What Size Air Source Heat Pump Do I Need?

Building Suitability

There are three key areas to think about when considering the installation of an air source heat pump system for your residential property.

1. Do you need planning permission?
2. Do you have suitable place to put it? 
3. Is your property well insulated? 

1. Planning Permission

Air source heat pumps fall into a category to micro wind turbines. Once the legal technicalities have been resolved, it is expected that air source heat pumps will be given permitted development rights status. Further clarification on this legislation is expected later this year.
Until then, you must consult with your local authority regarding planning permission for the installation of a system.
Please note that the permitted development rights are not extended to listed buildings which are covered by other planning regulations.

2. Do you have suitable place to put it? 

You'll need a place outside your house where a unit can be fitted to a wall or placed on the ground. It will need plenty of space around it to get a good flow of air.                                                            

3. Is your residential property well insulated? 

Since air source heat pumps produce less heat than traditional boilers, it's essential that your residential property is insulated and draught proofed well for the heating system to be effective. This can vary greatly due to differences in insulation, air-tightness, basement size, solar access, wind exposure, etc. Multiple, smaller systems are more efficient than one large, central system and are recommended if more than 6 tons of heat pump capacity are required.
Sizing Guides

Air source heat pumps can range in power capacity from 3 kW to over 100 kW. There are several key things which you need to consider before you choose the right size air source heat pump, including the level of insulation, the area to be heated, the window area and the climate.