Air Source Heat Pump Pros And Cons

Last Updated on June 3, 2025

Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) have emerged as one of the leading low-carbon heating solutions across the UK. 

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to reduce your energy bills, a landlord upgrading your property portfolio, or managing a commercial building aiming for net-zero targets, it’s crucial to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages before investing.

While you likely understand the basics, air source heat pumps extract heat from the outside air and use it to warm your home or water. This guide will give you a balanced breakdown of the pros and cons of air source heat pumps, helping you make an informed decision.

Let’s dive in.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Air Source Heat Pumps in the UK

Understanding the strengths and limitations of air source heat pumps is essential if you’re considering a heat pump installation under schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) or retrofitting a property to improve EPC ratings.

Pros of Air Source Heat Pumps

Lower Energy Bills

Air source heat pumps reduce heating costs and are incredibly efficient. For every 1kW of electricity used, you can generate around 3kW of heat — a coefficient of performance (COP) of 3:1.

• Lower running costs than oil, LPG, and electric resistance heating.
  
• Potential for huge savings when combined with solar PV.

Government Grants & Incentives

Homeowners in England and Wales can access the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), offering £7,500 off the upfront cost of installation. In Scotland, the Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan provides funding support.

• Makes eco-upgrades more affordable.
  
• Encourages uptake of renewable heating.

Eco-Friendly Heating Solution

Air source heat pumps reduce reliance on fossil fuels and help cut carbon emissions by up to 60%.

• Essential for meeting the UK’s 2050 Net Zero target.
  
• Produces no on-site combustion emissions.

Low Maintenance

ASHPs require minimal servicing. An annual check by a qualified engineer and simple homeowner upkeep (like clearing debris from the outdoor unit) will keep the system running efficiently.

Works with Existing Heating Systems

Air source heat pumps can often be integrated with existing radiators or underfloor heating, particularly with high-temperature heat pumps.

• Retrofit-friendly solution.
  
• Great for off-grid homes and older UK properties.

Cooling Capabilities

Modern ASHP systems offer reverse-cycle functionality, meaning they can cool your home in summer, a major benefit as UK summers grow warmer.

Cons of Air Source Heat Pumps

Air Source Heat Pumps Have a High Upfront Cost

The typical air source heat pump installation cost in the UK ranges from £8,000 to £14,000, depending on property size and heat demand.

• May be higher for properties requiring full system upgrades.
  
• Government grants help offset, but it’s still a significant investment.

Reduced Efficiency in Cold Weather

While ASHPs are designed to operate in sub-zero conditions, their efficiency drops during extreme cold snaps.

• May require backup heating during harsh winters.
  
• Proper insulation is essential to maximise efficiency.

3. Requires Outdoor Space

An external unit must be installed outdoors with good airflow. This may not suit flats, listed buildings, or homes in dense urban settings.

• Planning permission may be required in conservation areas.

4. Noise from the Outdoor Unit

Modern units are quiet (typically 40–60 dB), but placement is key to avoiding disturbance — especially in semi-detached or terraced homes.

5. Radiator Upgrades May Be Needed

To work efficiently at lower flow temperatures, your property may need larger radiators or underfloor heating installed.

• Adds to installation cost and complexity.
  
• A proper heat loss assessment will determine system requirements.

Is an Air Source Heat Pump Right for Your Property?

Whether you’re living in a 1930s semi-detached home in Manchester, a rural cottage in Devon, or managing a commercial property in London, the decision to install an ASHP should factor in:

• Your current heating system
  
• Insulation and energy efficiency
  
• Access to government funding
  
• Your long-term energy goals

If you’re committed to cutting your carbon footprint, reducing long-term heating costs, and futureproofing your property against rising energy prices, an air source heat pump is worth serious consideration.

Request Your Free Air Source Heat Pump Quote Today

Ready to lower your energy bills and go green?
Eco Happy makes it easy to switch to renewable heating with a hassle-free air source heat pump installation quote tailored to your property.

We offer:

• Access to £7,500 government funding
  
• Accredited MCS installers across the UK
  
• Fast, free, no-obligation quotes
  
• Heat pump systems optimised for UK homes and commercial buildings

Don’t let another winter pass with sky-high heating bills. Make the switch to smart, sustainable heating today.

FAQs