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Best Air Source Heat Pumps in the UK: 2024 Reviews
- The best air source heat pump overall is the Samsung Eco Heating System (EHS).
- This heat pump costs £6,500 - £13,000, including installation.
- You could save up to £1,200 per year when you install an air source heat pump, and up to 7,500kg of CO2 emissions annually.
Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are rapidly becoming a popular choice for UK homeowners seeking an energy-efficient and eco-friendly heating solution. These systems extract heat from the outside air, even in cold weather, and transfer it to your home for central heating and hot water (if using an air to water heating system).
Using a renewable energy source such as an air source heat pump can significantly reduce your reliance on fossil fuels, leading to lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint. In addition, the Government offers incentives, such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, to help homeowners switch to heat pumps in the UK, making them an even more attractive option.
In this guide, we’ll help you discover the top heat pump models currently on the market, their key features, benefits (and considerations), and the associated costs. For a quick overview, here are our top picks:
Top 8 Air Source Heat Pumps in the UK (2024):
- Samsung Eco Heating System (EHS): Best overall
- Mitsubishi Ecodan: Best price
- Hitachi Yutaki: Best for power
- Viessmann Vitocal: Best efficiency
- LG Therma V: Best warranty
- Vaillant aroTHERM: Best high temperature
- Daikin Altherma 3: Best in the cold
- Panasonic Aquarea L Series: Best for small homes
To find the best price on a new air source heat pump, you should find multiple quotes from qualified installers to compare. This is the best way to get a great deal, but it can be a stressful task finding a company you can rely on.
Don’t waste your precious free time scanning endless reviews and sending emails. Instead, let us find an installer for you! By completing our very quick form, we can connect you with up to 4 local installers in your area, from our network of trusted engineers. They will then provide you with free, no-obligation quotes for you to compare!
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- The best heat pumps and prices (2024)
- Best overall: Samsung Eco Heating System
- Best price: Mitsubishi Ecodan
- Highest power output: Hitachi Yutaki S
- High efficiency: Viessmann Vitocal
- Best warranty: LG Therma V
- Best for high temperatures: Vaillant aroTHERM
- Best in the cold: Daikin Altherma 3
- Best for small homes: Panasonic Aquarea L Series
- How did we choose the best air source heat pump?
- Why get an air source heat pump?
- FAQ
The best heat pumps and prices (2024)
To find the very best heat pumps on the market, there are some key elements to consider. For example, should you get an air to water or air to air heat pump, which one offers the best efficiency, which brand has the most generous warranty and do these models support different house sizes?
The table below compares our top 8 picks based on these elements, including an estimate of these air source heat pump prices. Remember, these are just a guide, and actual costs can vary depending on your property size, installer, and chosen features.
| Heat Pump Model | Power Output | Warranty | SCOP Rating (Efficiency) | Estimated Price Range (Inc. Installation) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung Eco Heating System | 4 - 16kW | 2 - 7 years | Up to 5.0 | £6,500 - £13,000 |
| Mitsubishi Ecodan | 5 - 14kW | 3 years | Up to 4.6 | £6,100 - £10,800 |
| Hitachi Yutaki | 4.3 - 24kW | 5 years | Up to 4.9 | £6,500 - £13,000 |
| Viessmann Vitocal | 2.1 - 14.9kW | 2 years | Up to 5.0 | £8,400 - £14,900 |
| LG Therma V | 4 - 16kW | 3 - 7 years | Up to 4.8 | £6,755 - £11,300 |
| Vaillant aroTHERM | 5 - 15kW | 2 - 7 years | Up to 5.3 | £6,500 - £20,000 |
| Daikin Altherma 3 | 4kW - 16kW | 2 - 7 years | Up to 4.7 | £6,600 - £14,200 |
| Panasonic Aquarea L Series | 5kw - 9kW | 3 - 7 years | Up to 5.0 | £7,700 - £12,700 |
Best overall: Samsung Eco Heating System (EHS)
The Samsung Eco Heating System (EHS) consistently ranks among the UK's top air source heat pumps. This all-rounder offers a combination of high efficiency, reliable performance, and a competitive price point.
