Air source heat pumps

Air source heat pumps absorb heat from the outside air. This heat can then be used to warm water for radiators or underfloor heating systems, or to warm the air in your home. You can even get a grant.

An air source heat pump extracts heat from the outside air in the same way that a fridge extracts heat from its inside. It can extract heat from the air even when the outside temperature is as low as minus 15°C ! There are two main types:-

1) An air-to-water system uses the heat to warm water. The system heats water to a lower temperature than a standard boiler system would, so they are more suitable for underfloor heating systems than radiator systems.
2) An air-to-air system produces warm air which is circulated by fans to heat your home.

The benefits of air source heat pumps

• Reduce your fuel bills.
  Air source heat pumps run on electricity, so there's no need to pay for gas, oil or solid fuels to heat your home.
• Cut down on wasted electricity.
  Heating your home with an air source heat pump is much more efficient than using electric radiators.
• Saving space.
  An air source heat pump system is compact, and requires no storage space for fuel.

Air source heat pumps are an alternative to fossil fuels and can help reduce your homes CO₂ emissions. Air source heat pumps add great value to your home and also help to cut your annual bills.

Air source heat pumps should only really be considered after the 'more fundamental' energy saving measures have taken place (loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, double glazing, an efficient boiler). As an example, loft insulation with some grant aid will payback within a year. Air source heat pumps are more expensive and have longer payback times. However the running costs are very low. IQ Energy will give you expert advice on choosing an air source heat pump system that suits your current and long term energy needs.

Ribble Valley Renewable Energy Scheme

The Ribble Valley scheme allows air source heat pump grants of up to £1,500 to households that pay their Council Tax to Ribble Valley Borough Council. You must be in bands A-F and have full loft and cavity insulation in place. You must also not have a natural gas supply to your property. For information about this scheme and air source heat pumps in the Ribble Valley, please contact John Barber at Ribble Valley Borough Council on: 01200 413235.