Your guide to air source heat pumps and cold weather
As the winter sets in, you might be wondering whether your air source heat pump (ASHP) will work during the colder months.
The good news is that they are designed to provide warmth even if the air temperature outside drops, ensuring your home stays comfortable. Let's look a bit closer at how an air source heat pump delivers winter warmth, while at the same time, providing an efficient heating solution.
How does an air source heat pump work in cold weather?
An ASHP captures warmth from the ambient outside air and transfers it indoors. You can think of this process as being like the one that keeps your fridge cool, but in reverse. But you might be thinking, “What if it’s freezing outside? Will the system still provide warmth?”
The short answer is yes – in the same way that your fridge stays cool even when it’s hot outside.
In fact, air source heat pumps can work well in temperatures as low as minus 25 degrees in some cases, although it’s unlikely that we will experience such temperatures here in the UK. The same process that is used during the rest of the year applies in the winter.
The refrigerant cycle takes heat from outside air to be absorbed inside the pump and moves that heat into your home. Even on a cold winter day, the outside air still contains heat energy, the cycle allows for this temperature to be raised significantly and rapidly due to the low boiler point of refrigerants. The generated heat is transferred throughout your home’s heating system, keeping you comfortable, even in cold temperatures.
How an air source heat pump’s defrost cycle works
In cold high humidity environments, which are typical in the UK, an ASHP’s defrost cycle is vital for maintaining efficiency and performance. This cycle prevents ice from building up on the outdoor unit, allowing the heat pump to function smoothly in cold weather.
Automatic temperature sensors within the air source heat pump detect when there is a buildup of ice or when the temperature drops to a certain level. When this happens, the system automatically enters the defrost cycle.
That said, you may notice steam from your heat pump while it’s in a defrost cycle. This is perfectly normal and is actually an indication that your heat pump is doing what it needs to do.
Winter care: preparing your heat pump for cold weather
Identifying and solving common cold weather issues
Our Baxi-approved installers are ready to help, providing expert advice and solutions to keep your home warm and your system running efficiently, no matter how cold the weather gets.
Why choose Baxi for your heating needs
Here at Baxi, we offer a range of air source heat pumps designed to deliver reliable heating solutions all year-round, including during winter. Our systems are built to perform efficiently in all weather conditions, ensuring your home remains warm and comfortable.
With a commitment to quality customer service and a dedicated team of highly skilled engineers, you can be sure that your air source heat pump system is ready for whatever the UK winter brings.