The EHS comes in three types:
EHS Mono - An all-in-one outdoor unit (which is 40% smaller than other brands).
EHS Split: One outdoor unit and one indoor hydronic (heat circulating) unit for a lower cost and flexible installation.
EHS TDM Plus (Time Division Multi) - A complete heating, hot water and air conditioning solution from one outdoor unit.
Features:
- Power output: 4kW to 16kW, suitable for a wide range of property sizes.
- System type: Air to water (works with existing central heating systems).
- Efficiency: A+++
- Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP): Up to 5.0, highly efficient.
- Noise level: As low as 35dB (quiet operation) selected models.
- Warranty: 2 years standard, 7 years extended option (terms apply).
- Other: Compatible with solar photovoltaic (PV) panels.
Offers a Mono R290 refrigerant, with a lower Global Warming Potential (GWP=3).
The high temperature model (EHS Mono HT Quiet) can provide hot water up to 70°C.
Estimated costs:
- Unit cost: £3,000 - £8,000 (depending on power output)
- Installation cost: £3,500 – £5,000
- Total estimated price range: £6,500 - £13,000
- Highly efficient.
- Quiet operation.
- Smart features.
- Reliable performance, even in cold climates.
- Good range of outputs.
- Higher cost than some competitors.
- Limited hot water capacity (may need additional hot water tank).
Best price: Mitsubishi Ecodan
For budget-conscious homeowners seeking a reliable, efficient air source heat pump, Mitsubishi’s Ecodan range is our top pick for the best price. Unit costs start from as little as £2,600, and models are available for various home sizes.
Mitsubishi offers the following Ecodan options:
Ecodan R32 Ultra Quiet PUZ - Monobloc.
Ecodan R32 Compact PUZ (for smaller properties) - Monobloc.
Ecodan R32 Zubadan PUZ (for larger homes) - Monobloc.
Features:
- Power output: 5kW to 14kW.
- System type: Air to water.
- Efficiency: A+++
- Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP): Up to 4.6.
- Noise level: 40 - 56dB (low to moderate).
- Warranty: 3 years standard, extended options available (terms apply).
- Other: Multiple ‘Product of the Year’ awards across the series.
Uses R290 refrigerant with low GWP.
Zubadan technology offers cold climate performance (down to -25°C).
Integrates with existing heating systems for a hybrid option.
Estimated costs:
- Unit cost: £2,600 - £5,800 (depending on power output)
- Installation cost: £3,500 – £5,000
- Total estimated price range: £6,100 - £10,800
- Award-winning reputation for performance, efficiency, and reliability.
- Models for all home sizes.
- Cold climate capability with Zubadan technology.
- Offers flexible installation options, including hybrid compatibility with existing boilers.
- Some models work less efficiently in very low temperatures.
- Will take up space indoors and outdoors if a split unit is used.
- Require higher upfront costs than traditional heating system.
Highest power output: Hitachi Yutaki S
The Hitachi Yutaki series is a popular choice among homeowners seeking a reliable and efficient air source heat pump. Hitachi’s Yutaki S model also offers one of the widest capacity ranges for power output, between 4.3kW and 24kW, making it a great option for both small and larger homes.
The Yutaki range consists of air to water heat pumps, available in the following options:
Yutaki S: Split heat pump, indoor and outdoor unit.
Yutaki M: Monobloc, single outdoor unit.
Yutaki S80: High temperature split option.
Yutaki S Combi: All-in-one, high temperature split unit (with integrated tank).
Features of Yutaki S:
- Power output: 4.3kW to 24kW.
- System type: Air to water.
- Efficiency: A+++
- SCOP Rating: Up to 4.93.
- Noise level: Up to 58dB (moderate).
- Warranty: 5 years.
- Other: Smart connectivity with apps such as Google, Siri and Alexa.
