Everything you need to know about an air source heat pump – renewable heating for your home
Here we take a closer look and speak to one of the leading manufacturers to get the low down on how they work, what they do and why their popularity is on the rise.
What is an air source heat pump?
In simple terms it’s a unit which harvests heat from outside air (yes, even when it’s below freezing!) and uses that energy to heat water – which then heats your home in just the same way as conventional water-based heating systems do.
Instead of a boiler inside your property you’ll have an outdoor unit; it looks a bit like an air conditioning unit – which only needs water and electric connections. This heats the water inside your house via a hot water tank, giving you a renewable, efficient and cost-effective heating solution.
Mitsubishi Electric has over 100 years of experience in providing high-quality products in a range of sectors including residential heating, so they know a thing or two when it comes to heating. You can read more about the advantages here, but we’ve picked out the main points to answer the most frequently asked questions.
How can they work when it’s cold?
Mitsubishi Electric’s Ecodan air source heat pumps can operate in temperatures as low as -25ºC and are designed to British standards for British homes; you can rest assured your system will continue to perform to a high standard, even in the depths of winter. Ecodan heat pumps are manufactured here in Britain, by experts at Mitsubishi Electric.
Residential air source heat pumps have been used in Scandinavian countries for decades. They’ve also been installed in thousands of homes around the UK for a number of years now, so they’re a tried and tested form of efficiently providing heating and hot water for your home.
Many heating systems offer intermittent heat sources – a sudden release of heat into the property which goes once the heating is turned off. Ecodan air source heat pumps are more efficient when left on and give you a consistently warm home keeping it at a temperature to suit you – you simply use a traditional thermostat or a smartphone app, as you would now to regulate the temperature.
So, when it really gets cold you don’t have to worry about your house temperature dropping.
Do I need a whole new heating system?
Not at all. Air source heat pumps are compatible with existing heat transmitters like radiators and underfloor heating systems for example, but they can be installed as part of a brand-new heating system within your home.
Are they noisy?
They are very quiet, with units operating at around 40-60 decibels, which is essentially a low whirring sound.
Are they expensive?
They generally cost more to install than a boiler, however, the Government has several schemes offering grants to those who install an air source heat pump, and these can make the end cost comparable with having a new gas boiler. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is a great option if you are looking to make the switch to heat pumps.
Do they need servicing?
Yes, to keep them running at their best a service is recommended – just like a conventional boiler, but with the homeowner support from Mitsubishi Electric, keeping your heat pump working efficiently should be a breeze.
Homeowner support from Mitsubishi Electric
As a leading manufacturer, Mitsubishi Electric’s commitment extends beyond product excellence to comprehensive customer care. Should homeowners encounter challenges with their installer or after install support, they offer dedicated home portal and home support channels, ensuring personalised resolution and a seamless experience.
Through the home portal Mitsubishi Electric aims to empower homeowners with the resources and guidance needed for confidence in their home systems. Mitsubishi Electric offers market leading service and maintenance plans to ensure regular upkeep and optimal performance of Ecodan heat pump systems, prolonging their lifespan and maximising energy efficiency.
“By prioritising customer satisfaction and delivering exceptional support services, Mitsubishi Electric aims to create an environment where homeowners feel compelled to share their positive experiences on consumer review sites such as TrustPilot where word-of-mouth recommendations influence others, encouraging broader adoption. Additionally, positive experiences build consumer confidence and dispel myths, making potential buyers more comfortable with the technology,” Head of Customer Support & Growth said.
Trustpilot Reviews
One reviewer wrote: “We have just moved in to a new house that came with a heat pump and it wasn't working correctly. Phil was an absolute legend, his technical knowledge and know how was brilliant.”
Another said: “Phil was totally on the ball with our Ecodan settings on his first visit having had the installer service it previously. Software and settings both adjusted so should be saving money on our next electricity bill. Result!”
To find out more take a look at Mitsubishi Electric’s website here
Already own an Ecodan? Enjoy exclusive savings on service and maintenance for your heat pump
Homeowners with Ecodan heat pumps can now enjoy exclusive savings on service and maintenance plans, thanks to a new offer from Mitsubishi Electric, Ecodan. The company emphasises that regular servicing is crucial not only to maintain with warranty conditions but also to maximise performance and extend the lifespan of your heat pump.
Mitsubishi Electric's service and maintenance plans are designed to provide peace of mind, ensuring that heating systems are professionally maintained and, in the unlikely event of a fault, quickly repaired by expert Ecodan engineers.
For a limited time, customers can save £50 on their first year of service and maintenance plans if they book before 30th September. This promotion is aimed at encouraging homeowners to service their heat pump ahead of the winter months.
Use code ‘SMVLSAVE50’ when filling out the voucher form. For more details on the promotion and to sign up, visit ecodan.me.uk/SMVL. (Terms and conditions apply.)