Air source heat pumps (ASHP) harness latent heat energy from the ambient outside environment. This energy is, by way of what is known as a vapour compression refrigeration system. In much the same way as a domestic or industrial fridge unit operates, heat is transferred from the exterior of a building to the inside.

Heat and hot water

This latent heat energy can then be used to heat the interior and maintain a comfortable ambient temperature as well as serving hot water through the taps. Water can be heated to as much as 80 degrees centigrade, more than enough for what most families and business premises require.

Alternatively the ASHP system can be used in reverse during the warmer months of the year which means you can cool the interior of the building without the need for secondary systems or a standalone air con system.

ASHP systems work equally efficiently on water heat transfer systems (radiator heating) and warm air heating, although under floor heating is by far and away the most efficient method of transferring the heat energy evenly around the interior space.

According to the website of EOC Services, randomly selected for research after a Google search, the cost of buying air source heat pumps in Norfolk compared to the larger conurbations such as London, Birmingham and Manchester for example is much cheaper.

This may be as a result of the fact that demand is lower in rural areas compared to where there is large consumer population numbers. It could just be that consumers in rural areas drive more of a hard bargain. However, regardless of the reason it is good for consumers and good for the environment too.

Here are a few facts about ASHPs:

• They are three to five times more efficient than a traditional boiler installation

• They deliver four times as much heat energy pro rata energy consumed in operation

• Seventy five percent of all heat generated is from renewable sources

• Systems can be installed and up and running in less than a day

ASHPs are more readily able to maintain a constant interior ambient temperature than traditional boiler systems. Constant operation actually reduces costs compared to the constant stop – start operation of an oil, gas or solid fuel boiler system.

ASHPs work efficiently in temperatures as low as -15 centigrade, so even in the worst of Norfolk winters where the wind goes through rather than round a person, you can remain snug inside while the elements blast away outside.

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