It supports zoning for the control of multiple areas in the home.
Hitachi’s unique compressor technology increased seasonal efficiency while reducing energy consumption.
Estimated costs:
- Unit cost: £3,000 - £8,000 (depending on power output)
- Installation cost: £3,500 – £5,000
- Total estimated price range: £6,500 - £13,000
- Available in a wide range of output sizes to suit different heating demands.
- Reliable brand reputation with a focus on quality and performance.
- Good balance of efficiency, power output, and cold climate capability.
- The initial cost can be higher than some budget-friendly ASHP options.
- Quieter models are available.
- Compared to some competitors, user reviews and resources about the Yutaki might be slightly less abundant.
High efficiency: Viessmann Vitocal
Viessmann is a leading German manufacturer known for its high-quality heating systems. Now, it’s bringing that expertise to the air source heat pump market with the Vitocal series. This heat pump is among our top choices for efficiency, as the 150-A model has a Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP) of up to 4.8, meaning you get nearly 5x as much output per unit of energy used.
The Vitocal series includes monobloc, split and integrated hot water cylinder options.
Features:
- Power output: 2.1kW to 14.9kW.
- System type: Air to water.
- Efficiency: A+++
- Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP): Up to 5.0, highly efficient.
- Noise level: 51 - 56dB (moderate).
- Warranty: 2 years standard, extended options available (terms apply).
- Other: Heating and cooling capability.
Natural refrigerant (R290) with a lower GWP of 0.02.
Smart operation with ViCare app.
Estimated costs:
- Unit cost: £4,900 - £9,900 (depending on power output)
- Installation cost: £3,500 – £5,000
- Total estimated price range: £8,400 - £14,900
- Renowned brand reputation for quality, reliability, and advanced engineering.
- Good balance of efficiency, power output, and cold climate capability.
- Advanced controls with weather compensation.
- Warranty coverage might be shorter than competitors.
- The initial cost can be higher than that of some budget-friendly options.
Please note that all the prices mentioned are estimates. Actual costs can vary depending on the chosen model, installer, and property specifics. It's crucial to get quotes from multiple qualified installers to find the most accurate estimate.
We know how stressful it can be trying to track down a trustworthy installer, scrolling through online reviews, and sending dozens of emails – but there is an easier way! By filling in our simple form, we can connect you with installers from your local area.
Avoid wasting hours of your time, and let us do the hard work for you! Our installers can provide you with up to 4 free, no-obligation quotes to compare, helping you find the best deal on a new heat pump installation. To get started, just click the button below.
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Best warranty: LG Therma V
LG is a renowned brand known for its innovation and energy-saving technology, and the Therma V series reflects this. With a standard warranty of 3 years and an extension of 7 years available, it’s one the highest offers on the market. For a product with the affordability and performance of the Therma V, this is excellent coverage.
This model comes in three types:
Split - An indoor and outdoor unit, which connects to a hot water tank.
Hydrosplit - An outdoor and indoor unit with an integrated hot water tank (or a separate tank).
Monobloc - Outdoor unit only, connects to a water tank.
Features:
- Power output: 4kW to 16kW (for a range of home sizes).
- System type: Air to water.
- Efficiency: A+++
- SCOP Rating: Up to 4.8 (highly efficient).
- Noise level: As low as 36dB (quiet operation).
- Warranty: 3 years standard, 7 years extended option (terms apply).
- Other: Smart features and compatible controls with the ThinQ™ mobile app.
High temperature model options.
Estimated costs:
- Unit cost: £3,255 - £6,300 (depending on power output)
- Installation cost: £3,500 – £5,000
- Total estimated price range: £6,755 - £11,300
- Competitive price.
- Excellent SCOP rating for energy savings.
- Powerful output to heat various home sizes.
- Quiet operation for minimal disturbance.
- Performs well in cold climates.
- 7-year warranty for peace of mind.
- Fewer features than other models.
- It might require an additional hot water tank.
- Appearance not to all tastes.
