Commercial air source heat pump retrofitting: a step-by-step guide
There’s little doubt that air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are seen as a strong alternative to traditional boilers as we move towards low-carbon methods of heating.
Retrofitting a heat pump – in other words, installing one to replace or supplement an existing system – provides commercial building managers with an opportunity to lower emissions and upgrade the system for the future.
This step-by-step guide will take you through the process of retrofitting an ASHP in a commercial building and the considerations to have in mind before, during, and after the installation is complete.
We will look at:
What you need to consider before starting an ASHP retrofit
The process for retrofitting a commercial air source heat pump
Grants for commercial heat pump retrofitting
What happens after a heat pump retrofit?
Grants for commercial heat pump retrofitting
Retrofitting an air source heat pump with Baxi
What you need to consider before starting an ASHP retrofit
While it’s possible to retrofit an air source heat pump in most buildings, a successful outcome will depend on its unique characteristics and other factors. Existing systems may have been designed for high-temperature boiler operation and therefore may need extensive modifications for a retrofit system. There may also be a requirement for emitter upgrades to accommodate lower flow temperatures.
System operating temperatures should be carefully assessed during the design stage, as lower flow temperatures can significantly improve heat pump efficiency and overall system performance.
These, amongst others, are some of the key decisions to weigh up.
Take a look at what you should have in mind when considering an ASHP retrofit in this video:
Explore hybrid systems
A hybrid system combines the heat pump with a traditional heating method, such as a boiler. Retrofitting a hybrid system maintains its efficiency and effectiveness, particularly in buildings that may have more complex requirements.
Using a hybrid system supports a phased approach to decarbonising heating systems. For commercial property managers, this represents a chance to explore the benefits of using low carbon technologies such as an air source heat pump, while still using the existing system during the transition.
Grants for commercial heat pump retrofitting
Certain commercial projects may be eligible for support through schemes such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), subject to current eligibility criteria. Businesses should check the latest government guidance and explore other regional or sector-specific funding opportunities.
