Your Heat Pump Questions Answered

Heat pump questions

If you’re thinking about switching from a traditional gas boiler to an air source heat pump, it’s normal to have a host of heat pump questions. From how heat pumps work to what the installation process entails, you’re sure to be looking for answers. So, without further delay, here’s everything you need to know.

• How do air source heat pumps work?

Air source heat pumps work by pulling in air and using it to heat a refrigerant liquid. It’s like a refrigerator but in reverse. As it warms up, the liquid turns into a gas just as you’d expect. The warmth is then compressed to increase its temperature and is used to warm your home. Once the heat from the gas has been used, it cools, becomes a liquid again and the cycle repeats as necessary.

• Are air source heat pumps efficient?

Air source heat pumps are an efficient alternative to traditional gas heating systems. They work using electricity, reducing your reliance on fossil fuels, and have an energy efficiency rate of over 350% compared to the 90% efficiency of a gas boiler.

• How long does a heat pump installation take?

Heat pump installations depend on your current setup but will typically take around five days. A heat pump installation might take longer if you don’t already have a wet heating system or if any of your pipework and radiators need replacing. A property needs around four radiators for a heat pump to be beneficial, but these can be installed at the same time as your heat pump. If your radiators are particularly small, larger ones might be requested. Heat pump installers will carry out a survey before any work takes place and will talk through their plan with you to ensure you still want to proceed.

• What does the heat pump installation process look like?

During a heat pump installation, all of the parts will be ordered to your property, ready for work to begin. MCS certified engineers will then replace any pipework and install a new hot water system where necessary. The next step is to install the heat pump and all relevant pipework, so that it connects seamlessly with your existing system. Your pipes will be insulated and the system will be completely tested before you’re shown how everything works.

• Is heat pump servicing necessary?

Once installed, heat pumps require minimal maintenance and are hassle-free. That said, an annual service is recommended to ensure it remains as efficient as possible. Heat pump cover is available to help make repairs and servicing more affordable. Take this out from day one for ultimate peace of mind.

Will I find a reliable heating engineer?

Engineers working with air pumps should be Gas Safe registered and MCS certified. Look out for these credentials when choosing a reliable engineer in your area. Aura Heating operates in the South of England covering Hampshire, Surrey, Sussex, Dorset, South London, Berkshire and Wiltshire.

Contact Aura Heating today for all your air source heat pump enquiries.