Air Source Heat Pump System Design & Installation

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At Masper Build LTD, we pride ourselves on offering a wide range of services, including the design and installation of Air Source Heat Pump Systems (ASHP). Our team of competent, trained, and qualified engineers are dedicated to providing top-notch services to both residential and commercial properties.

Heat pump schematic illustration how is working

What is an Air Source Heat Pump System?

An Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) is a system that transfers heat from outside to inside a building, or vice versa. It uses a refrigerant system involving a compressor and a condenser to absorb heat at one place and release it at another. They can be used as a space heater or cooler, and even to heat water.

ASHPs are a sustainable and energy-efficient alternative to traditional heating systems. They extract heat from the air outside, which is then used to heat radiators, underfloor heating systems, or warm air convectors and hot water in your property.

How Does an Air Source Heat Pump System Work?

An ASHP works by transferring heat absorbed from the outside air to an indoor space such as a home or an office via the wet central heating systems to heat radiators and provide hot water. ASHPs operate well with underfloor heating systems or warm air heating.

These systems include a couple of main components: an outdoor unit which comprises a fan that brings in the outside air, and an indoor unit that contains a heat exchanger and fan. The system works in a series of stages:

  1. The fan in the outdoor unit brings in outside air, which contains heat energy, and blows it over a fluid-filled coil.
  2. The heat from the air raises the temperature of the fluid in the coil. This fluid, which is a refrigerant, boils and turns into a gas even at low temperatures.
  3. The refrigerant gas is then compressed, which increases its temperature further.
  4. The hot gas is passed through a heat exchanger where its heat is transferred to the heating and hot water circuits of the house.
  5. As it loses heat, the refrigerant condenses back into a liquid and the cycle starts again.

ASHPs continue to operate down to temperatures of -15°C to -25°C, depending on the model. In the UK, it’s rare for the temperature to fall below -10°C, so an ASHP is suitable for the UK climate.

The Expertise of Masper Build LTD in ASHP System Design & Installation

At Masper Build LTD, our team of NICEIC registered and fully insured engineers bring a wealth of experience in electrical work, including the design and installation of ASHP systems. We understand that each property is unique, and therefore, each requires a unique approach to ASHP system design and installation.

Our process begins with a comprehensive site survey, during which our engineers assess the property’s heating needs, the level of insulation, and the outdoor space available for the installation of the external unit of the ASHP. Based on this assessment, we design an ASHP system that is tailored to the property’s specific requirements.

Heat Pump Buffer Tank Hybrid System with Gas Boiler

Designing and Installing an Air Source Heat Pump System

The design and installation of an Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) system is a process that requires careful planning and execution. At Masper Build LTD, our team of skilled engineers ensures that each step of the process is carried out meticulously to provide our clients with an efficient and reliable heating solution.

How to Design an Air Source Heat Pump System?

The design of an ASHP system is a crucial step that determines its efficiency and effectiveness. It involves several factors that need to be considered:

  1. Heat Loss Calculation: This is the first step in the design process. It involves determining the amount of heat the property loses during the coldest days of the year. This helps in sizing the ASHP system correctly.
  2. Selection of the Heat Pump: Based on the heat loss calculation, the appropriate type and size of the heat pump are selected. There are different types of heat pumps available, including Monoblock, split hydro box, split integrates water tank, hydro split hydro box, and hydro split integrates water tank. The choice depends on the specific requirements of the property.
  3. Design of the Distribution System: The distribution system, which includes the radiators, underfloor heating, or warm air convectors, is designed based on the heat pump selected. The system must be designed to work efficiently at the lower water temperatures that heat pumps provide.
  4. Integration with Existing Systems: If the property already has a heating system in place, the ASHP system must be designed to integrate seamlessly with it. This might involve upgrading or modifying the existing system.
Heat Pump Preparation Works For New Install

What are the Steps to Install an Air Source Heat Pump System?

Once the design process is complete, the installation of the ASHP system can begin. Here are the main steps involved:

  1. Site Preparation: The site where the outdoor unit of the ASHP system will be installed needs to be prepared. This involves clearing the area and ensuring it has a firm, level base.
  2. Installation of the Outdoor Unit: The outdoor unit, which contains the evaporator, is installed. It needs to be located in a place where it can get a good flow of air.
  3. Installation of the Indoor Unit: The indoor unit, which contains the heat exchanger and fan, is installed inside the property. It is usually placed in a utility room or garage.
  4. Connection of the Indoor and Outdoor Units: The indoor and outdoor units are connected using refrigerant piping. The refrigerant is then charged into the system.
  5. Installation of the Distribution System: The distribution system is installed and connected to the heat pump. This involves installing the radiators, underfloor heating, or warm air convectors, as per the design.
  6. System Testing and Commissioning: Once everything is installed, the system is tested to ensure it is working correctly. Any necessary adjustments are made, and the system is commissioned.
  7. Customer Handover: The customer is given a demonstration of how the system works and is provided with all the necessary documentation, including the ASHP system warranty.
Undefloor Heating Upgrades for New Heat Pump Installation

Cost and Benefits of an Air Source Heat Pump System

Investing in an Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) system is a significant decision that involves considering various factors, including the cost of installation and the benefits that the system offers. At Masper Build LTD, we provide transparent pricing and comprehensive information to help our clients make informed decisions.

