Installing an air source heat pump is a complex project, which requires qualified installers.

They, which involves the installation of an air heat pump (ASHP), is essential to your comfort, as it may affect certain parts of your building, from the time of installation to its location.

Although the installation of an air-to-water heat pump is not so difficult and destructive, like some alternative models, such as a ground source heat pump, it still needs a professional specialist, to identify and install your system, to ensure its best performance.

Do you need an electrician to install an air source heat pump??

You will need a heat pump specialist to install an air source heat pump, as it requires a fundamental understanding of low-temperature heating systems, principles of the vapor compression cycle, weather compensation controls and behavior characteristics of heat pump controls, to determine properly install the system and enter the operating conditions of the heat pump.

Heat pump systems “air-water” will have electrical connections, which must be carried out by suitably qualified electricians, as well as plumbing circuits, which must be performed by qualified and experienced installers without ventilation.

Air source heat pumps have a refrigerant vapor compression cycle and operate at low temperatures to optimize efficiency. There are a number of factors, which may affect performance, and ASHP are not devices, which simply turn on and off, like traditional boilers.

It is necessary to configure all operating parameters, otherwise the technology may not achieve the desired results or, vice versa, can consume much more electricity.

Given the low flow temperatures, associated with ASHP systems, emitters also require special sizing and control to optimize the system.

Can I install an air source heat pump myself??

Installing an air source heat pump is not very easy to install yourself, but after that, how the system will be designed, there are some elements of pipelines, which can potentially be installed by a competent craftsman.

Insulation can also be applied to the pipe by your handyman, but make sure, that you have received full instructions from a qualified engineer, before attempting to do any work yourself.

How to find an air heat pump installer?

An air source heat pump must be installed by an accredited installer, because he has undergone specialized training, and must also meet certain industry requirements, to certify the installation.

The best way to find a good specialist is through a firm's recommendation, which made the sale. After all, first of all, the seller is interested in a high-quality installation, to minimize warranty failures.

The best way, which will ensure high-quality installation and maintenance of heating equipment is the conclusion of a contract for a comprehensive supply and installation service with one company without the participation of contractors. In this way, the supply chain is complete and continuity is ensured from technical specifications to commissioning. System components can be purchased separately, but you have to be sure, that they are all compatible with each other.

At what stage of construction will I need an air source heat pump installer??

The sooner you find a specialist for the installation of an air source heat pump, the better. There are many components, which must be prepared and installed beforehand.

It is important to be sure, that all the equipment can fit in the boiler room, and distribution pipes and wiring are not crossed by structural elements.

What the installer of the air heat pump should do?

The specialist will design and specify the equipment, having calculated the thermal power, location of equipment, distribution networks and user interfaces, such as room thermostats.

They also install the system and let you know, which is not included in the list of installation works (such things, as repair of finishing works, usually, not included). 

Some professionals are also fully qualified plumbers and may include other plumbing and sanitary works in the contract.

The executing company will also put the air heat pump system into operation, will give it to the home owner and explain, how it all works. They may also offer service package and warranty services.

Where is the best place to install an air source heat pump? 

Although air source heat pumps can be installed in relatively small spaces, they will work best, if they are provided with good air flow. Considering this, they are best placed in open areas of the garden or outdoors, and not in narrow lanes.

For better access for maintenance or repair, it is best to place it on level ground if possible, and not on the roof. But, if you don't have a room, a flat roof is one option.

Under planning permission regulations, air source heat pumps must also be installed at least one meter from the boundary of the territory. For air heat pumps, installed on a flat roof, they should also be at a distance of one meter from the edge.

How long does it take to install an air source heat pump? 

Depending on the complexity of the work, an air heat pump can be installed in just a day.

Usually preparatory works, such as building a solid base to accommodate the outdoor unit, must be completed before the installation date.

How much will it cost to install an air source heat pump??

The cost of installing an air heat pump in a new building or in a private house will be from 500 u.o. . The cost will be much higher in the existing building, considering improvements to the fabric of the house and the replacement and removal of existing heating systems.

What do I need to know after installing an air source heat pump??

After installing the air source heat pump, you do not need to do anything, as the installer must commission the system.

The performing company, during the handover of completed works, must explain, how it works, and allow you to change only those settings, in which you have full competence.

In most cases, maintenance of air source heat pumps is visual. You can do inspections, example, check, that the outdoor unit has free air movement and is not clogged with leaves or other debris.

Also check, that the insulation of all pipelines is undamaged and that there are no visible signs of leakage or corrosion on the pipeline or casing.

However, you will need annual maintenance for your central heating system, which can also be directly connected to the ASHP.

Any in-unit maintenance should be performed by a qualified and experienced engineer.