Due to high energy costs, many people are seeking ways to lower their energy consumption and carbon impact. One solution known for being exceptionally high-quality to accomplish those goals is an air-source heat pump with solar panels! So, it is good not only for your pocket but also for reducing the carbon emissions. This eco-friendly blend can be installed together and will provide heat and warm water.
The air-source heat pump takes heat from outside air and distributes it in the house. Since the heat pump requires energy, installing solar panels means it can run completely off-grid and reduce your home’s direct dependence on electricity.
Combining solar panels and heat pumps is one of the best ways to heat your home. This is good for the planet and will save you money over time.
In this blog, we will discuss an air-source heat pump with solar panels—what it is, how it works, and why you should choose one for your home.
What is an Air Source Heat Pump?
An air source heat pump, or ASHP, is an appliance that heats your house. It draws heat from outside air, which contains heat, even in cold temperatures. Air source heat pumps are an incredible new method of low-carbon heating.
But heat pumps operate on electricity, not gas – and they’re a lower-carbon means of heating your house. When combined with solar panels it benefits double. As both get power from natural sources.
How Does an Air Source Heat Pump Work?
An air source heat pump, abbreviated ASHP, pulls air outside the home. It moves this air over a coil holding a special liquid called refrigerant. The refrigerant absorbs the heat from the air and becomes a gas. This gas is then compressed, which makes it even hotter than it initially was. The hot gas then goes through another coil, transferring the heat to your home’s heating system. The refrigerant changes into a liquid, and the process starts.
The great thing about an air source heat pump is that it can work even when the temperature is as low as -15°C. This means you can use it throughout the year to heat your home.
What Exactly Are Solar Panels?
Solar panels consist primarily of photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into electricity. Photovoltaic cells are discrete devices that create an electric field when hit by sunlight. This electric field creates electricity that can power your home.
Solar panels are generally mounted on roofs, where they receive maximum sunlight. The electricity produced from the panels can power appliances, lights, and other electrical devices.
How Does Solar Panels Work?
Solar panels convert sunlight into electrical energy. The photovoltaic cells in the solar panel absorb sunlight and create an electric field. The electric field in the photovoltaic cells creates a direct current (DC). Since most homes use alternating current (AC), DC electricity is converted to AC using an inverter.
The electricity created by the solar panels can be utilised immediately or stored in batteries for later use. You can sell the excess to the grid if you generate more electricity than you need.
What Does It Mean to Have an Air Source Heat Pump with Solar Panels?
Combining an air source heat pump with solar panels creates an energy-efficient, environmentally friendly system. Solar panels produce energy that can power the ASHP, allowing you to heat your home using the sun’s power as a renewable and cost-free energy source.
An ASHP with solar panels can help you save money on your energy bills. Solar panels give power to run the ASHP. Thus, you don’t need to rely on the power grid. This can reduce energy costs and carbon footprint.
Benefits of an Air Source Heat Pump with Solar Panels
Using an air-source heat pump with solar panels offers the most significant benefits. A few of them are:
Reduce Energy Bills: Solar panels reduce energy bills by generating electricity. The electricity generated from solar panels can power an air source heat pump. Accordingly, you will consume less system power, lowering electric bills.
Green Heating: A solar-powered heat pump (ASHP) uses air to collect heat, a renewable energy source. Solar screens and sunshine are another green power source. By using ASHP and solar cells, you can reduce your carbon footprint as an individual, which is better for the planet.
Government Grants: The Local Government Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme provides free installation of an ASHP with solar panels. Low-income households in the UK can get free ASHPs and solar systems.
Increase Property Value: Properties with advanced heating systems like ASHP and solar panels attract buyers. These upgrades can increase property value.
Low Maintenance: Solar panels and air-source heat pumps use natural sources like air and sunshine. After being set up, they can serve for many years without much-needed intervention.
Accessing Grants for Air Source Heat Pumps
One significant benefit of installing an air source heat pump with solar panels is the potential for government grants. Grants can offset the installation cost, helping to bring the system’s price down.
When applying for grants for air source heat pumps, you must check to see if you are eligible. Eligibility criteria usually involves the type of property you live in, your income level, and whether or not you are using an inefficient heating system.
Once eligible, you can apply for grants through a government-approved scheme. The application process is pretty simple, and after your approval, you can install your air source heat pump with solar panels.
