What is the air source heat pump: types, worth and benefits

1. Overview

Air source heat pump(ASHP) efficiently heat, cool, and supply hot water for your home using 75% renewable energy (sourced from air) and only 25% electricity. With ongoing technological advances, the required electricity input is expected to further decrease, steadily progressing toward a more energy-efficient and sustainable future. 

ASHP operate across a wide temperature range. For example, TCL air source heat pumps maintain stable performance even in harsh winters as low as -25°C. They are suitable for all property types, from small apartments to large detached homes, and ensure year-round perfect temperatures.

2. How Does It Work

The air source heat pump drives the refrigerant cycle through the compressor, absorbing heat from the air and transferring it to the room. For a detailed explanation, refer to the A beginner-friendly guide: what is a heat pump and how does it work.

3. Advantages Over Other Heating Solutions

Air source heat pumps are one of the most widely used heat pumps due to their numerous advantages over other heating solutions.

vs. Traditional Oil/Natural Gas Heating

✓ High-efficiency heating with lower operating costs

✓ Low-carbon and with fewer pollutant emissions

✓ Safer operation(no fuel storage)

✓ 3-in-1 functionality: heating + cooling + hot water

✓ Policy support with subsidies and tax incentives in many countries

vs. Ground/Water Source heat pump

✓ Flexible and faster installation without excavation work

✓ Lower upfront costs (no drilling)

✓ Ideal for old house renovations

✓ Fewer site restrictions and strict building regulations

✓ Simpler maintenance

4. Types of Air Source heat pump

There are two types: Air-to-water heat pump and air-to-air heat pump.

Air-to-Water heat pump: Transfer heat to water in a heating circuit to warm spaces.

✅ Directly connect to existing water heating systems (radiators, underfloor heating), making them ideal for replacing old houses with existing water systems. 

✅ One unit can meet heating, cooling, and domestic hot water needs.

❌ Typically require larger radiators, underfloor heating, and more water circuit components, which may increase installation effort and costs.

Air-to-Air heat pump: Directly generates warm air through a ventilation system to heat rooms.

✅ Relatively simple to install without water circuits, resulting in lower initial costs. 

✅ Providing fast heating and cooling.

❌ Hot air heating may cause dryness and uneven temperature distribution.

❌ Traditional approach requires additional installation of a water heater to meet the hot water demand.

5. Flexible Installation Options

There are generally two configurations to meet different installation scenarios: monobloc and split systems.

Monobloc systems

• All components are integrated into a single outdoor unit, connected to indoor water system terminals via pipes. 

• Compared to split systems, this compact setup requires less financial investment, installation effort, and indoor space, enabling quick and easy deployment.

Split systems

• Components are divided into an outdoor unit and an indoor unit, connected by refrigerant pipes, offering excellent anti-freezing performance. 

• The indoor unit features a slim design, saving indoor installation space and easily blending into home environments.