Air Source Heat Pumps

Over the past few years, we’ve seen more and more homeowners and commercial property owners making the switch to renewable heating systems. Among the most requested installations we carry out are air source heat pumps. From the outset, they appeal because they’re highly energy-efficient, low carbon, and can help significantly reduce running costs. But before going ahead, it’s worth understanding exactly how these systems work, what kind of cost is involved, and whether any grants are available to help with installation.

We’ve worked on air source heat pump installation projects across a wide range of property types – from retrofitting domestic homes to integrating them within larger, more complex commercial systems. With every job, our goal is to offer a complete, professional service from initial design and quotation through to installation, commissioning, and aftercare. What sets us apart is the support we offer long after the work is done – something not every renewable installer provides.

How Do Air Source Heat Pumps Work?

Understanding how air source heat pumps work gives you a clearer idea of whether they’re the right option for your needs. These systems absorb heat from the outside air, even when temperatures are as low as -15°C. This heat is transferred to a refrigerant fluid, which is compressed to increase the temperature further. The resulting heat is then used to warm up your home via underfloor heating, radiators, or to heat water stored in a cylinder.

The process is very similar to how a fridge works, but in reverse. One of the benefits we’ve noticed through our experience is how consistent and reliable they are when properly installed. Although electricity is required to run the system, the heat output typically far exceeds the energy input, making them much more efficient than traditional gas boilers.

Services

How would an Air Source Heat Pump benefit my home?

An Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) offers several key benefits for your home:

Energy Efficiency: Air Source Heat Pumps are highly efficient, providing more energy than they consume. For every unit of electricity used, they can produce up to three or four units of heat, helping to reduce your energy bills.
Environmentally Friendly: By using renewable energy from the air, ASHPs produce fewer carbon emissions compared to traditional heating systems, making them an excellent choice for reducing your home’s carbon footprint.
Heating and Cooling: ASHPs provide both heating in winter and cooling in summer, offering year-round comfort for your home. This dual functionality makes them a versatile solution for your climate control needs.
Low Maintenance: Air Source Heat Pumps require minimal maintenance once installed. With regular servicing, they can last for many years, providing reliable comfort without the need for frequent repairs.
Government Incentives: Many regions offer incentives, rebates, or grants for installing an Air Source Heat Pump, making it more affordable to transition to this energy-efficient technology.
Increased Property Value: Installing an Air Source Heat Pump can increase the overall value of your home due to its energy efficiency and eco-friendly appeal.
Quiet Operation: Modern ASHPs are designed to operate quietly, so you can enjoy efficient heating and cooling without noisy disruptions.

If you’re looking for a sustainable, cost-effective, and efficient way to heat and cool your home, an Air Source Heat Pump could be the perfect solution. Feel free to get in touch for more information or to request a free consultation!

What is the Typical Air Source Heat Pump Cost?

One of the first things most customers ask us about is cost. The total air source heat pump cost can vary depending on the size of the system, the heat demand of the property, and any preparatory work needed, such as insulation upgrades or changes to existing pipework. On average, we tend to see domestic installations range from £7,000 to £13,000. For larger homes or commercial projects, this can increase.

However, it’s important to consider the long-term savings. By switching from oil, LPG, or electric heating, many of our customers have seen a noticeable reduction in their energy bills. On top of that, because heat pumps are so efficient, they help to reduce a building’s overall carbon footprint – something increasingly important for both homeowners and businesses looking to meet environmental targets.

Can You Get an Air Source Heat Pump Grant?

Yes, there are government grants available that can significantly reduce the cost of installation. At the time of writing, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) offers a grant of £7,500 for eligible properties across England and Wales. This has made a major difference for many of the clients we work with, especially when paired with other energy-saving measures like solar PV or insulation improvements.

We help customers navigate the application process and ensure they meet all the criteria for the grant. From our experience, this support can be the difference between delaying a decision and moving forward confidently with an upgrade.

