Air source heat pumps are becoming an increasingly popular form of renewable energy in the UK, as they provide a sustainable and efficient way to heat homes. The UK government has recognised the benefits of air source heat pumps and has introduced a grant scheme to encourage homeowners to switch to this form of heating.
The Air Source Heat Pump Grant scheme is part of the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which provides funding for eligible households to install energy-efficient heating systems. Under the scheme, homeowners can receive a grant of up to £5,000 towards the cost of installing an air source heat pump. The grant is designed to help homeowners reduce their carbon footprint and save money on their energy bills.
There are several benefits to installing an air source heat pump in your home. Firstly, air source heat pumps are highly efficient, as they extract heat from the air outside and use it to heat your home. This means that they require less energy to operate than traditional heating systems, which can help to reduce your energy bills.
Additionally, air source heat pumps are a renewable energy source, which means that they are an environmentally friendly choice for heating your home.
What is an air source heat pump?
An air source heat pump is a renewable heating system that extracts heat from the outside air and transfers it into your home. It works like a refrigerator in reverse, absorbing heat from the outdoor air and releasing it inside to provide warmth for your home.
How does an air source heat pump work?
An air source heat pump has three main components: an outdoor unit, an indoor unit, and a heat exchanger. The outdoor unit contains a fan which draws air over a heat exchanger containing a refrigerant. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the air and turns into a gas. The gas is then compressed, which increases its temperature even further.
The indoor unit contains another heat exchanger where the hot gas releases its heat, which is then used to heat your home. The refrigerant then cools and turns back into a liquid, and the cycle begins again.
Benefits of using an air source heat pump
There are several benefits to using an air source heat pump:
- Lower energy bills: Air source heat pumps are highly efficient and can significantly reduce your energy bills. They can also help you save money on your heating bills compared to traditional heating systems.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Air source heat pumps are a renewable energy source, which means they produce less carbon emissions than traditional heating systems.
- Easy to install: Air source heat pumps are easy to install, and they don’t require any special equipment or infrastructure.
- Low maintenance: Air source heat pumps require very little maintenance, making them a cost-effective and hassle-free heating solution.
Air Source Heat Pump Grant in the UK
What is the Air Source Heat Pump Grant?
The Air Source Heat Pump Grant is a scheme introduced by the UK government to incentivize homeowners to switch to renewable heating systems. The grant provides financial assistance to eligible households to install air source heat pumps (ASHPs) in their homes.
An air source heat pump is a renewable energy technology that extracts heat from the outside air to provide heating and hot water for a property.
Who is Eligible for the Grant?
To be eligible for the Air Source Heat Pump Grant, you must be a homeowner or a private landlord in England, Scotland or Wales. The grant is not available in Northern Ireland. The property must be your primary residence or one that is rented out.
The grant is available to both existing and new properties. There are certain eligibility criteria that must be met to qualify for the grant. The property must have a Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) rating of D or lower.
The grant is only available for the installation of ASHPs, and not for other renewable heating systems such as ground source heat pumps or solar thermal panels.
How to Apply for the Grant
To apply for the Air Source Heat Pump Grant, you must first obtain a quote from a certified installer. The installer must be registered with the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) or equivalent.
Once you have obtained a quote, you can apply for the grant through the Simple Energy Advice (SEA) website. The grant covers two-thirds of the cost of the installation, up to a maximum of £5,000. The remaining one-third must be paid by the homeowner.
The grant is paid directly to the installer once the installation is complete. The grant was initially only available until March 2022, but the government announced a new Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which will provide grants of up to £5,000 for eligible households to install air source heat pumps.
The new scheme launched in April 2022. Overall, the Air Source Heat Pump Grant is a great opportunity for homeowners to switch to renewable heating systems and reduce their carbon footprint. By installing an ASHP, homeowners can save money on their energy bills and contribute to a greener future.
Installation of Air Source Heat Pump
Choosing the right system
When it comes to choosing the right air source heat pump system for your home, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, you need to ensure that the system is the right size for your property. This will depend on factors such as the size of your home, the number of occupants, and the level of insulation. It is also important to consider the efficiency rating of the system, as this will impact your energy bills in the long run.
Cost of installation
The cost of installing an air source heat pump will depend on a number of factors, including the size and type of system you choose, the complexity of the installation, and your location. The £5,000 grant will go a long way to meeting the cost of the installation.
Maintenance and repair
Like any heating system, air source heat pumps require regular maintenance to ensure they are running efficiently. This may include cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting electrical connections. It is important to have your system serviced by a qualified engineer at least once a year.
In the event of a fault or breakdown, it is important to contact a professional to carry out repairs, rather than attempting to fix the issue yourself. Overall, installing an air source heat pump can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to heat your home. By choosing the right system, ensuring it is installed correctly, and carrying out regular maintenance, you can enjoy reliable and efficient heating for many years to come.
Finally, it is worth considering other energy-saving measures in conjunction with an air source heat pump, such as improving insulation, draft-proofing, and using energy-efficient appliances. By taking a holistic approach to home energy efficiency, households can maximise the benefits of their air source heat pump and reduce their overall energy consumption and costs.
Useful links
Find an MCS certified installer
Apply for the grant here on the Government website
