring and connections completed: Depending on the distance between the indoor and outdoor units, wiring may be done by drilling a hole in a wall. Your installer will then connect them using refrigerant lines and electrical wires.
- Final checks: The installer will ensure that the air source heat pump functions correctly and that it’s ready for use.
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) measures the energy efficiency of your property by rating it from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient). An EPC is required if you want to apply for a heat pump grant (such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme). This will indicate how well a heat pump will perform in your home and whether your home’s insulation is adequate.
Air source heat pump installation diagram
It’s important to note that the initial installation process is the same whether you choose to install an air to air heat pump or an air to water heat pump. However, the indoor units will vary and can either be connected to radiators, underfloor heating, or a water storage tank.
Other setups are also worth considering for homes with unique heating demands. For example, hybrid heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and high-temperature heat pumps can all offer various heating, cooling, and hot water supplies, which means their installation steps can vary slightly.
A hybrid heat pump pairs a traditional boiler with a heat pump. This option might require installing a gas boiler unless you have an existing one in good condition.
Heat pumps for flats also follow the same installation process. The only additional step is obtaining planning permission from building authorities.
Some homeowners also prefer to pair a heat pump and solar panels, which can help keep energy costs low, reduce electricity bills and improve sustainability.
How long does it take to install a heat pump?
It can take between 2 to 5 days to complete an air source heat pump installation, depending on the complexity of the fitting. In comparison, a gas boiler takes less time to install (about 1 - 3 days).
Is there maintenance needed post-installation?
Yes, there is some maintenance involved after a heat pump installation. Fortunately, it won’t need too much attention. Just make sure that a professional carries out routine checks to ensure that the appliance is operating properly. This way, you avoid any additional repair costs and can maintain the 25-year lifespan of your air source heat pump.
How much does an air source heat pump installation cost?
The cost of installing an air source heat pump ranges from £2,400 to £14,050. How much your heat pump installation will cost, however, will depend on several factors, such as the air source heat pump size, its type, and the complexity of the installation.
We’ve outlined the expected air source heat pump costs for you to compare in the table below.
| Cost to install an air source heat pump | ||
|---|---|---|
| Heat pump type | Supply cost | Cost inc. installation |
| Air to air | £2,400 - £8,800 | £2,750 - £10,500 |
| Air to water | £8,400 - £12,350 | £8,750 - £14,050 |
As you can see, installing a heat pump can be expensive. Thankfully, there are some ways to lessen the financial burden. For instance, you can apply for an air source heat pump grant, such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, and receive financial assistance with your air source heat pump installation.
However, many of these grants can be regionally dependent, so it's best to understand your area. We have resources dedicated to heat pumps in Wales, heat pumps in Scotland and heat pumps in Northern Ireland to help.
One of the best ways to avoid overspending on your air source heat pump installation is to compare quotes from local installers. It can be a daunting task tracking down professionals though, taking hours of your time to source quotes - but there is an easier way!
By filling in our 30-second form, you can get up to 4 free quotes from heat pump installers near you.
Click below to request free, non-binding quotes today!
- Quotes from local engineers
- Payment by finance available
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Can you DIY air source heat pump installation?
It’s not advisable to install an air source heat pump on your own if you lack the proper qualifications. Not only do you risk injury or damage to your heat pump, but removing your old heating system safely is extremely important and something that should not be done alone.
In addition, if you do the air source heat pump installation yourself, you might face some financial repercussions. For instance, the warranty for your appliance may not cover any damage that occurs without a professional installation. You might also be ineligible for certain heat pump grants if the installation is not carried out by an expert.
By working with a certified installer, you can answer any questions you may have, such as "What heat pump size do I need?" or "Are heat pumps noisy?" before the installation process.
Additionally, you avoid any potential issues and ensure that your air source heat pump installation is carried out safely and to the highest quality standards. So, if you were wondering how to install an air source heat pump, the answer is: with the help of a professional heat pump installer.
How to choose the right air source heat pump installer?
The surest way to find the right installer for the job is to compare several installers and check their qualifications, customer reviews, and service costs. Finding all this crucial information on your own can be a tedious chore involving hours of research.
So, why not let us help you avoid wasting your precious time and energy? We work with a broad network of reputable specialists and can put you in touch with them in no time. Just fill in our 30-second form to request air source heat pump quotes, and we’ll connect you with up to 4 local installers.
Then, all that’s left is to choose the installer that meets all your requirements and compare prices so that you can secure the best deal for your home.
Simply click below to request free, no-obligation quotes today!
- Quotes from local engineers
- Payment by finance available
- Save £7,500 with BUS grant
Frequently asked questions
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