Key Features of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme

Financial Support: The Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers vouchers to help reduce the cost of installing low-carbon heating systems:
1. Up to £7500 for the installation of air source heat pumps or ground source heat pumps.
2. Up to £7500 for the installation of biomass boilers.
Eligibility: The scheme is available to homeowners and small businesses in England and Wales. To be eligible, applicants must:
1. Own their property (either a home or small business).
2. Be replacing an existing heating system with an eligible low-carbon heating solution.
3. Meet specific energy efficiency requirements (such as having appropriate insulation or energy efficiency ratings for the property).
Low Carbon Heating Options: The scheme covers the following heating technologies:
1. Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs): These extract heat from the air and use it to heat your home or water, offering a more energy-efficient alternative to traditional gas boilers.
2. Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHPs): These extract heat from the ground and work in a similar way to air source heat pumps but are typically more efficient and suitable for properties with more space.
3. Biomass Boilers: These use organic materials, such as wood pellets, to generate heat, providing an eco-friendly option for heating your home or business.

How It Works

Voucher Application: Homeowners and businesses can apply for the scheme through the official government website or through approved installers like Thompson Renewables.
Installation: Once approved, the voucher can be used to reduce the installation costs of the eligible heating system. The installation must be carried out by an MCS certified installer (such as our team at Thompson Renewables), ensuring the work meets quality and performance standards.

Eligibility for Homes and Businesses

Homes: This scheme is available to most homeowners, including those in off-gas-grid areas who rely on traditional boilers. You must meet certain energy efficiency requirements, such as insulation standards, for your home to qualify.
Small Businesses: Small businesses can also apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme to upgrade their heating systems and reduce their energy consumption. The scheme is available for businesses with fewer than 250 employees and a turnover of less than £50 million.

Why Choose the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?

Financial Assistance: The grant helps reduce the upfront cost of installing a renewable heating system, making it easier to switch to a cleaner, more sustainable option.
Energy Efficiency: By upgrading to a heat pump or biomass boiler, you’ll enjoy improved energy efficiency, lower heating bills, and reduced carbon emissions.
Environmental Benefits: Switching to renewable heating helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels, supporting the UK’s goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Long-Term Savings: While there is an initial investment, these systems can save you money on energy bills in the long term by using renewable energy sources, making them a cost-effective solution over time.

Why Choose Professional Air Source Heat Pump Installation?

While it’s technically possible for some tradespeople to install a heat pump, proper installation by certified professionals is absolutely vital for long-term performance and efficiency. We specialise in bespoke system design tailored to your property’s specific heat loss calculations and layout. Every installation we undertake is carried out by our experienced in-house team – we don’t outsource the work.

This level of quality control ensures that every component, from the outdoor unit to the internal pipework and controls, functions exactly as it should. We also provide ongoing maintenance, servicing and support, which is critical for system longevity.

How Heat Pumps Fit into Broader Renewable Solutions

Air source heat pumps are often most effective when used as part of a broader package of renewable solutions. For example, combining a heat pump with solar panels and battery storage allows for even greater efficiency, particularly for off-grid properties or those looking to reduce reliance on the grid.

As a business, we don’t just install standalone systems – we take a holistic view of the property’s needs. This approach helps us design smarter, more integrated systems that provide better long-term value. From industrial and commercial buildings to domestic homes, we tailor each solution specifically to the project.

Supporting You After Installation

One thing we’ve always prioritised is the aftersales experience. Unlike many installers, our relationship with you doesn’t end once the job is finished. We offer ongoing support and are available for servicing, fault diagnosis and system upgrades. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business managing multiple sites, having access to a knowledgeable support team gives peace of mind.

It’s something that’s often overlooked in this industry, but our customers regularly tell us how valuable it is to be able to pick up the phone and speak to someone who understands their system inside and out.

Local Knowledge, National Standards

Based in the UK, we have extensive experience working with properties across both urban and rural areas. From domestic retrofit jobs to bespoke renewable solutions for agricultural buildings, we’ve covered a wide range of installations. We’re also fully compliant with MCS certification and regularly help clients meet planning and compliance requirements for heat pump systems.

If you’re considering an air source heat pump installation, whether for your home or business, we’re here to help you make an informed decision. With our end-to-end service, experience-led advice, and commitment to quality, we’ll guide you through every step – from design and cost planning to grant applications and aftercare.