How to Install an Air Source Heat Pump with Solar Panels?
Installing an air source heat pump alongside solar panels necessitates hiring a professional contractor who is well-versed in the setup of such intricate systems. It is prudent to vet local installers carefully and select one with a proven track record of successfully coupling ASHPs and photovoltaics.
Below are the procedures required for the installation:
Assessment: The contractor will thoroughly examine the property to identify the optimal placement of the heat pump and photovoltaic panels, considering factors such as sunlight exposure, electrical wiring access, and thermal efficiency. They will also assess whether any electrical infrastructure upgrades are needed to integrate the new equipment safely and effectively into the home’s energy ecosystem. A detailed proposal outlining the scope of work. Then cost will be presented for approval before beginning the installation.
Installment: The solar panels will be mounted to your home’s roof, and the air source heat pump will be installed outside. At that point, the fitter will tie the ASHP into your heating system and hook the solar panels to your electrical feed.
Test: Once installed, the assessor will test the unit under communal load, explain its operation, and provide all necessary documentation.
What are the Costs of an Air Source Heat Pump with Solar Panels?
The investment required for an air-source heat pump with solar panels will depend on various factors. It includes your home’s partial or fully electric heating requirements. And it is also about your chosen system specifications, and your choice of suppliers/installers. For a fully integrated system, you would be looking to spend between £10,000 and £20,000.
Although this could seem like a hefty upfront cost, you also have to consider that you may save a lot over time on energy bills with the new system. There are grants available for air source heat pumps to assist with the upfront costs, making the system more affordable. If you are low income and receiving specific income related benefits you can be eligible for free installation grants. Check your eligibility at there: applyforgovernmentgrants.co.uk
What Amount Can You Save?
The amount of money you can save by installing an air source heat pump with solar panels depends on many factors. It includes the size of your home, your energy consumption and usage. And the amount of direct sunlight your property receive is also matter.
On average, a system like this with an Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) and solar panels could save up to £1,000 on annual energy bills and pay for itself within 10-15 years. This depends on the home energy use and some grant availability.
Problems Using an Air Source Heat Pump with Solar Panels
Initial Outlay: The first upfront expense of installing a solar panel system with an ASHP can be expensive. But eligible homes can get installed via free government grants.
Reliance on Weather: Solar panels require sunlight to generate electricity. That means they may generate power on bright sunny days, or may not generate power at night. However, you can take energy from the grid if you need to.
Although an air-source heat pump paired with solar panels has many advantages, there are also some challenges to remember. The following section discusses some of those key challenges:
Area Requirements: Both air source heat pumps and solar panels need space. An ASHP must be placed outside your home, whereas solar panels are on your roof. So, if you have limits on the area, installing the systems will take work.
Planning Permission: Depending on your circumstances, you might require planning permission to install an air-source heat pump with solar panels. You may need approval if you live in a listed building or a conservation area. Always check with your local council to determine whether you will require permission before proceeding with any installation.
Conclusion
Utilising an air-source heat pump alongside solar panels represents an intelligent and effective heating strategy while minimising energy costs. Using renewable energy sources that are common and abundant—the air and the sun—you can decrease your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Installing an air-source heat pump with solar panels may have a high upfront cost, but the availability of air source heat pump grants helps ease the system’s expense. Moreover, you will also benefit from long-term savings on your energy bills, solidifying your investment.
If you need to cut the costs of your energy bills and simultaneously lessen your impact on the environment, consider installing an air source heat pump with solar panels, as they benefit your wallet and the environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! An air source heat pump combined with solar panels does make for a very efficient and green heating system. Basically, the photovoltaic solar panels create the required electricity for an air source heat pump. Thus, it reduces your energy costs and, furthermore, reduces your reliance on the grid.
Yes, they work together really well. The solar panels provide all the electric energy that a heat pump needs to work. So, it makes an excellent pairing for anyone trying to lower energy bills.
The general price of air source heat pump installation in the UK is typically within the range of £2,400 to £14,050. Though this might be the case, the average cost could range towards approximately £4,200 to £6,500. The exact price would depend on your property’s size and how complicated the installation will be.
Absolutely, heat pumps are an awesome long-term investment for homes across the UK. This is due to their highly efficient energy usage and being eco-friendly. This could mean a significant reduction in heating bills over time. Plus, there are government schemes for help, such as the ECO4 Scheme, all of which can zero the upfront cost.
