Air source heat pumps look similar to air-conditioning units. They are less disruptive to install than ground source heat pumps and they are cheaper.
An air source heat pump extracts heat from the outside air in the same way that a fridge extracts heat from its inside. Heat from the air is absorbed at low temperature into a fluid. This fluid then passes through a compressor where its temperature is increased, and transfers its higher temperature heat to the heating and hot water circuits of your property.
An air source heat pump can get heat from the air even when the temperature is as low as -15°C.
Air source heat pumps are classified as either air-to-air or air-to-water depending on whether the heat distribution system in the building uses air or water. An air-to-water system distributes heat via your wet central heating system. An air-to-air system produces warm air which is circulated by fans to heat your property. It’s unlikely to provide you with hot water as well, but in the summer you can operate it in reverse and use it like an air-conditioning unit.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, installing an air source heap pump costs between £7,000 to £13,000, depending on the size of your property.
Next steps on your renewable energy heating journey
Here's where to go for more advice on installing a heat pump in your home or business.