Brave the winter with an air source heat pump

Air source heat pumps work by drawing warmth from the air outside and using it to supply your home’s heating and hot water. But what happens when winter hits and it’s freezing outside? Can air source heat pumps still do their job?

Do air source heat pumps work in cold weather?

Air source heat pumps don’t create heat the way a boiler does, they move it. Even when it feels icy, there’s still energy in the air – your heat pump captures that warmth and transfers it to heat your home and water.

Even at -10 or -15°C, there’s still enough heat in the air for the system to work. Most quality heat pumps in the UK are designed to run efficiently down to those temperatures, and some models perform well even beyond that.

Are they still efficient in winter?

Yes! While your air source heat pump will work a bit harder in very cold weather, it still outperforms a gas boiler in terms of efficiency.

A traditional boiler has an efficiency of around 90%, meaning it wastes some of the energy it burns. An air source heat pump, however, can be 300-400% efficient, producing three to four units of heat for every unit of electricity it uses.

Even when it’s chilly, that efficiency remains impressive. It’s one of the reasons the government are pushing air source heat pumps as part of the UK’s move towards cleaner, lower-cost heating.

Why you should install an air source heat pump in winter

It might sound counterintuitive to install a new heating system in winter, but it’s actually a great time to make the switch.

You’ll notice the benefits straight away as the warmth feels consistent, so no more ups and downs in temperature or waiting for radiators to catch up.

Secondly, if you upgrade before the weather gets too severe, you’ll avoid the winter rush for emergency boiler replacements. And with the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme offering £7,500 off the cost of installation, there’s never been a better time to invest.

Once installed, your air source heat pump is designed to adapt automatically to outside temperatures, keeping your home comfortable without you needing to constantly adjust it.

Keeping your heat pump performing at its best

Like any heating system, a bit of care goes a long way when the weather turns. Fortunately, keeping your air source heat pump in good shape through winter is simple.

Make sure there’s good airflow around the outdoor unit. Brush away leaves, snow or debris that might build up around it. Don’t cover it, as it needs access to the air to do its job.

In freezing weather, it’s normal for a thin layer of frost to form on the outdoor unit. Air source heat pumps can melt any ice before it becomes a problem, but if you notice heavy ice that isn’t clearing, it’s worth getting it checked by your installer.

Unlike a gas boiler, a heat pump works best when it runs steadily. Rather than turning it off and on, keep it running at a consistent temperature, that way, it uses energy more efficiently and keeps your home evenly warm.

Having your system serviced once a year (just like a boiler) keeps it running at peak efficiency and extends its lifespan.

Pair your air source heat pump with solar panels and battery storage

If you want to take things up another level, pairing your air source heat pump with solar panels and a solar battery is one of the most efficient energy setups available.

Your solar panels will generate free electricity during the day and that power can run your heat pump, meaning your home is heated directly from the sun. Add a solar battery, and any extra energy you generate is stored for later, which is ideal for the evenings to reduce your reliance on the grid. Or, this extra power can be sold back to the grid if you don’t use it.

A complete green energy solution helps you use more of your own renewable power, cut your bills even further, and reduce your carbon footprint.

Our MCS-certified engineers design and install complete renewable heating and energy systems tailored to your home. From your first consultation to applying for the government grant and completing installation, we make the whole process simple. Take control of your energy this winter, and stay warm with a greener, smarter home.

Speak to our experts at sales@eerenewables.co.uk or call 0800 802 1116.