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Last updated: 2 August 2024

Air Source Heat Pump Sizing: Which Size For My Household?

Air source heat pump size
  • Choosing the right heat pump size is important because it helps you avoid wasting energy and ensures that your household’s energy needs are met.
  • An average household (with 2 - 3 bedrooms) will require a 5kW air source heat pump.
  • A 3kW air source heat pump is suitable for a small household, whereas a large household will need a 16kW heat pump.

Thinking of getting an air source heat pump for your home? Then, you’ll need to choose the right air source heat pump size. Heat pump size refers to its output capacity and ranges from 3 to 16kW. This wide range ensures that households of all sizes can be fitted with the right heat pump.

Choosing the right heat pump size is crucial if you’re going to make the most of your investment in an air source heat pump. In this guide, we’ll walk you through air source heat pump sizing, explaining why it’s important, and give you an indication of how you can calculate what heat pump size you need. 

No clue how to choose the right heat pump for your home? Not to worry - one of the experts in our network can help you. To reach them, just fill in our 30-second form and we’ll connect you with up to 4 local air source heat pump installers in no time. There’s no need to waste hours searching, simply click below to start now!

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What is the size of an air source heat pump?

Air source heat pump sizing her household

While it may be somewhat confusing, the phrase “air source heat pump size” doesn’t typically refer to heat pump dimensions. Instead, it’s used to describe the output capacity of a heat pump, which is measured in kW (kilowatts). The size of heat pumps in the UK typically ranges from 3 to 16kW. 

On the other hand, air source heat pump dimensions indicate the appliance's physical size and are generally around 100 - 150 centimetres high and 50 - 100 centimetres wide. These compact units don’t take up too much space, but it’s good to be aware of their dimensions as well before making your purchase. 

So, be sure to bear the difference between air source heat pump sizing and dimensions in mind when calculating what size heat pump you need for your home. 

How do you calculate your heat pump size?

To accurately answer the question: “What size heat pump do I need?” you’ll need to take a look at two things: the size of your household and your energy consumption. The latter is particularly important, as it indicates how much energy you’ll need your air source heat pump to produce in order to keep your home comfortable. 

Good to know!

A general rule of thumb for calculating the heat pump size you need for your home is to consider around 5kW worth of energy output per 100m² of space. So, if your home is around 200m², then a 10kW heat pump would be best for you.

Below, you’ll find an overview of the estimated heat pump size required for different household sizes and energy consumption requirements: 

Air Source Heat Pump Size Per Household Size
Household SizeEstimated Annual Energy ConsumptionEstimated Required Heat Pump Size
1 bedroom8,000kWh3kW
2 - 3 bedrooms12,000kWh4 - 5kW
4 bedrooms17,000kWh10kW
5+ bedrooms21,000kWh16kW

It’s good to keep in mind that the larger the heat pump output capacity, the higher the air source heat pump cost. So, to avoid overspending on your new energy source, you can do two things: apply for an air source heat pump grant and compare the installation costs of multiple different installers. 

Rather than wasting hours of your precious free time looking up costs on your own, let us send you free, non-binding quotes from up to 4 local installers in our network. This way, you can easily compare prices and secure the best deal for your new heat pump installation. Just click below to get started - it only takes 30 seconds!

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Why is the right air source heat pump size important?

Why is air source heat pump size important

Whether you’re looking to install an air to air heat pump or an air to water heat pump, choosing the right heat pump size for your home is important, as it determines how well your energy needs will be met

Picking the wrong heat pump size can have a negative impact on the comfort of your home, as well as on your energy bills. For example, an air source heat pump with a lower output capacity than you require can quickly deteriorate because it’s working overtime to keep up with your needs. 

On the other hand, if the heat pump output you choose is larger than your actual energy consumption, then all the excess energy you’re not using goes to waste. However, you’re still paying for electricity to power your air source heat pump.

Ultimately, choosing the right air source heat pump size has significant implications for your bank account. To avoid breaking the bank on repairing an overworked heat pump or on mounting electricity bills, be sure to carefully consider heat pump sizing before making your investment. 

What size air source heat pump do I need for my household?

To answer this question, you’ll need to take a look at your personal situation and consider the size of your home and how much energy you and your family need.

However, correctly sizing a heat pump can feel like a daunting task. Fortunately, you don’t have to do it alone. By consulting a professional, you won’t only determine the right air source heat pump size for your home, but you can also get tailored advice about the best air source heat pumps in the UK and get a safe, high-quality installation. 

Ready to talk to a specialist but have no idea where to find a reliable one? We’ve got you covered. We’ve vetted multiple heat pump installers and can connect you with up to 4 of them in no time. Then, all you have to do is choose the one that meets all your requirements. Simply click below to get started - it’s quick, easy, and completely free!

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