FAQs For Air Source Heat Pumps

If you can't find an answer to your air source heat pump questions please contact us.

These are just a few we are frequently asked (click to reveal answers).

No.  The sound pressure figures lie between the noise level of a domestic fridge and normal human conversation. Apart from the intrinsic quietness of the compressor and the fan in the heat pump, it is installed on two large sound-absorbing rubber feet that minimise any vibration. Usual installation positions produce no sound that can be heard within the property. For clients who are particularly concerned about the noise levels we can offer an ultra-quiet range. 

Absolutely! A heat pump can provide you with all of your central heating and hot water needs. There are two circuits which are separated – a closed circuit for radiatiors/underfloor and a second circuit for hot water which is stored in a cylinder. This is usually unvented.

The air source heat pump relies on outside air temperature whilst ground source heating relies on energy from the earth.

Ground source heating is a more stable fuel source as opposed to air source heating which is subject to air temperature changes. The efficiency of an air source is lower than a ground source but with the arrival of inverter driven heat pumps the gap has narrowed in recent years. 

Air source heating is less obtrusive. Less space is needed for an air source heat pump and installation is almost half the cost. 

Yes. Using a Solar PV array is a very effective way to support your heat pumps electricity usage.  We can also direct excess Solar PV straight into your immersion heater radically reducing your hot water bills. This negates any need for solar thermal and is the more cost effective solution. 

This apparent conundrum is explained as follows: Heating efficiency is measured by a products Co-efficiency Of Performance (COP). An average air source heat pump has an efficiency of 300%. This is three times higher than electric radiators. For example, electrical heating works on a ratio of 1:1 (100%). Air source, on the other hand, converts 3kWh for every 1kWh of electricity you buy in, a ratio of 1:3 (300%). The ratio of transfer is the COP.

The heat pump must be 1m inside the boundary of the installed property.

You can use existing radiators in the house  calculations will be made to determine which radiators need up sizing accordingly. Where possible up-sizing can be achieved by moving the larger existing radiators into the smaller rooms and fitting new bigger radiators into the larger rooms. This reduces waste and overall cost of installation. 

Underfloor heating is an effective way to heat a new build but not always the best solution for a retrofit. In many cases, radiators can be sized to deliver similar efficiencies to underfloor heating. 

No, they are considered permitted development although a listed building/conservation area setting may need local council confirmation.

50 degrees. Often too hot to hold your hand under. More than enough for a full hot bath or shower.  

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Harvest Cornwall, Chi Trevasa,
Hilgrove Rd, Newquay, TR7 2QT

01637 854997