How Much Does It Cost to Install an Air Source Heat Pump System?

The cost of installing an ASHP system can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the system, the complexity of the installation, and whether any additional work, such as upgrading the existing heating system or electrical work, is required.

On average, the cost of installing an ASHP system can range from £11,000 to £22,000. This includes the cost of the heat pump itself, which can range from £6,000 to £13,000, and the cost of installation, which can range from £5,000 to £7,000. However, these are just average costs, and the actual cost can be higher or lower depending on the specific circumstances.

It’s also worth noting that there are government incentives available for installing ASHP systems, such as the grant scheme of £5,000 and 0% VAT rate till end of 2027, which can help offset the cost of installation.

Heat Pump Indoor Unit with integrated water cylinder and boofer tank

What Are the Benefits of an Air Source Heat Pump System?

Investing in an ASHP system comes with a host of benefits:

  1. Energy Efficiency: ASHP systems are highly energy-efficient. They can deliver three or more units of heat for every unit of electricity used, making them more efficient than traditional heating systems.
  2. Lower Heating Bills: Because of their high energy efficiency, ASHP systems can lead to lower heating bills, especially if you are replacing an older, less efficient heating system.
  3. Reduced Carbon Emissions: ASHP systems produce less carbon emissions compared to traditional heating systems, making them a more environmentally friendly choice.
  4. Cooling Capability: In addition to heating, ASHP systems can also provide cooling during the summer months, providing year-round comfort.
  5. Government Incentives: As mentioned earlier, government incentives like 5k grant and 0% vat rate for supply and installation which can help offset the cost of installing an ASHP system.
  6. Long Lifespan: ASHP systems have a long lifespan, typically around 15 to 25 years, making them a long-term investment.

Efficiency and Comparison of Air Source Heat Pump Systems

Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) systems are renowned for their efficiency and versatility. At Masper Build LTD, we believe in providing our clients with comprehensive information to help them understand the full potential of these systems.

Two New Heat Pumps Installed in garden of a newly refurbished property

How Efficient is an Air Source Heat Pump System?

ASHP systems are highly efficient heating systems. They work by extracting heat from the outside air, which is a free and renewable resource. For every unit of electricity used to operate the system, an ASHP can produce three or more units of heat. This makes them more efficient than traditional heating systems, which often produce less than one unit of heat for every unit of electricity used.

The efficiency of an ASHP system is often expressed as a coefficient of performance (COP). The COP is the ratio of the heat produced by the system to the electricity used. A higher COP means a more efficient system.

It’s important to note that the efficiency of an ASHP system can vary depending on the outside temperature. ASHP systems are most efficient when the outside temperature is mild, but they can still operate efficiently in colder temperatures.

How Does an Air Source Heat Pump System Compare to Traditional Heating Systems?

When compared to traditional heating systems, ASHP systems offer several advantages:

  1. Energy Efficiency: As mentioned earlier, ASHP systems are more energy-efficient than traditional heating systems. This can lead to lower energy bills and reduced carbon emissions.
  2. Versatility: ASHP systems can provide both heating and cooling, making them a versatile choice for year-round comfort.
  3. Sustainability: ASHP systems use the outside air, a renewable resource, to provide heat. This makes them a more sustainable choice compared to traditional heating systems, which often rely on fossil fuels.
  4. Government Incentives: Government incentives like the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) are available for ASHP systems, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.

However, it’s worth noting that ASHP systems may require a larger upfront investment than traditional heating systems. They also require a suitable outdoor space for the installation of the outdoor unit.

In conclusion, ASHP systems offer a sustainable and efficient solution for heating and cooling needs. They represent a long-term investment that can lead to lower energy bills, reduced carbon emissions, and improved comfort.

At Masper Build LTD, we are committed to providing top-notch ASHP system design and installation services. Our team of competent, trained, and qualified engineers ensures that each ASHP system we install is tailored to the specific needs of the property, providing optimal performance and efficiency.

If you have any questions or if you’re interested in our ASHP system design and installation services, please feel free to contact us. You can also read testimonials from our satisfied customers to learn more about the quality of our work.

Our ASHP Services cover all your Heating System requirements!

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