Are you fed up with high energy bills and the environmental harm caused by traditional boilers? Say goodbye to those old fuel-guzzling systems and welcome the next era of home heating: air-to-water heat pumps! These systems keep your home warm and snug and reduce your dependence on fossil fuels, helping you save cash.

And here’s the good news: the government is offering free heat pump grants.

This article will explore Air Source Heat Pumps, their grants, who is eligible to qualify, and what these grants cover.

What is an air source heat pump, and how does it work?

An air source heat pump (ASHP) is a device that extracts heat from the outside air and transfers it indoors to provide heating or hot water for residential and commercial spaces. It is important to understand how it works:

• Heat Extraction: The ASHP contains refrigerant circling through a closed loop. This refrigerant has a low boiling point, even at low temperatures. The refrigerant evaporates when the pump is heating, absorbing heat from the outside air.
  
• Compression: The heat-laden refrigerant vapour is then compressed, increasing its temperature. This compression process is powered by electricity.
  
• Heat Release: The now-high-temperature, pressurized vapour is condensed into a liquid inside the indoor unit. During this phase change, the refrigerant releases the absorbed heat, warming the indoor space or the water in the heating system.
  
• Distribution: The generated heat is then distributed through the building’s heating system, including radiators, underfloor heating, or a forced-air system.
  

What is the average cost of an air source heat pump in the UK, and is it costly to operate?

The initial cost of purchasing and installing an air source heat pump (ASHP) can be relatively high. The upfront cost of an ASHP can vary widely, from around £4,000 to £18,000, depending on factors like size, brand, and installation complexity.

Despite the higher upfront cost, the operational efficiency of air source heat pumps makes them cost-effective over the long run. Here’s how:

• Energy Efficiency: ASHPs are incredibly efficient, using up to 3 times less energy than traditional electric heating systems and even outperforming gas boilers in many cases. This translates to significant savings on your energy bills.
  
• Running Costs: On average, you can expect to pay around £0.08-£0.12 per kWh of heat generated. This can vary depending on electricity prices, your home’s efficiency, and climate change.
  
• Maintenance: To ensure optimal performance, ASHPs require regular maintenance, typically costing around £150-£250 per year.
  

Opportunities for free air source heat pumps in the UK

You can obtain an air source heat pump for free under the ECO 4 grant. The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) is a government initiative aimed at improving the energy efficiency of homes and reducing carbon emissions. One of the ways it achieves this is by providing grants for the installation of energy-efficient measures, such as air source heat pumps.

The purpose of the ECO 4 grant is to make sustainable and eco-friendly technologies more accessible to homeowners. By offering a government grant for heat pumps, the gov aims to incentivize the adoption of renewable energy systems. It helps individuals reduce their carbon footprint and contributes to national targets for environmental sustainability.

Read more everything about Air Source Heat Pumps.

What are the eligibility criteria for the ECO 4 Grant?

To check eligibility for the ECO 4 heat pump grant UK 2024, it has the following criteria:

• Home Ownership: With the landlord’s permission, you are either a homeowner or a private tenant.
  
• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Rating: Your home’s EPC rating has to be Band D or lower (meaning it’s less energy-efficient).
  
• Benefits: You receive one of the following income-related benefits:
  
  • Child Tax Credit
  • Income Support
  • Income-based jobseeker’s allowance (JSA)
  • Income-related employment and support allowance (ESA)
  • Pension Credit Guarantee Credit Element
  • Personal independence payment
  • Universal Credit
  • Working tax credit
  • Child benefits dependant on income & dependants

• Mains Gas: Since ECO4 is replacing ECO3, homes have had an existing mains gas supply before March 31st, 2022, to qualify for a First Time Central Heating grant for installing a new mains gas central heating system.
  

How does S6 Energy help you get the grant?

Absolutely, at S6 Energy, we take pride in our track record of successfully assisting numerous clients in securing the Air Source Heat Pump Grant. Our dedicated team is committed to simplifying and expediting the application process, ensuring our clients can use this grant to transition to sustainable, cost-effective heating solutions.

Once you have submitted the form, our experts will meet with you and decide if you qualify for the grant. Once we are assured that all the requirements are complete, we will apply and talk to our links within the UK authorities to ensure your application gets the priority for an air source heat pump grant. We want to play our part in contributing to society and ensuring that the future is greener and energy efficient.

Take the first step towards a more energy-efficient home – check your eligibility today!

Frequently Asked Question

Are ASHPs suitable for all climates?

Yes, ASHPs are designed to work efficiently in various climates, extracting heat from the air even in colder conditions. However, specific performance may vary, and it’s essential to consider your local climate.

What are the benefits of using an ASHP?

ASHPs offer energy efficiency, reduced carbon emissions, and potential cost savings on energy bills. They also contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly heating solution.

Are there government grants available for ASHP installations?

Government programs, such as the Energy Company Obligation (ECO), offer grants and incentives to promote installing energy-efficient systems, including ASHPs.

How energy-efficient are ASHPs?

ASHPs are known for their high energy efficiency. On average, they can generate around four units of heat for every one unit of electricity consumed.

What maintenance do ASHPs require?

ASHPs generally require minimal maintenance. Regular checks, cleaning filters, and professional inspections can ensure optimal performance.

Can an ASHP be used for both heating and cooling?

Yes, many ASHPs have a reversible function, allowing them to provide both heating in winter and cooling in summer.