Installation Procedure for Air Source Heat Pumps (July 2025 Version)

Installation Procedure for Air Source Heat Pumps (July 2025 Version)

An air source heat pump (ASHP) can be an excellent investment for homeowners seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and lower energy bills. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process of installing an ASHP in the UK.

Initial Assessment and Planning

1. Consult a Retrofit Coordinator to get a Whole House Retrofit Plan, which will help determine the most suitable system for your home and ensure optimal energy efficiency.
2. Ensure your installer is certified by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), validating competence in installing heat pumps and allowing eligibility for government schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.

Site Selection and Permissions

1. Position the outdoor unit on the ground at least 1 meter away from property boundaries and away from the main front wall to minimize visual impact and noise disturbance.
2. Confirm whether planning permission is required; most residential installs fall under Permitted Development Rights (PDR), but exceptions include listed buildings or properties in conservation areas.

Physical Installation

1. Install the outdoor condenser unit ensuring it has sufficient clearance for airflow.
2. Position indoor units on an appropriate wall, typically at least 7 feet from the floor, with adequate space around for airflow and mounting plates securely fixed.
3. Connect the heat pump system to your home's heat emitters—radiators or underfloor heating. For best efficiency, radiators may need upsizing or underfloor heating is ideal for low-temperature operation.

System Commissioning

1. The installer will remove air from the system, check all connections, refrigerant levels, and system pressures.
2. They will verify thermostat controls, timing settings, and run tests in different modes to ensure consistent performance.

User Training and Support

1. After commissioning, the installer provides training on operation, including adjusting settings for heating and hot water and managing defrost cycles for air source systems.

Compliance and Documentation

1. Installation must comply with building and electrical regulations and is usually documented for warranty and government incentive purposes.

The installation process typically takes 1 to 2 days depending on system complexity and any required home modifications.

Maintenance and Costs

A well-maintained ASHP typically pays back its installation cost in 6 to 12 years. The cost of installation can range from £4,000 to £15,000, with the average cost falling between £7,000 and £10,000. Basic upkeep includes clearing leaves and debris from around the outdoor unit and cleaning or replacing indoor filters every few months. Annual servicing, performed by a qualified technician, is recommended to ensure the heat pump is running efficiently and safely.

Finding a Reliable Installer

It's best to compare several installers, check their qualifications, customer reviews, and service costs. GreenMatch strives to connect customers with the right product and supplier. By filling in a 30-second form, you can get up to 4 free quotes from local ASHP installers.

Incentives and Grants

In England and Wales, a grant of up to £7,500 is available for ASHP installations through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. In Scotland and Northern Ireland, different grants are available for ASHP installations.

Remember, leaving the installation process to a certified installer ensures a safe and high-quality installation. The outdoor unit of an ASHP pulls in heat from the air even when it's cold outside. Depending on the distance between the indoor and outdoor units, the installer may drill through a wall to run refrigerant lines and electrical wiring.

In a typical UK home, the outdoor unit is installed on a flat surface near the property, and the indoor units are fitted in the appropriate locations based on the type of system and your home's layout.

With this guide, you're now equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision about installing an air source heat pump in your UK home.

Here are three sentences that contain the given words and follow from the provided text:

1. Heat pumps, such as air source heat pumps (ASHP), are renewable-energy solutions accepted by the industry as effective methods for lowering energy bills and reducing carbon footprints.
2. Funding options for installing heat pumps, like air source heat pumps (ASHP), can be explored through various government schemes, including the Financing Boiler Upgrade Scheme in England and Wales, which offers a grant of up to £7,500 for qualifying residences.
3. The heat pump industry promotes energy efficiency and reduces dependency on fossil fuels by emphasizing proper installation methods, such as securing a certified installer, using MCS-approved installers, and ensuring that both indoor and outdoor units are positioned optimally for maximum air flow.

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