Best for high temperatures: Vaillant aroTHERM
The aroTHERM line, from the leading heating solutions manufacturer, Vaillant, offers a reliable air source heat pump that’s great for homes with high heating demands. Their aroTHERM plus model offers flow temperatures up to 75°C, making it one of the highest temperature heat pumps available. These are great for replacing an old boiler without the need to refit radiators.
The range includes:
aroTHERM - Monobloc.
aroTHERM plus - High flow temperatures up to 75°C.
aroTHERM split - For flexible installation.
Features:
- Power output: 5kW to 15kW.
- System type: Air to water.
- Efficiency: A++ / A+++
- Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP): Up to 5.3 (plus model).
- Noise level: 51 - 60dB (moderate) / 35 dB from 3 metres (split model).
- Guarantee: 2 years standard, 7 years extended is available (terms apply).
- Other: Integrates with existing heating systems.
Uses Vaillant's vSMART app for remote control.
Natural refrigerant option with low GWP (aroTherm Plus).
Estimated costs:
- Unit cost: £3,000 - £15,000
- Installation cost: £3,500 – £5,000
- Total estimated price range: £6,500 - £20,000
- One of the quietest heat pumps on the market.
- With a (COP) up to 5.3, they are exceptionally efficient models.
- App-based to control heating anytime and anywhere.
- The range includes a hybrid option to combine with a boiler.
- Lifespan up to 25 years.
- The main fan unit requires outdoor space, which can restrict the garden area.
- Limited hot water capacity in non-integrated hot water cylinder models.
- Higher upfront costs than a traditional heating system.
Best in the cold: Daikin Altherma 3
The Altherma 3 from Daikin is renowned for its exceptional performance, cold climate capability, and focus on energy efficiency. An industry-leading minimum flow temperature of -28°C can ensure efficient heat extraction in the coldest climates.
Daikin Altherma 3 range includes:
Altherma 3 Monobloc - A single outdoor unit.
Altherma 3 R W - A low temperature split.
Altherma 3 Low Temperature R-Split - Integrated hot water tank.
Altherma 3 High Temperature / Hydrobox - Operates to -28°C, delivers up to 65°C hot water.
Altherma 3 High Temperature Low Capacity - Mid-temperature.
Features:
- Power output: 4kW to 16kW.
- System type: Air to water.
- Efficiency: A+++
- Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP): Up to 4.7.
- Noise level: 44 - 50dB.
- Warranty: 2 year standard guarantee, 5 to 7 years extended warranty available (terms apply).
- Other: Quiet Mark accreditation models.
Smart control via Daikin Onecta app, Google and Alexa.
Modern design.
Estimated costs:
- Unit cost: £3,100 – £9,200
- Installation cost: £3,500 – £5,000
- Total estimated price range: £6,600 - £14,200
- Renowned brand reputation for performance and reliable heating technology.
- High efficiency for significant energy savings.
- Cold climate capability with efficient heat extraction at very low temperatures.
- Award winning quiet operation.
- Smart controls with remote management.
- Upfront costs might be higher compared to some competitors.
- Hot water capacity might require additional planning, especially for larger households.
- The Daikin Cloud connectivity feature might incur additional subscription.
Best for small homes: Panasonic Aquarea L Series
Panasonic is a well-established brand known for its innovative technology. Their Aquarea L series air source heat pumps offer quiet operation, smart features, and a balance of efficiency and affordability.
These heat pumps are ideal for small homes because they are considered more compact than other brands. They also offer lower power outputs, making them great for homes short on space and with lower heating demands.
Features:
- Power output: 5kW to 9kW.
- System type: Air to water.
- Efficiency: A++ / A+++
- Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP): Up to 5.0.
- Noise level: 52dB.
- Warranty: 3 years standard, 7 years extended (terms apply).
- Other: Multi-award winning product.
R290 Natural refrigerant option.
All-in-one compact design (598 x 600mm footprint).
Aquarea Smart Cloud for remote system control 24/7.
