As energy prices rise and environmental concerns grow, many homeowners are turning to sustainable, cost-effective heating solutions.
One option that many are considering due to the £7500 government grants (which Redbridge would apply for on your behalf) are Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP).
ASHPs are a cutting-edge technology that offers impressive efficiency, eco-friendliness, and long-term savings.
But what makes ASHPs such a compelling choice?
What Is an Air Source Heat Pump?
An ASHP works by extracting heat from the outside air—even in cold weather—and transferring it into your home. It operates much like a refrigerator but in reverse.
It absorbs warmth from the outside air and then uses chemicals to trap that warmth. It then pushes the trapped warmth through to pipework to heat your home and hot water supply.
The main ASHP unit, which is a thin metal box with a fan in it to draw air in, is installed outside your home, typically under your kitchen window or similar location. Inside your home it will require a hot water cylinder, or a space saving alternative called a Sunamp which looks much like a boiler. Thermostat controls are used by the system to direct heat throughout your home and this energy management can also be controlled from your phone, so you are always in control of your home’s heating and hot water requirements no matter where you are.
This process is incredibly energy-efficient because it uses a small amount of electricity to transfer a large amount of heat.
Key Benefits of Air Source Heat Pumps
- Energy Efficiency: For every unit of electricity used, an ASHP can produce up to three units of heat making it 300% more efficient than gas boilers. It is significantly more efficient than traditional gas or electric heating systems.
- Lower Energy Bills: By maximising energy efficiency, ASHPs can reduce your heating costs especially if you’re switching from oil, LPG, or electric systems.
- Environmentally Friendly: ASHPs reduce carbon emissions by relying on renewable energy from the air. This aligns with the UK’s goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions.
- Low Maintenance and Long Life: Once installed, ASHPs require minimal maintenance compared to traditional boilers. Routine checks and simple servicing ensure optimal performance helping them run for 15 to 20 years. In contrast, the average lifespan of gas boilers is around 10 years.
- All-Season Comfort: Air to Air versions, can provide both heating and cooling, making them versatile for year-round comfort. While these are a great choice they are not currently eligible for government funding.
- Eligibility for Government Incentives: Many homeowners are eligible for grants under schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). Redbridge is a certified installer for these grants and so will apply for the funding and which significantly reduces installation costs of the Air Source Heat Pump.
Is an ASHP Right for You?
ASHPs are ideal for well-insulated homes with moderate heating demands. They work efficiently in domestic settings, from new builds to retrofitted properties.
ASHPs are especially beneficial if:
- You want to reduce your carbon footprint.
- You have an existing wet heating system.
- Your house meets the minimum insulations requirements such as having enough cavity wall and loft insulation. If your house does not, there is government funding to add and improve your insulation.
Real-Life Success Stories
- John & Margaret in Cheltenham (Retired Couple, Downsizing)
John and Janice, both in their 60s, recently downsized to a cosy bungalow in Cheltenham.
Concerned about rising energy costs and eager to reduce their environmental impact, after visiting our Showroom near the Gloucester Quays to get advice. We followed up with a survey of their house and spent time looking at their insulation and where the ASHP would best be situated outside their home. A full heat loss calculation and design was completed and the details presented to John and Margaret to consider and then ask any further questions for clarification.
They opted for an ASHP and Sunamp Space saving hot water solution. The installation was quick, and they were amazed at how quiet the system is.
The couple also phoned us recently to let us know how happy they are with it and that their energy bills have dropped. They also love having a more consistent, comfortable warmth throughout their home than what they had with their previous gas boiler.
“We never imagined heating our home could be this efficient and eco-friendly. It’s the best decision we’ve made for our retirement comfort,” says Margaret.
- The Patel Family in Bristol (Busy Professionals with Young Children)
The Patels wanted an energy-efficient solution for their spacious 4-bedroom home in Tewkesbury. They had been visiting his brother in Swindon and watched Redbridge install an ASHP there. They then asked us to come visit their home to explore if this was the right solution for them as well.
With young children, consistent heating was a priority. ASHPs work by distributing consistent, low levels of heat throughout your home. They take hours to warm up so the best, and most cost-effective, way to use them is to keep them on all the time at a consistent temperature.
The ASHP has provided reliable warmth during the winter. They’ve noticed savings on their energy bills and feel good about contributing to a greener future.
“The ASHP has been a game-changer. Lower bills, less hassle, and our kids are always warm and cosy,” Mr. Patel shared enthusiastically.
Why Choose Redbridge for Your ASHP Installation?
We specialise in tailored ASHP solutions designed to meet your unique needs. Our expert team handles everything from initial consultation, full MCS-approved designs through to installation and aftercare support, so a full end to end service managed through our experienced and dedicated support team.
With a focus on quality workmanship and customer satisfaction, we’re committed to helping you achieve a sustainable, cost-effective, and comfortable home.
Ready to make the switch? Contact Redbridge today to learn more about Air Source Heat Pumps and how they can transform your home.