How do Air Source Heat Pumps Work?

An air-source heat pump takes heat from the air and boosts it to a higher temperature. There are two main types of air-source heat pumps; air-to-water and air-to-air.

  • Air-to-water heat pumps take heat from the outside air and feed it into your wet central heating system (similar to existing gas central heating). As the heat produced is cooler than that from a conventional furnace or boiler, you may need to install larger radiators or underfloor heating in your home to make the most of it. Air-to-water heat pumps may be best suited to new-build properties or those that are energy efficient.
  • Air-to-air heat pumps take heat from the outside air and feed it into your home through fans. This type of system can be used for heating but can’t produce hot water.

You can find out more on the Energy Explained webpage on the National Grid Website