Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
How can I tell if air source heating is right for my house?
Air source heating is suitable for virtually any property - but, like any heating system, it is most effective where you have good insulation and heat loss is minimised through windows and doors. We would always advise you to ensure your property is as well insulated as possible - that way the efficiency of your heat pump will be most beneficial.
By sending us a few details of your property, we can help you whichever stage you are at.
Why choose air source heating?
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Extracts heat from the air outside (even when the temperature outside is as low as -25 °c) and transfers the heat to your existing radiators
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Benefit from up to 400% efficiency - compared to less than 100% with a gas boiler
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Can reduce your CO2 emissions by as much as 70%
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No need for extensive ground works to be carried out
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In many cases, can simply 'bolt on' to your existing system
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An excellent replacement for electric storage heating or gas fired warm air units
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Suitable for almost any property
Do I need planning permission to install air source heating?
Air source heating systems are usually permitted development except in exceptional circumstances. You can check this with your local authority.
The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (Scotland) Amendment Order 2016
Does air source heating make much noise?
Many people worry about heat pump units being noisy. In fact it's comparable to whispering in a library - and usually quieter than the flue of a gas boiler.
What are the steps to get air source heating installed?
You can start with our online calculator to tell us about your home, see how much you can save and arrange a site visit. Our how we work page tells you all about the process for getting air source heating installed.
Is it worth improving the insulation of my house?
The short answer is, yes! The better insulated your home is, the less energy you will require to heat it - and keep it warm. Good insulation is critical to the performance of any heating system, so we always recommend that you make sure this is as good as it can be.
You can find out more at Home Energy Scotland, and if you need any more advice we're happy to help.
What are the incentives to get an air source heat pump installed in my home?
The Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan is designed to help with the cost of installing heat pumps and energy efficiency improvements. Grant funding for heat pumps is up to £7,500 - or £9,000 for households which qualify as rural.
Further funding can be requested as an optional interest-free loan that can cover the cost of installation as well as insulation improvements.
You can apply for a Home Energy Scotland grant and loan here and Home Energy Scotland can help you with any other available incentives.
What type of maintenance is needed for Air Source heating?
Air source heat pumps are usually serviced annually to keep their warranty. We provide servicing and repair services for all our installations. Find out more about how we work.
Do you provide after care (servicing, maintenance)?
Yes, we provide service and repair on all our installations. Repair costs are usually covered under warranty for first seven years after installation. Find out more about how we work.
What products do you use?
We install and maintain air source heating systems using high quality air source heating pumps from Vaillant , Viessmann, Panasonic and Grant. Find out more about our heat pumps.
Do solar panels work in Scotland?
Yes. Solar panels generate electricity from daylight rather than relying on direct sunshine or warm weather, so they can still produce electricity on cloudy days.
As you would expect, generation is typically higher during the longer, brighter days of summer and lower during the winter months. The key is ensuring your solar PV system is properly designed around your property, roof orientation and expected energy usage to make the most of the available daylight throughout the year.
How many solar panels will I need for my home?
This depends on several factors, including your household electricity consumption, available roof space, roof orientation and what you want your solar system to achieve.
A larger system isn't necessarily the best solution for every property. At Aberdeen Air Source Heating, we assess your home and energy requirements to recommend a system that's appropriately sized, rather than simply installing as many panels as possible.
What are the benefits of combining solar panels with battery storage?
Solar panels generate electricity during daylight hours, but this isn't always when your household needs the most energy.
Battery storage allows you to store surplus electricity generated by your solar panels and use it later, such as during the evening. This helps you make greater use of the renewable electricity you generate, reduce the amount you purchase from the grid and improve your home's overall energy efficiency.
Can I install battery storage without solar panels?
Yes. Battery storage can operate independently of solar panels, making it an option for homeowners who aren't ready to install solar or whose property may not be suitable.
Depending on your electricity tariff and system configuration, a battery can be charged using lower-cost electricity from the grid and then used during more expensive periods. This can help you manage your electricity consumption and potentially reduce your energy costs.
Can solar panels and battery storage work alongside an air source heat pump?
Absolutely! Solar panels, battery storage and air source heat pumps work together to create a more efficient, lower-carbon home energy system.
Solar panels generate renewable electricity that can help power your heat pump, while battery storage allows surplus electricity to be saved for use later. Although solar generation varies throughout the year, combining these technologies can help reduce reliance on grid electricity and give you greater control over your household energy use.
At Aberdeen Air Source Heating, we can advise on the most suitable combination of technologies for your property and energy requirements.