Estimated costs:
- Unit cost: £4,200 - £7,700
- Installation cost: £3,500 – £5,000
- Total estimated price range: £7,700 - £12,700
- Strong brand reputation for reliability and innovative technology.
- High efficiency with the potential for lower energy bills.
- Offers flexible installation options, including compatibility with existing systems.
- Good balance of efficiency, power output, and cold climate capability.
- Modern design adds a touch of style to your home environment.
- The availability of Panasonic Aquarea L Series ASHPs might be limited compared to some more widely available brands on the UK market.
- App controls are not preferable for some users.
How did we choose the best air source heat pump?
Choosing the best air source heat pump ultimately depends on your specific needs and circumstances. When researching our top 8 heat pumps, we prioritised some of the key elements that make a heat pump worthwhile. Below, we’ve listed some of the most important aspects that we considered during our decision-making.
Reviews
To ensure we are recommending strong contenders, we went beyond simply comparing specifications. We read user reviews on trusted platforms like Trustpilot to understand real-world experiences with efficiency and performance. We also looked for models with industry awards or recognition to identify those with user satisfaction and overall quality.
Cost
While efficiency and performance are crucial, upfront costs and long-term savings are equally important. We researched typical unit costs and factored in potential air source heat pump installation fees to give you a well-rounded picture. We aimed to find a balance between features, efficiency, and price points.
Efficiency
We focused on models boasting high SCOP (Seasonal Coefficient of Performance) ratings, which indicate a heat pump’s efficiency performance throughout varying seasons. A higher SCOP suggests a heat pump that can adapt to changing temperatures while still providing high, efficient heating. By prioritising seasonal efficiency, we recommend heat pumps that minimise environmental impact and keep your running costs low year-round.
Power
Recognising that heating requirements vary depending on home size and climate, we paid close attention to the power output range offered by each heat pump model. We prioritised models with a good balance of heating power output and cold climate capability. A heat pump should be able to adequately heat your home, even during the coldest winter months.
Warranty
While longevity and reliability are qualities of a good heat pump, a strong warranty offers valuable peace of mind. A longer warranty period demonstrates a manufacturer’s confidence in their product's quality, but it can also increase costs. We’ve included models that offer a range of warranty options.
It's important to remember that this guide is just a starting point. We strongly recommend getting professional advice from a qualified heat pump installer who can assess your specific requirements and recommend the most suitable heat pump for your home.
Why get an air source heat pump?
Air source heat pumps are rapidly transforming the way we heat our homes. By using renewable energy, heat pumps offer an alternative to traditional gas or oil-based boilers, with many more benefits. Here's a quick recap of why you might want to consider an air source heat pump:
- Energy efficiency: Air source heat pumps have impressive efficiency ratings, offering up to 5 times as much usable heat as they consume. This means lower energy bills and reduced dependence on fossil fuels.
- Environmental impact: Heat pumps use renewable energy, contributing to a smaller carbon footprint and a cleaner environment. Switching to an air source heat pump can save up to 7,500kg of CO2 emissions annually, while a standard gas boiler can emit around 2,500kg annually.
- Government incentives: The UK government actively promotes renewable energy with air source heat pump grants, such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, that can significantly offset installation costs.
- Long lifespan: With proper maintenance, air source heat pumps can operate effectively for 15 - 25 years (that’s around 10 years longer than a standard boiler!).
Switching to an air source heat pump is a significant investment, but the potential benefits for your wallet and the environment are undeniable. However, choosing the right air source heat pump for your home requires careful consideration.
If you’re ready to start your heat pump journey, we strongly recommend getting multiple quotes from qualified installers in your area. By comparing quotes, you can ensure you get the best value for your money and an air source heat pump that perfectly meets all your heating requirements.
Don’t waste valuable time scrolling the web, though – instead, take the easy route and let us help! By completing our quick, simple form, we can connect you with up to 4 local installers who can give you free, no-obligation quotes. It takes just a few minutes, and we do the hard work for you. Click the button below to get your free quotes.
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